Reflections on Beauty

Reflections for laser tattoo removal.

Individuals who are seeking a high-profile career but are stuck with body art from their past – perhaps a conspicuous neck tattoo or offensive forearm ink – may consider laser tattoo removal in order to boost their chances of climbing up the corporate ladder.

Employers in the U.S. aren't prohibited by law to discriminate against job candidates based on their body art. Officials in Sydney, Australia recently enacted a ban on visible tattoos for police officers, leading to an uptick in the number of laser tattoo removal procedures being done in the area, according to a report by newspaper Sydney Central.

"We have noticed a large number of young professionals that are having their tattoos removed," said Jacinta Keoghan, medical director of a cosmetic procedure spa, quoted by the news source. "We find that these tattoos are often from previous relationships, or undertaken many years ago. We have also had an 80-year-old woman come through our doors."

For recent college gradates, there may be some other factors to consider.

An article in Purdue University newspaper The Exponent reports that some people entering the labor force with ink may be better off than others. For instance, one pharmacy student who has amino acid tattoos on the back of his arms found that his body art was actually appealing to his new employer, perhaps because the tattoos were related to his science field.

The news source states that some employers are bound to be more conservative than others, and that it may all come down to the placement of a tattoo. This suggests that college students may want to consider getting inked in an area that can be easily concealed. Hiding body art may be especially important during a job interview, when a potential employer is making his or her first judgment of candidates.

"Human nature, as it is, can be an unspoken factor," said Tim Luzader, the director of the Center for Career Opportunities at Purdue, quoted by the news source.

For some people, it's too late to take into consideration the size, location and appropriateness of a tattoo when it comes to job prospects. Luckily, modern laser tattoo removal procedures are more effective than before and tend to be less painful than getting inked. 

Reflections for Restylane injections.

When looking in the mirror, you may blame an exaggerated forehead crease or crow's feet at the corners of your eyes for revealing your age. However, obtaining a younger looking appearance entails more than reducing the severity of wrinkles, and it may involve something that you fought in your younger years.

In your 20s, you might have lamented a little bit of roundness in your face or chubby cheeks. But now that you're older, that volume is gone and it may be the reason why wrinkles are forming and skin is sagging.

"As much as lines and wrinkles make us look older, we're learning that volume loss is just as critical," said California dermatologist Jenny Kim, M.D. "Because of that, we're looking at the aging process a little differently now and understanding the importance of replacing volume loss in the face and to restore the fullness of a more youthful appearance."

While you may not have guessed that a loss of volume was to blame for an aging face, it's something that cosmetic surgeons have known for years. As such, there are a number of minimally invasive procedures to restore a plump look, such as Restylane injections or laser skin rejuvenation.

"Many fillers for the aging face are now designed to create a fuller, more youthful appearance, instead of targeting only wrinkles or fine lines," said Kim. "In addition, facial rejuvenation with lasers is now more targeted, resulting in quicker results and less downtime."

The dermatologist noted that once a person reaches 40, they naturally begin to lose the fat and collagen in their face. This can lead to shadowing or darkening of areas that have already begun to show the signs of aging. Fillers, such as Restylane injections, can help restore fullness to the cheeks.

Additionally, laser skin rejuvenation can play a significant part in smoothing the epidermis, which may make it look fuller and more vibrant.

When used in conjunction with a healthy skin care routine, these minimally invasive cosmetic procedures may result in a fresh, youthful look, as opposed to the frozen or stretched appearance that sometimes resulted from traditional, invasive facelifts.

Even though these new treatments are able to take a few years off a patient's face with minimal risks or side effects, individuals should still be sure to do their homework when choosing a medical spa or healthcare provider.
 

Reflections for laser hair removal.

There may still be a chill in the air in many regions of the country, but fashion magazines and websites are beginning to report on the trendiest styles for this spring and summer, and let's just say that you're going to want to get your legs in shape.

Miniskirts, hot pants and dresses are likely to flood store racks come April, so in addition to doing your squats and investing in a quality sunless tanner, it may be a good idea to consider laser hair removal.

The high-tech cosmetic procedure – which is also known as fraxel hair removal – allows you to go all summer without dealing with razors, hair removal creams or painful waxing, while still enjoying smooth, hairless gams. Moreover, you can avoid embarrassment due to stubble or missed areas.

So, how does laser hair removal work? Well, a certified practitioner uses an intense laser pulse to damage the hair follicle, which slows the progression of hair growth for semi-permanent results. For the legs, you'll likely need a few sessions to completely remove the hair, and follow-up procedures may also be needed to maintain smooth legs.

While it's been reported that people with light skin and dark hair make the best candidates for laser hair removal, today's advanced tools and techniques allow people of many skin colors and hair types to get effective results from the procedure. However, if you have dark skin or light hair, it may be a good idea to choose a provider who is experienced in working with your particular coloring.

In order to prepare for fraxel hair removal, first research different facilities and their practitioners. This will help you obtain the best results and minimize any risks involved in the procedure. After choosing a trusted and experienced professional, you will need to have a consultation with them, where you'll get an idea of how much the treatment will cost, how many sessions will be necessary, what maintenance will be needed and what to expect following laser hair removal.

Also, before going in for your appointment, you should stay out of the sun to avoid burning or blisters, which may complicate the laser treatment. Additionally, you shouldn't pluck, wax or get electrolysis on your legs, as this may cause changes to the follicles, which may make fraxel hair removal more difficult.
 

Reflections for laser skin rejuvenation.

Individuals who desire a younger looking face or a slimmer waistline may be held back due to fears of scarring, infection or prolonged healing. However, there are many options available today that can help people look their best without incisions and stitches.

An ABC News article recently reported on the trend of minimally invasive cosmetic procedures, which typically entail injections, lasers or ultrasound devices, rather than knives or chisels. The news source spoke with a number of cosmetic surgeons and patients about why these new techniques are superior to the more invasive options of the past, or how they can complement traditional plastic surgery.

"I don't think one excludes the other," said dermatologist Doris Day, quoted by the news source. "However, my experience has been that you can get rid of lines and wrinkles, but that doesn't always make someone look younger; they just look smoother. What we lose over time is volume. And what we do is we – very carefully, naturally and discreetly – add back volume."

Day said that the "palette of tools available" today allows both deep and superficial treatments to provide patients with a natural look.

She also described new forms of laser liposuction, which melt fat so it can be suctioned out more easily than traditional methods, resulting in smaller incisions and lesser scarring. According to Day, these procedures are ideal for men and women who want to slow the hands of time.

"Well, it may not be that you never look old, but you can put it a long way off," said Day, quoted by the news source. "We can slow that process down in a very natural way with these procedures."

The University of Miami Miller School of Medicine reports that Botox injections are among the most common cosmetic procedures in the country. This minimally invasive treatment works by relaxing muscles in the face that cause wrinkles, especially those in the forehead or around the eyes.

Other popular cosmetic enhancements that can be performed sans scalpel include laser skin rejuvenation, Restylane injections, SlimLipo and acne laser treatment.

While these procedures tend to be safer and result in fewer complications than most traditional methods, people should still do their research before making any appointments. This includes looking into their desired treatment, as well as the facility and healthcare provider they plan to use.
 

Reflections for laser skin rejuvenation.

Men and women who consider going under the scalpel, needle or laser in order to get rid of wrinkles often have one very specific question in mind: "How young will this make me look?" A team of researchers at the University of Toronto recently quantified just how much difference cosmetic procedures can make in other people's perception of age.

In order to reach their conclusions, the team of scientists showed a group of medical students photographs of 60 patients before and after a facelift and asked them to estimate their ages. On average, the images of the individuals after their operations were rated as being about six to eight years younger than their before pictures.

The study's lead author and plastic surgeon, Nitin Chauhan, M.D., spoke with Health.com about the findings.

"It’s nice to have an objective measure," said Chauhan. "Some of our patients like to have concrete numbers to look at, and the more information you can provide, the more it facilitates decision-making."

The results may help healthcare providers manage patient expectations during counseling, which is a very important part of the cosmetic procedure process.

"Nothing we do is magical," he said. "We do certainly get 60-year-old patients who want to look 40, and this will help us when we discuss expectations."

The desire for a slightly younger looking appearance is not only a common reason for obtaining a cosmetic procedure, but it's also a sign that an individual is a good candidate for the treatment or operation, as long as they're doing it for their own satisfaction, according to MedicineNet.com.

Wanting to simply enhance your own natural beauty signifies that you have realistic expectations of what procedures – from Botox injections to invasive facelifts – can do for you. Individuals who seek plastic surgery or other treatments to look like another person may want to discuss this with their healthcare provider, who can determine whether they are a good candidate for the procedure or if they would be better off choosing another way to boost their self-esteem.

Additionally, invasive surgeries like facelifts and tummy tucks aren't for everyone. If all you need is a slight change, consider the number of new laser or injectable treatments – such as laser skin rejuvenation or Restylane injections – which come with fewer risks and provide noticeable results.
 

Reflections for Botox injections.

Men and women in their 60s appear to be more accepting of procedures to make them look younger – such as Botox injections or laser skin rejuvenation – than in years past, possibly due to the availability of treatments that provide subtle results with minimal side effects.

An article in the Chicago Tribune explores this trend and spoke with some people who underwent these minimally invasive procedures for varying reasons.

One woman, a 66-year-old the news source nicknamed Arleen in order to protect her identity, reported that her facial injections and partial facelift have helped her retain confidence in the workplace, where she manages many younger employees.

"All of this has made a difference and I'm very satisfied with the results," Arleen said, quoted by the news source. "It took five to seven years off, and when you're working it's important. I have younger people working under me, and I don't want to look too old."

The Tribune also spoke with a man in his 60s, who said that retirement spurred his decision to obtain a more youthful appearance.

"I was very busy before," he said, quoted by the news source "but I noticed as I aged that my cheeks got a sunken look to them."

Marc Karlan, M.D., otolaryngology professor at Northwestern University, told the news source that outside of the big cities, people prefer a more natural look, especially older individuals.

"The older my patient is, the more likely they lead with 'I want to look better but I don't want to look done.'" Karlan said, quoted by the news source. "They don't want to look frozen. In the Midwest, people want to look like themselves."

According to Spire Healthcare, there has been a 303 percent increase in the number of women in their 60s obtaining cosmetic procedures, and a 168 percent hike for men in the same age group.

The organization states that national statistics reveal that even people in their 70s are more interested now than in the past in cosmetic procedures, as there has been a 175 percent increase in men and 133 percent hike in women in this age group receiving elective surgery.

Spire Healthcare notes that individuals who are interested in even minimally invasive procedures – such as Botox injections or laser skin rejuvenation – should seek out an experienced, accredited facility or medical spa.
 

Reflections for laser skin rejuvenation.

For some viewers, the excitement of the Academy Awards has more to do with getting a glimpse of glamorous celebrities decked out in the latest high fashions than it does with seeing which movie wins Best Picture. Year after year, actors and actress put their best foot forward on the red carpet, leading many to wonder just how they maintain their preternatural good looks.
Well, one such way is through minimally invasive cosmetic procedures, according to California plastic surgeon Babak Azizzadeh.

"Celebrities always look flawless, but on Oscar night they truly look their best. Whether they just need a little volume boost or a surgical lift, there are a variety of treatments I can perform to help them achieve their desired look," Azizzadeh said.

Some older stars who experience sagging or visible wrinkles may choose a neck lift or a "mini facelift" in order to look younger for the big night. The neck is a common site for cosmetic enhancement, because it has a tendency to sag or hold fat deposits, acting as a pretty obvious sign that someone is in their golden years.

Additionally, minimally invasive facelifts are not a one-size-fits-all deal, as they're easily tailored to suit a patient's features and preferences to obtain the most natural-looking outcome.

Younger actors and actresses who are just beginning to see the signs of aging often choose more subtle procedures, like Botox or Restylane injections. These products can be used around the brows and eyes for a younger appearance without scalpels.

Facial peels or laser skin rejuvenation are also popular procedures, as they help eliminate minor flaws and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles before going under the spotlight – not to mention the incessant flash of cameras.

"Regardless of the celebrity's age, the goal of cosmetic treatments is always the same – achieving natural looking results. On a night as highly publicized as the Oscars, it is vital my celebrity clients merely look refreshed, and not like they have had a lot of work done," said Azizzadeh.

Non-famous individuals seeking skin as luminous as Charlize Theron's or a face as flawless as Angelina Jolie's may want to consider doing their homework when choosing a medical spa or facility. It's important to consult with a healthcare provider before undergoing any kind of procedure, asking about accreditation, experience, expectations and standards of care.
 

Reflections for laser skin rejuvenation.

Actress Jennifer Aniston appears on the March cover of InStyle magazine looking not a day older than she did when the world better knew her as Rachel from Friends. She recently told the magazine that she also feels like the same person who made shaggy layers a hot trend in the mid-1990s.

Aniston, 43, told the style news source that she looks at 20-year-old actresses and feels like she's looking at one of her peers – and don't even get her started on being asked to play the mother of a teenager as a character role.

"You lose perspective," Aniston told InStyle, on feeling young. "Being offered the part of a woman with a 17-year-old child. It's like, 'I'm not old enough to have a 17-year-old!' And then you realize, well, yeah, you are. Young? I don't feel my age. I feel young every day."

Perhaps her glowing skin has something to do with it. The notoriously tight-lipped actress hinted that she's a fan of laser skin rejuvenation.

"I'd love to be a dermatologist. I'd be so obsessive about it. I'm fascinated by skin, products and lasers. I go on the internet and read all about it. I call it 'laser porn,'" Aniston said, quoted by the news source.

Hydration and good nutrition also play a part in Aniston's youthful glow, according to a 2009 article in Elle magazine. The actress' dietitian Carrie Wiatt told the news source that supplements aimed at reducing inflammation in the body – namely, those containing omega-3 fatty acids, B vitamins and querecitin – help keep the skin supple and glowing, as they promote moisture retention and blood circulation.

Aniston is also known to be an exercise enthusiast, especially yoga. An article in Yoga Journal magazine reports that the mind-body practice may help improve skin health by reducing stress and promoting overall wellness.

Women who want to obtain a younger looking appearance can learn a lot from Aniston's practices – including the fact that she does her research on laser skin rejuvenation. While the procedure is not invasive and has been found to be safe, it's important to seek out an experienced, accredited professional in order to get the best results and minimize the risk of complications.

Reflections for laser skin rejuvenation.

Every bride wants to look her best on her wedding day, which is why so much time is spent on picking out a gown, devising a makeup strategy and perfecting a hairstyle – not to mention the painstaking efforts made to ensure flattering lighting and photographs. As such, many brides-to-be consider minimally invasive cosmetic procedures in the months leading up to their big day.

The photos, videos and memories from your wedding will be treasured keepsakes for years to come, so it makes sense that you would want to fix minor imperfections before walking down the aisle. But it's important to do your research before going under the laser or needle.

Timing is a key issue when thinking about cosmetic procedures for a specific day, as many take time to heal or take full effect. So, you'll want to make your first step a consultation with an experienced professional. Talk to your healthcare provider about issues that you would like to fix before your big day – from acne scars, to unwanted hair, to fine lines and wrinkles. Be sure that your doctor knows the exact date of your wedding, and even go so far as to ask twice about healing times. The last thing you want is a telltale sign of a cosmetic procedure on your face.

Botox injections or Restylane treatments are good options for pre-wedding plumping or wrinkle-reducing. These products have been used for a long time, so many healthcare providers are well-versed on predicting outcomes and providing natural-looking fuller lips or a less exaggerated forehead crease. It's generally recommended that brides try out the injectables one month before their wedding.

Laser skin rejuvenation may ensure that you have a youthful glow about you during your big day. Whether your problem is uneven tone, fine lines or sun spots, the treatment has been shown to zap these issues with minimal healing time, giving you a flawless complexion without the need for layers of foundation and powder.

Getting rid of unwanted hair with laser hair removal is also a great pre-wedding treatment. Moreover, having follicles on the legs or bikini line zapped during the months leading up to the ceremony can have a big added bonus if you're going somewhere warm for your honeymoon – bye-bye razors and shaving cream!

Reflections for laser liposuction.

People who want to lose weight may daydream about laser liposuction as a way to slim down without having to make much effort. However, while the procedure may give beautiful, long-lasting results for some individuals, others are better off seeking other options. The success of laser liposuction depends on the area that you wish to minimize, the condition of your skin and your overall health.

First, it's important to know that laser liposuction is not a substitute for diet and exercise. The ideal candidate is near his or her ideal weight, but has a problem area or two that will not respond to sit-ups or calorie-cutting. Individuals who are carrying a lot of excess body fat may want to first try traditional methods of weight loss before considering cosmetic procedures.

Additionally, a responsible healthcare provider will want to know details about your medical history to make sure you are not at an increased risk of complications, and that you are likely to have a successful outcome from the procedure. It's important to be honest with your physician, and be wary of professionals who do not inquire about any past operations or conditions, which may have an effect on how your body responds to cosmetic treatments.

Next, you should to consider the area that you want to be slimmed down. Women commonly get liposuction on their hips, thighs, waist, abdomen, back, arms, neck and face. In men, the most popular sites to have fat removed are the flanks, abdomen, chest, neck and face.

Individuals often see great results from laser liposuction done on the upper arms, hips, flanks and the sides of the thighs. People may want to inquire with their healthcare provider about possible issues stemming from lipo of the rear thigh, buttocks, forearms or calves, because while they are sometimes treated with the procedure, these are not ideal areas for everyone.

If you have loose skin, which is often the result of significant weight loss, you may want to consider another procedure, such as body contouring or a tummy tuck. Suctioning fat may only lead to more loose skin, so ideal candidates for laser liposuction have skin that is elastic enough to retract after a procedure.

Lastly, know that while lipo may effectively get rid of a problem area, you'll still need to keep up a healthy diet and exercise routine after the procedure in order to maintain results and stay in good overall physical condition.