April 22, 2017
Amanda is my go to – my number one – MY GIRL. I have sent countless people to her. They quickly become addicts, clients and massive fans.
April 17, 2017
I am in the tender place at my age (over 45!) where I am in no way ready to go under the knife (physically, emotionally, technically, financially) for my face but HOLY SHIT IF GRAVITY ISN’T BULLYING THE CRAP OUT OF ME RIGHT NOW!
I’ve waited months to post about PROFOUND. I wanted to give it the close to 6 months that it takes to fully take effect so I could honestly evaluate it.
When I first caught wind of this procedure, I immediately perked up. It sounded like the perfect pre-face-lift type of procedure for me. But I needed to find the right doctor.
Enter: Dr. Ben Talei, Board Certified. Dual Fellowship Trained. Facial Plastic Surgeon.
In other words, The Man. Dr. Talei is taking this town by storm and it’s clear why – he’s a prodigy. His accomplishments at such a young age, will make you feel like a major loser. Then there’s his skill. If there is such a thing as an It Facelift Doctor, he’s the one.
Back toProfound, by Syneron-Candela, The latest skin tightening technology.
We all know I am not a fan of Ulthera and there is only so much that lasers and peels can do. I needed to address the deep DEEP layers and it’s either surgery or….this.
Ok, below is lot of tech stuff I pulled from the interwebs – but let me fill you in on my experience.
The shit is no joke. There is no pain but there is a recovery to deal with. Many doctors will downplay the bruising and recovery – but let me tell you, there’s some downtime. For me it was a good two weeks of major bruising. If you are mentally prepared for this – then great. But doctor’s will often shuck this off very casually. Dr. Talei was cool – and said you’re going to bruise. Still, I was not prepared. Suffice to say, you’ll look like you went sky diving and your shoot did not open. Your face will swell, then go down, then puff up like a blow fish. In my case, you might have little round bumps on your face, like an ostrich, for a few months (rare – but it happened to me). And still – it was worth it.
Yup. My face was a wreck for a good while. But five months out – the overall results are in. I am tighter, lifted and glowing. And I thrilled I held off on this write up until now – because I really gave it the time to do its magic. Ok, take a read of this jargon below.
It’s in the thousands – but way less than surgery, that’s for sure.
You will LOVE – as in fall in love so watch out – the adorable and divine Dr. Talei. And his new office is apparently insanely stunning.
WHAT: Profound uses RF Microneedling to deliver RF energy at regulated temperatures to precise points under the skin:
Unlike other RF devices, Profound is unique is it’s ability to control the exact temperature of the skin as the RF energy is being applied.
WHY HEAT? In simplest terms, controlled damage to the under layers of the skin promotes the growth of collagen. Profound uses heat to do this. When the under layers of the skin are heated to 65°C (149°F), neocollagenisis begins which is when collagen comes in contact with the heat and begins to denature or constrict.
When this happens we have less sagging skin and our wrinkles begin to smooth out. Keep in mind that the miracle of collagen growth takes time and you won’t see the initial change for 4 to 10 weeks and the ultimate results for anywhere from 3 to 6 months.
Studies have found that the sweet spot to partially denature collagen is by heating the area to 67°C (152.6°F) and to maintain that heat for 4 seconds at a time between 2 to 4mm under the skin – with no variation.
Seems easy enough but there was nothing out there that could pinpoint the heat and control the temperature in order to produce the ideal conditions for partially denaturing collagen. Instead, they heat a general area of the skin with wavering temperatures in order to protect the outer layers of skin.
But regardless, most don’t even reach the optimal 67°C (152.6°F). The temperature varies up and down and that’s not the ideal for partially denaturing collagen. Until Profound.
Profound is the only unit that uses RF Energy to heat the area, microneedles to pinpoint the exact depth, protecting the outer layer of skin, and a patented Real Time Temperature Control algorithm to meet the ideal temperature.
Recent studies have found that a single treatment produced a profound increase in elastin and collagen 4 to 10 weeks after the treatment with a 95% response rate for laxity at 6 months after treatment:
Before and 3 Months After Profound Skin Tightening Treatment
Before and 6 months after One Profound Skin Tightening Treatment
Profound for skin tightening treatment takes 45 minutes or less. Your doctor will slather on a local anesthetic and once your numb she will use a handheld unit to apply teeny little pore sized needles into your skin, pulsing heat 4 seconds at a time.
Profound is delivered in a single treatment, typically lasting 45 minutes duration for one treatment area. The patient is given local anesthesia to ensure comfort during the procedure. Once the anesthesia is effective and the skin is numb, the Profound treatment begins. Twelve (six pairs) high-tech silicone-coated needles are inserted into the skin. Each pair of needles has an uncoated tip, sending radiofrequency current between the tips of the needles.
The radiofrequency current travels between the needles, creating heat over the targeted dermal tissues. The heat tightens lax skin by stimulating production of collagen and elastin fibers. The silicone coating over the remainder of the needle protects the overlying skin from any damage, so only the targeted area is treated.
Because the procedure is done under local anesthesia, there is no pain. The needles are so small that there is no bleeding. The computer controlled needles heat the dermis layer of skin to the exact right temperature and time duration to stimulate collagen and elastin production. This production leads to the lifting and tightening of the skin. Each are of laxity is treated as a zone, with 30-40 minutes necessary for each region. For a full facial rejuvenation, many patients opt to have the procedure performed over the skin of the neck, cheeks and around the eyes and eyebrows.
DR. BEN TALEI
Academic Path
A native of California, Dr. Benjamin (Ben) Talei graduated from the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) with a degree in Physiological Sciences receiving both College and Departmental Honors. While studying at the University of Menedez Pelayo in Spain, Dr. Talei worked for the Sisterhood of Blood Donors and the Red Cross promoting blood donations in Andalucia, Spain.
He then received his Medical Degree at one of the nation’s top medical schools –University of California, San Diego School of Medicine (UCSD). Dr. Talei was nominated to the Gold Humanism Honor Society after having donated immense amounts of time and energy to the free clinic in San Diego along with other charitable foundations.
Dr. Talei then completed his residency training in Head & Neck Surgery at Columbia University and Cornell University Medical Centers, New York Presbyterian Hospital. There he worked with the Greats of Facial Plastic Surgery included his primary mentor Dr. Steven Pearlman. He then served as Chief in his residency at Columbia and Cornell and served as a fellow at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center also in New York City.
Following his residency training, Dr. Talei became one of the only surgeons in the country to complete two separate fellowships in Facial Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery. First he completed one of the most revered and prestigious fellowships in the country at the New York Center for Facial Plastic & Laser Surgery. Simultaneously he offered his skills and training while serving as voluntary staff and teacher for the Resident Head & Neck Surgeons of the Albert Einstein School of Medicine. Dr. Talei then furthered his training with Dr. Milton Waner at the Vascular Birthmark Institute of New York, a part of Lenox Hill and Manhattan Ear, Eyes and Throat Hospitals. There he treated the most rare and devastating Vascular Birthmarks & Congenital Anomalies while refining his techniques in Pediatric Facial Plastic Surgery.
Integrated fully into the Beverly Hills community, Dr. Talei is a member of the Beverly Hills Health & Wellness Committee. He is also on staff at UCLA Ronald Regan Medical Center, Santa Monica UCLA Medical Center, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, and Children’s Hospital of Los Angeles. Outside of the hospital, Dr. Talei is the Advisory Chair for the Los Angeles County Medical Association (LACMA).
Dr. Talei is also an avid author and speaker. He has been invited to speak at national meetings and has contributed significantly to medical literature with his research and publications in medical journals and textbooks. His publications on Advanced Face and Neck Lifting Techniques and Revision Rhinoplasty are used to teach doctors nationwide. As a sub-specialist in Deep Plane Facial Rejuvenation & Facelifting and Minimally Invasive Rhinoplasty, Dr. Talei frequently accommodates visiting surgeons in order to teach them more advanced surgical techniques. The Modified Upper Lip Lift is also a procedure pioneered and perfected by Dr. Talei as he performs more than any surgeon in the world. He is most well known for his rapid healing times, very natural, long-lasting results and impeccable facial aesthetic. Dr. Talei has a dedicated expertise to the Face and has been featured on E! News, Fox, NBC, and Inside Edition amongst a host of other editorials.
April 14, 2017
As you enter your 30’s men start seeing signs of aging and for some it sneaks up sooner and for the lucky ones it’s not until your mid 30’s. No matter how blessed your gene pool either way, a daily routine is needed to slow down the pace while exuding radiant confidence. Being conscientious in our demeanor is what makes us truly dapper. Its not always easy with balancing work, play, dates, hopefully sex and sleep so I’ve made a list to narrow down your search for the products that sincerely work and will add that extra vigor needed to remain on top of your game. Botox and Hydra Facials take time and not every man likes to spend an hour or more in a doctor’s office, so I’m here to help you stay fresh and poised for the elegant man on the go.
Keep in mind that all skin types are different, however, following this routine you should never worry about looking dull, tired or hung-over again. Here is some gentlemanly advice to keep you on the right track.
Exfoliate your face and body everyday!
Mario Badescu Botanical Exfoliating Face Scrub wipes away toxins and invigorates with finely ground Ecuadorian Palm Seeds.
Malin Goetz Peppermint Body Scrub is a foaming exfoliate mixing peppermint, amino acids, bamboo and pumice to help shed dead skin and stimulate cell renewal.
Never forget to use a toner after you cleanse your face!
Thayers Rose Petal Witch Hazel Toner is alcohol-free and uses rose-petal water, aloe vera and Thayers’ proprietary Witch Hazel extract for smooth toned skin.
Facial oils, moisturizers and eye creams are a MUST in maintaining youthful hydrated skin.
Herbivore Phoenix Face Oil is an absolute favorite using natural CoQ10 to dramatically rejuvenate your skin at the cellular level.
Mario Badescu Hyaluronic Moisturizer SPF 15 replenishes skin and protects against harmful UVA/UVB rays and is formulated mixing Sesame Seed Oil and Hyaluronic Acid.
Juice Beauty Stem Cellular Anti-Wrinkle Eye Treatment is a proprietary blend of fruit stem cells and antioxidant-rich botanical juices as well as Vitamin C to reduce dark circles under the eyes.
Body oils and mists are the new body moisturizer and lasts longer.
Immunocologie Body Serum is an anti-inflammatory treatment using a unique combination of African desert date seed oil, sunflower seed oil and Brazilian protium heptaphyllum resin to boost skin vitality and radiance.
Jack Black All-Over Body Spray combines mint and rosemary to create an invigorating scent for all men and can also be used as a deodorant for those who don’t like aluminum based products.
All dapper gentleman need to maintain a proper hairstyle.
Moroccanoil Original Treatment can be used as a conditioning, styling and finishing tool. Infused with antioxidant-rich argan oil and shine boosting vitamins, this completely transformative hair treatment detangles, speeds up drying time and boosts shine. I use it before I blow dry daily for silky smooth hair.
Baxter of California Grooming Cream is the perfect pre-style cream. Apply to hair as a “primer” for manageability and overall conditioning then follow with normal styling regimen, including Baxter of California’s collection of versatile pomades.
Baxter of California Pomades is easily applied to wet hair for a wet-look finish, or to dry hair for a more natural look with less definition.
Always use a gentle enzyme face wash before bed and never go to sleep with a dirty face or without repairing eye cream.
Mario Badescu Enzyme Cleansing Gel is perfect for all skin types and is a refreshing gel which features fruit enzymes and alpha-hydroxy acids found naturally in Papaya and Grapefruit Extracts to dissolve away impurities.
Herbivore Brighten Instant Glow Mask uses gentle Pineapple and Papaya enzymes combined with micronized Brazilian White Tourmaline gemstone and rice powder, which has been used in Japan for centuries, to give you a vibrant complexion.
Sunday Riley Martian Mattifying Melting Water Get-Toner immediately melts from a treatment gel to a water toner as it is massaged into the skin. Marshmallow and green tea soothe and diminish the look of redness, while cucumber and witch hazel extracts tone and tighten. Manuka, a relative of tea tree oil, in conjunction with black cumin and magnolia bark extracts, provides purifying properties to balance oily and problem skin conditions while promoting a visibly improved, clearer, smoother, and shine-free complexion.
Sunday Riley UFO Ultra-Clarifying Face Oil is a quick-absorbing, medicated dry oil to clear congested pores, prevent and treat blemishes, and smooth the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles for clearer, perfect skin.
Immunocologie Intense Eye Cream stimulates blood flow and eliminates impurities from around the orbital eye area. The Lannea Microcarpa fruit extract, has a vasoconstrictor effect when applied on the skin, reducing the capillary enlargement that causes puffiness and dark circles.
Photo credit: Immunocologie, Sunday Riley, Baxter of California and
Jack Black images by MaryGray.co
April 6, 2017
One of Kiehl’s most beloved products, Ultra Facial Cream, now comes in a sunscreen formula, offering 24-hour hydration with SPF 30.
Ultra Facial Cream Sunscreen SPF 30 is, of course, inspired by its sister product, Ultra Facial Cream, which is known for keeping skin moisturized and comfortable for 24 hours.
Like the original, Ultra Facial Cream Sunscreen SPF 30 also contains Antarcticine, a glacial glycoprotein sourced in Antarctica that’s known to withstand extreme cold, and Squalane, a lipid derived from olives that has emollient characteristics that coat the surface of the skin and help hold on to moisture, as well as “Fountain Plant” (also known as Ophiopogon Japonicus Root Extract), a plant native to Asia known to resist drought. In skincare, this plant is notable for its ability to help skin maintain its natural moisture reserves.
This new formula leaves skin soft, smooth and healthy-looking, and protected with broad-spectrum SPF30 protection, so Ultra Facial Cream fans can now get their SPF protection in creamy formula. (The original version isn’t going anywhere, for those who prefer to use a separate SPF!)
Kiehl’s Ultra Facial Cream Sunscreen SPF30
Fast-absorbing, non-greasy texture provides broad spectrum SPF30 protection
Provides a fresh feel while leaving skin soft, healthy and comfortably moisturized
Fresh aroma, Paraben free
50 ml $27.50/125 ml $47.50
Available in-store April, 2017; NOW on Kiehls.com
April 1, 2017
We are excited about a new doctor-branded anti-aging skincare line called Schique. The products utilize the unique power of Dandelion Extract to nourish skin back to vitality. Schique was created by Beverly Hills-based Dr. Jacqueline Schaffer, who was motivated to create a healthy, nutrient-rich product line after witnessing her mother’s two-time battle with skin cancer.
Usually we test a product for at least 4 weeks to see how it works with us…Truth, we just started with the line this week, but we are so excited about – we couldn’t wait to get it up on the blog. So far, so amazing! More soon!!
Schique Skincare is devoted to making natural anti-aging products with intelligent ingredients derived from powerful peptides and anti-oxidants, Vitamins C and E, as well as rich fruit, and plant extracts – especially the natural pollution shield from dandelions. The company believes that understanding the high-quality, effective ingredients of the product line helps customers expand their “Skin IQ” while appreciating and falling in love with the way it feels on their skin.
All Schique Skincare is Paraben-free, sulfate-free, cruelty-free, gluten-free, silicon-free. They include 100% natural fragrances and essential oils and are proudly made in the USA. To learn more about Schique, please visit http://www.schique.com.
FYI…their Intuitive Restoration Renewing Mask is sheer heaven in a jar (it contains exfoliating unispheres from Switzerland that burst and turn the mask blue when you apply it onto your skin, leaving your face smooth, hydrated and lifted). Celebrity fans include Olivia Culpo and Jeannie Mai.
$50.00
Hydra Glisten revitalizing mist refreshes and brightens the skin. This heavenly mist hydrates and soothes the skin in one simple step wherever you are.
Benefits
Direction for Use: This revitalizing mist may be used as a post-cleansing ritual, a quick pick-me-up, or whenever you desire – invigoration with one spritz.
$90.00
Description: Our Insightful Contour eye cream brings the most delicate skin back to a youthful state by proven age-reducing actives to restructure the delicate eye contour. Lids are tightened, fine lines are diminished and puffiness is reduced with this lush, hydrating eye cream.
Benefits:
Directions: Use tube applicator to place the cream and gently massage under the eye and across the eyelid – instant refreshment and transformation. Use mornings and evenings.
$80
Experience Intuitive Restoration Mask’s remarkably revitalizing results as it renews your dedication to a weekly treatment renewal. Designed to soften, soothe, hydrate, and protect your skin, this mask leaves your gorgeous complexion both nourished and glowing.
$110
Feel the love as you lavish your skin with Schique’s sumptuous Lumistone Face Moisturizer. As it hydrates and seals bountiful nourishment into your skin, your face lights up, giving your complexion a glowing finish to match your vibrant aura.
