The dermapen uses multiple thin needles that gently and quickly penetrate the skin. The skin needling method used in the DermaPen micro-needling stimulates the skin’s remarkable self-repair mechanism. This is done with the help of several thin needles that gently penetrate the skin, thus, creating micro “injuries.” These micro “injuries” trigger the synthesis of new collagen, without the risk of permanent scarring.
Why have a Dermapen Treatment?
Dr Teri Johnson attended the national FACE conference in June 2012 where she heard a presentation given by Professor Tony Chu about the new Dermapen and she knew it would prove popular at Cheshire Lasers as it offers many advantages over dermaroller treatments.
FDA-approved, the Derma Pen represents the next level in collagen induction therapy and is an ideal treatment for:
Skin tightening
Skin rejuvenating
Acne scars
Fine wrinkle
Stretch mark flattening and smoothing
Scar remodelling
The Dermapen offers several advantages over the traditional dermaroller: –
The Dermapen is easier to use in treating areas like the upper lip, under the eyes and nose
It is less painful than the Dermaroller treatment
There is less downtime with the Dermapen than after Dermaroller treatment
The Dermapen is more effective than the Dermaroller for treating acne scars
The Dermapen is an electronically powered device.
Multiple needles vertically pierce the skin to enhance rejuvenation results, maintain epidermal integrity & reduce downtime.
The automatic vibrating function of the Dermapen™ increases dermal needling speed, effectiveness & absorption of products while reducing pain & discomfort.
Dermapen™ is as effective as Fraxel, IPL, Lasers & Chemical Peels at a fraction of the cost of alternatives.
The Dermapen for treating Ageing.
As we age, the production of the skin’s supporting cells, fibroblasts, collagen and elastin, naturally reduces which leads to wrinkles, sagging and crepe skin. The Dermapen treatment works by stimulating the skin to produce more fibroblasts, collagen and elastin is and is seen as an effective alternative to facelifts and other surgical anti-ageing treatments. The Dermapen makes ‘micro injuries’ to the skin with very fine needles. These injuries prompt the skin to go into repair mode, which includes the release of collagen, elastin and the stimulation of new supporting skin cells, fibroblasts. This reduces the signs of ageing, such as sagging, wrinkles, pitting and uneven skin tone.
Derma Pen is an effective skin rejuvenation treatment but without the recovery time required of more traditional treatments such as chemical peels or fraxel Derma Pen is effective for skin tightening, skin rejuvenation, acne scars and wound healing, and natural improvement in the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
The Dermapen for treating acne scarring
The Dermapen makes ‘micro-injuries to the skin with very fine needles. These injuries prompt the skin to go into repair mode, which includes the release of collagen, elastin and the stimulation of new supporting skin cells, fibroblasts. This reduces the signs of acne scarring, pitting and uneven skin tone caused by acne.
Hair loss treatment has changed considerably over the past few years, with many different options available and other exciting new treatments on the horizon. The specialists working at Cheshire Lasers Clinic provide several methods for improving the effects of hair loss.
Here at Cheshire Lasers, we understand that losing your hair can be a very sensitive and difficult subject to discuss. It is essential that you find the right clinic for your treatment, but most importantly, the right treatment that meets your needs with someone you can trust.
Scalp Micropigmentation is a non-surgical, cosmetic solution for males and females suffering from hair loss and thinning hair. Micropigmentation is used to create the illusion of real hair. At Cheshire Lasers, this treatment is carried out by our associateHelena Fryer. Helena’s Before and After results are extremely impressive.
The treatment not only gives her clients the look of a full head of hair again but really helps to build their self-confidence.
PRP Therapy is a natural, modern method for treating hair loss. It is a safe, non-surgical procedure with significant results. It is an injectable treatment which uses the patient’s plasma containing active growth factors to promote hair growth. These growth factors may help hair grow or, at a minimum, slow down hair loss. The result leaves the patient with fuller, healthier-looking hair.
The number of treatments will depend on the patient’s hair condition, the amount of hair loss that needs treating and the desired result. Generally, most people need four to six treatments at four-week intervals. Significant hair growth begins at six months and continues after that. Determining factors are the amount and cause of hair loss.
Overall, patient satisfaction is high, with this treatment receiving an average rating of seven out of 10. Patients are advised to consider repeat treatments in intervals of six to 12 months to maintain their hair restoration progress.
The dermapen uses multiple thin needles that gently and quickly penetrate the skin. The skin needling method used in the DermaPen micro-needling stimulates the skin’s remarkable self-repair mechanism. This is done with the help of several thin needles that gently penetrate the skin, thus, creating micro “injuries.” These micro “injuries” trigger the synthesis of new collagen, without the risk of permanent scarring.
Silhouette Soft® is a new technology with a double lifting and regenerating
effect through the action of re-absorbable sutures with bidirectional cones.
Made in the USA, Silhouette Soft® was developed on the back of 6 years of experience of using suspension sutures with cones in reconstructive and aesthetic surgery.
They consist of Poly-L-Lactic acid ( PLLA) and glycolic acids. These components are totally re-absorbable in 18-24 months.
How do Silhouette Soft Threads work?
Two actions:
A lift action for immediate yet discreet results: the physician can redefine the area by lifting the tissue.
A volume action occurs gradually due to PLLA stimulating collagen giving further rejuvenation.
Silhouette Soft is the only product on the aesthetic market that combines these two actions.
What does the Treatment involve?
The procedure takes thirty to sixty minutes under local anaesthetic. One or more sutures may be necessary, depending on the treatment area.
SILHOUETTE SOFT® can be used as a stand-alone treatment or with fillers and botulinum toxin.
Which area can the Threads Treat?
Facial contour – jawline, cheeks and malar area.
Eyebrows.
Neck.
Why is Silhouette Soft so innovative?
Immediate but natural lift effect in addition to a progressive volume action.
Progressive recovery of natural collagen.
The procedure takes just 30 min under local anaesthetic at the doctor’s practice.
Non-invasive
No incisions
Quick return to professional and social life.
The components are entirely re-absorbable.
Can correct flabbiness in the mandible area, neck, malar area
Can improve dropping eyebrows
The effect lasts up to 18 months.
The ideal patient is 30 to 60, without excessively loose skin or severe ptosis.
How much is Silhouette Soft Treatment?
The cost depends on how many threads you need we recommend a consultation for an assessment to determine if you are suitable and the costs involved.
Threads are not available at Cheshire Lasers. However, we usually recommend Patricia Goodwin, who practises in North Wales and Wrexham, for this treatment.
Port-Wine stains are red or purple marks, often on the face. They are caused by a localised area of abnormal blood vessels.
Treatment of port-wine stains with lasers can give good or excellent results. At Cheshire Lasers we find 4 to 10 treatments are needed to achieve results. The number of treatments required depends on the size, the colour and the response of the birth mark to the treatment. Camouflage creams such as lycogel are also an alternative treatment.
Here is an example of a Port-Wine Stain Reduction treatment performed at Cheshire Lasers Clinic.
Treatment works best the younger you are, at Cheshire Lasers most of the clients we have treated so far have been in their 30s and 40s and we have still had good to excellent results. Treatments tend to work less well in adults who have had a port-wine stain for many years and it has become bumpy and raised.
Treatment tends to work best on smaller port-wine stains of the face and less well on the arms and legs. Generally, the paler the port-wine stain, the greater the chance of excellent results with less treatments.
The laser or IPL treatment can cause an unpleasant stinging. Treatments are given about 4 to 6 weeks apart. There may be pain, bruising and swelling over the treated area for a while after each session.
What is a Port-Wine Stain?
A port-wine stain is a red or purple mark on the skin. It is usually present from birth. About 3 in 1000 babies are born with a port-wine stain. Most occur on the face but any area of the skin can be affected. Port-wine stains affect males and females equally. They are not hereditary.
What do Port-Wine Stains look like?
Port-wine stains vary in size from a few millimetres across to many centimetres. Their colour can vary from pale red to deep purple. If left untreated, port-wine stains tend to darken over the years as the blood flow through them becomes more sluggish. The overlying skin is smooth and flat at first. By middle age the overlying skin can become thickened and lumpy (a ‘cobblestone’ appearance).
What causes Port-Wine Stains?
A port-wine stain is a localised blood vessel problem. The tiny blood vessels (capillaries) in port-wine stains remain dilated (wide). It is like a permanent localised blush. The reason why this occurs is thought to be due to a damaged or faulty nerve supply to the affected tiny blood vessels. The nerve impulses that make the blood vessels narrower are lost so they then stay wide all the time.
What are the symptoms of Port-Wine Stains?
Apart from their appearance, no other symptoms or problems occur in most cases. However, about 1 in 10 babies born with a port-wine stain on the face have problems of the eye or brain. * Eye problems may develop if the port-wine stain is on the eyelid area. If a child has a port-wine stain next to an eye then an eye specialist will normally check the child regularly until they are adult. * Brain abnormalities are an uncommon association with port-wine stains of the face. This is due to extensive blood vessel abnormalities in the brain, (The Sturge-Weber syndrome), Epilepsy and other problems may then develop. The majority of children with port-wine stains do not have these complications.
Ultraformer III is the latest non-surgical technology using High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound (HIFU) and Micro-Macro Focused Ultrasound (MMFU) it delivers safe, non-invasive face, neck and body lifting treatments.
Ultraformer III is not only good for skin lifting and tightening; it also helps with lines, wrinkles, pores, skin tone, and laxity.
How does Ultraformer III work?
Ultraformer is a revolutionary skin-lifting and tightening treatment that uses the gentle, safe, time-tested energy of ultrasound at a micro-focused level to create a powerful energy.
The Ultraformer reduces the fatty deposits in the jowl and jawline area, which pull the face down. It also stimulates the growth of new collagen over time, which strengthens and tones your skin from deep within, creating a lifting and a tightening effect.
Ultraformer III results excel the most when treating the jowl, jawline and neck. At Cheshire Lasers, we highly recommend this Ultraformer for tightening up the jawline, to reduce sagging jowls and neck. It is especially effective in people who have heavy jowls.
The Ultraformer III can also be used to treat other areas of the body including; the abdomen, buttocks, upper arms and knees. The therapist can select various attachments to suit the skin in the treatment area.
How long does the Ultraformer Jowl treatment take?
Ultraformer has a fast shooting speed, which means a jowl or jawline treatment takes only 40 minutes. The upper neck and jowl area treated together can take about an hour.
How many Ultraformer treatments will I need?
One treatment is often enough for most people; however, you may require a second one for the best results.
A second treatment will usually be carried out around five months later.
The results can last up to a year and sometimes can last 18 months. Most people arrange another treatment when the results start to wear off.
When will I start to see the results of Ultraformer?
Some people can see results immediately after a jowl/jawline Ultraformer treatment. This is due to heat stimulation during the treatment, which can make your skin look more rejuvenated, fresher, tighter and firmer.
The ultimate results develop 60 to 100 days after the treatment when the collagen regeneration becomes noticeable. As collagen production can be ongoing, most patients will continue to see the effects of treatment improve sometime after the session.
Is Ultraformer treatment painful?
During the treatment, you will feel warm pulses of ultrasound energy deep under the skin, which causes the collagen and muscle layers to contract. Some people may find this uncomfortable, but others report no pain with the treatment at all. Some people will need to take some simple painkillers before the treatment; however, this depends on the pain sensitivity level of each individual, the area to be treated and the size of the area to be treated.
What is the recovery time for Ultraformer treatments?
You can go back to work and routine life immediately after the treatment.
Does Ultraformer have any side effects?
Heat levels created by the Ultraformer device are not damaging to the surrounding tissue, as it only targets the treated area. The energy is delivered to the deeper levels of the skin, and not to the upper layers. This means there should be no visible signs on the skin’s surface after the procedure.
The most frequently reported side effects are:
Swelling
Redness
Tingling of the skin
Tenderness
Bruising
The only other noticeable effects will be lifting and tightening.
There may be slight redness for up to an hour or so following the treatment.
A small percentage of patients may have slight swelling, tingling or tenderness to touch over the treated area, but these are mild and tend to last no more than a few days.
Bruising can occur and is usually minor but can be more severe, especially in people who are prone to bruising.
A small proportion of people may experience slight tingling or tenderness in the area treated for several weeks as the growth of new collagen occurs.
Is Ultraformer safe?
Ultrasound technology has been used by medical professionals for scans including pregnancy scans as well as other indications for over 50 years.
Ultraformer has been cleared by the Korean FDA after demonstrating safety in clinical studies. Tens of thousands of treatments have been performed worldwide without any significant adverse events.
Can I receive Botox and fillers in addition to Ultraformer treatments?
Yes you can; however, we usually advise you have the Ultraformer treatment a month before you have any injectable treatments if they are in the same area.
In the past, Ultraformer treatments could not be carried out directly over fillers injected in the previous three months. It is now believed that it is safe to treat over fillers. However, we recommend a consultation with Dr Johnson first to make sure you are suitable. She can assess your face, what fillers you have had and where, and then decide on the best treatment plan for you.
You can have Botox on the same day if you are having the treatments in different areas. If the treatments are for the same area, we normally recommend you leave a 2-week window between treatments.
The procedure was quick and painless with instant results. Immediately my skin was tighter and brighter. No downtime was needed whatsoever, I applied makeup and returned to work the next day. Friends and work colleagues all commented on how well and fresh I looked…this was only after a day or so after the treatment. Over the following months, the appearance of my skin kept improving and my cheek areas became more ‘plump’ and my forehead tighter. The results from the full face treatment for me lasted around 10-11 months. I would highly recommend the ultra former procedure. Carrie S.
After 12 years of trying to smooth out my jawline, I have at last received a treatment which is totally amazing. A facelift, threads and expensive treatments for jowls had not helped at all. At Cheshire Lasers I was treated with the ULTRAFORMER 3 HIFU Jawline treatment and immediately noticed a difference. After 3 months the results were even more obvious and still progressing. I am delighted with my profile and can highly recommend this procedure for a great confidence boost. Lynda M aged 63.
CACI Micro-current lifts and rejuvenates working on the muscles and tissue. A one-off treatment will feel good but results will be seen after a course of treatments. It can be carefully combined with other therapies or used by itself. It is suitable for Men and Women.
At Cheshire Lasers we use a brand new 2015 CACI machine with the latest patented technology to deliver what CACI call a Non Surgical Facelift. We offer a wide range of popular CACI treatments including the popular Jowl Lift and CACI Eye Revive.
Softens and reduces the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines
Encourages collagen production to plump tissue
Lifts sagging muscles
Tones flabby or sunken areas
Tightens and reduces open pores
Improves colour and texture of the skin
Reduces puffiness and dark circles under eyes
Gives youthful appearance to the skin
Takes 10 to 12 sessions over 5 to 6 weeks and then just monthly sessions to maintain
Completely safe
Is the CACI Micro-current treatment effective?
Yes – although results will vary depending on the nature of your skin, tissue and muscles. For the younger person or the person with good facial structure, Micro-current is a work out for the facial muscles and in hand with regular skin care will help to delay the ageing process.
For those whose features are already beginning to slacken then the Micro-current will remind the muscles what they should be doing, whether the muscles need to relax such as on the forehead and frown lines, or need to tighten such as the cheeks, brows and neck.
Over time, the treatment will help to promote collagen production and will stimulate tissue and muscle mass, essential to the anti-ageing process.
It will not eliminate creases or deep wrinkles but will soften them. Although Micro-current is often referred to as the Non Surgical Facelift, in practice it has a natural effect with comments such as “you look great”, “you look five years younger”, “have you had your hair done”, and “have you been on holiday?” Just like working out in the gym, you will need to have maintenance treatments in order to keep the gains made.
How does CACI Micro-current work?
Micro-current was originally used in the medical world to treat Bell’s Palsy. It was used to restore muscle tone by applying tiny Micro-current electrical impulses to the affected muscles. It is now being increasingly used for a variety of uses including promoting soft tissue repair.
As we grow older our facial muscles naturally start to lose tone and elasticity making us look older.
Micro-current treatments apply tiny pulses of energy through cotton tipped probes into the tissue and muscle and out again to the other cotton tipped probe. The muscle is either stretched or squeezed as the energy passes through. The tiny current stimulates the Golgi mechanism, or brain, of the muscle to remind it what it used to do. As with any muscle work, it takes a number of sessions for the results to build up and stay. As well as affecting the muscle structure, the Micro-current stimulates the collagen production and generally helps with the skin tone.
Why have a CACI Micro-current treatment?
Following over 20 years of research and development CACI International offer a solution to combat this loss of muscle tone using CACI Micro-current facial toning therapy.
CACI uses a unique combination of specific waveforms and ultra low frequencies that work in harmony with the body’s own bio-electrical field, transmits tiny electrical impulses and signals that have been documented to stimulate muscle tone and enhance skin tissue.
CACI uses a unique bio-feedback mechanism that automatically adjusts the micro-current output delivered according to each client’s bio-electrical field.
This proven technology is available in thousands of aesthetic clinics as it is a painless, effective treatment, commonly referred to as “facial toning” or “the Non Surgical Facelift”.
What does a CACI Micro-current treatment involve?
At Cheshire Lasers, our CACI Micro-current treatments include an express facial, beginning with a thorough cleanse. We then apply a thin layer of Micro-current gel. The CACI machine then delivers the treatment energy using two sets of probes that stretch or tighten the muscles. You may feel the tugging and pulling from these actions and will soon grow used to them. You may end up sleeping and feeling incredibly relaxed! We will treat each area several times. You might feel a small sensation from the current but likely only around the upper lip when it could be like a tingling. You may sometimes have an interesting flashing when working around the eyes, although these have never yet been migraine-inducing. If you have metal fillings, you may taste the metal in your mouth when working on the outside of your cheeks!
We will remove the gel and cleanse your face once again before applying serums, moisturiser and an SPF chosen especially for your skin. For the first treatment allow an extra 20 minutes to perform a consultation and to take photographs.
Treatment sessions vary from 15 to 70 minutes, depending on the treatment you have.
We will take Photographs at the beginning and end of the treatment course for comparison. We never use photos without your consent.
Am I suitable for CACI Micro-current treatment?
Yes, Micro-current is suitable for most individuals, for all ages from 30s through to 70s however results will very much depend on the individual.
Most people can have this treatment with the usual exceptions such as pregnancy; skin thinning medications such as Roaccutane; cancer; epilepsy; thrombosis; or a pacemaker or any rhythmic heart device fitted.
Wait at least two weeks after any Botox or filler treatments.
Wait a week after skin peels, although you can book a skin peel or a microdermabrasion straight after Microcurrent.
Simple fillings and dental implants are usually not a problem, but metalwork inserted following facial fractures and metal braces can be a problem, and we can discuss this.
What should I expect after a CACI treatment?
Your skin may be pinkish for a short time after treatment but this will subside quickly. Normal activities can proceed immediately and no special after care is required except to drink extra water to aid the lymph clearage which will have been stimulated by the treatment. Your face may feel tighter or firmer and these effects will be less noticeable after a few treatments as this will become the norm. Your skin texture will improve and if you wear make-up you may find it applies better or that you may want to wear less.
How many CACI treatments are necessary?
Generally a course of 10 to 12 treatments are recommended with two a week, at least 24 hours apart, for about 5 to 6 weeks.
After a course of CACI facial toning treatments facial contours will look lifted and toned.
A monthly top up treatment is then recommended to maintain results.
What does a CACI Micro-current treatment feel like?
The treatment feels curious at first and then you will soon settle in to relaxing and enjoying it and then feeling energised and rejuvenated. At first you may feel skeptical that anything is actually happening but by the time the first treatment is completed you will feel for yourself. Sometimes it can be a bit tingly in places and we can discuss this. Some older clients may have very thin or tight skin round the temples and we will adapt the treatment as necessary to be comfortable.
Are there any side effects?
Side effects are extremely rare and can include erythema (redness) but will disappear within a few hours.
Consultation Procedure before treatment
You must undergo a consultation with one of our CACI-trained aestheticians to obtain details about your medical history and confirm your suitability for treatment. Before proceeding with treatment, you will also be asked to complete a consent form.
The following changes make us prone to skin wrinkles:
Excessive facial expressions/smoking create dynamic lines in the stratum corneum and then the dermis
Epidermal cell turnover reduces so the very top layer “the stratum corneum” is present for longer subject to the causes of ageing
The stratum corneum layer becomes more dehydrated so the lines show more
The dermis the supportive structure underneath becomes thin, less vascular and loses collagen.
The fat layer under the dermis reduces.
Facial Expressions
Facial expressions such as pursing the lips cause dynamic lines. These lines are usually seen in people that smoke due to the repetitive movements from the act of smoking. However, smoking also causes other physiological changes making smokers more prone to wrinkles all over.
Interestingly facial expression lines are often are seen around the mouth in non-smokers who have the habit of repeatedly using the muscles for their facial expressions.
Epidermal Cell Changes
The epidermis is the very top layer of skin which acts as a protective barrier. The lowest layer is the “Stratum Basale” this is where new skin cells are made. New skin cells get pushed closer and closer to the skin surface as more cells are made and over time they mature and become flatter and harder due to the keratin within them. When they reach the top layers they die and are eventually shed into the environment. As a result, these cells are found in dust throughout your home.
With age, this epidermal turnover slows down. Cell renewal time is the time a new cell takes to travel from the lowest layer of the epidermis the “Stratum Basale” to the top layer the “Stratum Corneum” and then shed off the skin.
Cell renewal time changes as we age:
Babies – 14 days
Teenagers – 21 – 28 days
Middle age – 28 – 42 days
50 and up – 45 – 90 days
That means that as we age, the top layer of skin cells forming the stratum corneum are around for a lot longer. These cells have been shown to become more dehydrated with age and have been exposed to more movement and environmental factors.
These changes mean the skin is more prone to developing wrinkles and once they develop they can be harder to treat.
Some people have a thicker stratum corneum layer and these people often need treating differently to those with a thin more hydrated stratum corneum.
Dermal Changes
The dermis the supportive structure underneath the stratum corneum becomes thin, less vascular and loses collagen with age.
The dermal thickness decreases by about 20% and the blood flow reduced by about 60%. Fibroblast activity decreases which leads to a drop in collagen synthesis. The collagen content of the dermis decreases by 1% per year throughout adult life.
The collagen remaining is less effective and loses its ability to regain its shape after deformation and also holds a lot less water.
Research has shown that wrinkles appear not so much due to the degeneration of elastin fibres, as previously thought, but also due to a decrease in the water-holding collagen and mucopolysaccharides.
Sebaceous glands produce less oil as you age. Men are fortunate and don’t experience much of a decrease until their 80s. Women gradually produce less oil beginning after menopause. This can make it harder to keep the skin moist, resulting in dryness and itchiness.
Changes in the connective tissue reduce the skin’s strength and elasticity. This is known as elastosis. It is more noticeable in sun-exposed areas (solar elastosis). Elastosis produces the leathery, weather-beaten appearance common to farmers, sailors, and others who spend a large amount of time outdoors.
Changes in the Hypodermis
The hypodermis consists mainly of fat and acts as an insulator and shock absorber. With age, there is a loss of subcutaneous fat and the skin becomes thinner and less resistant to trauma. The reduced volume of subcutaneous fat means the role of the hypodermis in limiting conductive heat loss is impaired.
When it comes to ageing the loss of fat means you lose the mattress like effect of the fat which plumps the skin out giving it a smooth appearance. As the fat goes the skin is then sat on muscle and other underlying structures which can appear wrinkly.
The mouth is an area which develops lines and wrinkles due to fat loss. This is much more common in women as they gradually lose all the fat around the mouth, whereas men are often more fortunate and keep a layer of fat. Hence why women develop lip lines a lot earlier than men.
Many serums and creams designed for the eye area can treat and or prevent eye wrinkles.
The ingredients to look out for are:
Retinol.
Antioxidants
Patented peptides.
AHAs
Hyaluronic acid / B5 serum
Retinol
Retinol helps prevent fine lines as well as smooth the ones you’ve got. By stimulating your collagen and new cell turnover, it reduces collagen breakdown and stimulates the cells to work faster to create fresh, bright, non-wrinkled skin.
It takes a few months of consistent regular use to see any impact on your lines. You will probably experience some redness, dryness, and flakiness within the first month or two of use.
To help reduce the side effects, you can start slowly and use a retinol one night a week for one week, twice a week for two weeks, three times a week for three weeks, and then every other day until you can tolerate it and also get results. Then you need to continue for, well, life !!
A gentle retinol will cause less reaction but fewer results; stronger retinols will give better results but more reaction. This can be annoying, but you must persevere for anti-ageing results. Stronger retinols are only available from clinics like Cheshire Lasers. You will be advised how to use the product, and support is provided to help you achieve results.
Some people are highly responsive to retinol, while others require high-strength products to achieve results.
Due to the strength of these products, we cannot sell them online. They are only available in the clinic after a consultation with one of our Aestheticians.
Antioxidants
Antioxidants control / prevent free-radicals. Free-radicals are the main reason for skin damage created by sun exposure, smoking, alcohol and other environmental factors. You can prevent free radical damage by consuming more antioxidants in your diet, usually found in fruits or vegetables deep in colour. Applying an antioxidant serum can also make a big difference.
Antioxidant products contain vitamin C, vitamin E and Nicotinamide (vitamin B3) which is now considered to be one of the most potent antioxidants, possibly more effective than vitamin C.
Peptides are found in many effective anti-ageing skin care products. While there is no singular, miracle ingredient that will give you those instant, youthful results we all wish for, peptides are an extremely important ingredient to look for in your wrinkle fighting creams, serums, and under eye products.
Peptides are short chains of amino acids, the building blocks of proteins. Amino acids are small allowing them to penetrate the outer layer of our skin and send signals to our cells to stimulate them to function.
AHAs are alpha hydroxy acids, sometimes referred to as fruit acids. They can also be derived from nuts and milk:
They include:
glycolic acid, derived from sugar cane
lactic acid, derived from milk
mandelic acid, derived from bitter almonds
citric acid, naturally found in citrus fruit but derived from many fruit and vegetables
tartaric acid, derived from grapes
malic acid, derived from apples and pears
AHAs work by exfoliating the top layer of skin, allowing newer, healthier skin cells to show through. They are particularly useful in dry skin and may help to diminish the appearance of wrinkles.
Studies have shown that AHAs may also stimulate collagen production and reduce the changes caused by the sun damaging the skin.
Newer, more exciting products are PHAs. They are similaAHA’sAHA’s in that they perform the same role of exfoliation, but unAHA’sAHA’sAHPHA’sPHA’s are gentler on the skin, causing less irrit,awhich ison so common to many alpha hydroxy acids. A great product to use under the eye. Gluconolactone is a powerful antioxidant and is the multi-tasker of all Polyhydroxy Acids.
Hyaluronic acid / B5 serums are a great way to reduce fine lines under the eyes. The particles act like a sponge pulling in water from the air to plump, hydrate and smooth your skin. They are lightweight, ultra-hydrating and work immediately with no irritation. The results are temporary, and the product needs to be used daily to maintain the effect.
Our favourite hyaluronic acid b5 serum is : Medik8 Hydr8 B5 Serum
It may not be an eye product, but it is great for rehydrating the skin under the eye area.
The Obagi Nu-Derm System is a prescription-only skincare system which accelerates skin cell turnover. The system penetrates deep to improve pigmentation and damage in all layers of the skin.
Dr Teri Johnson provides the consultations for the Obagi Nu-derm System at Cheshire Lasers as the tretamnet has to be prescribed. She can advise you which regime would suit you best and also give you advice and support throughout the treatment.
The Obagi Nu-Derm System optimises skin functions at the cellular level to help it look and act younger and healthier. The active ingredients trigger a cascade of actions that:
Promotes new skin cells on the surface, resulting in smoother skin and reduced lines and wrinkles
Reduces uneven pigmentation found in freckles, melasma and age spots and prevents the formation of new pigmentation
Promotes uniform distribution of cells at the deep layers improving skin structure and evening tone
Boosts collagen and elastin production for firmer and resilient skin with fewer lines and wrinkles
Improves circulation and nutrient supply for natural hydration and healthy glowing skin
The Nu-Derm system includes:
Obagi Gentle Cleanser – a soap-free cleanser for all skin types, especially sensitive and dry skin or Obagi Foaming Gel Cleanser – for oily to normal skin types, thoroughly cleans away impurities and make-up.
Obagi Toner – uses a natural astringent that regulates the skin’s PH in order to make it more open to hydroquinone penetration.
Obagi Clear – its main active ingredient is 4% hydroquinone; it blocks the production of melanin, thus reducing hyperpigmentation problems caused by excessive peeling.
Obagi Exfoderm – its main active ingredient is a mild acid called phytic acid – it makes normal to dry skin peel even further or Obagi Exfoderm Forte – another exfoliating product based on AHA’s – glycolic and lactic acids; it’s designed to increase penetration of hydroquinone in normal to oily skin.
Obagi Blender – the product has 4% hydroquinone and is mixed with a tretinoin-based cream.
Obagi Hydrate
Obagi SunShield protects against UVA rays linked to deep, premature ageing as well as UVB responsible for burning.
How do I use the Nu-Derm system?
Prepare the skin by cleansing and toning:
Cleansing and toning makes your skin more receptive to the correction process.
Apply the cleanser recommended by us either GENTLE CLEANSER 1 or FOAMING GEL 1- to wet skin, rinse with lukewarm water and gently pat dry. Avoid rubbing the skin with a towel.
TONER 2 -Apply to entire face with a cotton ball or cotton square, avoiding the eye area.
Correct Repairs damage to the skin’s surface, correcting hyper-pigmentation (sun and age spots) and uneven skin tone while smoothing skin roughness.
CLEAR 3 – Apply Clear evenly on the entire face, extending to the hairline.
EXFODERM or EXFODERM FORTE 4 Apply evenly over entire face, avoiding the eye area. Wait until the cream is absorbed.
Stimulate Damage to the deeper skin layers is repaired. Skin elasticity is restored by enhancing the production of collagen and elastin.
BLENDER and TRETINOIN Apply 1/2 gram of Blender mixed with the prescribed amount of tretinoin. Apply evenly on the entire face, extending to the hairline. 5 (Rx only)
Protect Prevent further damage from harmful UVA and UVB rays.
Apply SunShield
Note: Prolonged sun exposure should be avoided for the first month.
What happens during the Obagi Nu-Derm Treatment?
You can expect to experience four phases as you transform into a healthier, younger-looking appearance. The length of time between the phases will vary based on age, skin type, amount of damage and compliance.
Initial phase
the damaged top layer of skin is replaced by a new layer of fresh, healthy skin cells. This process takes approximately 6 weeks.
During this phase, you can expect to experience one or more of these symptoms:
freckles, age spots and dark patches begin fading
exfoliation and flaking
redness and dryness
wrinkles and acne may look worse temporarily
These reactions are indications that the treatment is working. It is absolutely necessary to stay with the program to see these results.
Stimulation Phase
6 to 12 weeks. You begin to notice significant improvements in your skin. New skin cells continue reaching the surface and the production of collagen and elastin increases. Expect to notice:
wrinkles begin to reduce
tightening of pores
further lightening of freckles, age spots and dark patches
subsiding redness and flaking
Healthy Glow
12 to 18 weeks. In this phase, your friends will begin to notice your skin. Your skin will look and act younger and healthier. Your skin is:
firmer and more resilient
more even colour and tone
smooth and naturally hydrated
Will I Need Maintenance after the Obagi Treatment?
To keep your skin looking and acting younger and healthier, you will want to continue to use the Obagi Nu-Derm System to maintain the improved results you have achieved. By continuing with a maintenance protocol, you can expect to:
Maintain healthier, younger looking skin for a lifetime
Prevent future damage
Improve anti-ageing effects
How much does The Obagi Nu-Derm System Cost?
A consultation and skin analysis with Rachael and Dr Teri Johnson will cost £50, but this will be deducted from the cost of your treatment package if you decide to use the Obagi Nuderm system.
The prices bellow are a rough estimate please Contact Cheshire Lasers here for an up tp date price for Obagi Nu-derm?
The small starter kit costs £400
This includes your first tube of tretinoin prescribed by Dr Johnson and the Obagi hydrate moisturiser.
It will also include two free follow-up appointments to review your progress and advise you on using your products. These appointments are scheduled two weeks and 6-8 weeks after starting the regime. Further consultations will also be arranged if you continue to use the treatment, and we will also advise you about going on to maintenance.
It includes:
Cleanser 2.0 oz.
Toner 2.0 oz.
Clear 2.0 oz.
Exfoderm or Forte 1.0 oz.
Blender 1.0 oz.
Hydrate 1.7oz
Tretinoin 20g
The larger kit will cost £600
This includes the first tube of presciption tretinoin.
It will also include three free follow-up appointments to review your progress and advise you on using your products. These appointments are two weeks and 6-8 weeks after starting the regime and a final consultation to advise you about going on to maintenance.
Cleanser 6.7 fl oz
Toner 6.7 fl oz
Clear 2 oz
Exfoderm or Forte 2 oz
Blender 2 oz
Hydrate 1.7 oz
Tretinoin 20g
We also provide telephone advice seven days a week.
You will need to purchase further products later on during the programme, and we will give you advice about the prices at the time of your consultation.
