PUT YOUR BEST FACE FORWARD…AVOID THESE WINTER SKIN MISTAKES

As seasons change so does our skin. Winter is the worst season of the year and can be very hard on the skin.  In this blog I offer a few tips to help you avoid costly mistakes in your daily skin care program, that lead to dry, flaky and red irritated skin. You can keep looking and feeling your best even during harsh winters. 

1. Avoid licking your lips and do use lip balm.  The skin on your lips is very fragile and requires special care just like your facial skin.  Licking your lips frequently can cause them to dry out and become flaky.  Even though licking provides temporary moisture it leaves the lips drier due to evaporation into the dry winter air and heated environments. The digestive enzymes in saliva can break down the skin causing lips corners to crack and the skin to flake. Prevent damaged lips by exfoliating the dead skin away and then use a well formulated, conditioned lip balm throughout the day to keep in natural moisture.

2.  Do Use Sunscreen all year around.  Winter UVA rays are nearly as strong as summer rays.  They are responsible for changing the DNA in the skin and this causes premature lines, wrinkles and sagging. Damaging UV light is the #1 cause of premature aging skin because they interfere with skin barrier function while simultaneously preventing proper moisture levels in the skin.

3.  Use the right formula and amount of moisturizer.  Too much moisturizer is wasteful, can cause skin congestion, bumps and breakouts.  The skin, like a sponge, can only absorb so much.  Find the right formula for your skin needs, apply it daily and prevent future skin problems.

4.  Adjust your skin care regimen to your skin needs. Our bodies constantly change and so does our skin with fluctuating temperatures and conditions.  Make sure you are using the right products during each season.  For example:  you may need to switch from a foaming cleanser and creamy moisturizer, during winter months, to a gentler cleansing lotion and serum moisturizer, to avoid loss of drying the skin.  Find a good aesthetician (Nora handles this at DAVinci) to help you with your best skin care program/products. Visit my website for more info: www.davinciplastic.com.

5. Seal in your moisturizer right after cleansing your skin!  You have a one minute window after cleansing, to moisturize and prevent skin dehydration. Water acts like a magnet and attracts the water deep within your dermal layers and result in evaporation. Apply your moisturizer or serum while your skin is still damp to ensure plump, well hydrated skin.

BRILLIANT DISTINCTIONS® Reward Program that allows patients to earn redeemable points/coupons for SkinMedica® products, Botox® and Juvederm®.  My patients love this program. Check it out at: www.brilliantdistinctionsprogram.com.

Glow N” Go Treatments are popular all year long but especially during the winter months. Treatments include:  Botox® Cosmetic, Microdermabrasion, IPL treatments for dark spots and patchy or uneven skin color and Injectables are here to stay. The Seniors and the younger generations are in love with instant Liquid Facelifts when surgery isn’t necessary.  Manly Makeovers are rising in popularity as more men are choosing cosmetic procedures for career advantages and because they just want to look good.

Stay Well and Put Your Best Face Forward!

Steven Davison M.D.

KELOIDS and Today’s Top Treatments

KELOIDS are a type of scar that results from an overgrowth of collagen type tissue at the site of a healed skin injury.  Keloids can be firm, rubbery lesions or shiny, fibrous nodules that vary in color….some are pink, others are flesh colored, or they may be red to dark brown in color.  Keloids are benign (not cancerous), are not contagious but often cause severe itching and changes in skin texture.  Severe keloids can affect movement of the skin.

Keloids require expert attention to deal with the pain, itching and physical disfigurement.

Keloids are often confused with “hypertropic scars.”  They are not the same. Hypertropic scars are raised and they do NOT grow beyond the boundaries of the original wound.

Since I have specialized training and years of experience in surgery and reconstructive surgeries, I have dealt with so many patients in need of Keloid removal and scar revision…I couldn’t begin to number them.  Just know, that dealing with Keloids is serious business and you should see a surgeon with expertise in this area…in order to get desirable results.

Keloids and where they develop on the body.  Keloids can develop any place an abrasion (injury) has occurred.  They can even result from pimples, insect bites, scratching ones self, from burns or other skin trauma.  They can develop post surgery.  They most commonly occur:

• On the central chest
• The back & shoulders
• On Ear lobes
• On arms & over the collar bone after body piercings
• From shaving…razor bumps may become keloids
• Bottom of feet
• Can occur at any age…but generally don’t until past age 11
• Keloids…may be linked to hereditary tendencies

COMMON TREATMENTS FOR KELOID REMOVAL

1)  Corticosteroid injected directly into the tissue – typically 3-4 treatments spaced about 1 month apart – will reduce a raised Keloid to a flat scar and reduce redness, itching and burning.

2)  Surgical Removal is used for larger, more extensive formations.  Technique involved may employ a scalpel, electric knife or laser removal.

3) Post-Surgical Complimentary Treatments are often used to minimize Keloid recurrence after surgical removal.  These treatments include:   -silicone sheet dressings applied directly to the skin around the incision; -compression therapy the mechanically flatten the scar formation, – topical imiquimod or advanced injectables such as bleomycin,  -interferon or 5-fluorouracil.  These drugs work at the cellular level to disable the Keloid tissue formation process.

4)  Laser Excision followed by monthly intralesional steroid injections alone or in conjunction with imiquimod.

These are my treatment preferences. I stay with the tried and true because those options are proven to get the most desirable results.

Stay well, remember the Sun Screen, lots of pure drinking Water, Sun Glasses and avoid the sun’s glare, especially when near a body of water.

Steven Davison M.D.

“DAVinci….where I combine the supreme elements of art and surgical science.”

Obagi for Beautiful, Healthy Skin…Summertime and all the time!

By now you’re fully aware of all the effects the sun has on our skin.  I’ve written a couple blogs on skin cancer and also summer sun protection. (see previous blogs)  It is possible to have healthy, beautiful skin all the time…and skin cancer can be avoided if correct protective measures are faithfully used.  That said,  today I want to update you on one of the best, healthiest skin care products in the world.

Obagi…nothing works like Obagi because nothing else is Obagi

We offer Obagi products through our med spa because put simply they work, every time, all the time and are the best I’ve found to help patients restore and rejuvenate their skin. And, patients, once using them, claim them for life.  Obagi is for all ages…all skin types and ethnicities and, it maintains beautiful healthy skin for a lifetime.

Obagi was recently voted the premier sunscreen product by SELF magazine after a group of over 2200 users responded overwhelmingly in favor of the results they got.

Full Range of Products…because no two skins are identical

Obagi is a physician directed skincare program that can be started at any age and used for life.  It works at the “cellular” level causing your skin to look and act healthier and younger. In other words, Obagi works from the “inside out” to correct and build healthy skin. Here are some of the ways it works to accomplish that:

• Obagi restores healthy cell function to transform your skin
• It corrects signs of aging and helps prevent future damage
• Obagi is pharmaceutical grade, physician directed to assure safety and success
• Obagi has proven time, and time again…that it works regardless of skin type or age
• We “tailor” a program to suit your individual needs…because no one process works for every face
• Obagi offers several SunScreen formulas…for even the most sensitive skin
• Ask Nora about our Obagi line…and get started right away!

Why Obagi SunScreen Products?

Sun damage is cumulative over the years and results in uneven pigmentation, sagging skin, wrinkles or sometimes skin cancer.  Skin cancer is preventable with the proper precautions used faithfully and the right products. Doing this you can enjoy the sun without the burn.  Consider this:

• Use broad spectrum coverage to reduce exposure to both UVA and UVB rays…Obagi has you covered here.
• Obagi is not just another sunscreen.  It’s non greasy, penetrates quickly, goes on sheer and elegant and keeps you protected.
• With SPF formulas ranging from 30 up to 50…Obagi’s sunscreen is safe and comfortable for the most sensitive skin, those with rosacea, those with oily skin and more.
• The formulas go on easily, absorb beautifully and protect even during the hottest summer heat.  Nu Derm SunShield SPF 50 is like an elegant matte finish.
• Because your skin is unique Obagi has covered all the skin types.

To learn more about this amazing product, call Nora and reserve your supply.  Read more about all Obagi products at http://www.davinciplastic.com

Obagi revitalizes, enhances, maintains beautiful, healthy skin for life!

Enough said about the sun…come on in and let’s design your healthy skin regimen.

Steven Davison, M.D.

At DAVinci…I combine the supreme elements of art and surgical science.

Tips for Healthy Summer Skin…by Steven Davison M.D.

Summer Sun & Your Skin

Summer Sun and Skin Tips

Let’s review a few basics for protecting your skin during these summer months when BarBQ’s, beach parties, backyard birthday parties, canoeing, kayaking, rafting and many more outside activities…mean more exposure to the sun.

Stay hydrated by drinking lots of pure water. every body requires water.  it is essential to life itself…there is no substitute for pure water.

Summer Sun Protection Review: 

• Use Sun Screen often and apply generously (ask Nora what to use)
• Shade does not guarantee protection from the Sun’s UVA/UVB rays…if you are near the ocean…the water reflects the rays even when you are under umbrellas and trees.
• Wear sunscreen even when in the shade
• Wear a Hat and Sunglasses
• Rinse off Saltwater…if you’re at the beach rinse off saltwater often since it is dehydrating (drying)
• Drink lots of pure water…cooler is better to help reduce body temperature during hot summer days/nights.  Alcohol is dehydrating.
• Sun Burns do occur and if so…try these tips from a renowned Hollywood Celebrity Aesthetician/SkinCare Professional:
• Rinse off with cool water to cool the skin
• Apply Anti-Oxidants to stop free radical damage   (Vit C&E)
• Gently Apply Aloe Gel or cold yogurt to help cool the skin
• Let Your Skin Breathe….avoid too frequent moisturizing with creams, lotions containing heavy oils.
• Don’t Do it again…avoid getting sunburned in the future!

Foods for Healthy Skin…this info comes compliments of the Mayo Clinic and their suggestions for healthier summer skin.  They include:

• Carrots, apricots…e.g. lots of yellow and orange fruits and vegetables
• Spinach, Kale…lots of dark green leafy vegetables and salads
• Tomatoes
• Blueberries (strong antioxidant properties)
• Beans, Peas, Lentils (fiber & protein)
• Salmon, Mackeral and other deep, cold water fish
• Nuts such as walnuts, almonds, pecans…avoid processed, salted and oily nuts.
• AVOID refined, processed carbohydrates and fatty fats….sugar, baked goods, bleached & bromated grains etc.

JELLYFISH STINGS…Try to avoid coming into contact with Jellyfish…but if you do get stung here’s what to do:  rinse with salt water immediately, remove tentacles with tweezers or wear protective gloves as soon as possible, rinse with white vinegar and apply vinegar compress.  Use aspirin or tylenol for pain if needed. Seek medical help.

The information I’ve given you today goes for men, women and children!  The sun touches everyone, and the foods recommended are good for the entire population.  So, please enjoy your family times…but do take time to protect yourself and your loved ones.

Enjoy Your Summer.

Steven Davison, M.D.

At DAVinci…I combine the supreme elements of art and surgical science.

Natural Fat Injections…Take Years off Your Face…Naturally

NATURAL FAT INJECTIONS for NATURALLY YOUTHFUL FACES

Not all fat is bad. In fact, loss of facial fat (due to aging) causes loss of facial definition, sunken temples, forehead and brow wrinkles, a down turned mouth and accentuates  “puffy” lower eyelids. Facial fat deteriorates naturally with age, weight loss and hormonal changes, which tends to speed up the process.

Three ways to restore facial volume and achieve smoother, younger looking skin:

1)Fat Transfer is a great non invasive option with long lasting…natural looking results.

2)Injectable Fillers, such as Juvederm and Sculptra offers immediate results and requires maintenance treatments.

3)Implants (if you are considering a Facelift) restore volume and definition to the cheeks…making you always look 5 to 10 years younger.

FAT TRANSFER is a very popular facial, age defying procedure today because it uses your own natural body fat. I use it all the time to redefine and contour aging faces of both men and women…while filling in lines, wrinkles, hollows and creating natural looking definition. Autologous fat transplantation (fat injections) may involve liposuction for fat removal.

FAT TRANSFER is a wonderful age defying procedure, but it is not suitable for everyone…dramatic aging requires surgery, but we try to consider the least invasive first.

I am specially trained and skilled in all Fat Grafting/Transfer techniques and get results that look natural…because they are.

Men are having FaceLifts using their own body fat.

At DAVinci…my mission is to help you get and keep your best face forward…naturally.  I do that by combining… the supreme elements of art & surgical science.

Let’s Talk Soon.

Dr. Steven Davison

Should I use Fillers or…have Surgery?

I’ve been blogging about facial aging and what to do now, no matter what decade of aging you are experiencing.  Facelifts, Necklifts, Eyelid lift, Blepharoplasty, Cheek Augmentation and more have been offered as safe, effective age defying options.  But, I’m frequently asked: “Dr. Davison, should I use injectables or should I have surgery?”

Injectable fillers and Botox or Dysport have their specific benefits as does surgery.  The key to knowing which to use at a given time is knowing how they work, how effectively they’re working and when to switch from one to the other.  There are some simple guidelines as follows:

WHEN TO USE FILLERS Fillers are excellent to correct initial gauntness in the face, especially cheeks that are starting to lose volume and become hollow.  The right filler restores volume and definition while smoothing out early lines and wrinkles.  Fillers work well as long as there is no loose skin.

WHEN TO CHOOSE SURGERY Fillers can offer long lasting results, but as with all good things, the time comes when skin loses its elasticity, muscles slip and fillers can’t deal with these things.  Surgery then is the correct option to deal with loose, sagging skin and relaxed muscles.

Nothing replaces good genes which dictate how we age, however, the right surgery performed by a qualified, skilled surgeon can dramatically improve how you age.  Times have changed from women arriving at a certain age and undergoing plastic surgery.  Now, the new trend in anti aging is men and women are having facial procedures done sooner…at an earlier age to allow for more graceful, aging…naturally.

I help men and women keep their best face forward.

Let’s talk about your best face.

Dr. Davison

What you can do now to Defy Future Aging

Aging is inevitable and beauty at any age is possible. But if the biological effects of aging are left unchecked, as we move through the decades, damage is done that probably could have been prevented or delayed.

This series of blogs deals with facial aging… and which interventions can help us keep looking young, fresh and beautiful without surgery.

It’s very important, that regardless of what you have done and at what age, you must choose a well qualified, experienced surgeon who has mastered the complex facial anatomy and who understands that “a single procedure does NOT fix-all.”  Do not be fooled by today’s advertising…every face is different and every single procedure must be matched correctly to the individual.

CAN YOU CHANGE HOW YOU WILL AGE?   YES! Hollywood Celebrities do it everyday by starting early (30’s) and maintaining with small procedures along the way. This often negates the need for surgery (best case scenario) or at least delays it. Nothing replaces good genes (they dictate how we age), but good interventions dramatically improve how we age.

TO DELAY AGING…START IN YOUR 30’S Botox, Dysport or other fillers can eliminate the very first lines and wrinkles, under eye bags and volume loss.  Cheek Augmentation keeps hollows, wrinkles and folds from becoming as severe.   Many people have Blepharoplasty to correct early aging around the eyes and to allow for more youthful aging. Aging will still occur but will be much less noticeable and less damaging.

Next Time I’ll blog on aging in the 40’s and what age defying options we’re using today including new amazing lasers.  Keep coming back! I love helping people put their best face forward!

Dr. Steven Davison

Obagi…for beautiful skin

We’re on the downside of summer and chances are you’ve had some great family times including beach or poolside time.  This means “sun” exposure.  At the beginning of summer I wrote about ways to protect your skin and eyes from the harmful UV rays.  But, regardless of how faithful we are using sun screen, hats and sun glasses, we will get some exposure.  Along with the sun, there’s everyday pollution that speeds up aging skin.

I love to recommend Obagi skin care systems because they work everytime…all the time.  Obagi corrects the function and health of the skin by getting into the cells and working from the inside out.

I’ve had many years to prove the various products and procedures I use and recommend.  Without exception and regardless of skin type or skin condition, the Obagi NuDerm system gets superior results time after time.

Obagi is pharmaceutical grade and physician directed (you can get it from me).  It corrects signs of aging and prevents future damage by restoring healthy skin cell function.

My patients glow when using Obagi…minus wrinkles, fine lines, sagging, uneven pigmentation and more.  It helps your skin look and act healthier!

Briefly – here’s how it works:

• Penetrates to the deepest dermal layer
• Old cells are replaced with new ones within 6 weeks
• Your skin begins producing normal, healthy cells – faster
• Melanin is more evenly distributed
• Collagen and elastin production is stimulated
• Your skin “glows” during this transformation phase
• The process is ongoing
• Your new, more youthful look continues on your maintenance program

At the end of summer…we all need to rejuvenate our facial skin.  Obagi is up to the task and one of the best options I can recommend. To learn more about Obagi click here.

Helping you keep your best face forward!

Dr. Steven Davison