Dissolving Lip Fillers

Lip fillers are one of the most popular non-surgical cosmetic procedures, and for good reason: in just half an hour, lip fillers provide subtly enhanced or visibly bigger lips. The results are usually stunning, and you can maintain them with regular treatments.

But what if you don’t like the results?

Luckily, you have options. Read on to find out how you can dissolve lip fillers.

How to dissolve lip fillers

How Can You Dissolve Lip Fillers?

Patients who experience lip asymmetries, lumps and nodules, oversized lips, or other undesired effects of the treatment can dissolve lip fillers in two ways – naturally or with lip filler dissolving injections administered by a licensed medical professional.

The Natural Way

FDA-approved lip fillers are made from hyaluronic acid, a sugar compound that appears naturally in the body. It gradually breaks down on its own, providing temporary results that last 6 to 12 months.

Also, lips move more than other facial areas, making lip fillers dissolve more quickly than other types of filler.  

Patients who are unhappy with the results can wait until the filler dissolves naturally or request a filler dissolving injection.

Injections

Hyaluronidase is an enzyme found in many organisms and it is used in medicine for various purposes. The cosmetics industry uses hyaluronidase injections to speed up hyaluronic acid breakdown.

The enzyme is injected into the patient’s lips in a procedure similar to injecting lip fillers. The procedure is safe when performed by experienced medical professionals.

Patients see the effects of the procedure within a few days.

Sometimes dermal fillers don’t dissolve fully or evenly after one procedure. If that happens, you will need to repeat the hyaluronidase treatment. 

Which Lip Fillers Can Be Dissolved?

FDA-approved dermal fillers are made from hyaluronic acid, poly-L-lactic acid, and calcium hydroxylapatite. All of them dissolve naturally, but the effects can last for up to two years.

Only hyaluronic acid fillers can be dissolved using a hyaluronidase injection. Since all approved lip fillers are made from HA, you should be able to reverse the effects of the treatment quickly.

What Does the Procedure for Dissolving Lip Fillers Look Like

Medical providers use hyaluronidase in off-label treatments to degrade hyaluronic acid fillers. Often, the procedure for dissolving lip fillers is the only option for patients whose lip filler treatment was performed by an untrained, non-medical cosmetic practitioner.

The Procedure

The lip filler dissolving treatment starts with a patch test. The medical provider administers a needle into the patient’s arm with a dose of hyaluronidase to see if they develop an allergic reaction. If no allergic reaction occurs, the provider undergoes the lip filler dissolving procedure after half an hour.

The provider first numbs the patient’s lips with a numbing cream. Then they inject hyaluronidase using several small needles. The procedure takes 10-15 minutes.

The enzyme breaks down dermal fillers gradually. The effects typically appear within 48 hours after the procedure but, in some cases, it may take up to two weeks.

How Long Does It Take to Dissolve Lip Fillers?

Lip fillers are not permanent. Patients who want their fillers dissolved naturally need to wait between 6 and 12 months.

A reverse treatment using a hyaluronidase injection dissolves lip fillers within a few days.

Things You Should Know Before Dissolving Lip Fillers

Like any other treatment that includes needles and injections, dissolving lip fillers carries potential risks and side-effects. Before you book the procedure, here’s what you should know.

Is Dissolving Lip Fillers Painful?

Lips are full of nerve endings and sensitive to pain. That is why it may sting a little when the injection is inserted into the lips. Most aesthetic professionals apply a numbing cream before administering hyaluronidase.

Can I Dissolve Lip Fillers at Home?

You cannot dissolve lip fillers at home. Only licensed medical professionals can administer the enzyme hyaluronidase. However, you can wait for your dermal fillers to dissolve on their own.

What Are the Risks of Dissolving Lip Fillers?

The biggest risk is that hyaluronidase can potentially degrade your natural hyaluronic acid rather than just the foreign filler. If that happens, you will have thinner lips than expected. That is why you should only let an experienced professional perform this treatment or wait for your lip fillers to dissolve naturally.

There is also a risk of an allergic reaction. Medical providers typically perform a patch test prior to the injection.

Are There Side-Effects of Dissolving Lip Fillers?

Swelling and bruising are common side effects of dissolving lip fillers with injections, but they subside within a few days.

On rare occasions, the lips become thinner than anticipated. This can be resolved with another round of fillers in a reputable med spa, such as Vibrant Skin Bar.

Conclusion

Patients who visit qualified medical providers to inject lip fillers are usually happy with the treatment.

However, if you experience unpleasant results, a hyaluronidase injection can help. Talk to our medical staff at Vibrant Skin Bar for advice on how to dissolve your lip filler and achieve your desired aesthetic goals.

Cryotherapy Benefits {+Alternatives}

Cryotherapy is a method of treating a medical condition by exposing the body to extremely low temperatures. The innovative cold therapy method called whole-body cryotherapy is rapidly gaining momentum worldwide. However, there are few proven benefits, and the FDA warns people to use caution when opting for this treatment.

This article lists eleven cryotherapy benefits and explores potential risks and safe alternative treatments.

cryotherapy benefits

Potential Cryotherapy Benefits

Cryotherapy is touted as beneficial for various medical conditions, from sports injuries to dementia. There have been several studies in the past that confirm the healing potential of cryotherapy. However, no comprehensive study has been conducted yet, as this method only recently became popular for its healing properties.

Here are the benefits observed by scientists, cryotherapy providers, and patients.

1. Aids the Treatment of Skin Conditions

Cold therapy may reduce inflammation, minimize oxidative stress, and improve blood circulation. It can treat skin lesions, warts, and skin tags, improves overall complexion, and enhances skin quality.

Cold therapy has been used in medicine for skin conditions since the 19th century. Doctors used liquid air, liquid oxygen, carbon dioxide, and liquid nitrogen to treat warts, herpes zoster, skin cancers, and other skin diseases.

2. Reduces Signs of Aging

Localized cryotherapy is also gaining popularity as an anti-aging treatment. User experience shows facial cryotherapy sessions speed up cell turnover (shedding dead skin cells and creating new cells), increase collagen production, tighten sagging skin on the face and neck, and prevent premature skin aging.

3. Promotes Weight Loss

Cryotherapy can burn 500-800 calories in several minutes. The body is exposed to extreme changes in temperature, from normal to freezing, and the organism works hard to keep the body warm. This increase in energy expenditure can burn extra calories. Cryotherapy sessions, in combination with regular exercise and healthy dieting, may promote weight loss.

4. Reduces Inflammation

Some clinical trials suggest that whole-body cryotherapy increases the production of anti-inflammatory proteins and decreases pro-inflammatory cytokine levels, reducing inflammation.

The anti-inflammatory effect is explained through vasoconstriction at the muscular level. When the body is subjected to freezing temperatures, the blood vessels constrict, and less blood flows to the inflamed area, temporarily numbing the pain.

5. Alleviates Migraine

Limited research and anecdotal evidence show that cold therapy can reduce migraine symptoms, especially if the therapy is applied at the onset of symptoms. The logic behind it is that freezing temperatures cool down the blood passing through the neck arteries to the head, reduce inflammation, and numb migraine pain.

6. Reduces Pain

Cryotherapy can alleviate post-surgical pain and discomfort and help the body recover from sports injuries (trauma, muscle overuse). When blood vessels constrict at low temperatures, the decreased blood circulation temporarily numbs the sensation of pain. Cryotherapy shows promising results in reducing chronic pain, including arthritis and rheumatoid arthritis, but more research is needed to corroborate this claim.

7. Improves Joint Mobility

Cryotherapy may improve joint mobility.

Whole-body cryotherapy is also showing great potential in treating painful joints. Some of the most common causes of painful joints and issues with joint mobility are arthritis and sports injuries. Apart from shots and surgery, joint disorders are successfully treated with localized cold therapy that provides temporary pain relief.

8. Helps with Mood Disorders

A randomized control study from 2020 looked at 92 adults diagnosed with depressive symptoms who were exposed to ten cryotherapy sessions. Researchers found evidence that whole-body cryotherapy helps with mood disorders, especially depression, and can improve the patient’s quality of life. This is because when exposed to freezing temperatures, the body produces increased levels of adrenaline and endorphins (“happy hormones”). However, these effects are short-term and do not guarantee a permanent solution.


Note: Learn how cryotherapy differs from ice baths, and how the two treatments help enhance mood.


9. Reduces Oxidative Stress

Scientists believe that oxidative stress plays a crucial role in the development of many diseases, such as multiple sclerosis, Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, and chronic kidney disease. Since cryotherapy produces antioxidant responses in the body, it may help mitigate oxidative stress linked to numerous medical conditions.

10. May Prevent Dementia and Alzheimer’s Disease

Since it is believed that oxidative stress and inflammatory responses trigger Alzheimer’s, and cryotherapy is thought to reduce oxidative effects and inflammation, it may present a powerful way to prevent this debilitating disease. Anecdotal evidence thus far shows improvement in patients’ cognitive functions and memory after cryotherapy.

11. Helps Treat Low-Risk Tumors

Cryotherapy is an established medical practice for removing different types of tumors, from skin warts to precancerous conditions of the cervix. Skin tumors are treated locally, and internal tumors are treated with cryosurgery.

Is Cryotherapy Safe?

Prolonged exposure to freezing conditions can damage your skin. Whole-body cryotherapy (WBC) carries greater risks because it subjects your body to extremely low temperatures. It is particularly unsafe for patients with an underlying medical condition.

Potential risks of cryotherapy include the following:

The FDA has not approved any whole-body cryotherapy (WBC) equipment for safety or efficacy and has not cleared any of the devices for medical treatment. Moreover, cryotherapy can worsen the following health conditions:

Discuss potential complications, risks, and benefits of cryotherapy with your doctor, especially if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or have an underlying medical condition.

Cryotherapy Alternatives

Numerous cosmetic treatments and procedures can provide similar health benefits and help you attain your beauty goals. You can avoid potential complications associated with whole-body cryotherapy with the following alternative options.

Light Therapy

Red light therapy (RLT) involves using a laser or LED device emitting red and near-infrared light to improve the skin on a cellular level. It can help you achieve the following goals:


Note: Learn about the differences between collagen and elastin.


Lymphatic Drainage Massage

A lymphatic drainage massage involves gentle, rhythmic movements and light pressure that stimulate the lymphatic flow to remove excess fluid, toxins, and waste. This skin-rejuvenating treatment offers the following benefits:

CoolSculpting and Cooltone

CoolSculpting is an FDA-approved cosmetic treatment based on cryolipolysis, a method that uses cold temperatures to freeze fat deposits on the thighs, arms, flanks, back fat, stomach, buttocks, and chin.

This non-invasive fat-freezing technology can help you achieve the following:

Cooltone is a muscle-toning cosmetic solution ideal for physically active individuals who want to tighten and strengthen their existing muscles. Since it is not a weight loss treatment, it is best suited for people looking to firm and tone their abdominal muscles, buttocks, and thighs.


Note: Compare CoolSculpting vs. Cooltone to learn how to use them to achieve your aesthetic goals.  


Rejuvenating Facial Treatments

Facial treatments enhance skin health and address various skin conditions. They help cleanse the pores, remove excess sebum, hydrate, and nourish all skin layers.


Note: Learn how Oxygen Infusion and HydraFacial treatments differ and what results to expect.


Weight Loss Therapy

Medical weight loss is a medically supervised program tailored for patients who want to lose excess weight, get back in shape, and start a healthy lifestyle. This doctor-assisted program can help you:

Conclusion

Cryotherapy is an innovative healing method that may provide numerous health benefits but is not well-researched and lacks conclusive scientific backing. There are many alternative solutions worth considering that may provide the same or better results. You can rejuvenate the skin, reduce inflammation, and attain your ideal weight with the safe and effective cosmetic and medical treatments listed in this article.

For more information on this topic, reach out to our friendly Vibrant Skin Bar team.

Cryotherapy vs. Ice Bath: Which One Is Better?

Exposing the body to cold temperatures may feel uncomfortable, but studies show it provides numerous health benefits. The cold constricts blood vessels and slows down blood flow, relieving pain and helping the body heal faster after injury or stress.

Ice baths are a popular method of recovering after an injury, especially in sports. In recent years, people have been embracing another cold therapy method called cryotherapy.

So, how does cryotherapy differ from an ice bath?

In this article, we discuss their key differences, as well as the pros and cons of each method.

Cryotherapy vs. ice bath

Cryotherapy vs. Ice Bath: What Is the Difference?

The main differences between cryotherapy and an ice bath are their safety profile and the benefits they provide.

CryotherapyIce Bath
The procedureThe patient is enclosed in a cryotherapy chamber that emits cold air which stimulates the body’s natural healing processes.The patient is submerged in cold water which stimulates the body’s natural healing processes.
Temperatures usedBelow -212°F50°F to 60°F
Duration3 minutes10—20 minutes
Risks and side effectsSide effects: Discomfort due to extreme cold, numbness, increased blood pressure, tingling, redness. Risks: Impaired breathing.Side effects: Discomfort due to extreme cold, numbness, increased blood pressure, tingling, redness. Risks: Hypothermia, cardiac arrest.
BenefitsReduces muscle soreness and pain
Decreases inflammation after injury
Speeds up recovery after injury
Reduces stress
Improves skin tone and texture
Reduces signs of aging
Helps with weight loss
Improves the mood
Reduces muscle soreness and pain
Decreases inflammation after injury
Speeds up recovery after injury
Reduces stress  

Benefits

One of the main benefits of cryotherapy and ice baths is reduced healing time after a sports injury.

The cold causes blood vessels to constrict. After the session, the blood vessels expand, helping to flush out toxins and reduce inflammation.

Cryotherapy provides additional benefits:

Time

There isn’t a consensus on the ideal duration of ice baths. They typically last 10 to 20 minutes. Spending more than 20 minutes in freezing water may lead to frostbite.

A cryotherapy session takes 3 minutes and is performed in a controlled environment with a medical provider who supervises the procedure.

Equipment

The equipment used for an ice bath is a tub (at home or the gym), cold water, and ice.

Cryotherapy is performed in a cryotherapy chamber in a medical clinic or med spa.

Flexibility

Ice baths work best if performed two hours after a workout session.

For sports practitioners, cryotherapy is effective before and after workout. To achieve its other benefits (anti-aging, mood-enhancing, etc.), the treatment can be effectively performed at any time.

Temperature

For best results, the temperature of an ice bath ranges between 50°F and 60°F. At this temperature, water penetrates the skin, causing an uncomfortable freezing sensation.

The temperature of the air emitted in a cryotherapy chamber is below -212°F. However, due to its dryness, the cold air causes less discomfort than ice baths.

Effectiveness

Ice baths and cryotherapy are equally effective at relieving muscle pain or providing a subjective feeling of pain relief.

However, cryotherapy is a more effective treatment for general health because it provides a broader range of benefits.

Safety

Ice baths carry more risk than cryotherapy because athletes often perform them unsupervised. High blood pressure, uncontrolled diabetes, or other health conditions combined with an ice bath may result in heart complications. Spending more than 20 minutes in freezing water may lead to frostbite.

Cryotherapy is performed in a controlled environment with a medical provider who supervises the procedure and modifies the temperature according to the body’s reactions.

Side Effects

Common cryotherapy and ice bath side effects include:

With ice baths, patients also face the risk of hypothermia and cardiac arrest.


Note: Impaired breathing is a very rare side effect of cryotherapy. It doesn’t pose a serious threat and is quickly mitigated by the medical provider who controls and adjusts oxygen levels during the procedure.


Cryotherapy vs. Ice Bath: Which One Is Better?

Cryotherapy and ice baths effectively decrease soreness, pain, and inflammation after a sports injury. However, cryotherapy involves less risk, lasts only three minutes, and provides other health and beauty benefits.

Conclusion

Patient experiences and some studies show that cold therapy treatments like ice baths and cryotherapy significantly decrease muscle pain and reduce stress. To achieve these effects, opt for cryotherapy, which is both the safer method and can also provide additional benefits.

Dermaplaning Aftercare: Everything you Need to Know

Dermaplaning involves using a surgical scalpel to exfoliate the skin’s top layer of dead cells and impurities and scrape off vellus hair, resulting in smooth and glowing skin. The treatment is highly popular because it provides instantaneous results with no downtime, allowing people to transform their looks before significant events.

Though safe and non-invasive, the treatment’s effectiveness depends on proper aftercare. This article provides dermaplaning aftercare tips to help you enjoy the full benefits of the treatment.

Dermaplaning aftercare tips

What Should You Do After Dermaplaning?

The following guidelines will help you better plan your activities after the procedure.

Use Gentle Skincare Products

After dermaplaning, the skin is often sensitive and dry so use only essential products in your skincare routine - a cleanser, serum/moisturizer, and sunscreen. Ensure the products are mild, without acids, retinol, or other potentially abrasive ingredients. Follow this routine for at least 48 hours post-procedure.


Note: Find out what are the best products for sensitive skin.


Hydrate Your Skin

Choose serums and moisturizers with potent hydrating agents, such as hyaluronic acid, glycerin, and aloe vera. They will provide the hydration you skin needs after dermaplaning.

Use SPF

Sunscreen is your best defense against skin damage from UV rays. Use it whenever you leave the house, especially after cosmetic treatments that make your skin vulnerable, like dermaplaning. For best protection, use broad-spectrum SPF 30+ products.


Note: Can’t pick a sunscreen? Read our blog post on how to choose the best sunscreen for your skin type.


Hydrate Your Body

Topical products that nurture your skin are essential after dermaplaning. The other important factor is hydrating your body from within. While your skin is healing, drink at least eight glasses of water throughout the day and eat fresh fruits and vegetables with high water content.

Rest

Always aim at getting seven to nine hours of uninterrupted sleep during the night, especially after a cosmetic treatment when your skin needs more attention and nurturing. Lack of rest and poor-quality sleep minimize the effects of dermaplaning.

Avoid Strenuous Exercise

Your skin after dermaplaning is raw, sensitive, and prone to infections from impurities and bacteria. Skin experts recommend avoiding high-intensity activities 24 hours after the treatment because they cause excessive sweating and higher chances of dirt and bacteria entering the pores.

What to Avoid After Dermaplaning?

It is also important to avoid certain things in your daily routine to enhance dermaplaning effects.

Don't Expose Your Skin to Sun and High Heat

Ultraviolet rays are particularly harsh on the newly resurfaced skin after dermaplaning. Avoid it for the first several days, and if you must go out, wear an SPF, a wide-brimmed hat, and sunglasses. Also, avoid saunas and other sources of high heat because they cause excessive sweating and increase the chance of infections.

Don't Expose Your Skin to Hot Water

The skin is very sensitive after dermaplaning. Hot water can irritate and additionally dry it out. Use only lukewarm water to wash your face.

Don't Apply Pressure to Your Skin

Touching, rubbing, scratching, and picking the skin after dermaplaning increases the chance of spreading dirt and bacteria over a sensitive area.

Don't Expose Your Skin to Chlorine/Avoid Swimming Pools

Chlorine can additionally dry out sensitive skin after dermaplaning. Avoid places with chlorinated water, such as swimming pools, at least three days after the treatment.

Don’t Use Makeup

Refrain from using makeup for 24 hours because your skin needs to “breathe” to fully heal after dermaplaning.

Don't Do Other Facial Treatments

Avoid other facial treatments for two weeks after dermaplaning to prevent skin irritation.

Conclusion

Dermaplaning provides a quick solution to dull, tired skin, but you need to follow aftercare recommendations for optimal results.

If you’re in the area, visit our offices in the heart of Arcadia and let us transform your skin from dull to vibrant and glowing in less than an hour!

Dysport Vs. Restylane: Which One Is Better?

Many people have heard about Botox as an anti-aging procedure, but there is a whole range of lesser-known but equally effective rejuvenation cosmetic treatments available.

This article outlines the main characteristics of two amazing beauty treatments, Dysport and Restylane, and helps you decide which is more suitable for your skin goals.

Dysport vs. Restylane

Dysport Overview

Dysport is a neurotoxin injectable similar to Botox. Its main ingredient is the Botulinum toxin derived from the Clostridium botulinum bacterium. Other Dysport ingredients include the protein albumin and lactose. The contents are diluted with saline prior to injection.

Once injected into the target muscle, Dysport blocks the nerves from the brain that regulate muscle contraction. This process smooths overlying skin, reducing the appearance of wrinkles.

Dysport is FDA-approved for glabellar lines – wrinkles between the eyebrows. Skin professionals also use it off-label to treat crow’s feet, forehead wrinkles, and for jaw slimming.


Note: Learn how Dysport differs from Botox.


Restylane Overview

Restylane is among the safest and most popular dermal fillers. Its main ingredient is hyaluronic acid derived from Streptococcus bacteria. Restylane products also contain lidocaine to reduce potential pain and discomfort. The contents of the filler are diluted with saline prior to injection.

Hyaluronic acid attracts and binds moisture, producing a lifting effect. Once injected into the target area, Restylane fillers plump up hollow facial areas, volumize the skin, and smooth fine lines, wrinkles, and folds.

The Restylane brand includes a series of products, each of which is FDA-approved for different skin concerns.


Note: Read our article on Restylane types to find more details about each Restylane product.


Restylane Vs. Dysport

Restylane and Dysport differ in many aspects, including the areas they treat and the duration of their results. The following table sums up the main differences between these anti-aging treatments.

RestylaneDysport
What is it?Hyaluronic acid-based dermal filler injectableBotulinum toxin type A injectable
BenefitsHelps retain moistureBuilds collagenVolumizes the skinCorrects facial volume lossReduces the appearance of wrinkles and foldsRejuvenates the skinProvides natural-looking resultsParalyzes muscles that cause wrinkle formationReduces the appearance of existing wrinklesSmooths the skinProvides natural-looking results  
Treatment areasCheeks, jawline, nasolabial folds, lips, chin, back of the handsGlabellar lines
Results durationUp to 18 monthsUp to six months
Side EffectsCommon: Redness, swelling, bruising, lumps. Rare: Infection, scarring, allergies, blurred vision, stroke.Common: Swelling, redness, pain. Rare: Nausea, blurred vision, breathing problems, muscle weakness.
Cost$625 – $749$270 – $810 ($4.5 per unit)

The Benefits

Restylane has a series of products for different skin concerns. They help:

Dysport provides the following benefits in FDA-approved and off-label procedures:

What Areas Can Be Treated?

Restylane products are FDA-approved to correct, plump up, and smooth the following areas:

Dysport is FDA-approved to treat glabellar lines. Its off label uses include the treatment of these regions:

The Results

Restylane results appear immediately after a session. They can last up to 18 months.

Before and after Restylane fillers

Dysport results are visible a few days after the injection. They can last up to six months.

Before and after Dysport

Both products require maintenance treatments to prolong the desired appearance.

Side Effects

Skin experts highly regard Restylane for its safety profile. Once injected into the skin, the patient’s body recognizes and accepts Restylane products because hyaluronic acid is a naturally occurring sugar compound.

However, the treatment can still cause side effects. They are usually mild and last about two weeks. They include:

Rare and severe side effects include:

In most cases, Dysport patients don’t experience any side effects, or they experience mild swelling, redness, and pain.

Rare and severe side effects include:

Cost

The total cost of neurotoxin injectables or dermal fillers depends on the patient’s goals and the medical provider’s expertise.

At Vibrant Skin Bar, Restylane products cost $625 – $749 per syringe.

One Dysport unit costs $4.50, so one treatment usually ranges between $270 and $810.

Can Dysport and Restylane Be Used Together?

Many patients want to address more than one skin concern. That is why cosmetic professionals combine Dysport and Restylane in their treatments. For example, the two products can be used together to define and slim the jawline or volumize the lips and create an attractive pout.

If you choose an experienced medical provider for your Dysport and Restylane session, they will know which products can best achieve your aesthetic goals.

Conclusion

Neurotoxin injectables and dermal fillers are among the most popular cosmetic treatments because they provide dramatic anti-aging effects without surgery.

Consider a Dysport and Restylane treatment if you want to get rid of wrinkles and lift sagging skin. Always ensure you consult an experienced cosmetic professional, as they will help you determine the best strategy for your beauty goals.

How Quickly Does Kybella Work & What to Expect?

People with excess fat under the chin don’t have many options to resolve this aesthetic concern. The area is immune to low-calorie diets and exercise, and until recently, surgery was the only solution for a double chin.

In 2015, the FDA approved Kybella, an innovative cosmetic injectable for the removal of submental fat.

This article focuses on those aspects of Kybella that patients are most curious about: how long it takes for Kybella to work and how long the results last.

how long does it take for kybella to work

How Long Does Kybella Take to Work?

Kybella injections contain deoxycholic acid, which immediately starts dissolving fat cells in the submental area. However, it takes time for the lymphatic system to remove destroyed fat cells from our bodies, so patients usually notice results four to six weeks after the treatment.

How Many Treatments Are Needed for Kybella to Work?

Patients need up to six Kybella treatments. The number of sessions depends on the amount of fat under the chin. For mild excess fat, patients can achieve their goals after one or two treatments. A lot of fat under the chin and on the neck usually requires six treatments. The treatments are spaced four to six weeks apart.


Note: Find out how Kybella differs from CoolSculpting.


How to Make Kybella Work Faster

There are some things a patient can do to speed up recovery and see the effects of the treatment sooner.

Drink More Water

The lymphatic system removes fat cells after Kybella. To assist it, drink at least eight cups of water daily. This will ensure you stay hydrated and help the lymph to flow smoothly. When you are dehydrated, lymph becomes thicker and moves with difficulty, obstructing removal of waste and toxins.

Do Light Exercise

Avoid vigorous exercise to reduce bruising and swelling after Kybella treatment. However, light exercise, such as walking, Pilates, and casual bicycle riding, is a good way to increase your heart rate and circulation, improving lymphatic flow.

Avoid Alcohol and Smoking

Alcohol and nicotine constrict blood vessels, inhibiting oxygen and nutrient delivery to the lymphatic system and reducing its efficiency. Try to avoid alcohol and cigarettes for one month.

Improve Your Diet

Eat hydrating, nutrient-rich foods that encourage lymphatic flow, such as fresh fruits and vegetables. Avoid salty and processed foods that cause water retention and increase bloating in the treated area, delaying the results. Try to eat clean for at least four weeks.


Note: Read our blog post for more Kybella aftercare tips.


Are Kybella Results Permanent?

Kybella results are permanent. The fat cells under the chin are destroyed for good, and the patients experience a fat reduction of up to 25% in the treated area. However, eating in excess can cause the surrounding fat cells to expand, bringing back the double chin.

Conclusion

Kybella is a quick, minimally invasive, and effective treatment for a double chin. It helps tighten the jawline and improve the patient’s profile, positively impacting their confidence. Make sure to book your Kybella treatment with medical professionals who have years of experience improving their patients’ looks with cosmetic injections.

Are you looking to get Kybella or other injectables in the Phoenix, AZ area? Our team of professionals will be more than happy to discuss your goals with you and determine the best way to achieve them. Contact us for a consultation!

How Long Does CoolSculpting Last?

Many healthy, average-weight men and women are turning to cosmetic treatments to further enhance their physique. CoolSculpting is one of the most popular body contouring treatments today because it precisely targets those fat areas that won’t go away with diet and exercise.

People choose CoolSculpting over liposuction and other alternatives because:

Let’s see how long it takes for CoolSculpting to take effect and how long you will enjoy the results of this treatment.

How long does CoolSculpting last?

How Long Does CoolSculpting Take?

One CoolSculpting session may take 35 to 60 minutes, depending on the size of the treated area. For example, the area under the chin will take less time than upper or lower back fat.

The CoolSculpting device may treat up to two areas per session. If you want more than two areas treated, you will need more than one session, which adds to the total treatment time.

How Long Does CoolSculpting Take to Work?

The initial results of CoolSculpting will be seen 30-60 days after the procedure.

The number of CoolSculpting treatments needed for one area depends on your desired results and how your body reacts to the treatment. Based on clinical studies and patient reports, the average fat reduction is up to 20% after one CoolSculpting treatment. You need to wait about four to six weeks between treatments.

For further fat reduction in the treated area, you may opt for more treatments.

It takes time for the body to flush out frozen and destroyed fat cells, so you can expect to see the final results up to six months after the last treatment.

How Long Do CoolSculpting Results Last?

The effects of CoolSculpting are permanent. CoolSculpting freezes and kills fat cells in the targeted area, and the body naturally eliminates them as waste. Once the fat cells are gone, they don’t return.

However, CoolSculpting is not a weight-loss treatment. If you overeat, you will gain weight in other parts of the body.  


Note: For a healthy, long-term solution, consider medical weight loss.


Can You Gain Fat Back After CoolSculpting?

Though CoolSculpting permanently destroys targeted fat cells, patients can still accumulate fat in the treated area. Excessive food intake and insufficient physical levels lead to weight gain, which results in the generation of new fat cells and the growth of the remaining fat cells in the treated area.

Conclusion

CoolSculpting is an innovative body contouring technique that helps you lose persistent fat and maintain a lean, sculpted figure. Much of the treatment’s popularity stems from the fact that it is safe, quick, and offers long-lasting results. These perks put CoolSculpting high on the list of beauty enhancement procedures in today’s aesthetic medicine.

If you plan to schedule a CoolSculpting treatment, check out our article on how to prepare for a CoolSculpting session.

To learn more about how CoolSculpting compares with other treatments, read our articles CoolSculpting vs. CoolTone and CoolSculpting vs. Liposuction.

Holistic Eczema Treatment - 13 Ways to Treat Eczema Naturally

Eczema is an inflammatory skin condition characterized by dry, itchy, or scaly skin, rashes, blisters, and infection. It is often triggered by stress, certain foods, harsh chemicals, and environmental factors.

Eczema can come and go throughout a person’s life and, though it doesn’t have a definitive cure, there are effective treatments. Dermatologists typically prescribe antihistamines, topical steroid creams, and corticosteroids. However, many patients are interested in less harsh, natural remedies for this condition.

This article lists the 13 best holistic eczema treatment methods and explains how they may alleviate the symptoms.

Holistic treatments for eczema

Can Eczema Go Away Naturally? 13 Holistic Eczema Treatment Methods

A holistic esthetician addresses potential root causes of eczema along with the symptoms. They use products with plant-based ingredients and treatment methods that address the patient’s lifestyle habits and hormonal status.

Limited studies and anecdotal experience show the following natural remedies and methods for holistic eczema treatment have great potential in alleviating eczema.


Note: Eczema is a form of skin inflammation, meaning that treating eczema involves anti-inflammatory foods, products, and treatments. Learn more about what inflammation is, and discover 17 ways to reduce inflammation holistically.


1. Natural Oils

The protective skin barrier in patients with eczema is disturbed and they need suitable moisturizing solutions to restore it. Natural oils like coconut, sunflower, and jojoba have proven effective in restoring skin barrier function and they also have anti-inflammatory properties, preventing bacteria from infecting cracked, dry skin.

However, not all oils benefit patients with eczema. For example, researchers found olive oil to be damaging to the skin barrier.

Natural oils need to be cold-pressed, because heat and chemicals that are added during oil extraction can irritate sensitive and eczema-prone skin.

2. Aloe Vera

Aloe vera is known for its anti-inflammatory, soothing properties. Patients with eczema can temporarily relieve symptoms of dryness and itchiness by applying pure, high-quality aloe vera gel or juice to patches of affected skin.


Note: Our very own Vibrant Skin CBD Recovery Mask with CBD and organic aloe vera helps heal inflamed skin and has strong anti-inflammatory properties.


3. Colloidal Oatmeal

Colloidal oatmeal creates a protective barrier that calms red, inflamed skin. It is available as pure powder or as part of certain natural skincare products. You can also make it at home by grinding traditional oat flakes into fine powder. When mixed with warm water, the powdered oats form a colloidal mixture that has antioxidant, anti-inflammatory effects on irritated skin.

4. Diet Modification

Diet change to treat eczema

Certain foods are often associated with an increase in eczema flare-ups. They include dairy, eggs, gluten, peanuts, sugars, fried, and processed foods. Holistic estheticians educate their patients in making better food choices, teaching them how to identify eczema triggers and eliminate those foods from their diet.

5. Probiotics and Prebiotics

Trillions of bacteria live in our intestines and on the skin. Many of them support our gut and immune health, including probiotics. When our gut microbiome is out of balance, experts advise we supplement probiotics through dietary supplements or foods like yogurt, kefir, kimchi, and sauerkraut.

Probiotics are most effective when used with prebiotics - sugars that feed beneficial gut bacteria. Prebiotics are abundant in garlic, onions, oats, asparagus, bananas, etc. They can also be found in the form of supplements.

Studies have found that probiotics and prebiotics decrease inflammatory responses in eczema patients.

6. Vitamins

Studies demonstrate that vitamin D, E, and B12 supplementation significantly improves eczema symptoms.

Vitamin D improves skin barrier function and helps regulate the immune system.

Vitamin E is known for its anti-inflammatory and healing properties, helping to relieve itching skin and prevent scarring.

Vitamin B12 reduces the duration and severity of eczema by reducing the production of nitric oxide, a pro-inflammatory mediator in eczema patients.


Note: Looking for ways to include more vitamins in your daily routine? Vibrant Skin Bar offers nutritional supplements, nutritional IV therapy, and vitamin B12 injections (pure or enhanced with a fat-burning ingredient). Consult our team of experts to determine which option would benefit you the most.


7. Stress Management

Stress management for eczema

Stress is thought to be one of the leading causes of eczema. The stress hormone, cortisol, inhibits the immune system, resulting in skin inflammation. Studies show decreased inflammation and chronic itching in eczema patients who practice meditation.

Holistic estheticians use various modalities (e.g., meditation and breathing techniques) to ease the patient’s tension and help them acquire more sustainable stress management techniques.

Other relaxation techniques that patients can use to combat stress include yoga, walking, music, and other feel-good hobbies.

8. Acupuncture

Acupuncture is a traditional Chinese healing practice that involves inserting tiny needles into the skin to improve various health conditions. Studies have found it improves the symptoms of mild to moderate eczema, especially itching. It also relieves stress, a common eczema trigger. Acupuncture is one of the common techniques used for holistic eczema treatment.

9. Acupressure

Acupressure for eczema

Acupressure is a similar healing technique to acupuncture, only without needle use. The therapist stimulates specific points on the body using their fingers and hands to relieve stress and reduce the symptoms of skin inflammation.

10. Massage

Massage is an important aspect of holistic therapy. It positively affects eczema-prone skin via multiple mechanisms:

11.  LED Light Therapy

LED light therapy mimics the effects of sunlight, increasing vitamin D production and reducing inflammation and itching. Holistic estheticians sometimes pair LED light therapy with facials and soothing moisturizers.


Note: Vibrant Skin Bar offers a variety of skin rejuvenation treatments, including LED light therapy. Consult our team to determine if LED light therapy would be beneficial for you.


12. Facials

Holistic facials for eczema

Holistic facials involve the use of natural skincare products to cleanse and nourish the skin. The provider customizes the treatment for eczema patients, using non-irritating cleansers and creams.


Note: Vibrant Vitality Clinic offers various holistic skin care treatments to address eczema, dry or inflamed skin, acne, and other skin conditions.


13. Gentle Moisturizers

Eczema patients need to avoid harsh skincare chemicals and use mild, fragrance-free products. Holistic skin care involves only naturally sourced ingredients that soothe sensitive and irritated skin. Holistic estheticians choose each product carefully to match the patient’s skin type and issue.

When Should You See a Dermatologist?

If you experience severe eczema symptoms and your skin doesn’t respond to natural remedies, you may want to visit a dermatologist. Severe eczema can lead to additional complications such as asthma and allergies, and even result in hospitalization.

If you experience the following, seek medical help:

Conclusion

Eczema is a widespread skin condition with a complex variety of causes. It is important to customize the treatment to each patient because they respond differently to products and solutions.

Many patients seek natural, holistic solutions to avoid the side effects of conventional medication. However, science is catching up with many of these treatments, confirming their therapeutic potential for eczema patients.

How to Get Rid of Tech Neck Wrinkles and Tech Neck

Are you reading this blog post on your phone while waiting in line, or lounging on your sofa with the screen in your lap? If so, chances are you are one of many people with a medical issue you didn’t even know existed – tech neck.

This article explains what tech neck is, how to recognize the symptoms, and what you can do to prevent and reverse the condition.

Tech neck develops from looking down at the phone a lot. Learn how to get rid of the tech neck.

What Is Tech Neck?

Tech neck, or cervical kyphosis, is a condition caused by tilting your head down repeatedly to look down at your laptop, mobile phone, or tablet. The more you look down, the more muscles in your neck have to work to keep your head up.

Tilting your head applies excess pressure on bones and muscles. Overworking the neck muscles can lead to stiffness in the shoulders, heavy headaches, strain in the neck, backache, and can even damage the spine and lead to disability.

Scientists refer to this condition as an emerging 21st-century syndrome. They estimate about 75% of adults and children worldwide bend their necks for hours every day.

What Does Tech Neck Look Like?

The short-term effects of tech neck are not apparent. As the condition progresses, the patient feels more intense and frequent pain and stiffness in the neck and shoulders. The long-term effects include a crooked spine and bent posture, among other symptoms.

Tech Neck Symptoms

The tech neck syndrome can negatively affect the spine, eyes, head, heart, lungs, and the psychological aspect. The immediate and associated symptoms include:

Tech neck also leads to cosmetic concerns. It accelerates the formation of neck wrinkles from the repetitive downward head movements.

Can Tech Neck Be Reversed?

Tech neck can be prevented, and some symptoms can be reversed by limiting screen time, learning how to sit correctly while using electronic devices, and increasing physical activity. The success of symptom reversal depends on the condition’s duration and severity.

How to Prevent Tech Neck

Preventing tech neck

Prevention is essential in relation to tech neck problems. The following tips are easy to apply but demand discipline.

Keep Your Head Up

When using an electronic device, keep your head up whenever possible and avoid bending your neck for long periods. If you work on your computer for eight or more hours daily, recline in your chair for while and hold the back of your head up against the headrest. This may require investing in a good chair but prevents issues with your neck, back, shoulders, head, and overall posture.

Correct Your Posture

A slouched posture contributes to various muscle issues and strains the spine. Look at your profile in the mirror. You should be able to draw a vertical line from your ear down to the shoulder. If that’s not the case, actively try to correct your posture and align your neck correctly.

Limit Screen Time

Using screens is inevitable at work and, sometimes, at school. However, limiting screen time outside of what’s required reduces the chance of bending the neck, slouching, and curving the neck and spine more than necessary. Medical professionals emphasize the importance of limiting screen time for preschool children to up to one hour daily. Older children, adolescents, and adults should reduce their screen time to two hours daily.

Take Frequent Breaks

Take breaks as often as possible. Get up and move. Go to the bathroom. Grab a glass of water. Walk around for several minutes. This will get your blood circulating and position your neck differently. If you have trouble remembering to get up and take a break, set reminders on your phone or use a sticky note.

Position Your Screen Higher

Changing how you hold your phone or tablet can help your neck immensely. Bring the screen to eye level to keep a neutral spine. If you’re working on a laptop, invest in a monitor whose height you can adjust. You can also use a holder that will raise your laptop so you don’t need to slouch and look down.

How to Get Rid of the Tech Neck Hump

Tech neck hump, Dowager’s hump, or a curve at the base of your neck is a sign you’ve been spending too much time looking down at your mobile device. All the measures for preventing tech neck apply here as well. However, you also need to increase your physical activity to reverse the condition.

Regular Physical Activity

Regular exercise is a remedy for many medical concerns, and tech neck is one of them.

Aerobic exercise—jogging, walking, swimming, riding a bike, or using an elliptical—eases neck tension, especially if you do it every day for about 20-30 minutes. It sends oxygenated blood to tired muscles and helps fight inflammation. Yoga also does wonders for the neck. Downward-facing dog and similar postures help stretch the area around the neck, upper back, and shoulders.

Tech Neck Exercises

Weak back and neck muscles and chronic tension in this area lead to tech neck hump. The best way to alleviate the pain and improve posture is to do targeted exercises for this area. They include:

Your physical therapists may recommend more exercises for tech neck hump. You can do them during mini breaks at work.

Daily, consistent practice will help alleviate your pain and stiffness and improve your posture.

How to Get Rid of Tech Neck Lines

Tips for reducing tech neck wrinkles.

Tech neck wrinkles are a common consequence of excessive cell phone use. There are several ways to reduce their appearance and maintain smooth skin on the neck.

Improve Your Sleeping Position

Doctors claim sleeping on your back is the best position for reducing neck wrinkles and maintaining youthful skin on the neck and face. A foam mattress and silk pillowcase may also help reduce wrinkle-forming friction and minimize the appearance of neck wrinkles.

Exfoliate

Wrinkles form partly because of slower skin cell turnover and dead cells accumulating on the skin. Many people exfoliate their face to remove dead skin cells and speed up the process of cell renewal. Exfoliation can also benefit the neck skin. Use gentle exfoliating products because the skin on the neck is thinner than on the face. Exfoliate once a week.

Use Neck Moisturizers and Serums

You can improve the appearance of your neck skin and reduce neck lines and wrinkles using appropriate moisturizers and serums. Aim at products with hydrating and anti-aging ingredients, such as retinol, vitamin C, peptides, ceramides, hyaluronic acid, glycerin, and shea butter.


Note: Antioxidants are some of the best anti-aging ingredients in skin care. Learn which antioxidant products to use and when.


Drink Enough Water

Dehydrated skin looks dull and old. That includes the neck skin, too. Drink a minimum of half of your body weight in ounces each day. 

Erase Wrinkles with Cosmetic Treatments

Wrinkles that are a direct result of tech neck can be treated using Sculptra, Botox, and/or Vivace.

Sculptra is an injectable that stimulates your body to rebuild its own collagen. It is injected in a series of three treatments, usually over six months. To learn more about this injectable, check out our article on how Sculptra can be used for neck rejuvenation.

Botox is the most famousneurotoxin that prevents muscles from moving and creating folds. To treat tech neck, the neurotoxin is hyper-diluted and injected superficially around fine lines and wrinkles to smooth the skin. Read our article on Botox neck lift to learn how the treatment can rejuvenate this area.

Another great way to tighten loose skin on the neck is Vivace microneedling. This state-of-the-art skin resurfacing machine can be used on all skin types and is virtually pain-free. This treatment will help decrease and soften tech neck wrinkles, erasing signs of neck strain.

Botox treatment in Phoenix

Conclusion

Tech neck is a new medical condition that appeared with the cell phone craze. It is often followed by pain and discomfort in the neck area, as well as tech neck wrinkles. Fortunately, there are many ways to combat the issue. The tips we collected here will hopefully help you improve your posture and smooth out your neck skin.

CoolSculpting for Double Chin: How Does It Work?

Many people suffer from a double chin, that annoying fat bulge in the submental area that makes people self-conscious about their profile. Genetic predisposition, aging, and weight gain usually contribute to double chin formation.  

Weight loss diets, physical activity, and special exercises for the double chin may help reduce fat in this area, but they require a lot of time and patience. CoolSculpting is a cosmetic treatment that provides quicker, more certain results.

Let’s explore how CoolSculpting works and how it can transform your double chin.

CoolSculpting treatment for double chin

Can CoolSculpting Be Done on Double Chin?

CoolSculpting is an excellent solution for a double chin. It’s an advanced cold therapy treatment that freezes fat cells in targeted areas, such as the submental area. The treatment is designed for people who are within their ideal weight range but cannot get rid of pockets of fat in specific body areas. The fat under the chin responds favorably to CoolSculpting because it easily fits into the device’s cooling applicator.

CoolSculpting for Chin Procedure

The first step of the CoolSculpting procedure is a consultation with your chosen CoolSculpting medical provider to determine if you are a candidate for the treatment. Too much or not enough fat under the chin may disqualify you because the CoolSculpting device may not be able to grasp the fat bulge properly.

You can’t get the treatment if you had recent surgery or if you suffer from:

If you are a candidate for CoolSculpting, the medical provider will create a personalized treatment for you depending on the size of your double chin, your expectations, and your budget.

There is no special preparation for the CoolSculpting treatment. The medical provider marks the area for CoolSculpting, puts a gel pad on the patient’s submental area, and straps on the cooling applicator.

The applicator sucks in targeted bulges of fat under the chin like a vacuum. Using controlled cooling, the device reaches an ideal temperature for freezing fat cells (39-41° F) without hurting the surrounding nerves and tissues. The procedure may be uncomfortable, especially during the initial five to ten minutes until the skin becomes numb from the cold.

CoolSculpting for double chin lasts approximately 35 minutes. You may need two chin treatments per session, depending on the size of the submental area you want to reduce. After the treatment, the medical provider massages the submental area to help the body restore warmth and absorb the frozen cells. The body then flushes out the destroyed fat cells over the next six months.

How Many Treatments Do You Need?

Patients who undergo CoolSculpting for double chin typically require one to two treatments to achieve their desired results. The number of treatments depends on the size of the double chin and how much fat the patient wants removed.

Chin CoolSculpting Potential Side Effects

The most common CoolSculpting side effects are redness, bruising, and swelling in the treated area. They are usually mild and resolve within three weeks. Patients may also feel pain, tingling, and tenderness for several weeks after the procedure.

In extremely rare cases, patients develop a condition called paradox adipose hyperplasia—a gradual enlargement of fat cells in the treatment area. This results in the return of the double chin.

To avoid or minimize common side effects, avoid sugar, coffee, nicotine, and alcohol for several days. If you feel pain, ask your medical provider to recommend a pain killer.

Is CoolSculpting Painful?

CoolSculpting is typically not painful, but it’s a subjective experience that depends on the patient’s pain threshold. Most patients describe the session as uncomfortable for the first five minutes until the targeted area becomes numb from the cold.

How Long Do the Effects Last?

CoolSculpting results are permanent. The frozen fat cells in the targeted area don’t come back, provided the patient maintains healthy lifestyle choices like balanced nutrition and regular, moderate physical activity.

CoolSculpting Chin Before and After

Before and after photos of CoolSculpting chin

One CoolSculpting treatment reduces fat in the treatment area by approximately 20-25%. Patients may repeat the treatment after four to six weeks for further fat removal under the chin.

The initial results usually appear within three weeks, and the final results show approximately 12 weeks after the last treatment.

CoolSculpting for Chin Cost

The cost of a CoolSculpting session ranges from several hundred to a few thousand dollars. The price depends on where you’re located, the expertise of your chosen medical provider, and the number of required treatments.

Conclusion

CoolSculpting is a safe, FDA-approved method for getting rid of a double chin. It effectively removes fat cells under the chin, leaving you with a tighter, more toned neck and chin. You may experience some pain and discomfort, but you’ll find the long-term effects of the treatment are worth it.