Cryotherapy: Benefits, Risks, and 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.

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A Complete Guide to Dermal Fillers

Having full lips, firm cheeks, and smooth, youthful skin no longer needs to remain a fantasy. Today, people can quickly achieve these beauty goals thanks to the invention of dermal fillers - an affordable, walk-in cosmetic procedure.

This article explains what dermal fillers are, how they work, what results to expect, and how long they last.

what are dermal fillers

What Are Dermal Fillers?

Dermal fillers are cosmetic injectables containing a gel-like substance. Medical providers inject them directly under the patient’s skin to provide volume to thinning, sagging skin and fill in wrinkles and folds.

Fillers are sometimes mistaken for Botox. Though both are injectables, Botox and fillers have distinct roles and address different cosmetic concerns. Botox eliminates wrinkles caused by dynamic muscles in the upper and lower facial region, while dermal fillers treat wrinkles and sagging skin caused by volume loss in the fat pads, bone and skin.

The first injectable filler for cosmetic purposes was bovine collagen, and the FDA approved it in 1981. Since then, many collagen-based injectables have been developed to treat aesthetic and medical concerns.

For aesthetic purposes, bovine and other animal collagens aren’t ideal. They are foreign to the human body, often causing unwanted reactions. The cosmetic industry came up with a safer filler made from a compound that naturally occurs in the body – hyaluronic acid (HA).

The first HA-based filler, Restylane, was approved in 2003. There are several varieties of biocompatible filler types today, but bovine collagen is still used in permanent fillers and those used for medical purposes.

Types of Dermal Fillers

Dermal fillers can be temporary and permanent. The FDA approved three temporary and one permanent dermal filler type.

Temporary Fillers

Temporary fillers are made from materials that the body degrades and absorbs.

Permanent Fillers

Permanent fillers are made from non-absorbable substances, and they are longer lasting than temporary fillers but may cause more dramatic adverse reactions.

What Are Dermal Fillers Used For?

Dermal fillers address aging signs caused by collagen decline. As collagen fibers degrade, the skin loses its structural support and begins to thin, sag, and wrinkle. Fillers can help enhance:

They can also help with aesthetic concerns not related to aging, such as:

Note: Learn about the differences between a lip flip and lip fillers.

Dermal Fillers Target Areas

Dermal fillers are a versatile cosmetic treatment targeting various skin issues. Each filler type is indicated for specific areas. Depending on the filler, a patient can reduce or enhance:

Fillers can also be used in off-label procedures to improve forehead wrinkles, loose skin on the arms and legs, cellulite, and hip dips.

How to Prepare for Dermal Fillers?

Preparing for dermal fillers starts with choosing an experienced, reputable medical provider with a track record of successful treatments and satisfied clients. The patient schedules a consultation during which the medical provider examines the patient’s skin, reviews their medical history, and discusses their desired outcome.

The provider explains what to do before the treatment and how to behave afterward. Patients may be advised to:

What Can You Expect During Dermal Fillers Procedure?

Dermal fillers like Juvéderm and Restylane contain lidocaine to prevent pain during the treatment. However, many medical providers also apply numbing cream to further decrease potential discomfort.

The medical provider marks the injection site with a special marker and injects the filler along the marked dots. Patients report feeling mild pressure and stinging when the needle punctures the skin but no pain.

The provider gently massages the area after the injection to evenly distribute the filler. The treatment typically lasts under 30 minutes. There is no downtime, and the patients can resume their daily activities.

Note: First-time patients often wonder how much pain they’ll feel during the treatment. Read our blog post on whether fillers hurt for more details.

Dermal Fillers Results

dermal fillers before and after

Hyaluronic acid fillers provide immediate results. The patient’s skin is visibly plumper and smoother right away, but the full effects can only be seen after the swelling and bruising subside – usually within two weeks.

Collagen-stimulating fillers provide gradual results because it takes time to increase collagen production and plump up the skin. Patients can expect to see the first results after several weeks.

Patients who are unhappy with the results can reverse the procedure by getting them dissolved with hyaluronidase.

How Long Does a Dermal Filler Last?

The longevity of dermal filler results depends on the filler type, the severity of aging signs, and how the patient cares for their skin post-treatment.

According to the manufacturers, HA-based fillers last six to 12 months, while collagen-stimulating fillers can last up to two years. Permanent fillers may last up to five years.

Sometimes, patients manage to prolong the effects of the treatment by strictly adhering to aftercare tips – avoiding the sun, refraining from alcohol and junk foods, and using high-quality, nourishing skincare products.

Dermal Filler Aftercare

Dermal filler providers advise patients to adhere to these dermal filler aftercare guidelines after the treatment.

DOS:

DON’TS:

Dermal Fillers Side Effects

Dermal fillers are safe and generally well tolerated. Most patients experience no side effects or only mild symptoms that quickly go away on their own.

Mild, common side effects include:

Rare, more severe complications include:

Note: For the full list of potential side effects from the treatment and tips on how to prevent or resolve them, read our blog post on filler side effects.

When Should You See a Doctor?

Common side effects like redness, bruising, and swelling will resolve on their own within two weeks.

Contact your healthcare provider if you experience prolonged and more severe reactions, such as severe pain, headaches, muscle weakness, and other symptoms that interfere with your daily life.

Do Fillers Ruin Your Face?

Fillers are designed to enhance facial features. In the hands of a skilled medical practitioner, a dermal filler visibly improves and rejuvenates the patient’s appearance.

However, in some cases, fillers radically alter the patient’s natural appearance by excessively volumizing their lips, oversizing their jaw or cheeks, and creating a bloated look.  This usually happens when an inexperienced provider uses too much filler or injects it at an inadequate depth.

To avoid fillers going wrong, make sure to schedule your treatment with board-certified medical specialists with extensive experience injecting dermal fillers.

Which Dermal Filler Should You Choose?

Medical providers choose the dermal filler for each patient depending on their aesthetic concerns and the target injection area. For example, they may recommend Juvéderm Volbella, Restylane Silk, or Revanesse Versa for patients who want to improve their under-eye area, fill in hollows, and reduce wrinkles.

Hyaluronic acid is frequently used for lip augmentation. The two most popular brands of hyaluronic acid lip fillers are Juvéderm Volbella and Restylane-L.

Patients who want to enhance their cheeks or chin often use fillers with a thicker consistency, such as Restylane Lyft or Juvéderm Voluma.

To soften nasolabial folds or marionette lines, providers choose fillers with flexibility and tissue integration, such as Restylane Refyne or Juvéderm Vollure.

Discuss all options with your provider to find the best solution for your needs.

Conclusion

Dermal fillers restore facial volume, provide sensually full lips, and smooth the skin. They provide long-lasting results and rarely cause adverse effects.

If you're planning on getting dermal fillers in the Phoenix area, contact and schedule a consultation at Vibrant Skin Bar. Our skin experts are more than happy to discuss treatment options with you and develop a treatment plan that will help you achieve your desired look.  

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Jeuveau vs. Botox: What’s the Difference?

According to a global survey by the International Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, botulinum toxin is the most popular non-surgical treatment for men and women across all age groups. Most patients know botulinum toxin by the brand name Botox, though it is only one of the five FDA-approved neurotoxin injections. The other four include Dysport, Xeomin, Jeuveau, and the most recently approved - Daxxify.

This article maps the differences and similarities between Jeuveau and Botox, helping patients understand what to expect from the treatment.

Jeuveau vs. Botox

Jeuveau vs. Botox: Overview

Jeuveau and Botox are injectable treatments popularly used in the cosmetics industry to reduce fine lines and wrinkles.

The following table summarizes the two neurotoxins’ differences and similarities.

 JeuveauBotox
Main ingredientBotulinum toxin type A (prabotulinumtoxinA)Botulinum toxin type A (onabotulinumtoxinA)
FDA statusFDA-approved since 2019 for cosmetic use.FDA-approved in 2002 for cosmetic use and in 1989 for medical use.
How it worksBlocks nerve signals to muscles which cause wrinkles.Blocks nerve signals to muscles which cause wrinkles.
Approved usesCosmetic use: Glabellar (frown) linesCosmetic uses: Glabellar (frown) lines, crow’s feet, forehead wrinkles. Medical uses: Excessive sweating, excessive drooling, eyelid spasms, overactive bladder, chronic migraines.  
Time to first results1-3 days3-5 days
Duration of results3-4 months3-4 months
Side effectsCommon: bruising, swelling, redness. Rare: allergic reaction, droopy eyelids, muscle weakness, headaches  The same
CostApprox. $8 - $20 per unit$13.50 per unit at Vibrant Skin Bar
Units used per treatment33-5010-50

Jeuveau vs. Botox: Similarities and Differences

Jeuveau and Botox are made from the same substance, but are differently formulated, and each neuromodulator is approved for different uses.

FDA Approval

Botox was initially approved in 1989 for therapeutic use, and in 2002 for cosmetic use.

The FDA approved Jeuveau for cosmetic use in 2019. It is also called “NewTox” because it’s one of the most recent additions to the family of neuromodulators.

Formulation

Jeuveau and Botox are made from botulinum toxin type A, a neurotoxin derived from the Clostridium botulinum bacterium.  

Botox is formulated with onabotulinumtoxinA, a distinct subtype of botulinum toxin type A that contains a unique amino acid sequence. The formula also includes complexing proteins that coat and protect the active neurotoxin.

Jeuveau is formulated with prabotulinumtoxinA, another subtype of botulinum toxin type A. It also contains complexing proteins but uses a different manufacturing and purification technology, potentially causing a quicker onset of results.  

Note: Learn how Botox differs from Xeomin, the purified form of botulinum toxin type A.

Use Cases

The advantage of Botox over Jeuveau is its multitude of applications. Cosmetic Botox is FDA-approved to treat glabellar (frown) lines, crow’s feet, and forehead wrinkles. Botox has a long history of medical uses as well, effectively treating excessive underarm sweating, drooling, eyelid spasms, bladder issues, and migraines.

Jeuveau is only used for cosmetic purposes. It is indicated for glabellar lines, with more treatment areas pending approval.

Medical professionals often use neuromodulators in off-label procedures to reduce wrinkles in areas that are not FDA approved. This use is safe when performed by licensed and experienced providers.

Note: Learn about the most common FDA-approved and off-label Botox areas.

Procedure Duration and Frequency

The procedure of administering Jeuveau and Botox is similar. It takes 15-30 minutes and includes cleansing the patient’s skin, applying numbing cream on the target area, and injecting the neurotoxin.

Medical providers recommend waiting at least three months before the next session. One of the reasons for this is to avoid developing botulinum toxin resistance. Patients usually schedule their treatments every three to six months to continue the wrinkle-smoothing effects.

Results

The results of both treatments are smoother or entirely eliminated wrinkles in the treatment area.

The skin after a Jeuveau treatment is visibly improved within 1-3 days, and it takes 7-10 days to experience the full results. They last 3-4 months.

Botox patients usually see the first results within 3-5 days, and full results appear within 10-14 days. They typically last 3-4 months.

Side effects

Jeuveau and Botox are FDA-approved and safe when performed by skilled medical professionals. However, many patients experience mild side effects at the injection site. These include:

Rare and more severe side effects can occur when the toxin spreads to adjacent areas. These side effects include:

Note: Learn more about potential Botox side effects and how to mitigate them.

Cost

The cost of a Jeuveau or Botox treatment varies depending on the treatment area, the severity of wrinkles, the medical provider’s expertise, and the location of their practice.

The average Jeuveau injectable price per unit is $8 - $20, and patients usually require 20 units per treatment.

At Vibrant Skin Bar, one Botox unit costs $13.50, and patients typically need 20 units per treatment area.

Botox | $13.50/unit

Jeuveau vs. Botox: How to Choose?

Jeuveau and Botox are FDA-approved and well-tolerated by most healthy adults. They are equally effective in providing quick, skin-smoothing results.

One advantage of Botox over Jeuveau is that the practice is accompanied by 30+ years of comprehensive clinical evidence on safety and efficacy, while the data for Jeuveau is limited.

Consult a board-certified medical provider to determine whether Jeuveau or Botox is more suitable for you and the amount of neurotoxin needed for desired results.

Note: If you're not sure about Botox or Jeuveau, discover other Botox alternatives.

Conclusion

Neurotoxin injectables are among the most popular non-surgical treatments, judging by the millions of people who undergo the procedure each year. Botox is the most comprehensive and well-known wrinkle eraser, but similar, alternative treatments exist – such as the innovative Jeuveau.

Jeuveau and Botox provide similar wrinkle-reducing results and show a high safety profile. Discuss your options with a trusted medical provider to ensure you reach your desired beauty goals.

For safe and impressive results, book your next Botox session in Phoenix!

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Laser Hair Removal Areas

Laser hair removal is an excellent solution for people who are tired of shaving, plucking, or waxing unwanted hair. The cosmetic practitioner uses a laser device that emits a focused stream of light. The light and heat from the laser damage hair follicles, delaying or preventing hair growth.

Traditional lasers target melanin (the color pigment) and need clear contrast between the skin and hair colors. Because of this, they achieve the best results in people with light skin and dark hair. However, many modern lasers use a different technology that works for other skin types and colors, even removing light, thin hair.

Patients interested in laser hair removal usually want to know which areas can be treated. This article lists treatable areas and explains how many sessions are required for long-term or permanent hair removal.

Laser hair removal treatable areas

Laser Hair Removal Areas

Laser hair removal is a safe cosmetic treatment for most healthy adults. Patients usually want to eliminate hair on their legs, armpits, and the bikini line, but a laser can be used on any part of the face and body – except the eyelids and around the eyes.

Is laser hair removal safe during pregnancy? Read our article to find out.

Here are all the areas treatable with a laser:

Face

Note: Find out what can you expect from facial laser hair removal treatment.

Upper Body

Lower Extremity

How Many Sessions for Laser Hair Removal Do You Need?

The hair growth cycle has three phases: growing, regressing, and resting. Laser hair removal is effective only when the hair is in the growing phase. Since the hairs are always at different stages, patients need multiple treatments to ensure the laser reaches all hair at the right time.

Cosmetic providers usually recommend an initial plan of six to ten treatments spaced six weeks apart and maintenance treatments twice a year until the hairs in the treated area stop growing. The total number of required sessions varies from patient to patient, depending on their skin type, hair color, and the treatment area.

Laser Hair Removal Cost

The Vibrant Skin Bar offers laser hair removal services at different prices, depending on the size of the treatment area. For large areas, one treatment costs $350. Laser for medium areas is priced at $250, and treatments for small areas cost $150.

Contact the Vibrant Skin Bar team for more information on the treatment cost for a specific region or multiple regions.

Conclusion

Laser hair removal is one of the best innovative solutions for long-term hair removal. Thanks to advancements in laser technology, and different hair removal methods, most people can eliminate unwanted hair and enjoy smooth, hairless skin in almost any body area.

If you are ready to give the procedure a try, read our blog post on how to prepare for laser hair removal.

How to Get Rid of Banana Rolls?

A firm, round bottom is a popular beauty ideal, thanks to celebrities like Jennifer Lopez and Kim Kardashian, who confidently strut their booties. However, our genetics, hormones, and lifestyles often dictate a different look. Instead of a naturally toned, rounded backside, many of us have to contend with banana rolls.  

This article explains why banana rolls appear and how to get rid of them.

How to get rid of banana rolls

What Is Banana Roll Fat?

Banana rolls are stubborn fat bulges below the buttocks and above the upper thighs. They interrupt the natural curve between the buttocks and hamstrings, jutting out to varying degrees. They often make women self-conscious and uncomfortable in tight-fitting clothes.

What Causes Banana Rolls Fat?

Banana rolls can appear for many reasons. The most common include:

Note: If you are struggling with hormonal imbalance, learn about hormone replacement therapy.

How to Get Rid of Banana Rolls?

There are three ways to get rid of banana rolls:

Liposuction has been the go-to procedure for banana roll removal for a long time. However, surgery requires anesthesia, carries the risk of scarring, and requires weeks of recovery.

Instead, we recommend safer and healthier ways to eliminate banana rolls.

Clean Up Your Diet

Healthy nutrition is a staple of overall health, and it can help you get rid of extra fat, including banana rolls. Medical professionals and fitness experts emphasize that the only way to lose weight and eliminate fat effectively is through a comprehensive lifestyle change that involves calorie-restricted diets. To lose fat, you need to ingest fewer calories than you burn.

The basic principles of a healthy diet include:

This lifestyle habit takes time to adopt and show results, but it provides long-term health and beauty benefits.

Non-Surgical Banana Roll Fat Treatments

Cosmetic treatments are your best option for stubborn pockets of banana roll fat that don’t go away even after months of calorie-restricted diets and targeted workouts.

CoolSculpting

CoolSculpting is an FDA-approved cosmetic treatment that freezes and eliminates fat in areas that don’t respond to diets and exercise. It is a safe and FDA-approved treatment that requires no anesthesia or downtime. Patients can expect a fat reduction of up to 25% in the treatment area and permanent results for those who stick with a balanced diet and daily workouts.

For the best results, try CoolSculpting with CoolTone – a muscle-toning treatment that will perfectly sculpt your backside after the excess fat has been eliminated.

Kybella

Kybella is an FDA-approved treatment for eliminating a double chin. However, its safety profile and effective results allow off-label applications in other areas, including the buttocks. It is an injectable that uses deoxycholic acid, a naturally occurring compound in the body, to dissolve fat in the injected area. Patients typically need several treatments spaced at least one month apart to achieve a desired banana roll reduction. Like CoolSculpting, Kybella provides permanent results, but you need to maintain a healthy lifestyle.

Note: Learn how Kybella can help you get rid of a double chin.

Sculptra Dermal Filler

Sculptra is a dermal filler generally used to smooth wrinkles and add volume to sunken facial features. It is also popular in an off-label application called the Sculptra Butt Lift. The injected filler helps to lift and sculpt the buttocks, tightening the backside and reducing the bulge underneath.

Banana Roll Fat Exercises

Health experts recommend at least 150 minutes of moderate weekly activity for overall well-being. Add specific exercises for the area underneath your bum to tone those muscles and reduce banana roll fat. The following are some of the best exercises that target this area.

Implement weekly cardio sessions in addition to targeted buttock exercises to reduce your overall fat. The effort will also minimize prominent fat pockets like banana rolls.

Conclusion

Banana roll fat is an unappealing feature that makes people self-conscious. Follow these tips to get rid of banana rolls safely, tone your body, and improve your health in the process.

Sculptra Hip Dips: Everything You Need to Know

Hip dips are indents on the outer part of the thighs, below the hip bones. They are naturally occurring but disrupt the rounded curve associated with the hourglass figure. For this reason, many people do not like them.

Plastic surgery is the traditional way to correct hip dips, but one cosmetic treatment has been pushing surgery aside. It goes by the proprietary name: Sculptra.

This article focuses on the Sculptra hip dip treatment, explains how it works, and answers common questions about this popular procedure.

What is Sculptra?

Sculptra is a dermal filler made from poly-L-lactic acid, a synthetic material whose presence in our bodies stimulates an increase in collagen production. It is FDA-approved to treat moderate to severe facial wrinkles and folds, including marionette lines, chin wrinkles, and nasolabial folds.

Skin experts use Sculptra in off-label procedures to treat cosmetic concerns beyond the ones approved by the FDA. Patient experience shows Sculptra is very effective in treating hip dips.

Note: Learn how Sculptra can help with neck rejuvenation.

How Does Sculptra Work for Hip Dips?

Sculptra is a convenient in-office treatment that requires no previous preparation and can be done during a lunch break. The medical provider cleans the patient’s skin with alcohol, marks the injection spots with a special marker, and injects several vials of Sculptra into the patient’s hips.

The injectable stimulates the buildup of new collagen to fill the hip dips. It may take several weeks for the results to appear. Patients usually need at least three treatments spaced four to six weeks apart to achieve the desired effects.

The treatment is painless, potentially causing only mild discomfort. Patients can resume most regular activities, except tanning and strenuous exercise.

Note: If you want to find out more about hip dip fillers, read our article and find out about their benefits and what results can you expect.

Why Choose Sculptra for Hip Dips?

Hip dips are caused by genetics and bone structure and can’t be corrected with diet and exercise. Only cosmetic procedures can successfully contour this body part. Sculptra is becoming more popular than hip implants and fat transplants because it has many advantages over surgery:

Note: Read our blog post on the differences between Sculptra and Juvéderm.

Frequently Asked Questions about Sculptra for Hip Dips

Review these frequently asked questions if you are considering Sculptra for hip dips. They will help you evaluate the procedure and decide if it is the right treatment for you.

Am I a Suitable Candidate for Sculptra?

Sculptra is approved for healthy adults with hip indentations caused by bone structure. The treatment is particularly useful for people with below-average weight who don’t have enough fat for liposuction and fat transplants.

Is It Safe to Use Sculptra on Hip Dips?

The treatment is considered safe when performed by trained medical professionals in a sterile medical setting. Though the FDA hasn’t approved Sculptra for hip dips, patient experience shows the procedure typically causes only mild side effects such as swelling and bruising. These go away after several days.

How Many Vials of Sculptra for Hip Dips?

The number of Sculptra vials you’ll need for hip dips depends on your anatomy, weight, and desired results. Medical providers use an average of ten vials per treatment, and patients usually require at least three treatments.

How Much Is Sculptra for Hip Dips?

At the Vibrant Skin Bar, one vial of Sculptra costs $900. The total cost of the treatment depends on the required number of vials per treatment. On average, most patients require 4-6 vials of Sculptra to correct hip dips.

Conclusion

Hip dips are a concern for many women. In the past, their correction has been challenging because it involved risky surgery and weeks of recovery.

With Sculptra, cosmetic experts have introduced a safe, convenient way to contour their patients’ hips. If you are interested in the procedure, contact our medical team at the Vibrant Skin Bar and let them transform your hip dips into a beautiful, rounded curve.

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Microneedling vs. Botox: Which Treatment Wins?

Anti-aging cosmetic treatments are gaining traction among the general population. They’ve become more affordable in the past two decades, are safer than plastic surgery, and provide amazing results.

Microneedling and Botox are among the most popular anti-aging treatments today. This article explains their differences and how to choose the best option for your specific cosmetic concern.

Microneedling vs. Botox

What is Microneedling?

Microneedling is a minimally invasive cosmetic treatment that improves skin tone and texture, giving patients a natural, youthful look. The treatment has many uses, from reducing fine lines and wrinkles to fading dark spots and acne scars.

How Does It Work?

Microneedling involves the use of a hand-held device with tiny needles to create micro-wounds on the patient’s skin. It is also called a collagen induction treatment because it triggers the body’s natural healing mechanism and stimulates collagen and elastin production.

Procedure

The medical provider applies a numbing cream on the patient’s skin and then moves the microneedling device across the treatment area, creating tiny punctures on the skin’s surface. The wounds are small and superficial, and close within a few hours. The process causes a controlled injury to stimulate the body to produce more collagen and replace the treated skin with a brighter, firmer layer.

Note: Learn how microneedling with PRP works for enhanced rejuvenation effects.

Recovery

Redness, bruising, and swelling are common microneedling side effects that usually disappear after a few days. There is little to no downtime, and the patient can resume regular activities 24h after the treatment.

Cost

At Vibrant Skin Bar, one microneedling treatment costs $300. The total cost depends on the severity of your skin concern and how many treatments you need for long-term effects.

What is Botox?

Botox is an injectable treatment best known in the cosmetic industry as a wrinkle eraser. It is FDA-approved to treat crow’s feet, frown lines, and forehead wrinkles.

How Does It Work?

Botox belongs to the group of injectables called neuromodulators. It consists of a substance called botulinum toxin type A, which temporarily relaxes muscles in the target area, causing immediate smoothing of the overlying skin. The treatment is effective for dynamic wrinkles – those lines, creases, and folds caused by repetitive facial expressions. However, Botox has off-label uses for other areas such as the neck and lines around the mouth.

Note: This article provides more information about commonly treated areas with Botox.

Procedure

The medical provider cleans the patient’s skin with rubbing alcohol and applies a numbing cream if the patient wishes. The provider marks the target area and injects Botox into the marked spots. The procedure takes about half an hour or less if the patient doesn’t require numbing cream.

Recovery

Common Botox side effects include short-lived redness, swelling, and bruising, but there is no downtime. You can resume most of your daily activities after the treatment. However, doctors recommend refraining from strenuous exercise and alcohol for 24 hours and lying down for four hours.

Cost

At Vibrant Bar, one Botox unit costs $13.50. Patients typically need between six and 25 units per treatment area.

Note: Find out how many units of Botox do you need per treatment area.

Microneedling Advantages and Disadvantages

Microneedling is gaining popularity because it addresses a range of skin issues. This table provides a quick overview of its benefits and drawbacks.

Microneedling advantages:

Note: Another notable advantage of microneedling is that it can be used as an alternative to Botox, which is especially beneficial to people who experience serious Botox side effects or have Botox resistance.

Microneedling disadvantages:

Botox Advantages and Disadvantages

Botox is the number one treatment for dynamic wrinkles. Review the treatment’s main pros and cons in the table below.

Botox advantages:

Botox disadvantages:

Microneedling vs. Botox: How to Choose?

Microneedling and Botox overlap in a few applications, such as wrinkle reduction and skin rejuvenation. However, they are based on different technologies, and medical providers typically use them for different purposes.

Experts recommend neuromodulators such as Botox when patients have issues with moderate to severe wrinkles and folds. Microneedling is a better option for those whose aesthetic concerns are caused by reduced collagen production, sun damage, and other skin-damaging factors.

Choose a trusted skin expert to evaluate your skin and desired goals. They will recommend the best treatment option for you.

Note: Read our article to find out if Botox and Microneedling can be used together.

Conclusion

Microneedling and Botox have made millions of people happier with their looks. The treatments are quick, minimally invasive, and safe for most healthy adults, making them accessible to a broad audience – even people who previously had reservations regarding needles and chemicals in their skin.

If you want to explore your skin’s rejuvenating potential, visit our medical spa in Phoenix, Arizona. Our amazing Vibrant Skin Bar team will ensure your skin and your mood glow.

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Microneedling vs. Chemical Peel: Everything You Need to Know

Advancements in the cosmetics industry have brought us closer to the centuries-old dream of eternal youth. People can choose between many treatments to address their aesthetic concerns based on the treatment’s technology, effects, the duration of results, and risk factors.

In this article we’ll focus on two of the most popular rejuvenation treatments – microneedling and chemical peels – and explain how they differ, so you can choose the treatment that best suits your needs.

Microneedling vs. chemical peels

What Is Microneedling and How Does It Work?

Microneedling is an anti-aging cosmetic treatment that involves using an FDA-approved device with short needles to create tiny wounds on the skin’s surface. This controlled injury stimulates the body’s healing mechanisms, producing more collagen and elastin, and rebuilding the skin.

Benefits

Collagen and elastin are essential in keeping the skin firm and even. Increased production of the skin’s building blocks results in a range of benefits:

Note: Learn more how microneedling helps reduce stretch marks.

Procedure

Microneedling is a safe procedure when licensed medical professionals perform it in a medical setting – a clinic or med spa.

First, the medical provider applies a topical anesthetic on the patient’s skin. When the cream takes effect, the provider moves a hand-held microneedling device across the treatment area, creating tiny, superficial wounds to induce collagen synthesis in the skin’s deeper layers. The process lasts about 20 minutes.

Finally, the provider applies a serum with anti-aging ingredients, such as hyaluronic acid and growth factors, to enhance the rejuvenating effects of the treatment.

Note: Read more on how to rejuvenate skin, and what are the best skin care products for rejuvenation.

Recovery

Microneedling causes mild side effects such as redness and swelling, which typically disappear after two or three days. The procedure requires minimal or no downtime.

Cost

Our medical experts at the Vibrant Skin Bar offer microneedling at $300 per session. The total cost of the treatment depends on the severity of the patient’s cosmetic issue and the number of recommended sessions.

What Is a Chemical Peel and How Does It Work?

A chemical peel is a skin resurfacing treatment in which a medical provider applies a chemical solution to the skin’s surface layer to remove it, revealing a smoother, rejuvenated complexion. Based on the solution’s strength and depth of penetration, chemical peels are divided into light, medium, and deep peels.

Benefits

Like microneedling, chemical peels improve many cosmetic issues and provide the following benefits:

Note: Learn which is the best chemical peel for acne scars.

Procedure

During a professional chemical peel, the medical provider first cleans the patient’s treatment area with rubbing alcohol. In the case of a deep peel, the patient receives sedation and local or general anesthesia.

The provider applies the chemical solution and leaves it on the patient’s skin for several minutes. Patients usually feel a stinging sensation. Finally, the provider removes the solution with water and a saline compress.

Recovery

Recovery time after a chemical peel depends on the type of peel. There is no downtime after light peels. Medium peels cause redness, swelling, and skin peeling and require a week or two of downtime. Recovery after a deep peel can take months, during which patients take antiviral medication and wear bandages on the treated area.

Cost

The medical experts at the Vibrant Skin Bar provide light and medium chemical peels. Light peels cost $99 per session, and medium peels cost $125 per session. Most patients need several sessions to achieve the desired results.

Pros and Cons of Microneedling

Microneedling addresses various cosmetic issues and requires no downtime, making it a popular option among patients. However, it isn’t suitable for everyone. Consult this table of microneedling pros and cons to see whether the procedure is right for you.

Microneedling PROSMicroneedling CONS
Long-lasting results. User experience shows that the skin tightening effects of microneedling can last for years.Gradual results. It takes time for collagen to rebuild the skin and improve cosmetic concerns.
Addresses sagging skin. Unlike chemical peels, microneedling rebuilds connective tissue and firms the skin.Cost. Microneedling is more expensive per session than light and medium peels.
Suitable for all skin colors. Unlike chemical peels, microneedling is safe for people with darker skin tones.Not suitable for everyone. People with bacterial infections, skin conditions, bleeding disorders, those taking acne medication with isotretinoin, and pregnant women are not suitable candidates for microneedling.

Pros and Cons of Chemical Peels

Like microneedling, chemical peels provide a range of benefits but may not be suitable for everyone.

Chemical Peel PROSChemical Peel CONS
Deeply exfoliates the skin. Chemical peels thoroughly cleanse the skin, removing dead skin cells, dirt, and toxins.Recommended for people with light skin tone. Chemicals in peels can cause discoloration in people with darker skin tones.
No needles used.Longer recovery period. Medium peels require a week or two of downtime, while recovery from deep peels can take several months.
Impressive results with one treatment. After they recover from a deep peel, patients report results that last up to 10 years.Not suitable for everyone. Pregnant women, and people with a history of scarring and skin conditions are not good candidates for microneedling.

Microneedling vs. Chemical Peels: How to Choose?

The best way to achieve your beauty goal is to consult an experienced medical professional who will recommend a cosmetic treatment based on your medical condition and skin concern.

Light and medium chemical peels are a great option for patients with skin concerns such as fine lines and hyperpigmentation caused by sun damage. The treatment also cleanses the skin, unclogs pores, and prevents acne. Regular chemical peel sessions provide patients with an even, rejuvenated complexion.

Microneedling is a popular cosmetic procedure for issues caused by collagen decline, such as sagging skin, wrinkles, hair loss, and stretch marks. Patients typically need several sessions to see the effects, but the results are long lasting.

Conclusion

Microneedling and chemical peels are among the most popular minimally invasive cosmetic procedures today. They treat common aesthetic issues using different technologies, and skin experts recommend one or the other based on the patient’s needs and expectations.

If you feel you could use a boost of confidence, visit the Vibe Tribe at Vibrant Skin Bar. They will help you achieve a smoother, brighter complexion – and improve your mood!

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Swelling After CoolSculpting: What to Do?

CoolSculpting is a body contouring cosmetic treatment that reduces fat by up to 25%. Popular CoolSculpting areas are the ones that commonly accumulate fat, such as the thighs, buttocks, hips, and belly.

Most cosmetic and medical procedures carry the risk of certain side effects, including CoolSculpting. The procedure is FDA-approved and considered safe for healthy adults, but patients can expect mild symptoms such as swelling and redness.

This article takes a closer look at swelling after CoolSculpting and provides tips on how to minimize this discomfort.

Swelling after CoolSculpting

Swelling After Coolsculpting - Is It Normal?

Swelling after CoolSculpting is a common occurrence because the procedure stimulates an inflammatory response as the body works to remove dead fat cells. Swelling can also be your skin’s reaction to the cooling applicator.

Note: Read our article on how CoolSculpting works.

How Long Does Coolsculpting Swelling Last?

Swelling after CoolSculpting can last from several hours to two or three weeks. The duration of this side effect is different for every patient. If the swelling persists after three weeks, consult your medical provider on how to resolve it.

How to Reduce Swelling After CoolSculpting – 6 Tips

There are several ways to reduce the likelihood of swelling after CoolSculpting or speed up recovery if swelling occurs. They include:

1. Avoid Anti-Inflammatory Medication

Inflammation is the body’s natural response to CoolSculpting as it eliminates the frozen fat cells. Refrain from taking anti-inflammatory medications such as ibuprofen to allow a smooth recovery process.

Your medical provider will give you information on which medications and supplements to avoid before and after the procedure.

2. Drink Enough Water

Water helps the body eliminate dead fat cells and toxins from the system, speeding up recovery. Drink at least eight cups of water every day for about two weeks.

3. Avoid Salty Foods

High-sodium foods increase the chance of water retention and can aggravate swelling. Avoid salty, processed foods and eat fresh fruits and vegetables with a high-water content, such as cucumbers, celery, apples, etc.

4. Stay Active (But Don’t Overdo It)

Make sure to stay active after the treatment to keep the blood flowing. Good circulation helps eliminate waste from the body. You can resume your regular activities after CoolSculpting, but doctors recommend refraining from strenuous activities for the first few days. Take walks or do light exercises for a day or two, and then you can resume jogging, swimming, cycling, and other moderate physical activities.

5. Wear Compression Garments

Compression clothing increases the blood and lymphatic flow, helping waste elimination and preventing or decreasing swelling. Compression garments can also help alleviate pain in the treated area.

6. Massage the Swollen Areas

CoolSculpting providers typically massage the treated area for a few minutes after the procedure to break down frozen fat cells and jumpstart the waste removal process. If you experience swelling in the treated area, you can keep massaging it at home. Make sure you gently massage the skin and not the underlying muscles. Use your palms and fingers to massage the area in circular movements without too much pressure. Drink two to four cups of water after the massage to help remove toxins.

Note: This article on CoolSculpting aftercare provides more tips on how to accelerate recovery after the treatment.

Conclusion

CoolSculpting is a popular cosmetic treatment because it permanently eliminates difficult-to-remove fat and has no downtime. It often causes mild symptoms like swelling, but you can speed up recovery by following your CoolSculpting provider’s instructions and our general tips on reducing swelling after CoolSculpting.

What Is a Cryotherapy Treatment and How Does It Work?

Most cosmetic treatments focus on a specific body area or issue, such as excess fat, a double chin, wrinkles, cellulite, etc. However, treatments with a broader range of cosmetic and wellness benefits are gaining popularity.

Cryotherapy is one of these versatile treatments as it addresses both skin issues and many other health concerns.

Continue reading to learn more about whole-body cryotherapy, how it works, and how you can benefit from regular cryotherapy treatments.

Cryotherapy treatment

What Is Whole-Body Cryotherapy?

Whole-body cryotherapy is a wellness procedure that involves exposing the body to very low temperatures (below 212°F) for two to four minutes in an enclosed chamber. Most cryotherapy chambers enclose the body to the neck while the head stays at room temperature. However, some are made for a person’s full body height and resemble rooms you step into.

The intense cold produced by the cryo-chamber constricts blood vessels and triggers the body’s natural healing mechanisms, leading to many health and beauty benefits.

Benefits of Whole-Body Cryotherapy

Anecdotal patient evidence suggests that whole-body cryotherapy has powerful healing and anti-aging properties. The treatment can help:

Note: Learn about cryotherapy benefits in more detail.

Is Whole-Body Cryotherapy Safe?

Whole-body cryotherapy is not FDA-approved because there are no comprehensive studies confirming the treatment’s health benefits.

Vast user experience and limited studies show the treatment is generally safe for healthy adults. However, people with medical conditions such as high blood pressure, heart and lung issues, asthma, neuropathy, and pregnant women are not eligible for the procedure.

The cryotherapy treatment is performed in the controlled environment of a medical spa or wellness center. A medical professional always evaluates the patient’s medical history beforehand and supervises the entire procedure.

If you feel like you can’t stand the cold, you can ask to leave the chamber before the time is up.

Are There Any Side-Effects?

Side effects during cryotherapy are mild and include:

None of these side effects pose a serious health threat for healthy adults. If a patient experiences breathing difficulties, the supervising medical professional adjusts oxygen levels, after which the person immediately feels better.

Note: Learn how cryotherapy differs from ice baths.

How to Prepare for the Treatment?

If you choose to give cryotherapy a try, follow these tips for maximum safety and comfort.

1. Wear only your underwear, a bathing suit, or other minimal, loose-fitting clothing.

2. Bring socks and gloves to protect your feet and hands from frostbite.

3. If the chamber is all-enclosing, wear earmuffs.

4. To avoid frostbite, you need to be completely dry when entering the cryotherapy chamber.

5. Remove all jewelry before the session.

Whole-Body Cryotherapy Results

Patients report the following results after a cryotherapy session:

Cryotherapy is safe to use twice a day, but this is only recommended for professional athletes.

The optimal frequency of cryotherapy sessions depends on the patient’s physical condition, daily activity levels, health concerns, goals, and budget. Two or three treatments a week provide optimal results for most patients.

Whole-Body Cryotherapy Cost

The cost varies depending on the patient’s goals and the chosen med spa location. Prices usually range between $50 and $100.

Conclusion

Cryotherapy is an increasingly popular method for improving one’s health, mood, and skin tone. It’s a safe procedure for most healthy adults. Look for a reputable provider in your area to ensure the best results.