Cosmetics May be Sources of Contact Hypersensitivity

Ingredients commonly used in topical pharmaceuticals and cosmetics may be sources of contact hypersensitivity in patients with chronic eczema. Certain ingredients in topical pharmaceutical agents and cosmetics might cause skin reactions in people who have eczema.

The biggest offender was the preservative thimerosal, as 11% of the patients demonstrated sensitization to the substance.

To identify some of the key sources of contact sensitivity, investigators conducted patch tests in 2,218 patients with chronic eczema, 1,531 of whom were women. The tests determined the patients' sensitivity to 29 ingredients (including preservatives, antioxidants, and emulsifiers) often found in topical pharmaceutical and cosmetic compounds.

Testing consisted of 48-hour exposure to test strips, followed by reaction-assessment at 48, 72, and 96 hours.

Other sources of sensitization in men included formaldehyde (3.2%), dodecyl gallate (2.9%), phenylmercuric acetate (2.3%), chloracetamide (1.9%), and chlorhexidine (1.6%).
In women, the leading offenders included phenylmercuric acetate (2.8%), formaldehyde (2.0%), bronopol and kathon CG (1.9%), dibromodicyanobutane/phenoxyethanol 1:4 (1.8%), and chloracetamide, chlorhexidine, and dodecyl gallate (1.2% each).

If you are concerned with a product that you are considering buying, reading the label for ingredients will be helpful. However, some individuals sensitivity did not get expressed unless the affending chemical was 10% of more of the content of the product. It very well be that you need to use a product for at least two weeks before you can tell if you have sensivities to it.

Studies Show That Botox Makes You Happier.

Accordingly to research, Botox may make you happier.  Botox may not only provide a nonsurgical face-lift — it may also lift your spirits.

By inhibiting contraction of the facial muscles used for frowning, Botulinum Toxin A — or Botox — prevents people from physically displaying expressions of negative emotion. Building on previous research that suggests facial expressions not only reflect but influence mood levels, the new study hypothesizes that Botox may lighten people's moods by literally wiping the frowns off their faces. 

A study, published in the March issue of the Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, followed 25 cosmetic-surgery patients, 12 of whom received injections of Botulinum Toxin A or similar neurotoxins, the others receiving fillers, peels or other cosmetic treatments for wrinkles. 

Two weeks after the treatments, the patients filled out a Hospital Anxiety and Depression test — a self-screening questionnaire for depression and anxiety. They also rated the success of their treatments.

"The Botox patients scored much lower on measures of depression, anxiety and irritability," explains Michael Lewis, a psychology professor at the University of Cardiff and lead author of the study. "Crucially, there was no significant difference in how much their treatment made them feel attractive from those who had other treatments, suggesting that [the mood boost] wasn't just down to a boost in self-confidence." 

In 2006, Dr. Eric Finzi, a cosmetic surgeon in Maryland, injected Botox into frown lines around the mouth or in the forehead furrows of 10 clinically depressed women. The treatment was found to eliminate depression symptoms in nine of them and to reduce symptoms in the 10th woman. At the time, Finzi explained the results using the facial-feedback hypothesis — a feedback loop in which people frown back at a depressed person, further deepening that person's sense of isolation. He suggested that if a depressed person can't frown because of Botox treatment, then others won't frown back at them, thereby breaking the loop. 

Lewis says he believes the theory that facial muscles influence brain activity directly and points to earlier research that suggests such a neurological link. 

While the cosmetic industry did not fund Lewis' study, it will probably get a boost from his new Botox research. The industry has already shown interest in promoting Botox as a mood enhancer.

"I, myself, feel happier when I have Botox inhibiting my ability to frown. Being frown-free puts a whole new spin on the joy of life.

Laser Treats Post-op Bruising

Studies show that laser treatments can help with bruising and trauma after surgery or a after a procedure.  We at UltimA have found this to be true, when after a procedure you have bruising quick laser treatments in the area can accelerate healing and resolution of the bruising.  Make your appointment if this happens to you.

Fractionated CO2 Skin Tightening

I have the webpage now available regarding our new skin tightening fractionated eCO2 Laser.  It is the best method for non-surgical skin tightening for all wrinkles, whether we are talking about fine or large wrinkles,  there will be improvement!  Learn more about it by clicking here.  Enjoy.  Dr. Sandra Lotstein

Fractionated eCO2 Laser. Best Non-Surgical Treatment for Wrinkles at UltimA Medical Spa

We have it!  The best non-surgical treatment for deep wrinkles, fractionated CO2, is here at UltimA Medical Spa.  Our clients are ecstatic about their results:  

"My skin is so silky smooth now.  I can't thank you enough that I just happen to visiting in the area and use your services.  My friends are amazed how good I look!" Tennessee.

All the details for our newest laser is not up on the website just yet, but you are welcome to come down and see the exciting before and after photos or just make an appointment to learn about the best treatment available for deep wrinkles or scars.  A first in the NorthWest!

New, Bio-Identical Hormone Management at UltimA Medical Spa

Yes, it's official.  I am offering Bio-Identical Hormone consultations and management. Tammy Johnson and I are eagerly awaiting our first testing and look forward to feeling the best we can and of course, live an abundantly healthy life. Call 208-746-2810 for an appointment.  We will put up information regarding exciting new treatments to optimize your health on the Ultimamedicalspa.com website soon.  Look for them.

Hello!

Yes, I went to the Bio-Identical Hormone four day seminar and learn many new important facts and a better way of keeping our bodies at optimal health as we age. If we let nature happen we will go the way of the Fall and then into Winter. We don't have to live life in the dwindles and I intend to make all of my patients as healthy as they can become using these new methods.

Many of you have been asking when I will be offering this service and I promise that I am working on all the last details. Quality takes time and I do want you to have the very best.

Watch for my Blog alerts or I will definitely send email newsletters out as well when I am up and ready.

Thank you for your patience.


Sandra Lotstein DO