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Busting the Cellulite Myth
The Myth: There is the myth that cellulite is fat that can be improved with diet and exercise. Cellulite is caused when underlying fat deposits begin to push through weakened connective tissue, causing bulges and dimpling. Cellulite happens most commonly in the thigh and buttocks and affects women of all shapes and sizes.

The Truth: The Cellfina System addresses cellulite by targeting the fibrous septae, which is the primary structural cause of cellulite. The Cellfina system is the only FDA-cleared, minimally invasive procedure clinically proven to improve the appearance of cellulite for at least two years - the longest FDA clearance for a cellulite treatment. Only one treatment is needed and there is minimal pain and down time.
DermaCure Medical Aesthetics 257-8400

Avoiding "Wild West" Beauty Scams
Why You should do your Research: A recent article in The Daily News explains that, as demand for cosmetic procedures continues to grow, people need to be aware of a potential "wild west" situation in which some facilities identifying themselves as medical spas operate in an unregulated fashion with less than fully-qualified medical personnel.

Why You Need an Experienced Doctor: Even for gym buffs, the abdominal area and other parts of the body can remain stubborn when it comes to losing unwanted fat. Liposuction has long been popular as a highly-effective surgical solution for men and women who desire a slimmer, leaner body. Whether patients seek to improve their body's appearance for the beach or in preparation for a special event, this is a procedure which requires a strong sense of aesthetics alongside a great deal of medical skill; only surgeons well-versed in crafting the sculpted look that many patients seek should be considered for liposuction.

Also being pitched by ill-prepared "chop shops" are Mommy Makeovers. The mommy makeover procedure, which often combines a tummy tuck to remove loose skin and fat deposits with a breast and/or buttock lift as well as liposuction and other body contouring procedures, is geared toward women who wish to restore their pre-motherhood body. This is a suite of procedures that requires a surgeon who is able to carefully coordinate them so that they all work together in harmony to create the best possible results. Individuals seeking any of these procedures should do their research and be sure to go with a qualified surgeon like those at Beverly Hills Physicians.
Beverly Hills Physicians 249-4040

Not All Extensions are the Same
Synthetic Hair Extensions can Damage Looks and Health: While more-expensive synthetic extensions look less and less like "doll hair," they're still no competition for the real thing in style. Plus, according to Consumer Reports, they've been known to cause allergic reactions.

What's Better: Indian and Peruvian hair extensions from Trichele are 100-percent human hair, last for one to two years and can be dyed any color. They enhance length and volume without many of the risks of synthetic hair and, once you consider durability and style, they are the best value, too. They can be purchased in the Valencia salon or online at www.trichelehumanhairstudio.com.
Hair by Trichele 347-9066

Hormone Changes & Hair Removal
A little knowledge is a powerful thing. As you get older, your skin changes due to hormones and the natural aging process, but you don't have to sacrifice beauty and confidence to evil Father Time. With a regular routine that includes waxing of the face and body, you can maintain a healthy glow and improve the texture of your skin.

Remember to keep your wax professional informed of any anti-aging or special treatments you may be using, as well as medications that could affect your skin's sensitivity. With everyone informed, you can be assured of a beautiful result.
Waxing is a hair-removal technique preferred by many because it depletes the resources of the hair follicles without destroying them, treating skin gently and maintaining the skin's original pigment.
WAX by Heather Nelson 644-4346

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Learn more about Photorejuvenation & Sunspots
What You don't Know (but Should): Sun spots are the result of your body working to defend itself against the sun's damaging UV rays. During sun exposure, your skin produces more melanin (That's what makes us "tan."); when these pigments bunch together instead of spreading out evenly, sun spots (And freckles and splotches!) appear.

Why You may want to get Rid of Them: Sun spots really start becoming noticeable in most people when they hit their 30s and 40s. Because they detract from what's perceived as the "clear skin of youth," they are associated with less-than-graceful aging and are considered unattractive by many.

How to Look Young Again: IPL Photorejuvenation is the top choice for virtually-painless sunspot removal. IPL results are dramatic, leaving skin remarkably smoother, more uniform in color and with the glow and bounce of youth, thanks to collagen-boosting effects.
How it Works: The broad-spectrum light used in IPL Photorejuvenation treatments is absorbed by the target tissue, which then gently flakes off about a week after your session. You can literally see your sunspots disappear! IPL targets both red and brown colors within your skin, so sunspots won't be the only thing to go. You'll also say "goodbye" to redness and blemishes.

What You should Consider: Sun damage isn't restricted to your face alone. You can treat your hands, chest, arms and shoulders with IPL, too. Speak to your provider about how IPL can restore your face and body, making you look remarkably younger.
YOUnique Cosmetic Surgery 310-434-0044

What You should Know about Double Chin
The Data: According to a 2014 survey by the American Society for Dermatologic Surgery, approximately seven out of 10 consumers are bothered by submental fullness (double chin).

What that Is: Submental fullness associated with subcutaneous fat can detract from an otherwise balanced, harmonious facial appearance - leading to an older, heavier look. Advancements in anatomic knowledge have played a major role in the refinement of many rejuvenative procedures. Facial anatomy has advanced more recently with the demonstration that the superficial fat of the face is not composed of one homogenous layer but is segregated into discrete fat compartments. The submental fat compartment plays an important role in the appearance of the youthful and aesthetic neck - as well as in the overall attractiveness of the face.

What You can Do About It: Kybella is a prescription medicine used in adults to improve the appearance and profile of moderate to severe fat below the chin. The active ingredient in Kybella is deoxycholic acid, a naturally-occurring molecule in the body that aids in the breakdown and absorption of dietary fat. When injected into the fat beneath your chin, Kybella causes the destruction of fat cells. Once destroyed, those cells cannot store or accumulate fat. Free consultations are available now.
Advanced Dermatology & Cosmetic Care 254-3686

Organic Beauty Options don't Sacrifice Style for Health
Bio-Organica is The First Organic, Holistic Hair Salon in the SCV
From farm to chair, Bio-Organica is an exclusive, revolutionary hair salon, offering complete holistic hair system services including color, perms, smoothing, care and styling. Every product used is carefully selected and is packed full of organic, biodynamic, fair-trade ingredients.

Bio-Organica colorists respect the health and safety of their clients - and themselves. These trendsetters have pioneered the field of green chemistry, using pure ingredients certified by Natrue.org, one of the most restrictive, authoritative international certification bodies in the world. In accordance with these standards, the products used at Bio-Organica consists of a minimum 98.9 percent botanical extracts, essential oils and emollients. Every color and skin service is entirely free of parabens, silicones, petrochemicals, PEGs/PPGs/BGs, phthalates, synthetic fragrance, GMOs and animal cruelty. Finally, a fusion of style and environmental stewardship that supports healthy body function! 753-9807