Brilliant Distinctions - Allergan's Botox Rewards Program

www.antiaginganalyst.com

It's that time of year where many women - especially ones who did not receive a spa day gift from their sweetie - take stock of their looks and resolve to make some changes for the coming year.

Well, if you are thinking of getting Botox, there's some Botox Benefits you need to know about...

I recently shared in an article that I'm no longer a "Botox Virgin."

Yep, I got it ... and I like it.  And, I'm thinking about getting it AGAIN in a few months.

If you get Botox injections, you are fully aware you have to KEEP getting Botox injections every 3 months to maintain your look.  Other fillers will dissolve in 6 months - some 2 years, but for fillers in general, it's like taking the ol' camaro in for regular oil changes.

And we all know that those skin-care "mechanics" can charge a pretty penny to keep those wrinkle miles at bay.

If only there was a "Frequent Fillers" program!

Well, there is....

It's call the Brilliant Distinctions® Program, developed by Allergan, the makers of BOTOX.  You earn points with every BOTOX purchase and you can also get discounts for BOTOX® Cosmetic treatments.

All you have to do is register at this site:

http://www.brilliantdistinctionsprogram.com

When you register, you'll automatically be entered in the points program, and you can start getting rewarded with points each time you receive a BOTOX® Cosmetic treatment from a participating physician.

You can redeem your points to save money on other ALLERGAN® products and services too, including:

    * BOTOX® Cosmetic (onabotulinumtoxinA)
    * JUVÉDERM® XC
    * LATISSE® (bimatoprost ophthalmic solution) 0.03%
    * VIVITÉ® Skin Care products

Redeem points for dollars off on select ALLERGAN® products and services, or if you are feeling charitable, you can use the points you have earned to make a monetary donation to Dress For Success  and The Make A Wish Foundation.

When you sign up, you will also get reminders and other helpful information about your account, including upcoming treatments and exclusive invitations to events in your area.  Plus, as a Brilliant Distinctions® member, you'll also receive a personalized monthly eNewsletter full of the information you want, including special offers, tips and articles.

There's plenty of participating physicians nation-wide.  Just type in your zip code, and if a doctor is listed with the Brilliant Distinctions logo next to his/her name, you'll get your points for seeing them.

Here's how it works:

BOTOX® Cosmetic Treatment – 200 points

Earn and deposit points each time you get a BOTOX® Cosmetic (onabotulinumtoxinA) treatment from a participating physician (as long as it has been 3 months since you last received points for a BOTOX® Cosmetic treatment).

Each treatment is worth the following:

Deposits 1, 2             200 Points    (No Bonus)
Deposits 3, 4, 5         200 Points + 50 Bonus Points
Deposits 6, 7, 8         200 Points + 100 Bonus Points
Deposits 9, 10, 11     200 Points + 150 Bonus Points
Deposits 12+             200 Points + 200 Bonus Points

JUVÉDERM® XC Treatment

Earn points each time you get a JUVÉDERM® XC treatment from a participating physician. Each treatment is worth the following:

1 syringe    -  200 points
2 syringes  -  400 points

LATISSE®

Earn points each time you purchase LATISSE® (bimatoprost ophthalmic solution) 0.03% kits from a participating physician.

Each kit is worth the following:

1 Kit    -     100 points

Also earn points with the purchase of VIVITÉ® skin care products.

Here's how much money you can save:

Points       Create a Coupon For

200                       $25
300                       $35
400                       $50
500                       $65
575                       $75

If you sign up today and get Botox  every 3 months, that's 4 treatments in one year, racking up 900 points!  As you can see, you can save $75.00 per year.  And that's just for Botox.  Just print out your coupon for your next visit and you are good to go.

You can also refer a friend - and when they activate their registration, they get bonus points for signing....so why not have your friends sign up first and then refer YOU?  I mean, afterall, it WAS YOUR idea....

So, not only will you get the reward of wrinkle-softening and lift with Botox, your wallet will get the reward of feeling a little lighter too.  Whooo hooooo!  Just in time for the new year and the new you.

In my book, you get points for just being YOU.

~The Anti-Aging Analyst

Adventures in Botox

www.antiaginganalyst.com

Okay, I admit it, I was a Botox snob.

Whenever someone said they were interested in getting Botox, I would reply, "Oooooh, I would NEVER get THAT....it's derived from a TOXIN!  I would get an injectable that was made of more natural ingredients versus a toxin any day."

Well, the fact of the matter was, I never TRIED Botox...and being in the anti-aging field, it kind of made sense to at least try it....

I did NOT begin my day thinking, oh I think I'll get some Botox today.  Rather, I scheduled an consultation appointment with Dr. Rebecca Fitzgerald to write up an article about what it's like to get an injectable.

You might remember Dr. Rebecca Fitzgerald from my article on Sculptra.  She is a Diplomat of the American Board of Dermatology and a Fellow of both the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) and the American Society of Dermatological Surgery (ASDS). She is on the clinical faculty at the University of California — Los Angeles (UCLA).  And as a filler doctor, her clients swear she's an artist.

And so begins my journey:

More than a few days before the appointment, I got a call reminding me of the day and time of my appointment, and to look at Dr. Fitzgerald's "GUIDELINES" section on her website.  I did, and it was full of information on what and what not to do before your dermal injection.

http://www.rebeccafitzgeraldmd.com/patientguides.html

Medications to Discontinue 7 Days Before a dermal filler are: 

- Aspirin (unless it's prescribed)
- Ibuprofen (Motrin, Advil, Aleve)
- St. John’s Wort
- Omega 3 fatty acids (Fish Oil)
- Vitamin E
- Ginger
- Ginko
- Bilboa
- Ginseng

Staying away from these will result in less bruising after you get your injection.

Once I arrived to her lovely office in the Larchmont LA area, it was PHOTO TIME.  Dr. Fitzgerald's assistant takes various photos of your face to have on file as reference, and to examine the before and after results.

During the consultation, Dr. Fitzgerald thoroughly examined my face.  This doc did not just glance at it, as some doctors might, but she took time to really examine it from different angles and talk to me about skin care and what would improve my looks naturally.  She even educated me on sun damage using diagrams in her office.  All in all, I felt completely at ease and in good hands, PLUS she was funny and super nice.

When she asked, "Have you tried Botox?" I kinda got into my "snob" mode again.  I told her about my concerns about it being a toxin and concerns about the side effects.

She replied, it's all about the "risk/benefit ratio" and assured me that it was safe.

I've read if Botox side effects DO occur, they will be temporary, and side effects will depend on where the Botox was injected.  For frown lines, side effects include dry mouth, discomfort or pain at the injection site, nausea, headache and drooping eyelids.

To read all of Botox's side effects, visit the Allergan site at:

http://www.allergan.com/products/medical_dermatology/botox.htm

Dr. Fitzgerald recommended 25 units of Botox for me in 3 areas:  right on my "11," the middle vertical line I had, and above the beginning of each eyebrow.  Since I knew that Dysport is similar to Botox, I asked what the difference is.

The answer?  "One is Coke, the other is Pepsi".  Okay, Botox it is...

Of course, I'm immediately thinking of my old GF and her botched Botox.  Her mistake was in NOT consulting with me on WHERE to go...her injections resulted in little bumps between her brows giving her that "Klingon/Star Trek look."  And i KNEW this was not going to happen to me....

Sometimes, it's ALL about the doctor.

Dr. Rebecca Fitzgerald is one of Allergan's specially designated National Educational Faculty members and a nationally recognized expert in Botox use.

What I absolutely love about this doctor is that she looks at aging from a "full face perspective" to ensure natural looking results.  She believes that the face ages like a 3D interlocking puzzle...a change in one place will cause a change somewhere else...and given my results, I know she truly believes this and KNOWS how to produce those changes.

So I'm taking the plunge and trying Botox for the first time...in my 40's.

Per standard procedure, I then I filled out a release form that said I was fully aware of the risks and authorize the injection.

Was I nervous?  Not at all.  Did it hurt?  Just 3 little pricks.  They applied a little cold balloon for "distraction" and 1-2-3 PRICK, 1-2-3 PRICK, 1-2-3 PRICK.  And it was over.

At that very time, the doctor scheduled a follow up appointment so she could see how the injection was doing.

This is AMAZING, because even the dermatologist on the Housewives of Beverly Hills just shouted out to his filler patient, "Let me know if you have any problems..."  But Dr. Fitzgerald will always schedule a follow-up for all new patients.  Her rep says this is important for many reasons but since everyone reacts differently, it is important for her to see new patients a week or two after their first injection so she can determine a baseline for how they react to the injectables.  For certain established patients who have had several visits with injectables, she may not schedule a follow-up since both she and the patient know what to expect.

So, I went home and back to my routine.  The next day I got a follow-up call from the office, reminding me that any results should kick in between 5-7 days and not to get discouraged if I don't see any results right away.  Again, this is FANTASTIC customer service.

I couldn't get in for about 4 weeks (this doc. is very popular), but when I did, Dr. Fitzgerald's assistant took more pics.  When she saw me, she looked at me with her critical eye and said, oh you got some great lift... and she sat me down to go over the before and afters.

Now since Botox basically paralyzes the nerve endings in your cells so they can no longer contract, I thought Botox was simply used to soften the appearance of lines.

But according to Dr. Fitzgerald, sometimes Botox is more about the "lift" than the line.

Do you know what a WATERSHED moment that is to KNOW that?  Just THINK of all the crazy celebs that have rushed to get Botox to fill all of their forehead lines.... It's no WONDER they have frozen face !!!  Cuz Botox LIFTS as well as softens lines.

The muscles in your forehead pull up and the muscles over your brows pull down.  Botox works by knocking out the depressor muscles in the forehead above the brows.  Since the depressor muscles extend across the brow lines, it works on the whole muscle. Dr. Fitzgerald strategically placed the Botox where I would experience a lift...and THAT lift, made me look as tho I had an eyebrow lift.

All with 3 little pricks.  Check out the photos.  Yes, I can still raise my eyebrows.

I admit the eyes are not the same size in the photo, but the main benefit Botox gave me was a lift in the skin right above the eye and below the brow.

How'd did it do with the little "one" wrinkle I had above my nose?  Softened it significantly, altho I can still see it.  The doc told me that sometimes it takes a couple rounds to see it disappear completely, but the results of the lift and softening will last around 3 months.

Have I been converted to the Botox side?  You know, I'm DEFINITELY not a snob anymore, and YES, with an expert doctor, I think I would do it again.  Absolutely zero side effects and great results.  Can't ask for more.

Right now, Dr. Fitzgerald's office is having a limited time offer.  Botox Cosmetic:  Buy a 100 unit bottle for only $1000 - that's a savings of $400.00.  Use your Botox as needed.  You can even buy your Botox on a preloaded card online!

Another way to save -- schedule your Botox injection 3 months in advance and save 10%.

Want a bit of Botox for lunch?  Now, Dr. Fitzgerald's office has "Botox Only Hours," hours set aside for a quick in-and-out for  Botox patients:

Mondays 5-6 P.M
Wednesdays 1-2 P.M
Fridays 9-10 A.M

Of course you can schedule Botox or Dysport at other times, but these times slots will only be for these injections and they won't be able to schedule combination treatments during those hours.

Rebecca Fitzgerald M.D.
321 N Larchmont Blvd. Ste 906
Los Angeles, CA 90004

Phone: (323) 464-8046

http://www.rebeccafitzgeraldmd.com

 

After your Botox shot, it's best to avoid excessive sun and heat, no squeezing or massaging the area, and as usual, don't forget the sunscreen.

It's important to talk to your doctor about how much Botox and where.  Remember that "full-face perspective?  A little strategically placed Botox, (versus a few vials) is going to give you a natural-looking, more youthful appearance.

If you are still not convinced and are a Botox no-no die hard, you can always go with "Bang-Tox" -- that's where you just grow your bangs over your forehead and call it a day.  It's all natural :)  And relatively inexpensive.

If you're interested in Botox and other fillers, but there's not enough cash in the kittie, I found a great program that rewards you for your filler purchases.  You build up points which you can redeem for what else?  More Botox and fillers. Look for the write-up soon.

Converted Botox Snob,

~The Anti-Aging Analyst

Free Event at the Aveda Institute Los Angeles Tonight!

The Anti-Aging Analyst gets Zoomed

It's a sad fact that ALL parts of our bodies age as Father Time piles on the years...and when I say ALL parts...yes, I mean even our teeth.

Of course, there are the usual-suspect "smile-stealers" like tobacco and coffee drinking stains and even some medications which can render our teeth grey or dull over time.  But tooth enamel will thin as we age, causing teeth to look a little less than pearly white and yes, this adds years onto our appearance.

A whiter smile can make you feel more confident, which can definitely translate into thinking, acting and looking younger.  And hello, this is L.A. -- a city where the ability to light up a room with a smile is a resume-builder.

So, in the spirit of science, I decided to Zooma Zooma Zoom it to a dentist's office and check out one of the most buzzed about in-office whitening procedures around:  Zoom Whitening.

In the Zoom procedure,  a hydrogen peroxide gel is applied onto your teeth and heated with a UV light.  Zoom Whitening is reported to get your teeth 8 shades whiter after 45 minutes.

Probably one of the most important decisions you can make AFTER you decide to get Zoom, is WHERE to get Zoom.  If you check out the internet, it has it's share of horror-story reviews posted from patients.  I've seen complaints of lip blisters resulting from an uneducated technician who did not cover their patients'  lips and tales of "zingers" or sharp pains from sensitivity.

So, I figured there could be no safer office to visit for my Zoom Whitening than the office of Dr. Steven Donia, DDS.  I mean after all, he was  the expert cosmetic dentist who performed amazing before and after smile transformations on ABC's "Extreme Makeover" show.  His dental career spans over 30 years.  And ZOOM has been used in his office over 10 years, since 2001.

Why Zoom?  Dr. Donia says:

"The ZOOM whitening brand is widely recognized by his patients and trusted.  It is a fairly quick procedure compared to take home trays or overnight bleaching.  The results produced keep patients happy.  It’s a great kick start for touching up a smile, and if followed with take home trays you can expect results to last even longer.  It also produces the least amount of sensitivity for in-office bleaching procedures."

Dr. Donia's office was offering an amazing coupon deal for guests of a TMG pre-Oscar event.   I could get a full exam, cleaning and x-rays for $49.00 and a complimentary Zoom whitening.  Who's gonna pass THAT up? 

My exam with Dr. Donia was very thorough.  If there's one thing I've learned from interviewing/visiting  spa owners and doctors at the top of their field, it's that these people take care of every one of your concerns, don't rush you through the office like cattle, and educate you on what you need to know.  Ivanna, who handled my teeth cleaning, took good care of me.  I put her to work scraping that tartar off my teeth since, I uhhhhhh ....might've missed some cleanings. 

The Zoom Experience

What went down:   Well, first, the lovely lip separator is inserted...next, lots of gauge went into mouth corners and under top and bottom lip.  Next, a topical flouride treatment, to lessen any sensitivity that may occur.  The technician then applies a different gel over all of your exposed gums, then hits this with a small heat gun, which solidifies the gel.  This provides a layer or hard protection for your gums from the UV light.  And then the peroxide gel is applied and you're set up rather close to the UV light, as it shines directly in your mouth.  Special eye protective wear is supplied.

Despite all the mouth gear involved, I experienced no discomfort.  The technician came back after 15 minutes to suction off the gel and reapply it.  Zoom involves three 15 minute sessions  with the gel and the light.  I opted for 2 sessions since I know my teeth are sensitive.

Zoom and Sensitivity

Ten years ago, when Brite Smile was all the rage, I gave it a try with great results, but with a TON of sensitivity and pain afterwards...so going into the Zoom treatment, I wanted to err on the side of caution.

I asked Dr. Donia if he had any advise on pre-cautions to take for patients with sensitive teeth.  He says:

"If a person knows that they have sensitive teeth then there are a few things you can do beforehand to help minimize it.  First, brush using an anti-sensitivity toothpaste for 1-2 weeks beforehand.  You can also utilize a fluoride gel treatment as well.  After treatment, follow with anti-sensitivity toothpaste until sensitivity subsides."

If patients cannot tolerate the ZOOM treatment we usually recommend using take-home trays and bleaching gel.  The bleaching percentage is lower, but still whitens the teeth in a gradual fashion."

The doctor gave me 800 mg of Motrin or Advil prior to the procedure to help with any discomfort.

I really only experienced a few "zingers" afterwards so I would have to say I had MUCH less discomfort with Zoom than with Brite Smile, which resulted in throbbing pain.

Of course, some people don't experience any sensitivity at all.  We sensitive-teeth people are just lucky, I guess!

The Zoom After-Treatment

The procedure dehydrates teeth and they become porous, so PUT DOWN THE BLACK JELLY BEANS!  It's very important you stay away from any staining foods for at least 24 hours after this procedure is done.  No red wine or colas, or soy sauce or ketchup allowed!  I immediately picked up a carton of cottage cheese....and went for a non-staining turkey lunch meat. 

The Results

As in shopping for a bikini, teeth whitening is all about the lighting....

I wouldn't say it's a shocking transformation, but I think I definitely went up more than a few shades....check out the photos!

This is the before shot.

This is after TWO (not the normal 3) 15 minute sessions with Zoom.

Other Whitening Options

Of course, you want to get your choppers professionally cleaned every 6 months to keep them pearly white.  In between cleanings, there's a flood of at-home whitening options from brush on gels to whitening pens and trays, etc.

Crest 3D White toothpaste says it "can" remove up to 80% of surface stains in 14 days.  It doesn't say it WILL.... it says it "can".  I've been using this toothpaste regularly and noppers, it didn't.  Which is why I went in for the Zoom.

Crest Whitening Strips is another option that people seem to love, although the majority of people think it's a hassle due to the mess.

And the ODDEST recommendation I've seen so far for at-home natural tooth whitening?

Bananas!

Yep, some TEENAGER on the internet, who of course has been whitening her teeth since she's been NINE, (she must be a VERY heavy smoker) recommends that  the inside peel of a banana will whiten your teeth naturally.  Just rub the peel and let it sit on your teeth for a bit before wiping off.  Give it about a week for results to kick in.

Anybody up for trying it?  Or do you have an at-home whitening treatment you can't live without?  Please comment!

Always talk to an experienced cosmetic dentist about your whitening options.

Dr. Steven Donia (www.stevendoniadds.com) not only offers Zoom Whitening.  He is uber skilled (over 30 years) in cosmetic dental makeovers, veneers, bonding, Invisalign and more.  His office is located at 16133 Ventura Blvd., Suite 1045, in Encino, CA 91436.  Call (818) 772-1048 to schedule an appointment.

Brush 'em if ya got 'em.

~The Anti-Aging Analyst

Think and Grow Thin !

When you hit your 40’s, you start to notice all sorts of wonderful changes in your body.  I like to call them "Nature's Little Surprises."  Things like... a brand new muffin top over your jeans where there used to be a six pack...(when did THAT happen?).  And you may even catch yourself grabbing the flab under your arms and saying, "Where did THIS come from?" 

Hey, it's not like we don't TRY to exercise and eat right, we just still end up in front of the mirror asking quizzically "Uhhh…did my butt e x p a a a n d ???" 

You might just chalk it up to the side effects of getter older...you know, that nasty shift in metabolism.  Or maybe the gym is no longer an option cuz your workout clothes are too tight. 

www.antiaginganalyst.com

So, let’s say you are FED UP with being a fatty.  Sick of being thick.  OVER being overweight….so you say: 

"NO MAS!  I will NOT be overweight.  My body will no longer be a yo-yo, gaining and losing pounds:  I'm going to lose the weight I need to lose and it will NOT come back!"

 Look at you, Miss Motivated and Empowered.  You have a new attitude and think you are going to lose weight with that kind of thinking.

FAT CHANCE!

Los Angeles prosperity teacher Marilyn Jenett reveals that THAT kind of thinking will only produce the OPPOSITE of what we want.

Huh?

This renowned mentor launched a new, unique program called “I Create My Body” (www.feelfreetoprosper.com/icreatemybody).

Ohh, geez, you're thinking:  Not another weight loss / diet / exercise program.  Right?

Well, here's the clincher:  The "I Create My Body" program has NOTHING to with making your BODY do anything....and has everything to do with your MIND doing it for you – effortlessly!

It’s about living a long life, a quality life and a healthy life using prosperity laws to stay young and youthful and even become younger.  How about that?  So of course, this philosophy appeals to the over-forty crowd, but it's really for people -- men and women -- of ALL ages.

Marilyn Jenett - who is svelt and looks like she's in her late 30's (shhhhh, she's NOT) - is no stranger to mental and spiritual laws and the principles for manifesting desires.   

She's studied them for over 30 years and teaches a wildly popular course called "Feel Free to Prosper."  Marilyn teaches you, through her lesson and mentoring program, to use mental and spiritual-based techniques to make more money, attract unexpected income, advance your business or career or find that right job or more clients. In fact, these laws can be used to change any area of your life.  You can "prosper" in finances, in health, in love and relationships, in creativity and spiritually. 

And now, you can achieve what Marilyn calls “body prosperity” by achieving your ideal body weight and staying there without dieting!  Yes, I just said WITHOUT dieting. This one-of-a-kind program eliminates the concepts of "dieting, weight, losing weight, etc." and instead refocuses all attention, consciously and subconsciously, on the desired result – a fit, healthy body.

Marilyn is svelt - but she comes from a family of, well...not so svelt.  She applied the techniques she teaches in "I Create My Body" to maintain her own weight for decades and stay healthy even though her family genes were telling a different story.

She tells me our bodies are a "mirror" of what is going on inside of our minds and spirits – and the good news is – we can change that reflection!

Marilyn relays an intriguing experiment that Deepak Chopra talks about ...it's an unusual aging study by Harvard psychologist Ellen Langer.  Back in the 80's, she took Boston residents over the age of 75 to a retreat where the environment was created to replicate that of 1959. The furniture was from 1959, and they watched movies from that era and read magazines and newspapers from that time as well.

Of course, a bunch of technicians, medical personnel and scientists were at their side to monitor these old folks.  And do you know what they found?  Within a week, the actual symptoms of aging were reversed.  We're talking increased flexibility, improved eyesight and more.  Why?  Well, because they were taken back to the time when they were younger in 1959 and they were receiving 1959 information in their MINDS, so their bodies responded accordingly.

It’s too bad they didn’t get evidence of wrinkles vanishing, but Marilyn reveals that the mind can do that, too. In fact, in a chapter of the Body Prosperity ebook that comes with “I Create My Body”, she reveals the details and shares the simple affirmation that has kept her skin flawless and looking decades younger than her chronological age (all natural!). And you can start the process NOW.

If the mind can influence your AGE, it can certainly influence the weight of your body as well. If you "believe" you are old, those thoughts will directly translate to your body slowing down. And if you “believe” you are overweight and need to diet, those thoughts will directly translate to your body....and manifest an overweight frame.

Pretty powerful stuff!

AND – Marilyn reveals this striking fact: If you believe you are a “dieter,” your mind will continuously revert back to that core belief and keep on making you a dieter! In other words, when you do manage to lose some weight, your core belief of being a dieter will have you gain weight again so that you can continue being a dieter. Powerful AND brilliant.

Carma, a 44 year old professional, is living proof that "I Create My Body" works.  She had been trying to lose 109 pounds for 14 YEARS!!  On this program, over the course of 13 months, she's lost over 70 pounds!  Carma did NOT diet and says the weight loss has been EFFORTLESS.  What's more, she's lost the cravings to over-eat.  I just spoke with her and she said the experience on the "I Create My Body" program has been life-changing...have a look for yourself!

Marilyn added that the key to losing weight is approaching the problem from a mental and emotional level.  If you can change what's going on INSIDE your mind, you can change your body.  And that’s just what Carma did.

The "I Create My Body" program will condition your mind to create what you want -- accept that you are a certain weight and your body will follow.  You are not required to change anything that you are doing. You are to merely apply the extremely simple techniques as instructed and let your subconscious mind do the rest. Any changes in your habits or routine will be inspired from the inside out...naturally...not from will power or forced action. You can use the technique along with anything else you are currently doing with respect to your weight. 

Marilyn says: 

"It works by gently shifting the dominant thought in your subconscious mind and you no longer think of yourself as having to ‘lose weight.’ You change the focus of your consciousness to what you DO want instead of what you don't want. As long as you keep thinking of what you don't want, you will continue to manifest more of what you don't want. That is the nature of the subconscious mind and the foundation of mental law."

Did I mention this was pretty powerful stuff?

Marilyn picked up the primary technique used in "I Create My Body" from her mentor, Dr. Joseph Murphy (1893-1981). He was a world-renowned authority on mysticism and mind dynamics and the author of more than 30 books, including The Power of the Subconscious Mind. Marilyn then enhanced the program with material based on her own extensive knowledge of the subconscious.

"I Create My Body" is a  complete self-study audio program featuring the “I Create My Body” lesson material in PDF format, a 90-minute mp3 recording of the interactive telephone mentoring session and her “Body Prosperity” eBook pack with additional valuable information.

Does this program take a long time commitment?  Noppers. Only around 15 minutes a day to apply the lesson “homework” created by Marilyn.

Marilyn also assembled a team of top-of-their-game experts in nutrition, fitness, supplements, and food addiction. You’ll get 5 --count ‘em, FIVE -- mp3 recordings of these live expert interviews to further educate and inspire you:

Carma Spence - Carma talks about her journey on the “I Create My Body” program and how she automatically replaced self-sabotaging thoughts to stop cravings and effortlessly lose 80 pounds to date.

Nutritionist Sandi Thompson - This certified nutritional therapy practitioner and certified wellness coach shares the seven pillars of good health and wellness, and discusses real food, easy meals and lots of nutrition tips.

Olympic Medalist and Health Educator Catherine Garceau - This Olympian gives a heartfelt interview about her struggle with food addiction and eating disorders. She shares the secrets that helped her heal and gain the expertise to help others.

Health Educator and Medical Journalist Jolie Root - Jolie is an expert on nutritional supplements. She reveals what you need to embrace prevention and protect your health, and shares the latest research and news.

 If you are overweight and want to transform your thinking to better health, I urge you to start from the INSIDE with "I Create My Body.”

Here’s where to find all the juicy details:

www.feelfreetoprosper.com/icreatemybody

The cost is $97.00 for instant download so you can start to change your thoughts and get healthier right away.

Marilyn Jenett is an internationally renowned prosperity teacher who practices what she preaches. She used the prosperity laws to overcome adversity and create a pioneer company that served the corporate arena for two decades. She continues to apply the Universal laws and prosperity principles to her daily life, but her greater mission is to teach others to accept their right to prosper.

Yep, you read that right:  your RIGHT to prosper!

Since this “Prosperity Princess” KNOWS this program works, she is giving a special guarantee:  if you buy “I Create My Body” and have applied it but still aren’t getting results, she’ll give you a full credit to apply to any of her other wonderful programs.  That's pretty cool!

Marilyn’s original “Feel Free to Prosper” program is available through private and group sessions, teleclasses and her very popular downloadable audio programs.  Students traditionally experience striking results from this unique program in two weeks or less!

You can contact Marilyn Jenett at (310) 475-0211 or at marilyn@feelfreetoprosper.com.

Think and grow thin (and younger),

~The Anti-Aging Analyst

Sculptra and Dr. Rebecca Fitzgerald

You've heard the ads:  you didn't age overnight, why should you ANTI-age overnight?

For most Californians in their 40's, we wouldn't mind reversing the clock to that full round face of youth with zero sags. But let me ask you this:  If you had your choice between a) and b), which would you choose?:

     a) a complete anti-aging transformation overnight

     b) a more modern, gradual transformation that looks natural, giving you subtle results over time.

Some people wouldn't mind a complete "magic wand" anti-age approach - you certainly can get away with this grand entrance with strangers, but how will the people you already KNOW react?  Or you YOURSELF for that matter?  Let me tell you:  Shock and Awe is NOT the effect you wanna go for.

If you are a fan of "b," you're in luck - such a thing IS possible.  You don't have to settle for that un-natural, "surprized look" or frozen face. And we are NOT talking Botox here.  And this is not a traditional filler...

This bad boy is Sculptra - it's an injectable collagen REPLACER and VOLUMIZER that can plump up crevices and "hollows," and does it gradually over time.  In fact, it can give you noticeable results that emerge subtly and can last for up to 2 years.

What better resource to go to on Sculptra than of the THE top, if not #1 user of Sculptra in the U.S., right here in the Larchmont area of southern California:   Dr. Rebecca Fitzgerald, M.D.

Dr. Rebecca Fitzgerald is a Board Certified Dermatologist with the American Board of Dermatology with over 16 years in practice.  Here in LA, she's kindof a big deal.  You may have seen her on Entertainment Tonight or read about her in Glamour Magazine.  She is the most sought after Sculptra trainer nationally AND internationally.

Dr. Fitzgerald is a Master International Training physician for Sculptra - that's kind of like the "black belt" of trainers.  She is THE most published author on Sculptra medical articles and research, and treats thousands of patients with Sculptra.

In a recent article in New Beauty Magazine, Dr. Fitzgerald shared that her anti-aging approach is looking good for your age and looking natural.  She states, "Even the most critical eye should think you were just born lucky.”

Now don't that AFTER picture look lucky?  This is a real patient of Rebecca Fitzgerald, MD after 2 Vials of Sculptra + skin care.

Sculptra is most often used to correct shallow-to-deep facial wrinkles and folds.  But due to her mondo-expertise with Sculptra, Dr. Fitzgerald uses advanced, off-label techniques that actually improve facial shaping.  Her rep explains it this way:

"With age, the area around our temples begins to deflate, which causes us to look older.  Dr. Fitzgerald uses Sculptra in this area to reshape faces into a more youthful oval shape – without that peanut-head look from sunken temples."

When we age, the volume of our skin decreases due to dissipation of youthful tissue and fat.  Sculptra not only replaces this volume,  but can also be used by a skilled injector to replace and augment the bony structure underneath the deep dermis layer that is lost as we age as well.   Dr. Fitzgerald's rep told me she has the training, experience and eye to see whether a patient is losing volume or bone density or both, and inject and treat accordingly.

So, if you are using someone as well-trained as Dr. Fitzgerald, you can literally CHANGE the shape of your face with this injectable.  Amazing!

Who is a good candidate for Sculptra?

Their office tells me that honestly, any one of any age is a good candidate for Sculptra, as long as:

·      They have healthy immune systems
·      Aren’t allergic to the primary ingredient, poly-L-lactic acid (PLLA)
·      Don’t have a history or susceptibility to keloid formation or hypertrophic scarring.       In English - - don’t get the kind of scars that enlarge and protrude from the skin. 

 So how is it that Sculptra is able to keep delivering results over time?

Well, our bodies are constantly producing new everything:   new cells, new collagen, new tissues.  As we age, our collagen production tends to decrease.  Sculptra injections stimulate our skin to “rev up” the production of collagen.  It works with your skin’s existing collagen and initially replaces it, then reinforces it, strengthens it, and stimulates the production of new collagen.

Sculptra Aesthetic is made from a synthetic material called poly-L-lactic acid, which is gradually and naturally absorbed by the body as it works to replace lost collagen. Poly-L-lactic acid has been used safely for decades in dissolvable stitches and as a facial injectable since 1999 in over 30 countries.  The reason that it lasts so long is that this primary ingredient, PLLA, lasts that long before the body gradually and naturally reabsorbs it.

Dr. Fitzgerald's patients range in ages from 28 to 83, but the bulk of patients (64%) are in their 40s and 50s.  As with most things, the earlier you start, the better and easier to maintain natural results at minimum cost.  Typically, around 35 years of age is when someone might consider some volumizing with Sculptra.

With  88% of her patients are female,  men are jumping on the Sculptra bandwagon as well.

What's the feedback been at Dr. Fitzgerald's office?  Extremely positive.  In a recent survey of over 2,000 Sculptra patients, over 95% of them remained very satisfied with their results two years after their treatments.  And just take one look on YELP to see that Dr. Fitzgerald's patients GLOW about her:

She's a real straight-shooter, which I love, and such an artist when it comes to fillers!

- Danielle L, Los Angeles, Yelp 6/27/2011

If you are looking for a way to look younger without surgery, look no further.  You have found THE PLACE!  Dr.  Fitzgerald  is a true artist!

- Amy R, Los Angeles, Yelp 4/11/2011

Other testimonials I've read talk about softer and more youthful features as a result and praise the good doc for her honesty and artistry - one lady even said she would walk over hot coals to see her !  So she must be doing SOMETHING right :).

Buzzkill:  Let's talk side effects.  The Sculptra website said:

"Side effects may include injection site discomfort, pain, redness, bruising, swelling, and/or tenderness. Small bumps and larger lumps under the skin in the treated area may also appear. These typically go away on their own."

I asked Dr. Fitzgerald's office how huge of a concern these small bumps are:

They say it’s really not that big of a concern.

"There are two things that can be done to eliminate the formation of any lumps.  First, patient aftercare includes frequent, short massaging of the area where Sculptra was injected.  If patients do this, the incidence of any lumps developing is minimal.  Second, the injector’s expertise will minimize the possibility of any small lump formations.  Obviously Dr. Fitzgerald has significant experience and expertise injecting Sculptra.  And patients should use diligence in selecting their doctor, since with any procedure; practice does make a difference in the results.  It’s been reported that nationally less than 9% of patients will develop some lumps.  Dr. Fitzgerald’s experience has been significantly less than that.  And if small lumps happen to develop because the patient didn’t massage, they will dissolve and disappear over time, or an injection of hyaluronidase can speed their dissolution."

Many patients of hers have had Sculptra along with other fillers.   Dr. Fitzgerald uses different injectables for different purposes and for different parts of the face... just like an artist’s palette of colors.

What about for those hollows under the eye?  Is Sculptra effective for this?  Dr. Fitzgerald says this is a no no. See what Rebecca Fitzgerald has to say on Sculptra in hollow areas under eye here.
Sculptra is $1000 per vial and the typical patient will receive one or two vials per visit and it is recommended that they receive, on average, three treatments over a few months.

Obviously your dermatologist will be able to recommend the anti-aging course that is right for you.   As always, The Anti-Aging Analyst presents information so that you can make an informed choice.   So if you're looking for a natural, progressive anti-aging plan, you might want to check out Sculptra with your doctor, or consult with Dr. Rebecca Fitzerald, MD.  Her consultation fee is $100 and that fee is applied to the cost of the procedure.

Rebecca Fitzgerald, MD is located at  321 N Larchmont Blvd, Suite 906, Los Angeles, CA 90004
Phone: (323) 464-8046

Here's to more awe and less shock ~

"The Anti-Aging Analyst"

The derma e difference

Did you read your skincare label today?

Someone once told me if she can't pronounce an ingredient, she doesn't buy it.  I think this is B-A-N-A-N-A-S, cuz some things that aren't good for you are easy to pronounce.  Take the word "paraben".  Can you find that on your label?

Okay, I'm over-simplifying, cuz your label won't just say "paraben."  It will be one of these longer variations:

    •    methylparaben
    •    isobutylparaben
    •    propylparaben
    •    ethylparaben
    •    hydroxybenzoic acid
    •    hydroxybenzoate

But STILL - easy to spot (WHAT, lady, you can't SOUND things out?)

Parabens are one of the lovely things that corporations ladel into your skincare to make it last longer.  Of course, anything we put onto our skin is absorbed through our pores and goes directly into our bloodstreams and parabens can jack you UP.

Parabens are chemical preservatives used in 70% of all beauty products, which inhibit bacteria growth and extend a product's shelf life. The thing is, their chemical make-up is very similar to estrogen and sometimes you body can be tricked into thinking it IS estrogen.  And what this does, is disrupt your hormonal balance.  Parabens have been linked to a bunch of different diseases like breast cancer, and abnormal fetal development.  One study showed parabens can AGE the skin when exposed to UV light.  Beep - Beep - Beep - Backing up.  We're all about ANTI-AGING, not AGING!

Thankfully, we have choices.  And I'm a HUGE fan of getting it done the natural way.

I recently found a line that is free of parabens, phthalates (a toxin found in plastics), sodium lauryl sulfates, mineral oil and lanolin (pore clogging).  OF COURSE I'll share!

It's derma e.

All their products are cruelty-free, and 100% vegan.  Can it get any better?  How about it's family owned, been around for almost 30 years and manufactures its products using wind energy.  Can it GET any greener in here?  Oh and did I mention derma e's product line has a laundry list of awards?  (Whole Foods Magazine named derma e's entire line BEST SKINCARE PRODUCTS three different times - in 2006, 2009, and 2011!  And their age-defying night creme won BEST ANTI-AGING PRODUCT from Better Nutrition Magazine.)

derma e is located right here in Simi Valley.  They offer around 90 different skincare products.  The one I tried is DMAE-Alpha Lipoic C-Ester Creme.

While that sounds like a mouthful, just looking at the name triggers warm & fuzzy thoughts of anti-aging goodness.  Let's go over each ingreedy:

DMAE - You might have seen this on in Dr. Perricone's products.  A great supplement to take, DMAE is used in cremes for firming the saggs, improving skin tone and reducing wrinkles.

Alpha Lipoic Acid - Another great wonder ingredient.  ALA is capable of protecting all portions of the skin’s cellular structure and boosts the activity of all other antioxidants.  It also helps protect the mitochondria and our DNA, which is pretty cool.  This product contains 1% of ALA - so it's recommended you do a patch test first to make sure you're not sensitive to it.

C-Ester - I've read that C-Ester is the best type of vitamin C in skincare, cuz it's the most stable.  Dermae's Ester-C® products have vitamin C, of course, and are fortified with additional botanicals and skin vitamins to enhance the product’s effectiveness.  Vitamin C is a great anti-oxidant that prevents free radical damage.

So you're getting a powerful trio of ingredients and you won't break the bank:  A 2 oz. jar of DMAE-Alpha Lipoic C-Ester Creme will run you $22.50.


As a special offer, they now have a $4.00 mail-in rebate coupon!  Good until 9/30 on this cream, or DMAE-Alpha Lipoic - C-Ester cleanser, toner or serum. Click here to download a special PDF coupon.

derma e offers 90 different skincare products.  If this seems a little overwhelming, don't fret:  the dermae.com website has a skin evaluation quiz  that takes you through 6 easy questions about your skin concerns, then it recommends the perfect products for your skin type.

derma e's DMAE-Alpha Lipoic C-Ester Creme has a light consistency, is ultra-hydrating and the light scent does not overpower you.  And ladies:  This is the GO-TO creme for firming up the neck and "jowl" area.

Have to say I'm a big fan of their website because they make it EASY.  You can search for products by skin conditions - like acne, dark circles, dry hands, etc., and they also have a section called "Key Ingredients" so you can learn more about them... like WHO KNEW Oregano oil is used for anti-bacterial purposes?

derma e can be found in 5000+ retail outlets across the U.S. and on www.dermae.com.

You can find derma e in CA at The Whole Foods stores on San Vincente Blvd, 3rd Street and Santa Monica Blvd, The Vitamin Shoppe locations, as well as natural health retailers such as Sprouts and Mother's Market.   Here's their locations link to find out where to pick up some derma e near you:  it's natural bodycare formulated for results.

Be Sun-Safe and Sunscreen Savvy

It's officially SUMMER...a season filled with backyard BBQ's, beach outings and general fun in the sun.  So, this is a great time to remind everyone that sun protection this summer, and every day, is key.

Remember those old days of crackin' out the baby oil and a light reflector thingy to get a deep tan? SUN DAMAGE CITY, my friend.  Sun damage you can't necessarily SEE...but that an ultraviolet camera can reveal:

The best protection from the sun is a hat and clothes...but sometimes it's just not possible. That's when you slap on the solar armour....sunscreen.

But some sunscreens can actually HARM you...so I always advice peeps to read their labels and check out this wonderful site by the Environmental Working Group:

http://breakingnews.ewg.org/2011sunscreen.

The EWG has a  team of scientists, engineers and other smarties who pore over government data, legal documents, scientific studies and do their own lab tests to expose threats to your health and the environment.  A wonderful organization to have on our side.

Type in your brand of sunscreen and make sure it as a LOW HAZARD rating - if not, you could be putting your health at risk.

Here's how sunscreen works.  Sunscreen have chemicals that release free radicals.  Free radicals are responsible for aging.

Here's how the EWG breaks it down:

"Sunscreens can help reduce UV-related free radical damage by diverting the radiation from the skin, but the ingredients themselves can release their own free radicals in the process. When the sunscreen molecules absorb UV energy, diverting it from the skin, the molecules dispel this excess energy by releasing free radicals. In a delicate balancing act, an effective sunscreen prevents more free radical damage (from UV radiation) than it creates through its own free radical generation. It reduces UV exposure without itself damaging skin. Sunscreen makers commonly add antioxidants to their products to soak up free radicals from either source, UV radiation or sunscreen itself."

Here are the baddies (the HARMFUL ingredients) to watch out for:

Oxybenzone - STAY AWAY from this one for sure.  It's a hormone disrupter.

Padimate O - This one is tied to DNA damage

PABA - This one's shown to be an allergy-creator.

Also, stay away from sunscreens that contain the form of vitamin A, retinyl palmitate:

Again, from the EWG:

"A 2009 study by U.S. government scientists suggests that a form of vitamin A, retinyl palmitate, when applied to the skin in the presence of sunlight, may speed the development of skin tumors and lesions."

It's fine to use vitamin A indoors - but it should NOT be in your sunscreen.

On the EWG site, you can find out if your sunscreen is a hazard, and you can find a less harmful one as well.  The site says The effective complete UVA blockers approved for use in the United States are avobenzone, zinc oxide, titanium dioxide and mexoryl.

In fact, the EWP says:

"Sunscreens without zinc and titanium could accelerate by an average of 20 per cent the skin damage, premature aging, wrinkling and UV-induced immune system damage linked to UVA exposure."

So look for natural products that contain zinc oxide and titanium dioxide and avobenzone.

If an all-natural brand says "micronized" titanium dioxide and "micronized" zinc oxide, this could be bad.  The jury is still out on these mico-particles, with studies showing these ingredients to be potentially toxic in the presence of light.

Here's a list of the Top 10 Safe Sunscreens - they have a LOW HAZARD rating:

BurnOut Kids Physical Sunscreen, SPF 30+

Aubrey Organics Natural Sun Green Tea Sunscreen, SPF 30+

Adorable Baby Clear Baby Sunscreen Stick, SPF 30+

Loving Naturals Clear Face Sunscreen, SPF 30+

Loving Naturals Clear Body Sunscreen, SPF 30+

Loving Naturals Sunscreen Stick, SPF 30+

Aubrey Organics Natural Sun Sport Stick Unscented Sunscreen, SPF 30

Badger Baby Sunscreen, SPF 30+

Goddess Garden Baby All Natural Sunscreen, SPF 30+

Elemental Herbs Sunscreen Sport, Tinted, SPF 22

There's also Jason’s Sunbrellas SPF 30+.

If you're not into the way some of the organics smell, but you want a non-harmful sunscreen, I would recommend one created by a dermatologist.  And Rodan & Fields, the creators of Pro-Active, won't steer you wrong.  They have another great line called ESSENTIALS.  I just recently tried Rodan & Field's ESSENTIALS SPF Body Sunscreen.  It's light but NOT runny, and provides a nice even coverage....non-sticky, non-greasy, with Vitamins C and E to absorb damaging free radicals and anti-inflammatory ingredients to protect skin from environmental stress.  It uses Avobenzone and none of the harmful stuff.

It runs around $24.00 for 5.0 fl. oz.

The ESSENTIALS line also has a dermatologist developed Lip Shield SPF 25 to protect those smackers.  It's a hydrating balm with sunscreens, anti-oxidants, beeswax, she butter and alvocado oil for hydration.  You get two in a package and it goes for $16.00.

Be aware that the FDA laws on sunscreen labels are changing by Summer of 2012, so, it's going to make buying sunscreen a LOT less complicated.  They can no longer say they have an SPF of 90 for example, cuz there's no proof a 90 screen is better than a 50...so the highest number will be 50 across the board.  Also, you'll no longer see the words "water proof."

Take a look at this video which talks about the new changes...and be sure to check out THE AMOUNT of sunscreen that you need to put on for adequate sun protection!  Holy Moly!  It's like an ENTIRE BOTTLE!!



If you're seriously concerned about sun damage, a great way to go is to get yourself some UV-resistant clothing. Because of its tight weave, Patagonia's Sol Patrol line has a UV protection factor of 40 (www.patagonia.com).

So, remember, along with your sun hat and keg, take your vat of NON-HARMFUL sunscreen, and your shades to protect those peepers - and have a great summer!

But remember, ONE sunburn can create a lifetime of sun damage, so careful out there!

The Disappearing Spider Vein Trick

Summer's a knockin' so WHO wears short shorts?  WE wear short shorts!

Well, sometimes we don't dare wear short shorts if we're over forty and women DEFINITELY do NOT sport the shorties if they have those icky blue spider veins.  You know the ones I'm talking about, right?

If you've got them you're not alone.  Women's Health says about 50 to 55 percent of women and 40 to 45 percent of men in the United States suffer from some type of vein problem.  Contributing factors for varicose veins and spider veins are age, pregnancy, hormonal changes (like taking birth control pills) and sun exposure.

What can you DO about them?  Ladies with severe cases prefer to cover them up with clothes or makeup.  You can self-tan the beejeezus out of 'em till you're an orange Smurfette, but most people think the only way to remove these roadmap veins is with laser treatments.

I found a few alternatives to laser treatments for spider veins that will make your little spidies disappear like a magic trick.

Asclera

This is the before (top photo) and after (bottom) from the Asclera website.  Results at 26 weeks after treatment

Asclera is an injectable sclerosing agent.  That means it's something that once injected, it irritates the interior walls of the vein, so the vein constricts and closes. No more blood going into that vein means no more blue roadmaps, swelling, bulging or discomfort. The Asclera website says you might need 2 or 3 sessions and a topical anesthetic is usually applied to numb the injection site. 

Jeanine over at Celebrity Laser Spa, an upscale med spa in Brentwood, told me that TIS THE SEASON for getting Asclera injections.  It's a popular time of year now cuz women all over Los Angeles are getting ready for summer and teeny skirts and sundresses.  She's the physician's assistant there at Celebrity Laser Spa and told me that you might need to wear bandages for a day afterwards, and sometimes there's a little bit of bruising.  But hello?  No more Blue Veins !  You can also get salt water injected into your veins - it does the same thing, but asclera works much better. 

I saw this performed on the Dr. Oz show, and the results were INSTANT.  Small varicose veins or spider veins dissappear and are GONE FOREVER.

Sessions run an average of $400 - $700.  The cool thing about Celebrity Laser Spa, is that they have a low-price guarantee.  Their website says you can bring in a quote or coupon from somebody else and they'll match it.   As long as you don't have a severe case of spidies, or  any heart problems, this treatment may be for you.

Get a free consultation at Celebrity Laser Spa, 1661 San Vicente Blvd. Ste. 101, Los Angeles, California 90049.  Dr. Alex Kaplan is the owner and medical director.  Their number is (310) 312-1231.

Venacura

This alternative is a pill meant to reduce the appearance of varicose and spider veins, strengthen your vein walls and valves and improve vein circulation and overall health.  You take it once a day and start seeing results anywhere from 3 weeks to 2 months, depending on the severity of your case.  Effects are cumulative.  Also available in a cream.

The key ingredient in this is Diosmin95, an ingredient that reportedly not only helps with spider veins but also provides relief from swelling and inflammation, leg ulcers and hemorrhoids.  Diosmin95 hasn't been evaluated by the FDA, but the company gives a 100% money back guarantee minus an $8.00 restocking fee.

The Right to Bare Legs

Joan Rivers, the comedianne with the gift of gab and the gift of 2 facelifts, a keg of Botox and an eyetuck endorses this one.  And don't laugh, cuz Joan has some very innovative products - like the mascara-like stuff you put on your scalp to camouflage hair thinning.  Brilliant.  [I digress but somebody please tell Valerie Bertinelli about this one - did you SEE her hair in the rental store commercial?  It looked like the parting of the Red Sea.....a little Joan humor here.] 

Anyway, this product is for all leg imperfections - tatoos, spider veins, stretchmarks, freckles, scars, bruises.   It has a unique sponge tip applicator and is waterproof and exercise-proof and won't rub off on your clothes if you wait 10 minutes.  I saw the infomercial and before and after pics and I'm impressed!  If this stuff can cover up a tatoo, it can surely help you with any little blue veins.  If you can't do Asclera right now, this might just be the cover-up of the season.

How do you prevent these little blue spidies from showing up in the first place?  Women's Health tells us you can reduce your chances of getting varicose veins and spider veins by wearing sun protection, exercising regularly, and they advise you don't sit or stand or cross your legs for a long period of time.  Eating less salt and keeping your weight down helps too.  Sometimes, the road-map-on-your-legs-syndrome, is just hereditary.  But at least now you know -- you have a lot of options.

Getting off the Blue Line Train,






The Anti-Aging Analyst

The 411 on permanent makeup

Wouldn't it be nice to order "pre-done" makeup? Have a little makeup artist fairy visit you while you sleep, so you arise freshly painted? No more sleepy-fumbling for the eyeliner or spilling over your gy-normous cup of makeup pencils as you rush out the door. Yes, Virginia, you can wake up to a face that's already made up and look younger in the process.



People of all ages -- from 19 to 89 -- are flocking to get permanent makeup "tatooed" onto their faces. Not just the ladies, either.



And, if you haven't heard: It's not "clown-makeup." It looks natural!



I recently spoke with Dr. Laura Reed, owner of Artistic Cosmetic Solutions in Garden Grove, who's nationally certified, and who's performed thousands of permanent eye liner and eyebrow procedures. Talk about a prolific painter!  That's 10 times the national average of procedures in terms of volume!



She tells me that convenience is a major factor for getting permanent makeup. But it's not just the time-challenged who get this service. Here are some others who are strong candidates for permanent makeup:

Cancer Patients -- Permanent makeup can be a life-changing service for people diagnosed with cancer who are ready to go through chemo and who know they will lose their eyebrows in the process.

Then there's:

    

Heavy Lifters -- Active people who work out a lot and don't want to deal with makeup smudges.

Mister Magoos -- People who have a hard time seeing where to put the makeup.

Miss Slicks -- Women with oily skin who have to keep reapplying eyebrow pencil.

Frequent Flyers -- Heavy travelers who want to look refreshed on the red-eye.

Suzie Shakey Shakes -- Any gal who is losing her motor skills and can't seem to apply her own makeup any longer.

So, as a person who knows that our cells are constantly turning over and renewing, is permanent makeup really permanent?  

Dr. Reed explains that permanent makeup is both permanent and semi-permanent:  



"It is permanent from the standpoint of placement, i.e., an eyebrow design.  

"In terms of color, it's semi permanent. Although the pigment is implanted in the middle layer of skin, cells do turn over and the pigment will fade. The color fading will be faster or slower depending on if you smoke, are always in the sun or are taking any medications."



So permanent makeup essentially is extended-wear makeup. You'll need to refresh every few years, but in the meantime, it's wash and go, baby!



What about the ink? Is it safe?

Well, the colors they use in permanent cosmetic tattooing are not inks or dyes -- technically, they are sterile pigments and they are regulated by the FDA. They are actually safer than real tattoo ink cuz they have larger molecules and the equipment used is more gentle than that jackhammer coil machine you see at your local biker tat shop. A topical anesthetic is used before application.



Is it dangerous to have permanent makeup applied to eyes for eyeliner or lashes?  



Well, it's tricky -- so you want someone who knows their stuff ... and that's where Dr. Laura Reed comes in. She is a licensed optomatrist with 30 years of eye experience under her belt, so she knows all about the eyes, proper sanitization and ocular health.

She is one of a rare 10% of permanent makeup technicians who have any healthcare background. Hence, she's had to take three sets of national board exams, and a state board exam. You'd be hard pressed to find someone that can do an eyeliner as well as Dr. Reed -- and that's both in the artistry of design and overall eye safety and health.
 


Dr. Reed does two eye procedures -- permanent eye liner and eyelash face enhancement, which is implanting pigment on the roots of eye lashes to make the eyes look bigger and lashes fuller in an extremely natural and subtle way.

Shhh, she has lots of celebrity clients too -- but they'll never kiss and tell -- something about not wanting to be passed over for a role if the public knew they had cosmetic tattoos. Guess we will just have to guess who!



Amazingly, another cool procedure she does is tattooing a scar. Know how surgical scars or burn scars are white? Dr. Reed can tattoo a little pigment on the scar to match the background skin to help hide the scar.

Poof! No more messy makeup!

If you want your daily makeup routine to disappear, Dr. Laura Reed's practice is called Artistic Cosmetic Solutions - www.ArtisticCosmeticSolutions.com - and is located at 11612 Knott Avenue, Suite 12, Garden Grove, CA 92841.



She is a member of the Society of Permanent Cosmetics Professionals (SPCP), the oldest and largest organization that offers a standardized examination, so she is certified and nationally recognized.



Give her a call for a free consultation at (714) 393-4186 and tell her The Anti-Aging Analyst sent you!



Next Up:  Shopping around for permanent makeup? Do you know what questions to ask and the absolute #1 thing you must look for? Check out my next article for ten must-know tips to help you best select the right place and technician.

Pitching Those Pencils,

~The Anti-Aging Analyst


Medicinal Mushrooms - can they cure cancer?

Quick:  the FIRST thing that jumps into your head when I write the words "medicinal mushrooms".....

Vivid colors trailing together and slow-motion talking flying unicorns, right?  Sorry, "Trippy" Reader....  not MAGIC  mushrooms....medicinal!

It's now time to expand your mushroom-awareness.  There are sooo many more mushrooms besides the everywhere white button mushrooms used in omelets and the portabella.  In fact, there's an estimated mind-blowing 38,000 species of mushrooms!  

Medicinal mushrooms are in a class all by themselves and garnering quite the buzz lately for health benefits and...get this...anti-cancer properties.

Medicinal mushrooms include Reishi, Shiitake, Maitake and Chaga. 

These members of the fabulous fungi family are rich in vitamins, fiber, and amino acids and have been shown to boost the immune system and lower risk of cancer.

They all boast the benefit of an improved immune system and each have their specialty, if you will. 

Reishi mushrooms - promote respiratory health and spirituality
   
Shiitake mushrooms - provide high levels of protein (18%)

Maitake mushrooms  - help to regulate blood sugar levels and is specifically recommended for the stomach and intestines

Chaga mushrooms - help stimulate the immune system to fight infection, cancer, and immune diseases

In fact, Chaga deserves more than a on-liner:

Chaga Mushrooms grow on birch trees and look like a large slab of burnt charcoal.  You can find it in Japan, Korea, Russia, East European countries, Northern US and parts of the Carolina mountains and Canada.  It's found that chaga contains anti-mutagenic compounds... compounds that inhibit mutations, which are changes in DNA and RNA sequences. Mutations can cause genetic disorders as well as cancer and degenerative diseases.

Chaga extract was able to inhibit tumor growth, kill cancer cells, and stimulate the immune system to fight cancer.  How HUGE is that?

A compound found in both birch  tree and chaga called betulinic acid shows anti-cancer properties in laboratory studies. Chaga absorbs betulinic acid from the birch tree.  (Hey, maybe we should be drinking birch tree tea, too ?)

Quoting Wikipedia here about the polysaccharides in Chaga:

Recent scientific research in Japan and China has been focused more on the anti-cancer potential and showed the effects of these specific polysaccharides to be comparable to chemo therapy and radiation, but without the side effects. Further research indicated these polysaccharides have strong anti-inflammatory  and immune balancing properties, stimulating the body to produce NK (natural killer) cells to battle infections and tumor growth, instead of showing a direct toxidity against pathogens.

A NATURAL chemo therapy?  Now that IS a magic mushroom!

You can eat these mushrooms, but they are most popular and in their most potent form in teas, powdered mushroom extracts, or tinctures (liquid).

Now, WHERE are you gonna get your hands on Chaga and other mushroom gold?

I found a super-cool site called The Raw Food World that sells all sorts of mushroom and health products.

There's even a fruit-flavored Chaga drink made by Sayan Health that you can find at your health food store or Amazon.com
















Please pass this information along to anyone you know who has been diagnosed with cancer !

Mushroom Madness,

~The Anti-Aging Analyst