DermFX: A Full Service CA Med Spa That Won't Blow Your Budget

Last week, I was lucky enough to discover a little local anti-aging powerhouse called DermFX. 

DermFX is a cozy little establishment that I like to call  "Laser Nirvana."  And they are rather unique, because they offer some stuff I haven't seen ANYWHERE else.

They have 2 locations - one in Redondo Beach, and another in Orange County's Sunset Beach, where they even do surgeries like lower face lifts and rhinoplasty.  Between the two locations, they have TWENTY SIX LASERS in total.  Talk about a kid in a candy store, this place has the gizmo, gadget and whatchamacallit device that is sure to cure whatever ails you!

I chatted for over an hour with passionate owner Erin Alonso (a nurse practioner and registered nurse) and Marketing Manager Michele McPeak Baltz at the Redondo Beach location and we went on like old BFF's about anti-aging and health and wellness. 

Actually, the girlfriend atmosphere there is part of the charm and allure of DermFX. They have a fair amount of patients who go there to chat and have a cup of coffee, patients that make special trips to RB or the OC from other states, and patients who get a little something done frequently, so they can come back and visit the friendly staff.  I guess once you go there, you're automatically hooked.  Kinda like a crack house for wrinkles.

I guess that will happen when you are voted the number 1 clinic in the U.S.A. for patient satisfaction (from an indi survey sponsored by Allergan in 2008).  Pretty impressive!

Okay... any laser treatment under the sun to choose from (they OWN them, they don't rent them, so there are no day restrictions).....a girlfriend-like friendly atmosphere.....what else can an anti-aging enthusiast ask for?

How about DEALS!!

DermFX offers several Monthly VIP Specials (don' worry, everyone's a VIP).

http://www.dermfx.com/specials

Forget about those coupon deal sites that bombard your inbox:  DermFX has a Deal of The Day!  Just go to their homepage:  www.dermfx.com.

But what if a deal is STILL a little out of your price range?  Drumroll please: 

DermFX will work within your budget! This is practically UNHEARD of in LA. 

Now, it's not like a "sliding scale" where you pay what you can afford for full treatments, but they will recommend and layout a skin care program for you that is within your budget.  For example, if you can't afford a total full face and neck laser treatment, they can "SPOT TREAT" you, depending on what you can afford.  It's a great way to try out the latest and greatest in preventative and corrective treatments...plus you don't feel left out if you can't drop a grand on your skin.

DermFX owner Erin said that your skin is like a triple decker sandwich with many layers, and all these different lasers penetrate at different levels, so you get the best results and can reach all the "sandwich ingredients" by mixing and matching treatments.

They even have many clients who pay a little every week to save up for their treatments - move over K-Mart, this is a Laser Layaway plan!

Just a little taste of what DermFX offers:

Velashape (infrared and radio frequency technology) - For cellulite

Thermage (radio frequency technology) - For tightening, contouring and rejuvenating skin

CO2 Laser Skin Resurfacing Treatment - For improved texture, tone and color

Photofacials - For sundamage (allow one week of down time)

Genesis laser - For collagen stimulation

The Black Dog - For melasma (brown spots), enlarged pores, skin tightening and rejuvenation (hopefully they play Led Zeppelin while performing it)

Ulthera - one of only 400 machines in the world!  Works under skin and tightens the top layer of muscle via ultrasound.

Lightsheer - For laser hair removal (Dermfx was voted best laser hair removal in the OC by OC Weekly Magazine.)

Duet - For leg laser hair removal that now takes 30 minutes when it used to be 4 hours

Fraxel lasers - For damage, brown spots, improved tone and texture with minimal down-time.

And of course, they offer chemical peels ($50 - $500 depending on the strength of the peel), laser tattoo removal and fillers, fillers, fillers! 

DermFX  is one of the top purchasers of Botox in the NATION, purchasing almost 1000 vials of Botox each year.  That's "Black Diamond" status 5 times over.  They are #1 in Radiesse injections in California and #2 in the U.S. and they've been awarded top level awards for Restylane, Perlane, Dysport and Sculptra.

Uhhh, that pretty much means nobody injects more of these than DermFX, so you know you are getting some experienced hands there when it comes to injectables.

What's new at DermFX?  They recently unveiled their Wellness department which offers vitamins, supplements, and a weight loss program.

Overworked and feeling a little sluggish?  Let the nurses at DermFX give you a B-12 shot for energy.  Stressed?  Get a shot of B5. If your new year's resolution is to shed a few pounds, you can get a shot of B12 and Lipoden, a combo of amino acids that enhance liver function, raise your metabolism and stimulate the body to burn fat, lose weight and detox your liver. It's $25.00 per 2 cc injection, and $5.00 for any additional cc's.

A unique offering is their IV drips. Yes, you can get an IV at DermFX.  They've partnered with a pharmacist to offer different specialized IV drips for sports performance, immune system, sleeping well and PMS.  IV drips take around 15 minutes, so you can be in and out and energized in under 30 minutes.

Health and wellness is serious stuff, but don't forget the fun!  You can find DermFX getting involved in the local community by sponsoring community events like the annual Redondo Beach Superbowl Health Exhibit & Race SUPERBOWL WEEKEND!!!!  And they also do girly get-togethers that involve special anti-aging treatments and cross promote with other businesses so even fashion boutiques will give you a discount if you mention DermFX.  Very cool.  Make sure you sign up for their newsletter to keep in the know.

Oh, and I spy a few more MAJOR coolio money-saving deals on their Facebook page. Wait, a pink gorilla as a mascot?  I think they've earned a free pass on that one.

They don't call DermFX the Ultimate Skin Experience for nothin', so get your dermal and hair removal fixes at DermaFX.  The Redondo Beach office has 4 large treatment rooms that are chock full of lasers in each room.  You can conveniently get in to see them 7 days a week.

Dermfx - Redondo Beach
432 S. Pacific Coast Hwy.
Redondo Beach, CA 90277
Phone: 310-316-2100
Toll Free: 800-850-1223

Business Hours:
M, W, TH, FRI    9AM - 6PM
SAT                     9AM - 6PM
TUES                  9AM - 7PM
SUN                    10AM-5PM

Dermfx - Sunset Beach
16501 Pacific Coast Hwy.
Sunset Beach, CA 90742
Phone: 562-592-5100
Toll Free: 800-850-1223

Business Hours:
MON-SAT.: 9AM-6PM
(open after 8PM by appointment only)
SUN.: 10AM-5PM
(extended hours by appointment only)

Penny-wise and Wrinkle-free,

~The Anti-Aging Analyst

Women's Wellness Conference This Friday, Saturday and Sunday in Costa Mesa

If you are into health, wellness and anti-aging, you simply can not MISS the upcoming Women's Wellness Conference Friday, February 10th - Sunday, February 12th at the Orange County Hilton in Costa Mesa, CA.

This jam-packed 3 day event is hosted by best-selling author David Wolfe, who hosts the wildly popular  Longevity Now Conference.  This is the FIRST event designed specifically for women, to  explore women's wellness from both a physical and mental perspective.

They will have a stellar line-up of anti-aging and alternative health care experts including best-selling author of "Emotional Freedom" Dr. Judith Orloff, the keynote speaker. She will be revealing how women can liberate themselves from negative emotions and completely transform their life.

Dr. Sangeeta Pati will be discussing hormone balance and thyroid health, two critical issues that millions of women suffer from every day. Dr. Christy Westen will be covering bone and joint health, inflammatory conditions and how to get a good night's sleep. Speakers include Dr. Hyla Cass, Nadine Artemis, Tera Warner, Donna Gates and many more!

Other topics that will be covered extensively include:

Brain Health and Mood Disorders
Menopause
Pre and Post Pregnancy
Metabolic Function
Libido
Adrenal Health
Healthy Body Image
Fertility
Autoimmune Disorders

...and much, much more! They will also be giving away thousands of dollars in free prizes during the event.  Here's an example of the type of educational seminars you'll find at the Women's Wellness Conference.  Check out this exclusive video clip from last year's Longevity Now® Conference with skin expert Nadine Artemis:

The Women's Wellness Conference begins Friday, February 10th, 2012 at 7pm and ends Sunday, February 12th, 2012 at 9pm.

Hilton Orange County/Costa Mesa
3050 Bristol Street
Costa Mesa, CA 92626
Tel: 1-714-540-7000

I absolutely love the energy of David Wolfe when he speaks, and he always shares his latest anti-aging finds.  With the experts that he's rounded up, this 3 day conference is sure to be AMAZING and well worth the ticket price of $169.00.

I hear tickets are going fast - you can get yours here:

Register for The Women's Wellness Conference

Be well,

~The Anti-Aging Analyst

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