The Most Suitable Fillers
April 25, 2011
The injectable gels known as “dermal fillers” are popular wrinkle-fighters among patients wanting quick results. These injectables plump up depressions in the skin to eliminate or minimize fine lines, wrinkles, and furrows. Collagen-based fillers, such as Cosmoderm and Cosmoplast, are thin gels that are best suited for filling in fine wrinkles (such as crow’s feet). When it comes to plumping up wrinkles and lips, fillers composed of hyaluronic acid, such as Juvederm and Restylane, may be the most effective. These fillers have a viscous quality, which makes them good for treating medium-size wrinkles (such as the nasolabial folds). Finally, “semi-permanent” fillers such as Radiesse and Sculptra are best for treating deep folds as well as re-sculpting sunken cheeks.
P.S. While the effects of collagen-based fillers last 3-4 months, hyaluronic fillers yield results that last 6-8 months.
What’s in Your Garden?
April 11, 2011
Home gardeners should be aware that many common plants have the potential to cause mild to severe skin reactions. To compound matters, those with sensitive skin that is prone to eczema or atopic dermatitis may suffer more long-lasting effects from their exposure to certain plants that require medical attention. Of course, the best-known plants responsible for skin reactions are poison ivy, poison oak, and poison sumac, which contain a sap (“urushiol”) that causes an allergic reaction in about half the population. So-called “stinging nettle” also has sharp hairs that produce irritants that can cause hives. People who handle food frequently and are susceptible to eczema can also get hives from some fresh fruits, vegetables, herbs, nuts, shrubs, and grasses.
P.S. Urushiol can rub off on pets and clothing, causing problems for people whose skin later comes in contact with the affected fur and clothes.
The Villages Office