Fillers are a wonderful way to add volume to facial tissue for a more youthful appearance. In just a few minutes lines around the mouth can be erased, dark hollows under the eyes softened and lips made fuller. For years the only option for filling lines was Collagen™. It is effective and is still used, but has drawbacks. Even in the best cases, Collagen™ only lasts 4 months, there is a need for allergy testing, and at times it feels lumpy. Recently the number of FDA approved soft tissue fillers has exploded. Many new products have come to market offering a longer lasting correction and a more natural feel without the risk of allergy.

Hyaluronic acid (HA) fillers have been the most popular addition and are what we have chosen to use based on their predictable results and smooth natural feel. HA occurs naturally in the dennis (deeper layers) of our skin. Since the HAs we use are not animal based, the risk of allergy is extremely small and no allergy testing is required.

We are pleased to offer both Juvederm™ and Restylane™ treatments. These related fillers are much longer lasting than Collagen™. Juvederm's™ manufacturers claim effectiveness for up to a year! We consistently see results that last six to nine months. We particularly like the soft natural way Juvederm™ feels in the nasolabial folds and lips. Restylane™ is a better choice for hollowing under the eyes as it is less likely to show through the skin. Fillers and Botox™ work beautifully together.

Side effects have been uncommon but include bruising, swelling and bumps. Initially nerve blocks were necessary due to the discomfort of Restylane™ treatments in the lower face, but we have found that using Juvederm™ in the lower face and reserving Restylane™ for treatment around the eyes is much more tolerable and requires only topical anesthesia. To minimize the risk of side effects, discontinue any blood thinners such as aspirin, ibuprofen, vitamin E and alcohol a week before treatment (Tylenol is okay) and allow a week between a treatment and a major social event.

Smooth and Tighten Skin with Thermage

We are pleased to introduce a new tissue tightening procedure! Thermage is a safe, nonsurgical tightening and contouring procedure that stimulates existing collagen and builds new collagen lifting sagging skin thus improving facial and body contours and wrinkles. When the radiofrequency ThermaTip touches the skin, it heats the collagen in the deeper layers of the skin while at the same time cooling and protecting the outer layer. This causes the deep structures of the skin to tighten immediately. Over the next several months the skin will continue to tighten, resulting in healthier, smoother looking skin. The area around the eyes, laxity of the jawline, neck and other body areas such as the tummy may be treated. This FDA approved procedure takes about an hour, depending on how large an area is treated. Premedication may be necessary to keep you as comfortable as possible. Results may last three years or longer.

All procedures are performed by Linda Kinch, MD and Andrea Blossom, RN, who have been industry trained and supervised by Dr. Washburn and have significant experience, so you can feel comfortable you are in good hands. What can Thermage can do for you?

Laser hair removal (LHR) is a popular option for permanent reduction of unwanted hair. Unlike shaving, tweezing, waxing or depilatories, LHR results in permanent reduction in hair, with the remaining hair being much finer and less noticeable. It is also a wonderful solution for problematic ingrown hairs. Unlike electrolysis, LHR does not involve needles and takes a fraction of both the time and number of treatments. Larger areas are treated with each pulse of the laser, resulting in a shorter treatment time, so the entire area can be treated in one visit. While older laser systems were somewhat painful, newer systems are very comfortable.

There are many different types of laser systems and venues where you may consider having treatment. In our office we use the Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) system from Lumenis. It is extremely safe and effective in properly trained hands. You can have confidence that LHR is only performed by Linda Kinch, MD or Andrea Blossom, RN.

Because the laser targets dark melanin pigment in hair follicles, the best candidate has dark hair and light skin. Those with very light or white hair and those with dark skin are more difficult to treat. For this reason, you cannot be treated if you have a tan.

Laser hair removal may require between five and eight treatments to achieve the desired result. Periodic touch-ups may be required indefinitely. With each treatment, however, you will notice the hair becoming finer and thinner. At least four weeks prior to treatments, you cannot wax, tweeze, bleach or use a depilatory. If you are interested in permanently reducing unwanted hair, please call us for a consultation.

The Tanning Accountability and Notification (TAN) Act

President Bush took an important step toward reducing the incidence of skin cancer in the US by signing the TAN Act which re-examines the warning labels on indoor tarming devices to more effectively communicate their risk of irreversible damage to the eyes and skin. "Current labeling inadequately explains the serious risks associated with indoor tanning," stated Dr. Diane Baker, President of the American Academy of Dermatology. "The TAN Act will help educate Americans who tan each day about the potential cancer risks associated with ultraviolet (UV) radiation."

Nearly 30 million people tan indoors in the US armually. Of these, 2.3 million are teens. Indoor tanning equipment emits ultraviolet radiation which has been declared a known carcinogen by the Department of Health and Human Services. Locally, a bill is before the State Senate seeking to prohibit anyone in the Commonwealth under the age of 16 from using tanning parlors and requiring parental consent for those age 16 to 17. More than 1 million cases of skin cancer will be diagnosed in the US this year. Exposure to UV light is a known risk factor for melanoma, the second most common cancer in women aged 20-29. If you absolutely love the look of a tan, consider sunless tanning creams as a safe alternative.

Cristina Heiden

Office Update

We are excited to introduce two new employees! Cristina Heiden will be greeting you on the phone and at the front desk, as well as assisting Dr. Washburn with patients. Cristina is a registered pharmacist and was raised in Milan, Italy. She is fluent in English, Italian, and French.

Wendy Carver is the newest member of our team. Wendy has a degree in psychology and a background in customer service. Cristina and Wendy will join Jane Bomes and Amy Boland, Operations Manager, at the front desk.

Ashley Denton and Pat Clark continue in their roles as medical assistants. In addition, Pat has stepped into the Financial Coordinator role. Andrea Blossom, RN and Linda Kinch, MD continue to expand their roles and hours with us. We couldn't be happier!

Wendy Carver