Meacham Beauty

Products And Services

• LATISSE® Treatment for Eyelashes

  LATISSE® eyelash enhancer is the first and only U.S. Food and Drug Administration-approved cosmetic treatment for increasing the length, thickness and darkness of eyelashes. Available only through prescription, it is applied once a day to the base of the upper eyelashes. Results may be apparent within four weeks; full results take sixteen weeks. Exactly why LATISSE liquid solution causes eyelashes to grow is unknown. However, its active ingredient, bimatoprost, seems to increase the number of hairs in, and the duration of, a hair follicle's growth period. The result is longer and fuller lashes. Once LATISSE treatment is discontinued, its benefits gradually end. Application of LATISSE Solution LATISSE solution is applied at night. Contact lenses and makeup are removed, and skincare products applied, before using the LATISSE solution. To prevent contamination, the LATISSE solution is applied with a single-use disposable applicator. The applicator, which is coated with one drop of solution, is applied to the base of the upper eyelid, at the lash line. The applicator is moved from the inside of the lash line to the outside. Excess solution is blotted to prevent its spreading to other areas. A separate applicator is used for each eye. Contact lenses can be put back in 15 minutes after LATISSE treatment. Candidates for LATISSE Treatment Anyone who wants longer, fuller and darker eyelashes may be a candidate for LATISSE treatment. Those who have eye infections, or broken or irritated skin on their eyelids, or who use products for elevated intraocular pressure, should not undergo LATISSE treatment. A doctor-performed full medical history is taken prior to the start of LATISSE treatment. Side Effects of LATISSE Treatment The common side effects of LATISSE treatment end when treatment ends. Side effects include the following: Eye itchiness Eye redness Skin-darkening Eyelid redness Eye irritation Eye dryness There is one potential serious side effect of treatment. According to the manufacturer‘s website, LATISSE treatment “may cause increased brown iris pigmentation of the colored part of the eye which is likely to be permanent,” although its occurrence is “very infrequent.”

  Link: LATISSE® Treatment for Eyelashes

• PRP/PRF Hair Restoration

  Statistics suggest that hair loss affects millions of men and women in our country. If you are one of them, chances are you are looking for a solution that will meet your needs. We are proud to offer an emergent treatment that has quickly developed a proven track record of success: PRP and PRF therapy. What is PRP/PRF? PRP is platelet-rich plasma, a product that is present in the blood. Platelet-rich plasma is a nutrient-dense fluid that stimulates cellular regeneration within microenvironments like the hair follicles, joints, and also the skin. Platelets are robust cells that contain numerous growth factors, each of which is involved in certain cellular processes. PRF is Platelet-Rich Fibrin. It's a type of autologous platelet concentrate derived from the patient's own blood. Unlike PRP, which is a liquid, PRF forms a gel-like substance due to the presence of fibrin and leukocytes. PRF is often used in various procedures to promote tissue regeneration, wound healing, and tissue graft stabilization, among other applications. PRP and PRF have a long history of medicinal use related to tissue healing and regeneration. It is no surprise that this therapy has made its way into the field of hair restoration. How does PRP/PRF work for hair restoration? The primary purpose of PRP/PRF treatment for hair loss is to stimulate activity in the hair follicles. This may prompt an active phase of hair growth in follicles that have become inactive. PRP/PRF injections into the scalp may also support the active phase of newly implanted hair follicles. This occurs through the action of various growth factors. Platelets contain: Platelet-Derived Growth Factor (PDGF), which is involved in fibrin formation, blood vessel growth, and cell regeneration. Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor (VEGF), involved in the formation of new blood vessels. Fibroblast Growth Factor-2 (FGF-2) is also involved in blood vessel formation, as well as the generation of specialized cells that heal and rejuvenate. Transforming Growth-Factor-Beta (TGF-b) is involved in bone metabolism in the body as well as matrix formation between cells. Epidermal Growth Factor (EGF) stimulates collagen proliferation and cell growth as well as blood vessel formation. Insulin-Like Growth Factor – (IGF) provides necessary physiological regulation in nearly every cell. Behind the scenes, PRP facilitates very sophisticated responses. On the surface, PRP can provide the results you’ve been seeking. PRP Hair Restoration Treatment There are two ways in which PRP may be introduced into the hair follicles of the scalp. One technique is to perform microneedling, which creates micro wounds to superficial tissue. PRP is then applied topically where it can penetrate the scalp through the induced injuries. Within a few minutes, the microchannels begin to heal, but not before stimulating nutrients can be absorbed. An additional and popular technique for PRP hair restoration is to inject platelet-rich plasma into the scalp in the area where hair is thinning. Treatment is conducted with a topical anesthetic which numbs the superficial tissue on the head. After drawing blood, we process the vial in a centrifuge, a piece of equipment that spins the blood to separate platelets from red blood cells. Injections are then administered to the appropriate area of the scalp. The introduction of platelet-rich plasma into the area of inactive hair follicles stimulates a regenerative process intended to activate dormant growth cycles. Most patients need a series of treatments to achieve optimal results. How long do PRP/PRF injections take for hair restoration? Injection treatment begins with a brief blood draw that takes less than a minute. The second step of centrifugation takes a few minutes, during which topical numbing medication sits on the scalp. The injection aspect of treatment is meticulous – injections are positioned every half-inch across the area of thinning. As precise as this step is, it usually takes less than thirty minutes from start to finish. What Happens After the PRP/PRF Procedure? In most cases, there is zero downtime after PRP/PRF hair treatment. Because injections stimulate an inflammatory cascade through which tissue is repaired, patients are advised NOT to take any kind of anti-inflammatory medication to manage comfort. How long will it take to see results? Consistency is crucial to obtain satisfactory results from PRP hair restoration. Treatments are typically scheduled monthly for a few months. Patients can expect to begin noticing improvement within two to three months. After the initial series of treatments, injections are repeated every three to six months depending on individual response and results. The initial effect that patients may notice after treatment is that they shed fewer hairs. Over time, they can expect to see an increase in thickness and length.

  Link: PRP/PRF Hair Restoration

• BOTOX® Cosmetic

  BOTOX® Cosmetic is a prescription drug that, when injected, temporarily paralyzes muscles. It contains a purified and safe form of botulinum toxin A, which is produced by the microbe that causes botulism. Manufactured by Allergan, Inc., it is used to treat permanent furrows and deep wrinkles in the skin that are formed by the continual contraction of facial muscles. In addition to its cosmetic applications, it is used to treat a number of medical problems, including excessive sweating, overactive bladder, neck spasms, crossed eyes, chronic back and jaw pain, and migraines. Applications for BOTOX Cosmetic Although originally approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration for the treatment of eye and muscle spasms, BOTOX Cosmetic was quickly recognized for its cosmetic value. Properly placed injections of BOTOX Cosmetic block nerve impulses sent to muscles, weakening them to the point where they cannot contract, and temporarily eliminating moderately severe furrows and lines. BOTOX Cosmetic is used to treat the following: Forehead furrows Frown lines Crow‘s feet Skin bands on the neck According to Allergan, BOTOX Cosmetic has been “extensively researched, with approximately 2500 studies.” BOTOX Cosmetic Procedure and Results Using a very fine needle, BOTOX Cosmetic is injected directly into facial muscles that are causing furrows and lines. Receiving the injections requires no anesthetic, but some doctors choose to numb the area to be injected with ice packs or a topical anesthetic cream. Results can usually be seen within a few days of treatment, and typically last up to four months, although areas that are treated on a regular basis may retain results longer. Injections should be given only by qualified medical professionals. Side Effects of BOTOX Cosmetic Injection-site side effects of BOTOX Cosmetic are usually mild and temporary, and include the following: Pain Infection Inflammation Tenderness Swelling Redness Bleeding Bruising Normal activities may be resumed immediately after receiving injections.

  Link: BOTOX® Cosmetic

• Dysport® Injectable

  Prescription Dysport® injectable is a U.S. Food and Drug Administration-approved treatment for temporarily lessening or eliminating moderate-to-severe frown lines between the eyebrows. Like BOTOX® Cosmetic, Dysport injectable is placed directly into the muscle underneath a furrow, weakening the muscle to the point where it cannot contract. Dysport, also known as Reloxin, is made from a neurotoxin produced by the bacterium Clostridium botulinum; it is the same neurotoxin used in BOTOX Cosmetic. Applications for Dysport Injectable Medically, Dysport injectable is used to treat excessive underarm sweating; symptoms of cervical dystonia, which include neck pain and abnormal head position; and muscle spasms. Cosmetically, Dysport injections are used to treat the following: Forehead furrows Frown lines Crow‘s feet Skin bands on the neck Dysport Injectable Procedure and Results Using a very fine needle, Dysport injectable is placed directly into facial muscles that are causing furrows and lines. No anesthetic is required, but some doctors choose to numb the area to be injected with ice packs or a topical anesthetic cream. Results can usually be seen within a few days of treatment, and typically last up to 4 months, although areas that are treated on a regular basis may retain results longer. Injections should be given only by qualified medical professionals. Candidates for Dysport Injectable According to the manufacturer‘s website, candidates for Dysport injectable are “adults less than 65 years of age” who want “temporary improvement in the look of moderate-to-severe frown lines between the eyebrows (glabellar lines).” It may not be suitable for those with the following: Allergies to Dysport injectable or its ingredients An allergy to cow‘s milk protein Surgical facial changes Very weak muscles in the treatment area A face that looks very different on each side Inflammation or infection in the area to be injected Droopy eyelids or sagging eyelid folds Deep facial scars Thick, oily skin Wrinkles that cannot be smoothed when spread apart Anyone who is pregnant or breastfeeding, or has a neuromuscular disease, should not receive Dysport injectable. Differences Between Dysport Injectable and BOTOX Cosmetic Although made from the same bacterium, there is anecdotal evidence that Dysport injectable may last longer, spread farther and take effect more quickly than BOTOX Cosmetic. Side Effects of Dysport Injectable Side effects of Dysport injectable are usually mild and temporary, and normal activities may be resumed immediately after receiving injections. Injection-site side effects include the following: Pain Infection Inflammation Tenderness Swelling Redness Bleeding Bruising Eyelids can droop when Dysport injections are made in the glabellar region; they usually return to normal within 3 weeks. Side effects of Dysport injectable are the same as those of BOTOX Cosmetic.

  Link: Dysport® Injectable

• Sculptra® Aesthetic Facial Injectable

  Sculptra® Aesthetic injectable is used to reverse the signs of facial fat loss that occur with aging. By restoring collagen, which decreases as the body ages, it fills out shallow-to-deep wrinkles and folds that run from the sides of the nose to the corners of the mouth (nasolabial folds). It is not appropriate for use in the eye and lip areas. Sculptra Aesthetic‘s main component is an alpha hydroxy acid called poly-L-lactic acid (PLLA), which is a safe and long-lasting synthetic (artificially created), biocompatible (can be used harmlessly in the body), biodegradable (able to be broken down by the body) substance. PLLA has been used for more than 20 years in many surgical products, including dissolvable sutures and soft-tissue implants. Benefits of Sculptra Aesthetic Facial Injectable U.S. Food and Drug Administration-approved for the treatment of nasolabial folds, Sculptra Aesthetic is considered safe and effective for most patients. Because it works gradually, patients achieve a more youthful, natural-looking appearance with subtle, yet noticeable, results. Although not FDA-approved to treat them, according to manufacturer Valeant Aesthetics, Sculptra Aesthetic can be used on marionette lines (at the corners of the mouth) and chin wrinkles. Because it contains no animal, human or bacterial components, allergy testing is not necessary prior to treatment. There is little-to-no downtime after receiving Sculptra injections; most patients return to their normal activities immediately. Treatment and Results of Sculptra Aesthetic Facial Injectable Sculptra Aesthetic injections are designed to be a one-time treatment. A patient can have up to 4 injection sessions, which are spread 3 weeks apart. When injected into shallow-to-deep folds and lines, the additional collagen that is produced smooths them out, and adds volume to the skin. Results of Sculptra injections vary but, in a clinical study, their effects were shown to last for up to 2 years in most patients. Side Effects of Sculptra Aesthetic Facial Injectable Possible side effects of Sculptra injections include localized bleeding, tenderness, discomfort, redness, bruising and swelling. Side effects usually fade within a few days, although can last longer. According to Valeant Aesthetics, “Other side effects may include small lumps under the skin that are sometimes noticeable when pressing on the treated area. Larger lumps, some with delayed onset with or without inflammation or skin discoloration, have also been reported.”

  Link: Sculptra® Aesthetic Facial Injectable

• Laser Pigment Removal

  Lasers are an effective tool that can be used for pigment removal in patients with a wide range of different skin types. Lasers are a treatment option often used to remove unwanted tattoos or permanent makeup, or to treat discolorations of the skin such as: Birthmarks Age spots Sun spots Darkening of the skin The Laser Pigment Removal Procedure Before the pigment removal process, an anesthetic cream may be applied to numb the skin. If the face is being treated, goggles may be worn to cover and protect the eyes. A thin layer of gel is applied to the treatment area and the laser is positioned over the skin. The laser emits a high-intensity light beam that passes through the skin surface and the surrounding tissue and the high energy of the light causes the pigment or ink particles to break up into very small particles. The laser breaks the pigment into smaller particles, which may be metabolized or excreted by the body, or eliminated directly through the skin as the wound heals Some patients experience a stinging or burning sensation as the laser moves over the skin, however the discomfort for most patients is minimal. Most patients can return to regular activities immediately following the procedure. Risks and Recovery from Laser Pigment Removal After the laser pigment removal procedure, patients may experience swelling in the affected area of the skin. Risks of laser pigment removal may include: Blistering Scarring Temporary darkening or lightening of the skin Patients are advised to apply sunscreen and gently care for the affected area to ensure proper healing. Depending on the size and severity of the area being treated, several laser treatment sessions may be required before desired results are achieved.

  Link: Laser Pigment Removal

• Laser Skin Resurfacing

  Modern technology provides a variety of successful laser resurfacing treatments for improving the condition of the skin. Laser skin treatments employ focused beams of light energy to counteract the effects on the skin of acne, aging, sun damage, hyperpigmentation, scars, or poor nutrition. Resurfacing laser treatments are safe and efficient, requiring little downtime to provide effective results. Much less invasive than dermabrasion and chemical peels, laser treatments remove damaged skin and rejuvenate the patient‘s appearance. Most of the time, such treatments are sought for the face, but may also be performed on other parts of the body. Reasons for Laser Resurfacing Patients seek laser resurfacing for a variety of reasons, all related to discontent with their appearance. Laser resurfacing may be performed for any of the following reasons: To decrease or eliminate wrinkles or stretchmarks To diminish the appearance of scars To rejuvenate non-responsive skin after a facelift To remove age spots or spider veins To repair sun-damaged skin To improve skin tone due to melasma or other causes To remove warts or birthmarks To decrease the size of enlarged pores To remove tattoos Types of Laser Resurfacing There are two basic types of laser resurfacing treatments: ablative and non-ablative. Ablative Laser Resurfacing Ablative laser treatments, which penetrate more deeply, actually cause a wound, since they remove a layer of skin. Since ablative resurfacing actually vaporizes a layer of the skin, it provides more dramatic results and requires fewer sessions, but also requires a longer period of healing. Non-Ablative Resurfacing Non-ablative treatments do not burn away skin tissue, but use laser energy to stimulate collagen growth and tighten underlying skin. Non-ablative resurfacing is gentler than ablative and requires less downtime, but may necessitate more treatment sessions and may yield less dramatic results. In general, non-ablative laser treatments are used when the repair needed is less extensive. Also, non-ablative treatments are recommended for people of color for whom ablative resurfacing may be more likely to cause unsightly changes in pigmentation. A form of ablative resurfacing known as fractional ablative laser is now increasingly in use. This procedure targets more specific regions so that laser microbeams pinpoint and peel away smaller areas of skin. During fractional laser surfacing, no visible wounds are caused, so, although results are more noticeable, less downtime is necessary than after conventional ablative treatments. For some individuals, fractional ablative laser resurfacing represents the best of both worlds. The Laser Resurfacing Procedure Laser treatments for skin conditions are typically performed in the doctor‘s office with topical anesthesia. Procedures typically take between 30 and 90 minutes to perform, depending on the size and location of the treated area. While some individuals will notice significant results after just one treatment, particularly with ablative procedures, many patients will require multiple sessions in order to achieve the desired results. It is also possible that additional touch-up treatments will be needed at a future date. Risks of Laser Resurfacing Although laser skin treatment is considered safe for most patients and is typically performed with no long-term complications, there are certain risks associated with any type of medical procedure. While considered rare, risks may include: Infection Scarring Redness Pigmentation changes Acne Milia, tiny white bumps on the skin Recovery from Laser Resurfacing Recovery from laser resurfacing procedures varies according to the particular procedure undergone and the individual patient‘s skin type. In all cases, however, patients who have undergone these treatments should avoid sun exposure wherever possible. Recovery from Non-ablative Laser Resurfacing After treatment, patients may experience redness and peeling at the treated site as the skin heals. The duration of these side effects varies, but is commonly several days. Ice packs may ease discomfort and improve appearance. Normal activities can be resumed during healing, and makeup may be applied to camouflage any unwanted, evidence of treatment. Recovery from Ablative Laser Resurfacing After ablative laser resurfacing, the treated skin will temporarily be raw, swollen and itchy and the yellowish liquid that oozes from treated areas may form crusts. After treatment, a thick ointment, such as petroleum jelly, and a watertight dressing will be applied to the affected area. If treatment has been performed on the face, the patient may be instructed to keep the head elevated during the night. Ice packs and over-the-counter pain relievers may be recommended for symptom relief.

  Link: Laser Skin Resurfacing

• Laser Skin Tightening

  Laser skin tightening is a noninvasive procedure designed to reverse signs of aging on the skin. It can be used on all areas of the face and body, but is typically used on the face and neck. It works by heating the underlying layers of skin to stimulate collagen production, which, in turn, causes the skin to look fuller and tighter. Wrinkles, fine lines, lax skin and other signs of aging are minimized, and skin looks healthier and more youthful. Laser Skin Tightening Procedure Laser skin tightening is an in-office procedure usually performed by a dermatologist. A session begins with an anesthetic cream being applied to the areas of skin being treated; this minimizes discomfort caused by the laser. Protective eyewear is also supplied. During the actual treatment, a handpiece, which emits cool air to also help reduce discomfort, is used to apply short pulses of laser energy to the skin. The heat from the laser stimulates collagen production, which then contracts and tightens the skin. Depending upon the size of the treatment area, sessions typically take 30 minutes to an hour. For best results, 2 or 3 treatment sessions, spaced about 1 month apart, are usually recommended. Many patients see improvement to the overall condition of their skin immediately after being treated, and skin continues to improve over the next few months as collagen production increases. In some cases, the results of laser skin tightening last for 2 years. Advantages of Laser Skin Tightening Because it is not invasive, many people choose to undergo laser skin tightening rather than facelifts, neck lifts, liposuction or “tummy tucks,” all of which are surgical procedures that require recovery time. After a laser skin tightening session, patients can resume their regular activities immediately. Side Effects of Laser Skin Tightening There are no serious side effects associated with laser skin tightening. Mild side effects, which are temporary, include redness; swelling; bruising; skin sensitivity; and changes in skin color. Any discomfort can be managed with over-the-counter pain medication.

  Link: Laser Skin Tightening

• Acne Scars

  Acne is a common condition that causes blocked pores, pimples, cysts and other lesions on the skin. While it is most common in teenagers, acne can affect people of all ages, most often appearing on the face, neck, chest, back, shoulders and upper arms. For many patients, once acne lesions clear up or are removed, they leave behind discolorations and indentations on the skin. In many cases, acne can lead to scarring, especially if it is severe. Scars may form after acne has healed and cleared, and may vary from person to person. Some people may have small flat scars that are not very noticeable and others may suffer from more visible and indented scars on the face or affected area. Acne scarring is most often caused by larger acne lesions, such as cysts or nodules, which can swell and rupture, causing a break in the wall of the individual pore. Infected material from the inflamed lesion can spill out through this break and can affect the nearby healthy tissue, leading to the appearance of a scar. Although not harmful, most people are bothered by the unattractive appearance of these scars and seek treatment to remove or significantly reduce their appearance. Types of Acne Scars Acne scars can vary in appearance and texture depending on the type and severity of the original acne lesions. Each type of acne scar may require a different type of treatment in order to repair the damaged areas of the skin and produce a smooth, clear appearance. Atrophic Scars Atrophic scars develop when there is a loss of tissue. Common types of atrophic scars include ice pick scars and boxcar scars. Ice pick scars are narrow indentations that form deep within the layers of the skin, creating an appearance that the skin has been punctured with an icepick. Boxcar scars are round depressions in the skin similar to chickenpox scars, which may be superficial or deep, depending on the severity of the pimple. Hypertrophic Scars Hypertrophic scars are caused when the body produces too much collagen as acne wounds heal, resulting in excessive amounts of raised tissue on the skin‘s surface. Also known as a rolling scars, hypertrophic scars create a wave-like appearance in the skin as a result of bands of tissue that develop deep within the skin and pull the epidermis down in certain spots. Acne Scar Treatment Treatment for acne scars depends on the type and severity of scarring, as well as each patient‘s individual skin and amount of correction desired. Treatment options may include: Tissue fillers to fill in depressed scars for a smoother appearance Dermabrasion to remove surface scars or lessen the appearance of deeper scars Laser treatments to burn away the skin‘s surface layer and produce new skin cells Punch excision surgery to remove indented scars which may include a skin graft For many patients, a combination of treatments may be most effective in improving the appearance of acne scars. Treating acne scars is often a complex process that sometimes involves several different treatments. Preventing Acne Scars The most effective way to prevent acne scars from developing is to stop the lesions that lead to scarring from forming. It is also important for patients to avoid picking or popping active lesions, as this can lead to infection and increase the risk of scarring. Picking at scabs should also be avoided to allow natural healing to occur without interruption. Sun exposure can lead to further damage of the skin and may delay healing of scars and lesions, and should be avoided as much as possible to maintain the health of the skin. Some patients are naturally prone to developing scars from acne and will not be able to prevent these scars from occurring. Fortunately, there are many treatments available to reduce the appearance of acne scars and revitalize the skin.

  Link: Acne Scars