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How Often Should You Microneedle?

Collagen is one of the main building blocks for our skin, giving it a plump, smooth, youthful texture and appearance. Age, sun exposure, environmental toxins, lifestyle, and other factors result in lower levels of collagen, which is responsible for a good majority of the signs of aging on our faces. Some people claim that ingesting collagen through broths or powders can help restore collagen levels. While that is still up for debate, the collagen-boosting effects of microneedling are not. Microneedling treatments have been proven to stimulate the production of collagen and new skin cells for smoother, firmer, more youthful-looking skin. In order to get the best results from your microneedling treatments, though, timing is important. Read on for more information about microneedling and how often you should do it. 

What is microneedling?

Microneedling (also called collagen induction therapy) is a skin rejuvenation treatment involving tiny, invisible puncture wounds made in the top layer of your skin. These micro-injuries stimulate your body’s natural regenerative abilities, including cell turnover and collagen production, which are the keys to youthful-looking skin.  

How often should you microneedle?

The first microneedling treatment typically involves a series of 3 to 4 treatments spaced about 4 weeks apart. This timing is important for two reasons. First, because it takes approximately a month to heal from the first treatment; and second, in order to get superior cumulative effects from the treatment, the next treatment should be done as close to the last one as possible. After you have achieved your desired results with the first round of treatments, you may begin to spread them out a little more, depending on the severity of the condition being treated. 

Maintenance microneedling treatments require only a single session and are generally recommended every 4-6 weeks for the first year. In subsequent years, 1 treatment per season is usually sufficient for maintaining results. Some severe conditions may require more frequent treatments. At least 2 microneedling treatments per year is recommended for maintaining smooth, firm, youthful-looking skin.  

Tips for maximizing your microneedling results

The collagen-replenishing effects of microneedling are proven to improve the tone, texture, appearance, and overall health of your skin. If you want to maximize your results, there are a few things you can do before and after each treatment, including:

Exfoliate 2 or 3 times a week for a couple of weeks before your microneedling treatment, but DON’T exfoliate the night before.  

Avoid anti-inflammatory medications for 3 days prior to and 7 days after your microneedling treatment.

Avoid waxing, depilatory creams, or laser hair removal for 5-7 days after treatment.

Use gentle cleanser and moisturizer for at least 7 days after treatment (be generous with the moisturizer).

Limit sun exposure for 2 weeks following each treatment session, and if you do go outside, be sure to apply sunscreen generously every 2 hours. 

Prior to your microneedling appointment at Siti Med Spa, we will provide you with a clear set of pre- and post-procedure instructions to help you get the most out of your treatment. 

Rejuvenate your skin with microneedling at Siti Med Spa today

At Siti Med Spa in San Diego, we take pride in providing expert care to help every patient achieve a healthy, natural, and rejuvenated appearance. If you’re interested in learning more about microneedling or any of our other skin rejuvenation treatments, please give us a call at (619) 717-8484 to schedule a consultation today.

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PRP Under Eyes | Questions & Answers

No matter how healthy you are, or how much vitality you have, tired-looking eyes will tell a different story. If you’ve tried every under-eye cream available but just can’t seem to reduce the tired, aged look of your under-eye area, you may want to consider PRP under-eye treatment. 

What is PRP treatment and how does it work?

PRP treatment uses the platelets in your own blood to repair and regenerate damaged tissue. It has been used for years to accelerate the healing process for wounds, to rejuvenate joints, treat urinary incontinence and erectile dysfunction, and correct a wide range of cosmetic issues as well. As a cosmetic treatment PRP uses the platelets to repair and regenerate aging or damaged skin. The platelets contain growth factors, and when they’re separated from the red blood cells and injected back into the skin, they stimulate the growth of new collagen and blood vessels, which results in healthier, more youthful-looking skin. 

What are the benefits of PRP under-eye treatment?

The stimulation of collagen production under the eyes gradually restores volume and tightens loose skin, filling out hollow or sunken areas and minimizing fine lines and wrinkles. PRP under-eye treatment also increases circulation, which reduces dark circles and puffiness and results in a more refreshed appearance. Other benefits of PRP under-eye treatment include:

Non-surgical

No risk of allergic reaction or plasma rejection

Safe procedure

Quick procedure

Little to no discomfort

Minimum side effects

No downtime required

Promotes the natural production of collagen

PRP provides better anti-aging results than you can get from a topical cream and more natural results than you can get with a filler—without the risks and downtime involved with surgery. 

What is the PRP under-eye treatment procedure?

First, we draw your blood and run it through a centrifuge, which separates the platelets and plasma from the red blood cells. Then, after applying a topical numbing cream, we inject the platelets into 6 or 7 strategic locations in your under-eye area with a very fine needle to minimize discomfort. The entire procedure takes about 30 minutes, so you can easily fit it in during your lunch hour.    

What is the PRP treatment recovery time?

There are minimum side effects involved with PRP under-eye treatment, but those with sensitive skin may experience tiny bumps or mild itching and irritation. These should subside within a few days.  Most people are able to return to their daily activities immediately after their procedure, though you may prefer to take a few hours off to rest and apply ice packs to minimize swelling. Strenuous exercise should be avoided for 24 hours, but light exercise is fine. At Siti Med Spa, your PRP practitioner will discuss the specifics of your post-procedure instructions with you. 

When can I see results from PRP under-eye treatment?

It’s important to remember that PRP under-eye treatment works differently than dermal fillers.  The PRP is not meant to fill in the treatment area to create volume in the immediate sense. Although the platelets do begin their work right away, it takes time for your body to build new collagen and healthy new tissue. Some people begin to see a change within a week or two but the collagen growth is gradual and it can take several months to see the full results. 

How long do PRP results last?

PRP results certainly last longer than any topical treatment, but they’re not permanent. They typically last 6 to 12 months. Depending on the starting condition of your under-eye area, we may recommend that you come in for two or three more treatments following your initial procedure. These additional procedures should be spread 4-6 weeks apart. After the initial set of procedures, most people need maintenance procedures every six months to a year in order to enjoy the results for as long as possible. 

Who is a good candidate for PRP under-eye treatment?

The best candidates for PRP under-eye treatments are those with fine lines, wrinkles, puffiness, or hollow spaces under the eyes. However, PRP is not recommended for patients with bleeding disorders, autoimmune diseases, or active acne. 

Find out if PRP under-eye treatment at Siti Med Spa is right for you

At Siti Med Spa in San Diego, we’re proud to offer the very best in cosmetic procedures, including PRP under-eye treatments. If you’re interested in learning more about PRP therapy or any of the other services we offer, give us a call at (619) 717-8484 or stop by to schedule a consultation today.  

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Chemical Peel Healing Process Day By Day

Makeup can enhance your facial contours and highlight your most attractive features, but if you’re using excessive amounts of makeup to cover up skin imperfections, you may also be hiding your natural beauty.  Most skin imperfections that draw attention away from your attractive features are found on the surface of the skin. Chemical peel treatments can help correct these imperfections and reveal the new, healthy, unblemished skin beneath. 

A chemical peel is a skin exfoliation treatment that provides powerful skin rejuvenating benefits. Chemical peels come in different strengths to treat a range of skin concerns, including acne scarring, fine lines and wrinkles, large pores, discoloration, and uneven tone and texture. These blemishes exist at varying levels of depth within the skin, and the strength of each chemical peel determines how deeply it penetrates. The depth of penetration also affects the healing process, so if you want to rejuvenate your skin in time for an important day, you may need to plan pretty far in advance.  Here’s a brief overview of what you can expect from the chemical peel healing process day by day. 

Chemical peel healing process day by day

Every person is different, and their healing time will differ as well. In general, the deeper the peel, the longer the healing process.  A chemical peel is a procedure you want to plan for well in advance of any special event, as it can take months for the full results to settle. Depending on the type of peel, expect to take some time off work. A superficial peel may not necessitate any more time off than the day of the procedure, but certain medium and deep peels may warrant up to 2 weeks of downtime. 

Day 1

Your skin will feel dry and tight. Depending on the depth of your peel and your skin’s sensitivity, you may either feel some mild skin irritation, a sunburn-like sting, or even a throbbing sensation. You will be given instructions for minimizing the pain. These may include ice packs and prescription medications. 

Days 2-4

Your skin will continue to feel tight and dry for a couple of days. The sting and pain of deeper chemical peels will continue longer than with the lighter peels. Around the third or fourth day, you may notice some flakiness or peeling as the top layers of skin begin to shed. The deeper peels build up a crustiness before the flaking and peeling process begins. 

Days 4-7

Flaking and peeling will continue. Discolorations or imperfections may become more noticeable, but this is normal. Depending on instructions from your chemical peel professional, you may begin to use a gentle skin cleanser and a strong hydrating moisturizer.

Days 7-14

For light chemical peels, the flaking and peeling should be complete within a week or so. In the days following, the new, healthy, supple skin will begin to grow. Some pinkness or discoloration can last for a month or longer before the skin settles to its new radiance. For medium or deep chemical peels, the swelling should disappear within two weeks, but the redness can remain for up to three months. 

How you can help the chemical peel healing process

Your skincare practitioner will provide you with post-peel instructions for taking care of your skin. It’s important that you follow them closely so you can get the most out of your chemical peel treatment. Here are some things your practitioner will likely recommend for your skincare during the post-peel healing process:

Avoid sun exposure

Avoid touching, picking, or scratching to avoid scarring the new skin

Keep hair away from your face to minimize the risk of breakouts

Avoid strenuous activities for at least 3 days after peel

Avoid sweating as much as possible until after the peeling process is complete

Wash your face with cool water to help soothe your skin

Apply moisturizer gently (but only moisturizer approved by your skincare professional)

Apply Broad Spectrum SPF 30 or more (indoors or outdoors) throughout the day

Avoid makeup for a week or two

Avoid acidic skincare products, such as retinoids, tretinoins, acne medications, vitamin C products, lightening agents, loofahs and coarse sponges for at least 2 weeks after your peel

Keep your body hydrated

Attend your follow-up appointments

The better care you take of your skin in the days, weeks, and months following your chemical peel, the longer the results will last. 

Get brighter, smoother, more beautiful skin at Siti Med Spa today

At Siti Med Spa in San Diego, we offer a number of chemical peels designed to treat a range of skin conditions and skin concerns. When you come in for a consultation, we’ll evaluate your skin, listen to your concerns, and discuss your goals and priorities. From there, we’ll give you an idea of the best options for your skin.  If you’re ready for brighter, smoother, more beautiful skin, give us a call at (619) 717-8484 to set up a chemical peel consultation today. 

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How Long Does a Laser Lift Last?

In the world of non-surgical anti-aging cosmetic treatments, laser skin resurfacing is at the top of nearly every Best Of list. And for good reason. The lasers use light energy to repair and regenerate skin cells and restore skin to its perfect, smooth texture and appearance. Laser skin treatments can correct lines and wrinkles, discoloration, sagging skin, acne scars, and so many other surface imperfections. And now, there’s even an innovative treatment that provides anti-aging results by using a laser below the surface of the skin, lifting the lower face and turning back the clock a decade or more—in under an hour! Introducing… the Laser Lift. 

What is a Laser Lift? 

A laser Laser Lift (sometimes called a laser facelift) is a highly advanced, minimally invasive procedure for addressing age-related changes in the lower face and neck. Using powerful, revolutionary laser applications and precision technology, the laser facelift reduces volume and tightens the skin on the lower face, along the jawline, and under the chin. The procedure involves the use of a local anesthetic through three small puncture wounds (one beneath each ear and one under the chin). Once the area is numb, the practitioner inserts a thin laser wand through the skin punctures, using its targeted heat to destroy fat cells and tighten skin tissue from the inside. Excess fatty deposits are then suctioned out, resulting in tighter skin and more youthful contours of the lower face and neck. The procedure takes under an hour but the results are long lasting. 

Benefits of a Laser Lift

Not only can a Laser Lift take a decade or more off your appearance, but it can also be done in a single lunchtime visit. There’s so much to love about the laser facelift. Here are some of its many benefits.  

Removes fat

Tightens and lifts skin

Reduces jowls

Minimizes double chin

Smooths wrinkles

Improves jawline definition

Creates attractive neck contour

Minimally invasive

Quick, lunchtime procedure

No scarring

No stitches

Long-lasting results

Your results should begin to appear within a week or so after your procedure and continue to improve for a few months.  Be sure to take Laser Lift before-and-after photos! 

How long does a Laser Lift last?

The better care you take of your skin and your body, the longer your Laser Lift results will last.  Sun exposure, smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, dehydration, insufficient sleep, and other unhealthy choices can affect the health of your skin, resulting in the diminished longevity of your results. The fat removal is permanent as long as you maintain your weight. If you live a healthy lifestyle, take good care of your skin, and use high quality skincare products, your Laser Lift results can last up to five years. 

What other procedures can the Laser Lift be combined with?

At Siti Med Spa, many of our clients like to combine services to get the most out of every visit. The Laser Lift can be combined with a wide range of different procedures, including: 

Other laser treatments

Botox

Dermal fillers

Microdermabrasion

JuvaShape Body Contouring

Vein therapy

We’re always happy to create customized treatment plans designed around your unique cosmetic goals and preferences. 

Achieve a gorgeous, timeless appearance at Siti Med Spa

At Siti Med Spa in San Diego, we understand the power that comes from looking and feeling your best, and we offer a comprehensive range of cutting-edge anti-aging procedures to help you reach your most beautiful you. Our highly skilled and trained staff of Nurse Practitioners are experienced, knowledgeable, compassionate, and committed to helping you achieve your cosmetic goals and feel great about the way you look. For more information on our services, or to schedule an appointment, give us a call at (619) 717-8484 today. 

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Best Sleeping Positions After Facial Filler Treatment

When you invest time and money in treating yourself to cosmetic injectables, you want to get the most out of them. Taking good care of yourself during the post-procedure recovery period will go a long way.  This includes eating healthy foods, avoiding alcohol, staying out of the sun, and avoiding pressure on the treated areas. Getting sufficient sleep is always an important part of self-care, but when it comes to maximizing the benefits of your dermal fillers, it’s not just how much you sleep that matters, it’s also your sleep position. 

Best sleeping positions after facial filler treatment

Typically, it takes 7-10 days for facial fillers to fully settle. Most cosmetic injectors emphasize caution for the first 48 hours, suggesting that by then, the fillers should be settled enough to withstand normal pressure without causing asymmetry or other complications. Some practitioners recommend caution for as long as 2-3 weeks, while others take a more casual approach.  

Even though there are no strict rules about sleeping positions after facial filler treatments, it’s probably best to take a conservative approach to all post-procedural instructions for a week or so, especially if you’re new to dermal fillers procedure. After you have more experience with cosmetic injectables and you’re familiar with how your own body responds, you can adjust the time accordingly.

We recommend the following tips for sleeping after facial filler treatment:

Sleep on your back for at least a week

Elevate your head with 2 pillows

Build a pillow fort around your head to keep from rolling over onto your face

Avoid sleeping on your side for a week

Avoid sleeping on your stomach/face for 2 weeks

Lying on your stomach or your side during the settling period can move the formula out of place and interfere with your treatment results. Sleeping on your back helps keep fillers in place while they settle. Sleeping on your back with your head elevated also prevents fluids from collecting in your head, which will in turn help reduce swelling and bruising.  

Stomach or side sleeper?

If you’re a stomach or side sleeper, it may not feel the most comfortable to sleep on your back, but it can make a big difference in optimizing the results of your dermal fillers. And it’s only for a short period of time, which pales compared to the year-plus of youthful radiance your treatment can provide. Your refreshed appearance will be worth it.  

Ready for a refresh with Facial Filler Treatments?

Whether you’re new to dermal fillers or a pro, beautiful results are a collaboration between you and your practitioner. When you choose a highly skilled and experienced cosmetic injector and then do your part by practicing self-care and adhering to pre- and post-procedure instructions, you can expect magnificent results. At Siti Med Spa, we know what we’re doing, we’re good at it, and we’re just what you’re looking for. Come collaborate with us, and let’s get you refreshed, rejuvenated, and ready to rule the world.  For more information on dermal fillers or any of our other cosmetic services, give us a call at (619) 717-8484 today. 

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Enhance Your Masculinity With Men’s Facial Fillers

Depending on where you live and who you associate with, you may already know that men’s facial fillers are growing in popularity.  Here in Southern California, they’re even becoming the norm in some circles. Even though the stigmas against male cosmetic enhancement are on the decline, not every man wants his results to announce themselves to the world. At Siti Med Spa, we’re experienced in the art of subtle cosmetic enhancement with men’s facial fillers. If you’re ready to discreetly enhance your facial masculinity, fight the signs of aging, or just strengthen a single feature without a lot of fanfare, we can help. Men’s facial fillers are completely customizable and can be used to create subtle changes. Or dramatic ones—we can do that, too.  Here’s what you need to know.

Men’s facial fillers vs. women’s facial fillers

The cosmetic filler formulas used to create youthful feminine and masculine facial enhancements might be the same, but the strategies and outcomes are as different as night and day.  A treatment plan for cosmetic fillers must be methodically planned out and carefully executed by an expert practitioner who has a thorough knowledge of facial anatomy as well as an understanding of how to achieve a more masculine appearance vs a more feminine one. Here are some of the differences:

A masculine face shape is typically characterized by:

Strong, sharp angles

A wide, prominent jaw

A straight, prominent brow

A feminine face shape is typically characterized by: 

Soft, round features

Fullness in the cheek area

A slightly arched brow

In general, men’s facial fillers are used to reinforce the support structures that create angled, prominent features and minimize the signs of aging.  When it comes to eliminating lines and wrinkles with dermal fillers, men also tend to prefer more subtlety, retaining some character rather than completely smoothing out the skin. 

Benefits of men’s facial fillers

One of the biggest benefits of dermal fillers is that they allow for a completely customized treatment. You can focus on the whole face, just a targeted area, or anything in between. You also have the option of starting with subtle changes and gradually building up for a discreet strengthening of your masculine features. Or, if you prefer, you can take a bold approach right from the start.  Take a look below at some of the other potential benefits of men’s facial fillers. 

Squared, defined jawline

Prominent chin

Strong brow

Restoration of lost volume

Reduction of shadows and hollows

Reduced appearance of lines and wrinkles

Non-surgical anti-aging treatment

Little to no recovery time

Most men new to dermal fillers appreciate their temporary nature. Depending on the formula, dermal fillers last anywhere from 6 to 18 months, some up to 2 years, so you can give them a try without making a “forever” commitment. At Siti Med Spa, our guess is that once you get a glimpse of your stronger, more masculine face, you’ll love the way you look so much, you’ll be back for more. 

Facial fillers for men in San Diego at Siti Med Spa

Whether you’re new to dermal fillers or you’re in need of a touch-up, it’s important to choose an expert injector who is skilled and experienced in the art and science of cosmetic injectables. At Siti Med Spa, we specialize in dermal fillers and many other cosmetic procedures for men. Give us a call at (619) 717-8484 to schedule a consultation today. 

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Maintain "The Natural Look" With These Procedures

We all have our personal standards when it comes to cosmetic beauty. Some people love to flaunt a look that says, “Yes, I’ve had work done, and I’m worth it.” Others prefer to let their look say, “I know I’m gorgeous. I woke up like this.” At Siti Med Spa, we applaud it all.  These days, most of our long-term clients are interested in maintaining their natural beauty—with fewer visible wrinkles, and more youthful radiant skin of course. But we also see a lot of first-time clients who are just starting to dip their toes into the world of medical cosmetics, and who also want to maintain a natural look. While we believe that the practitioner you choose is the best way to ensure you achieve the results you want, we also want to share a few of the procedures our clients love for the natural looks they’re able to achieve. 

Injectables

One of the most important keys to achieving a natural look with cosmetic injectables is to choose a highly skilled and experienced injector who has a thorough understanding of facial anatomy as well as strong sense of artistry.  Once you have that, you can achieve a natural look with just about any cosmetic injectable. Here’s how:

Botox

Natural-looking Botox is best achieved with a solid treatment plan, strategic and precise injection, and restraint. The location of the injections and the amount of formula make all the difference. It’s always best to start with a low dose and build from there, if needed. Too much Botox or Botox that’s injected incorrectly or imprecisely can create an unnatural frozen expression or an asymmetry to facial expression. While there are some key injection locations that every practitioner should be aware of, a specialized Botox injector will have a deeper understanding of the various layers of the facial anatomy and will be able to see the differences in each individual in order to customize their treatment plan with precision. 

Dermal fillers

The strategy is similar when creating a natural look with Juvederm, Voluma, or other dermal fillers used to smooth fine lines and wrinkles or add volume to lips, cheeks and other parts of the face. For example, when using a lip filler or cheek filler, an inexperienced filler might just have a standard formula where they inject everyone, creating contours that don’t appear natural on every face. An experienced injector, on either hand, will develop a customized injection strategy that takes into account the unique contours of the individual’s lip or cheek, as well as the proportions of their other features, in order to create a natural-looking appearance.   

At Siti Med Spa, we offer a wide range of injectables, including Botox, Dysport, Juvederm, Voluma, Restylane, and many more. 

Fractional laser treatments 

When it comes to enhancing your skin’s tone and texture, fractional laser treatments provide the most natural-looking results because it’s your body doing the work. The fractional laser beam is split into many smaller beams that create a grid of micro-injuries in your skin. This triggers your body’s natural healing process, stimulating collagen growth, smoothing and tightening facial contours, reversing sun damage, and so much more. With just a little help from the rational laser, your skin rejuvenates itself—naturally.   

At Siti Med Spa, our Total FX Fractional CO2 Laser Treatment combines two types of fractional laser treatments to address deep wrinkles and correct cosmetic concerns on the surface of the skin as well.  We also have a range of other laser skin resurfacing treatments and chemical peels that can target and treat specific skin concerns, including hyperpigmentation, scarring, or acne.  

Ready to enhance your natural beauty? Come see us today!

At Siti Med Spa, our full-service medical spa is San Diego’s leader in cutting-edge anti-aging procedures. We use advanced FDA-approved cosmetic medical treatments and are committed to keeping our clients comfortable every step of the way.  If you’re ready to enhance your natural beauty, give us a call at (619) 717-8484. We look forward to helping you love the skin you’re in. 

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What Does Retinaldehyde Do For Your Skin?

Retinol has long been a favorite ingredient for treating acne, fine lines and wrinkles, sun damage, hyperpigmentation, and other skin concerns. But did you know it’s just one in a family of vitamin A-derived products known as retinoids?  Many people assume that retinol, retinal, retinoid, and retinoic acid are all the same thing, but while they’re all in the same family, they’re all different. Here’s a simplified overview:

Retinoid

Retinoid is the umbrella term for all of the vitamin-A-derived skincare products.

Retinoic acid

Retinoic acid is the most potent form. It’s the molecule that’s biologically active on the skin. All other forms get eventually converted into retinoic acid.

Retinaldehyde

Retinaldehyde has to undergo a step to convert to retinoic acid and start working its magic on the skin cells.

Retinol

Retinol has to undergo two steps to convert to retinoic acid before it begins to work on the skin cells.

Differentiating between the terms can be a little confusing, especially retinol and retinaldehyde. Retinaldehyde is often used in its short form (retinal) on product labels, which looks just like retinol if you’re not paying attention. While they’re both retinoids and essentially have the same end goals, retinaldehyde works more quickly and more efficiently to provide anti-aging, anti-blemish, and skin-enhancing benefits. Read on for more information about what retinaldehyde does for your skin.

Promotes cell turnover

Retinaldehyde increases blood circulation, speeding up cell turnover on the surface of the skin as well as in the deeper layers of the dermis.

Brightens skin tone

By breaking up the dead top layer of skin, retinaldehyde helps to remove blemishes, dull skin, and dark spots, to reveal a brighter, more radiant skin tone.

Rejuvenates complexion

Retinaldehyde has antibacterial properties. By reducing the bacteria responsible for acne breakouts, it helps to improve overall skin tone and texture.

Thickens dermis

The small molecule size of retinaldehyde allows it to penetrate deep into the dermis, where it thickens skin by stimulating the natural production of collagen, elastin and blood vessels.

Tightens skin

As retinaldehyde repairs connective tissue in the deeper layers of the dermis, the upper layers of skin become firmer and more supple, and the lines and wrinkles become less visible, resulting in a more youthful appearance.

Safe for day and night use

Retinaldehyde will not over-exfoliate your skin and cause sun-sensitivity the way other vitamin A products can sun, so it’s safe to use day and night. But it’s still important to use your sunscreen every day.

Quick, powerful results

Retinaldehyde works 11 times faster and packs a more powerful punch than retinol.

Retinaldehyde products aren’t for everyone. The potency can cause some irritation for those with sensitive skin. Most dermatologists reserve the retinaldehyde products for patients who have not seen sufficient results with retinol products. 

Anti-aging, anti-blemish, skin-enhancing products at Siti Med Spa

Whether you’re struggling to fight the signs of aging or stop acne breakouts from blemishing your beautiful skin, Siti Med Spa can help. In addition to retinoid products by SkinMedica, we offer a broad range of anti-aging, anti-blemish, and skin rejuvenating services and products designed to help you look and feel gorgeous in the skin you’re in. Our highly trained staff of Nurse Practitioners take pride in providing the best possible service to help each patient achieve a radiant, natural-looking, ageless appearance. Give us a call at (619) 717-8484 to schedule a consultation today. 

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12 Best Anti-Inflammatory Skincare Ingredients

Skin inflammation and redness can be caused by a number of factors, including sun allergy, heat rash, bacteria, irritating products, or a compromised skin barrier. If you generally have dry, inflamed skin, or you get flare ups from eczema or rosacea, it’s important to have everyday skincare products containing ingredients that soothe and calm skin. A dermatologist or skin care professional can help determine the cause and treatment for your condition, and may even recommend specific products, but if you’re determined to brave the hunt on your own, start with this list of the 12 best anti-inflammatory skincare ingredients. 

12 best anti-inflammatory skincare ingredients

Everyone’s skin is different, and the best ingredients for each person will depend on what works for their particular skin.  For this reason, we’ve listed the 12 ingredients below in alphabetical order rather than in any hierarchical order. 

#1. Aloe

The nourishing compounds in aloe help soothe, hydrate, and moisturize the skin while also treating inflammation. 

#2. Calendula

The antimicrobial, antiviral, and anti-inflammatory properties of calendula help to fortify delicate, sensitive skin.

#3. Ceramides

Ceramides boost the skin’s structure and strengthen its barrier, helping to calm irritated and inflamed skin.

#4. Chamomile

The antioxidant properties of chamomile help to inhibit the release of inflammation-causing chemicals in the skin, resulting in a decrease in inflammation and redness. 

#5. Colloidal Oatmeal

Ground oatmeal helps to strengthen the skin’s protective barrier, soothes irritation, and has anti-inflammatory, anti-fungal, and antioxidant properties. Oatmeal also has cleansing properties and is non-irritating, making it a good all-around ingredient for sensitive skin.

#6. Cucumber

Cucumber has a cooling and soothing effect on skin, and it contains anti-inflammatory properties that reduce swelling. 

#7. Green Tea

The antioxidant and antibacterial properties of green tea help to kill systemic bacterial inflammation, soothing and calming skin. 

#8. Licorice Root Extract

Licorice root has a soothing effect on skin and can reduce redness, irritation, and swelling.

#9. Niacinamide

This vitamin B3 compound is an antioxidant that can increase the production of ceramides, which help to maintain the skin’s protective barrier and reduce inflammation. Niacinamide has also been shown to reduce inflammation associated with mild rosacea and acne. 

#10. Sea Buckthorn Oil

Sea buckthorn plant berries contain high levels of vitamin C and vitamin E, so the oil is rich in antioxidants. Sea buckthorn oil also promotes skin hydration and has anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce swelling and redness associated with skin conditions such as rosacea and eczema.

#11. Vitamin C

The antioxidant properties of vitamin C help limit damage from harmful UV rays and reduce inflammation and redness in skin. 

#12. Witch Hazel

The active tannins in witch hazel have antioxidant effects. Witch hazel can also ease irritation and soothe inflammation. Alcohol-free witch hazel products are best for sensitive skin. 

Keep in mind that when shopping for new products, it’s best to ask for samples or start with mini sizes before committing to a full-size, especially if you have sensitive skin that’s prone to irritation. Also, you may want to make a note of the ingredients that you try along the way so you can keep track of which ones work for you—and which ones don’t.

As much potential as all of the above ingredients have to help soothe your skin, the quality of the products you use is key.  The best way to achieve your healthiest, most radiant skin is to visit a skincare professional who is as committed to your skin as you are. That way, you have a better chance of getting high-quality, effective products than you would from just typing in a few keywords and winging it on the Internet. 

High-quality skincare products in San Diego at Siti Med Spa 

At Siti Med Spa, we’re serious about skin health, and we’ve partnered with SkinMedica to provide you with the very best products to help you achieve your healthiest, most radiant skin. Of the many amazing products SkinMedica offers, we consider their TNS Ceramide Treatment Cream™ to be the cream of the crop. Low ceramide levels are a major cause of dry skin conditions such as eczema, rosacea, inflammation, and irritation. TNS Ceramide Treatment Cream™ replenishes the skin’s ceramide supply, reinforces the skin’s moisture barrier, increases hydration, and helps to prevent dryness, inflammation, and irritation.  The result is firmer, smoother, more youthful-looking skin that glows. If you’re looking for more recommendations for skincare products or you’d like to schedule a consultation with one of our skincare experts to determine your skin’s needs, please give us a call at (619) 717-8484 today. 

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How To Look A Decade Younger Without Surgery

If you ever compare yourself to Lupita Nyongo or Angelina Jolie, and end up weeping at the unfairness of it all, just remember that beautiful skin requires maintenance, no matter how strong your genes. Lupita and Angelina don’t just sit around looking gorgeous. They work to maintain it. You can too. Just because you weren’t born with celebrity bone structure, it doesn’t mean you’re limited to throwing in the towel or going under the knife just because you’re advancing in age. Believe it or not, you can take a decade or more off your appearance without surgery. Here’s what you need to know.

The aging face

Even though it may feel like it, no one suddenly looks older overnight. Instead, looking older is a combination of processes that take place in the face over time. They are often brought on by age, but they can also be brought on or exacerbated by other factors. 

Facial fat loss is a natural part of the aging process. It can lead to the appearance of hollow, sunken cheeks and under-eye areas, and it can also make deeper facial folds more prominent. 

Collagen loss can be brought on by or exacerbated by age, genetics, high stress levels, smoking, UV exposure, and inflammation-triggering diets. It causes loose, lax skin and makes lines and wrinkles more prominent.

Decreased production of hyaluronic acid is often caused by age-induced shifting hormone levels and sun exposure. This decrease usually results in a loss of facial volume, sagging cheeks, thinning lips, and more pronounced lines and wrinkles. 

Photoaging refers to the damaging of the skin’s structures due to sun exposure. It causes fine lines and wrinkles, hyperpigmentation, sun spots, freckles, rough texture, uneven skin tone, and other blemishes that age the face. 

The good news is that there are effective non-surgical solutions for treating each of these conditions and concerns, and when combined and customized to treat the needs of the individual, the results are age-defying.  

How to look a decade younger without surgery

At Siti Med Spa, our goal is for you to keep ‘em guessing about your age. Exactly what’s needed will depend on your skin’s current condition as well as your goals and preferences. Some clients come in for one single treatment at a time, or a touch-up here and there, but it’s usually the combination treatments that provide the most dramatic results. Of course, everyone is different and each individual has a unique set of needs, so all of our treatment plans are highly customized. But in general, if you’re looking to take a decade or more off of your appearance, we may recommend some combination of the following treatments.

Dermal fillers

Dermal fillers plump up the tissue beneath the skin, restoring volume for a more youthful appearance. Some of the very best fillers contain hyaluronic acid, a molecule naturally produced by the body, which results in a soft, natural appearance. Depending on the treatment area, a thicker or thinner formula can be used.  For example, to add volume and enhance cheek contours, a thicker formula may be used. For adding volume to lips, a smaller molecule may be recommended in order to keep them soft and supple. Dermal fillers can be used to:

Add volume to cheeks

Plump thinning lips 

Decrease vertical lines around the lips

Minimize the appearance of lines and wrinkles

Botox

Botox treats wrinkles in a different way than dermal fillers. Rather than filling in wrinkles from beneath the skin, Botox disables the muscles that form the wrinkles in the first place. It only works on wrinkles formed by facial expressions. It cannot treat those that remain when the face is still.  But by disabling the formation of those dynamic wrinkles, Botox can help prevent the formation of dynamic wrinkles in the future. At Siti Med Spa, our clients love “The Look of 3”, a comprehensive approach to the long-term correction of dynamic lines and wrinkles in the upper face. It involves:

Strategic Botox injections to treat forehead lines, frown lines, and crow’s feet  

64 units divided between the brow area (20), the forehead (20), and around the eyes (24) for optimum results and a soft and natural appearance

Touch-up appointments three times per year, spaced 90 days apart

Microdermabrasion and microneedling

Wrinkles and volume loss are not the only things adding to your aged appearance. The health of your skin gives away your age, too. At Siti Med Spa, we offer a range of anti-aging treatments to improve the tone, texture, and overall appearance of your skin. Microdermabrasion, for example, involves gently exfoliating away the outermost layer of skin to reduce the appearance of age spots, wrinkles, and scars and revealing the fresh new skin beneath. Microneedling involves penetrating the skin with tiny needles to create microscopic wounds that stimulate the body’s healing process, including the production of collagen and new skin cells, resulting in plump, supple, and youthful skin. We also offer laser treatments, chemical peels, PRP facials, and other anti-aging procedures that can be easily incorporated into your treatment plan. 

Ready to turn back the clock? Call Siti Med Spa today

At Siti Med Spa in San Diego, we’re committed to helping you achieve a gorgeous, timeless appearance without surgery.  Not only do we offer a comprehensive range of cutting-edge anti-aging procedures, but we’re also a highly skilled and trained staff of Nurse Practitioners who are experienced, knowledgeable, and compassionate. We understand the power that comes from looking and feeling your best, and we’ve seen firsthand the impact that the resulting confidence boost can have on a person’s life. At Siti Med Spa, we’re committed to helping you achieve your goals and love the skin you’re in. For more information on our services, or to schedule an appointment, give us a call at (619) 717-8484 today. 

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What Ceramides & Essential Fatty Acids Do For Your Skin

Healthy skin is a sign of youthful vitality, but the older we get, the more conscious we have to be about nourishing our bodies and our skin to maintain that healthy glow. The foods you eat and other lifestyle factors play a role, but the ingredients in your skincare products are important as well. To rebuild and restore your skin’s protective barrier to lock in moisture and block environmental damage, look for moisturizers that contain ceramides and essential fatty acids. 

What are ceramides and essential fatty acids? 

Ceramides are a type of fatty acid (lipid) naturally derived from our skin. Ceramides make up over 50% of the outer layer of our skin. They are often described as the mortar between bricks, aiding in the formation of a protective layer against environmental damage. As with collagen and elastin, our supply of ceramides diminishes as we age. Depending on the amount of sun exposure and sun damage we’ve accumulated, we may begin to lose ceramides in our 30s or 40s. The depletion of ceramides weakens the protective barrier, making our skin vulnerable to further damage and causing a dull, dry, aged appearance. 

Essential fatty acids are beneficial fats that are vital to our health but that our bodies don’t produce naturally. Omega-6 and Omega-3 are the two primary essential fatty acids that are necessary for the formation of healthy cell membranes, the development and functioning of the brain and nervous system, as well as our skin and hair health.  Because our bodies don’t produce these fats naturally, we have to get them through the foods we eat, including fatty fish, leafy vegetables, and certain oils and nuts.

When ceramides and essential fatty acids are used in skincare products, they help nourish and replenish skin, providing it with numerous health benefits. 

Benefits of ceramides and essential fatty acids in skincare products

Your diet and lifestyle habits affect your ceramide and fatty acid levels from the inside. Your skincare products can help replenish from the outside.  Creams and moisturizers containing ceramides and fatty acids are usually the best option as part of a regular skincare routine. They’re a great last step at night or just before your sunscreen during the day. Ceramides and essential fatty acids in your skincare will:

Provide nourishment to keep your skin healthy and strong

Rebuild and reinforce your skin barrier

Protect your skin from environmental damage

Restore moisture levels

Lock in hydration

Eliminate signs of skin-dehydration

Provide antioxidant protection

Smooth skin’s surface

Soften skin for a healthy, younger-looking appearance

At Siti Med Spa, we’re committed to helping you achieve your healthiest, most beautiful skin. In addition to the highest quality medical cosmetic services we offer, we’ve also partnered with SkinMedica to provide you with the very best skincare products. If you think your skin could benefit from ceramides and fatty acids, here are a couple of our favorite products: 

TNS Ceramide Treatment Cream™

This is a great post-procedure cream, for treating dry skin, or as a part of your daily skincare regimen.  It’s highly effective in rehydrating and restoring the skin’s barrier.

Dermal Repair Cream 

This ultra rich facial cream is appropriate for normal to dry skin types. It intensely hydrates and helps replenish moisture. It's also perfect for use during periods of dry weather or as a night time moisturizer.

If you’re not exactly sure what your skin needs, we can help.  Give us a call at (619) 717-8484 to schedule a consultation today.

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RealSelf Reveals 2022's Most-Loved Cosmetic Procedures

What is your vision for how you’ll grow and change in 2022? What beautiful gifts will you treat yourself to in the months to come? If you don’t have answers to these questions, now is a good time to give them some thought. At Siti Med Spa, we believe that looking and feeling our best can provide the boost in confidence that’s often needed to take risks, make changes, and achieve dreams. And we’re not the only ones who believe in the power of looking great. In 2020, the United States registered over 5.5 million surgical and non-surgical cosmetic procedures performed. Non-surgical procedures accounted for approximately 75%. It’s not just celebrities and beach bunnies who are treating themselves to cosmetic enhancements—it’s everyday people, too. 

So which procedures are most popular right now? Take a look below at some highlights from the most-loved cosmetic procedures for 2022, as chosen by RealSelf readers, all of whom are real patients and real people sharing about the procedures they swear by.  

Highlights from RealSelf 2022 most-loved cosmetic procedures

Although the RealSelf Patients’ Choice list includes surgical procedures, we’ve chosen to focus on the patient-chosen non-surgical procedures in our highlights below.

Area of Concern

Most-loved minimally invasive procedures

Double Chin

Under-chin fat reduction procedure Kybella

Dimpled chin area

Wrinkle-smoothing injectables Botox, Juvederm, Radiesse

Fine lines and wrinkles

Wrinkle-relaxing or wrinkle-filling injectables Botox, Dysport, Juvederm, Restylane

Acne

Professional skincare treatment Facials, especially when combined with chemical peels or microneedling

Undefined jawline

Injectables for a more shapely jawline Juvederm, Radiesse, Restylane

Lip wrinkles or thin lips

Injectable lip filler treatment Juvederm, Restylane

Whether you have a problem-area causing you to feel self-conscious or you’re ready to fight the good fight against the aging process, we’re here to help. At Siti Med Spa, we offer a wide range of advanced FDA-approved cosmetic medical treatments, including all of those mentioned above! We can help melt away the fat under your chin, relax your facial muscles to diminish fine lines and wrinkles, plump your lips, improve your skin tone and texture—and much much more. 

Give yourself the gift of self-care at Siti Med Spa!

It’s always a good time for self-love. Whether you’re prepping for a romantic date, or you just want to treat yourself to some luxurious pampering, Siti Med Spa is here for you. Give us a call at (619) 717-8484 or drop by and see us in Bankers Hill so we can discuss next steps toward helping you achieve a gorgeous, healthy, ageless glow during the Month of Love and beyond.

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Best Skin Care Routine For The Minimalist

Spacious. Simple. Elegant. The concept of minimalism embraces the idea of simplicity and paring down to only what’s necessary. Minimalism can be applied to anything: your home environment; your wardrobe; your lifestyle and general accumulation of possessions (or lack thereof).  One person may choose to limit their wardrobe to white button-ups and dark jeans in order to eliminate the decision of what to wear every day. Another may opt to live in a home with no furniture.  

Minimalism doesn’t have to be taken to the extreme, though. You can apply the minimalist concept to different parts of your in small ways in order to simplify, limit your spending, or declutter.  One simple change you can make to save time, save money, and create space in your cosmetics cabinet is to take a minimalist approach to your skincare routine. Here’s how. 

Best skincare routine for the minimalist

Whether you’re a skincare junkie looking to curb your spending in 2022 or you’re hoping to minimize your environmental impact, a minimalist skincare routine does not mean sacrificing beautiful skin. Minimalism asks us to remember that More is not better. Better is better. If you are ready to declutter your cosmetics drawer and simplify your skincare routine, these are your essentials. 

1. Cleanser 

It’s important to clean the dirt, grime, makeup, and oils off your face at the end of every day. In addition to your makeup and the environmental debris, your face is also picking up bacteria from your phone, your mask, and your hands, so cleaning is key to keeping your pores clear and your skin healthy.  But if you’re using the wrong cleanser for your skin type, you may not get the results you want. At Siti Med Spa, we know skin, and we can help point you to the best cleansers to help you reach your skincare goals. 

One of our favorites: The Skinmedica AHA/BHA Exfoliating Cleanser not only keeps skin clean, but it also improves tone and texture. 

2. Moisturizer

A hydrated complexion appears more healthy and youthful, but the hydration also helps improve skin elasticity and minimizes the appearance of wrinkles. Believe it or not moisturizing your skin may also help with acne breakouts. When skin becomes dehydrated, it begins to excrete oils to compensate. The oils then clog up the pores, leading to breakouts. As if that’s not enough, dry, dehydrated skin is also less able to defend itself against environmental irritants and germs. Keeping your skin moisturized can help combat and prevent a range of skin problems and keep you looking young, gorgeous, and glowing.  

One of our favorites: The SkinMedica Rejuvenative Moisturizer is wonderful for keeping skin hydrated, nourished, plump, and pretty.  

3. Sun protection

We will never ever stop saying this: Please wear sunscreen every day—all year round—even on cloudy days. Sunscreen protects your skin from harmful UV rays. It helps prevent premature aging, and it helps to prevent discoloration and brown spots so you maintain an even skin tone. But even more importantly, applying sunscreen daily lowers your risk of developing skin cancer—as long as it’s a broad spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 of or higher. If you’re going for a more extreme minimalism, you can even choose a moisturizer with SPF 30 or higher so you get two products in one.   

One of our favorites: The SkinMedica Total Defense + Repair Broad Spectrum Sunscreen 50+ won’t replace your moisturizer but it is two products in one: sunscreen plus a daytime repair serum with antioxidant effects. 

As long as you’re using high quality products that are appropriate for your skin, a minimalist skincare routine can still keep you looking young, fresh, and radiant.  At Siti Med Spa, we can help determine the best products for you. Come see us today!

Minimalists and Maximalists welcome at Siti Med Spa in San Diego

One major perk of the work we do is getting to know our patients. We have so many incredible, fascinating patients who have shared so much of themselves, who they are, what they love, and what they’re all about. We love our patients, from the minimalists to the maximalists and everyone in between. If you’re new to us, welcome! And if you’re returning because you love us too, welcome back! It’s a beautiful new year, and we’re looking forward to spending it with you. For more information on our products or services, or if you want to chat about how we can help you love the skin you’re in, please give us a call at (619) 717-8484 today!

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Best Skin Care Resolutions For The New Year

The key to sticking to your New Year’s resolutions is to choose them wisely. One reason resolutions fail is that they’re not specific enough. Another is that they’re unrealistic. While the new year is a great time to shift our behaviors, habits, or thought patterns, many of us attempt to use this time as an opportunity to change all of our imperfections at once. Not only is that not sustainable, but it’s also punishing because it tends to lead to self-defeat and feelings of shame.  One study found that as many as 23% don’t even make it through the first week. 

Don’t do that to yourself this year. 

When it comes to making changes, sometimes small, consistent steps have the biggest impact. If you want healthy and supple skin, then maybe it’s time for a skincare resolution you’ll actually keep. Below, we’ve laid out a few simple suggestions in four different categories. Start with no more than one or two. And then once your new habits or behaviors are second nature, then you can take on a new resolution. For now, take it easy, take it slow, but be consistent, and you’ll be well on your way to gorgeous, radiant skin. 

Here are some of the best skincare resolutions for the new year. 

1. Remember the basics 

One way to help turn actions into habits is to associate them with other habits. So, for example,  if you have a cup of tea every morning, then maybe while you heat the water, you can use that time to moisturize your face and apply sunscreen.  Or maybe at night, before you settle down in front of Netflix, you remove your makeup and apply your night cream so you don’t fall asleep in your makeup. Whatever your routine is, one small change in your skincare habits may be just what you need for 2022. 

Apply sunscreen daily and reapply it every two hours

Remove your makeup thoroughly—every night

Keep your skin moisturized

2. Practice healthy living

Your body is an ecosystem, a community of living things. Everything you consume, how much you move (or don’t move), every choice you make has an effect on your overall health and wellbeing. Including your skin. Whether you’re practicing healthy or unhealthy living, it’s going to show on your skin. This means your skincare resolutions don’t just have to come from your cosmetic drawer. They can also come from the way you live. 

Eat skin-healthy foods

Exercise regularly

Get sufficient sleep

Stay hydrated

3. Beware of bacteria

If you already have the skincare basics down and you have a healthy diet and exercise routine, you may be ready to add a more challenging skincare resolution to your calendar.  It’s not difficult to clean the things that touch your face, but since they won’t always fall under your daily routine, it may be a challenge to remember to do them. Your calendar or phone reminders will help. Whatever you do, be sure to record your progress somewhere so you can congratulate yourself for achieving your resolution at the end of the year. 

Clean your cell phone daily

Wash your pillowcases weekly

Clean your makeup brushes monthly

4. Ask for help 

Resolutions are often about self-improvement, and that’s a wonderful thing. But none of us achieve success without help from others. What if this year, your resolution is simply to ask for help.  When it comes to taking care of your own skin, you may not always know exactly what’s needed to achieve your goals.  But you know what? You’re just a phone call away from skilled and experienced professionals who are specifically trained to help you achieve optimal skin health.  If you don’t have a specific skincare resolution, we’re happy to help.

Here are a couple of starting suggestions:

Seek the guidance of a skincare expert and go from there

Pamper yourself with professional skin treatments

Treat yourself to the high-quality professional skincare products

At Siti Med Spa, we’re here to help you feel beautiful in the skin you’re in. Come see us today!

Beautiful Skin, Beautiful You in 2022 | Siti Med Spa 

If you’re in need of a refresh for the New Year, come on in for a consultation. We’ll listen to your concerns, evaluate your skin, and discuss your options with you. Our full-service medical spa is San Diego’s leader in cutting-edge anti-aging procedures, and our highly-skilled Nurse Practitioners are committed to helping you achieve a healthy, rejuvenated, and ageless appearance. 

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Juvashape Vs Coolsculpting - There's One Clear Winner

JuVaShape™ and CoolSculpting® are two of the most popular non-invasive body contouring treatments.  But at Siti Med Spa, we have a clear favorite. We’re committed to helping our clients maximize their results from every treatment, and between JuVaShape™ and CoolSculpting®, only one takes a comprehensive approach, providing body contouring, skin tightening, and cellulite removal in a single treatment.  Read on to learn more about JuVaShape™ vs CoolSculpting®. 

What is JuVaShape?

JuVaShape™ is a non-invasive treatment that improves and rejuvenates the contours of the face and body. The JuVaShape™ laser uses radiofrequency energy to deliver controlled heat to the skin at different depths of penetration to treat a range of cosmetic concerns, including deep wrinkles, loose sagging skin, cellulite, and stubborn localized fatty deposits.The handheld JuVaShape™ device works in two ways. First, it targets the deep layer of skin, heating up the fat cells that reside there. The heat destroys the fat cells, reducing volume, and refining body contours. Second, the heat triggers the contraction of collagen bands, tightening the skin immediately, eliminating cellulite, and stimulating collagen production. JuVaShape™ treatments result in gorgeous sculpted body contours and smoother, tighter, cellulite-free skin.  

What is CoolSculpting?

CoolSculpting® is a non-surgical fat removal procedure that works by killing fat cells in a specific treatment area. The CoolSculpting® applicator suctions up the skin and freezes the pinchable fat within. Once frozen, those fat cells disintegrate and leave the body as waste. The treatment is limited to the elimination of fat cells. 

JuVaShape™ vs CoolSculpting

Both JuVaShape™ and CoolSculpting® refine the body contours, but there are some key differences:

CoolSculpting® helps reduce fat in the treatment area, but nothing more.

JuVaShape™ kills fat cells, improves body contours, treats deep wrinkles, tightens sagging skin, and eliminates cellulite. 

CoolSculpting® treats only the fat pulled into the device, leaving the area outside, untreated, which can result in an odd perimeter of visible fat. 

The JuVaShape™ handpiece allows the treating practitioner to follow the curves of the body and sculpt strategically and thoroughly for beautiful, seamless results.

The extreme suction and freezing involved with CoolSculpting® can be painful, resulting in frostbite-like tingling in the treatment area afterward.

JuVaShape™ provides a warming sensation that some patients have compared to a hot stone massage. The settings can be adjusted to ensure patient comfort. 

When comparing JuVaShape™ and CoolSculpting®, there is one clear winner.  JuVaShape™ provides a more comprehensive approach to body contouring, skin tightening, and cellulite removal as well as a more comfortable experience overall. 

Sculpt your curves, tighten your skin, and eliminate cellulite with JuVaShape

At Siti Med Spa, we’re committed to helping you look and feel beautiful in the skin you’re in. Our JuVaShape™ treatments are affordable, non-invasive, and highly effective. If you’re looking to diminish wrinkles, tighten sagging skin, get rid of cellulite, and blast stubborn pockets of fat, JuVaShape™ has you covered! For more information about JuVaShape™ or any of our other cosmetic treatments and services, give us a call at (619) 717-8484 today. 

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BOTOX Forehead Wrinkles FAQs

When it comes to the golden ratio of beauty, the forehead ideally takes up one third of the face. Even in people whose features veer away from those perfect proportions, the forehead is still quite prominent. Surprisingly, however, most of us tend not to notice other people’s foreheads. Instead, our attention is naturally drawn to their eyes and lips, as those features play the most significant roles in communication. And yet, at the first sign of forehead wrinkles on our own faces, many of us find it nearly impossible to see anything else when we look in the mirror. If forehead wrinkles are diminishing your confidence and aging your face, you may want to give BOTOX® a try.  Take a look below at our BOTOX® forehead wrinkles FAQ to decide if BOTOX® is right for you. 

What is BOTOX? 

BOTOX® Cosmetic is an injectable formula that helps to smooth out lines and wrinkles, resulting in a more youthful and relaxed appearance. It is especially effective on forehead wrinkles, wrinkles between the brows, and wrinkles around the eyes. BOTOX® is the most frequently performed cosmetic procedure in the United States. 

Does BOTOX get rid of wrinkles?

Yes and no. BOTOX® does help to eliminate wrinkles, but it doesn’t work on all wrinkles.  Take a look in the mirror and make a facial expression. Then let it go. The wrinkles that become visible with the expression and then disappear when you let it go are called dynamic wrinkles. BOTOX® helps eliminate these wrinkles.The wrinkles that are visible on your face when you are making no expression are called static wrinkles. BOTOX® does not treat these wrinkles. 

How does BOTOX work? 

BOTOX® works by relaxing the muscles that create dynamic wrinkles. The active ingredient in BOTOX®, onabotulinumtoxinA, is a neurotoxin derived from the bacterium Clostridium botulinum. At the smallest doses, when injected strategically by a well-experienced cosmetic medical specialist, BOTOX® inhibits the movement of the muscles that cause the wrinkles. The wrinkles are then smoothed away, resulting in a more serene and youthful appearance. 

Will BOTOX make my forehead frozen?

A skilled and experienced practitioner will begin your BOTOX® consultation with an evaluation of your facial anatomy and an assessment of your wrinkle patterns in order to determine the best locations for administering the injections in a way that relaxes very specific muscles. The exact amount of BOTOX® used will be customized to your needs, based on your facial anatomy and the degree of muscle contraction in the treatment area. With a series of precise injections, only the essential muscles are treated, while the others remain functional and able maintain their natural movement. With the right practitioner, you’ll still look like you, but with a smoother, more youthful forehead. 

How much BOTOX is needed for forehead wrinkles?

BOTOX® should never be used exactly the same way in each person, because everyone is different, and every wrinkle is different, too. There are, however, some general recommendations for the number of units for different treatment areas. It typically takes 10 to 30 units to smooth out horizontal forehead wrinkles. The vertical wrinkles between the brows may require as many as 40 to 50 units to achieve the best results. Of course, these numbers can always be higher or lower, depending on the patient’s preferences, whether it’s a first-time or touch-up treatment, and other factors. The best way to get a more specific answer for your particular situation is to schedule a BOTOX® consultation at Siti Med Spa. 

How long do BOTOX appointments take and how long does BOTOX last? 

BOTOX® treatments take only a few minutes—they can be performed during your lunch hour and still give you time to eat! First-time appointments may take a little longer in order to give the practitioner time to perform the necessary assessments that help determine the best injection locations for your facial anatomy. 

BOTOX® lasts between 3 and 4 months. First-time results may wear off a little sooner, and consistent use often provides longer-lasting results. 

How much does BOTOX treatment cost? 

BOTOX® treatment costs approximately $15 to $20 per unit. If you need 40 units for treatment of forehead wrinkles, for example, it will cost approximately $600-$800. Although some medical spas do offer specials, it’s best to stay away from those that offer too-good-to-be-true discounts because you may not be getting the freshest product or the best quality service. At Siti Med Spa in San Diego, we offer only freshest, highest quality products and top-notch service by highly trained and skilled cosmetic practitioners. 

Certified BOTOX clinic in San Diego

Siti Med Spa in San Diego is a certified BOTOX® Cosmetic clinic. One visit to our medical spa in Bankers Hill and you will see the difference, not only in the quality of the products we use but also in the expertise and experience of our cosmetic medicine specialists. For more information about BOTOX® Cosmetic or to schedule a consultation, give us a call today at (619) 717-8484.

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Which Is Better Glycolic Acid or Salicylic Acid?

Taking care of your skin is an important part of looking and feeling your best. Whether you’re just starting to take your skincare seriously or you’re renewing your commitment, getting great results is all about finding the right products for your skin.  Glycolic acid and salicylic acid are two ingredients that you’ll find in a number of skincare products. But what do they do, and how are they different? Here’s what you need to know.  

What is glycolic acid?

Glycolic acid is an alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA), a group of naturally occurring fruit acids. Derived from sugar cane, glycolic acid is a key ingredient in a wide variety of skincare products in part because of its exfoliating properties. It works by loosening up the outer layers of dull, dead skin cells to reveal the fresh new skin beneath. The exfoliation process also helps to treat pigmentation issues and prevent acne breakouts by clearing away the gunk that leads to clogged pores.  Glycolic acid has a smaller molecule than other AHAs, which allows it to penetrate the skin. So in addition to optimizing skin health on the surface, it also works below the surface by stimulating the production of collagen and minimizing the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines. 

Skincare products containing glycolic acid come in a range of different formulas, from more gentle toners, cleansers, and at-home peel pads to medical-grade chemical peels that should only be applied by experienced cosmetic practitioners. 

What is salicylic acid? 

Salicylic acid is a beta-hydroxy acid (BHA), a group of naturally occurring acids. Derived from willow bark, salicylic acid is a key ingredient in many anti-acne skincare products in particular. Like glycolic acid, salicylic acid exfoliates the upper layers of skin to remove the gunk and reveal the fresh skin beneath. One of the main differences between the AHAs and the BHAs is that the former are water soluble and the latter are fat-soluble. While both glycolic and salicylic acids can penetrate the surface of the skin, the salicylic acid can go deeper,  which allows it to get down into the pores and clean them from within. In addition, salicylic acid helps to reduce inflammation, giving it yet another advantage as an ingredient in acne medications. 

Skincare products containing salicylic acid include cleansers, toners, serums, gels, creams, acne spot treatments, and chemical peels. 

Glycolic acid or salicylic acid: Which is right for you? 

When it comes to choosing skincare products, the best way to determine the right products for your skin is to work with an experienced skin care professional who can evaluate your skin and understand your specific needs. But in general, products containing salicylic acid as a main ingredient are best for oily, acne-prone skin, and treating whiteheads, blackheads, and deeper issues with clogged pores. Products containing glycolic acid as a main ingredient will work best for mild hyperpigmentation, fine lines and surface wrinkles, uneven skin tone, and enlarged pores. 

Let us help you love your skin | Siti Med Spa 

Many people have skin concerns that could benefit from both glycolic acid and salicylic acid. But a DIY mix-and-match could lead to skin trouble. Instead, try a high-quality specialized formula that contains both.  At Siti Med Spa, we recommend SkinMedica AHA/BHA Exfoliating Cleanser for at-home use. Or come in and see us for a chemical peel.  We’ll find the right formula to treat your skin concerns and give you a healthy, beautiful glow. 

For more information on SkinMedica skin care products or any of our cosmetic services, give us a call at 619-717-8484 today.