Archive for the ‘Skin clinic’ Category

Suffering From Hyperhidrosis? See What Botox Treatments Are Available?

Wednesday, October 5th, 2022

Suffering From Hyperhidrosis? See What Botox Treatments Are Available?

Do you sweat profusely throughout the day, even during cold weather or when you’re not exercising? If yes, you might have hyperhidrosis. But if you’re not aware of what hyperhidrosis is, don’t worry; this blog will explain everything you need to know about this condition and how to treat it effectively with botox treatment.

How To Stop Sweat In My Hand Permanently?

Sweaty hands can cause many problems and embarrassment, especially when you wish to hold hands with your special one. While there are numerous short-term treatment options available to treat hand-sweating, such as using baking soda, keeping hydrated, using botox, and eating a balanced diet, some permanent solutions are also known to treat the sweating of hands. This include:

Iontophoresis – Iontophoresis has been regarded as one of the effective methods for permanently treating hand-sweating. In this procedure, a mild current is passed through the water below the skin’s surface, reducing the sweating on the hands.

Medications – according to the Columbia Unversity’s Centre for Hyperhidrosis, certain drugs also effectively combat hand-sweating. Your physician will prescribe a suitable medication after a thorough clinical examination.

Surgery – if none of the above treatments works, your physician may consider surgical treatment to solve this issue permanently.

I Have Hyperhidrosis. What Do I Do?

According to the American Academy of Dermatology, Hyperhidrosis is characterised by excessive sweating. The sweating can either take place on the entire body, or it can occur only in certain parts like the hands. If you have hyperhidrosis, various treatment options are available to combat this problem. The first step is to consult your healthcare physician, who will perform a detailed examination and advise some necessary tests to diagnose the underlying issue. Once the diagnosis has been made, treatment can be done through any of the following available options:

Short-term Treatments

Using antiperspirants when needed
Alcohol swabs or wipes to remove excessive moisture
Antiperspirant creams
Botox injection

Permanent/ Long-term solutions

Iontophoresis treatment
Medications
Surgical treatment

Is Botox A Cure For Hyperhidrosis?

According to the American Academy of Dermatology, Botulinum toxin A, also called Botox, is an effective option for treating excessive sweating, besides being a remedy to eliminate skin creases and lines. In this treatment, your doctor will inject the diluted form of botox toxin into your underarms to curb excessive sweating. The effects of this treatment last for about 6 months on average. Afterwards, a new treatment is needed for continued results.

In What Areas Is Botox Injected?

The most commonly used site for injecting botulinum toxin is the underarms. However, studies have shown that this anti-sweating treatment may also be effective on other body sites. For example, in some cases, skincare physicians use the botulinum injection to prevent excessive sweating on the scalp in post-menopausal women. It may also be used to control sweating on the hands and feet.

How Does Botox Stop Sweating?

Besides removing sagging lines and skin creases, botox treatment is also effective in treating hyperhidrosis. This treatment works by temporarily stopping the release of a chemical that stimulates the sweat glands in the body. In this way, sweating is controlled temporarily. However, frequent botox injections are needed for continued efficacy in cases of excessive hyperhidrosis.

How Many Different Things Can Be Treated With Botox?

There are two main uses of botox treatment. The first is to remove skin creases and lines. This is achieved by injecting a diluted form of the botulinum toxin A, which temporarily paralyses the skin muscles, thereby resulting in their stretching and the elimination of skin lines. The second use of botox is as an anti-sweating agent. Botox transiently stops the release of a chemical that regulates sweat production, thereby showing efficacy in the treatment of hyperhidrosis.

If Too Much Botox Is Injected, How Do You Reverse The Effects?

Once injected, the effects of a botox injection cannot be reversed. Luckily, injecting too much botox does not cause severe side effects besides causing unwanted drooping of the eyelids or other facial landmarks. The results of the injection will slowly go away in 3-4 months. If there are undesirable cosmetic changes due to the injection, they can be reversed by injecting the injection on the opposite side to compensate for the changes.

Can Botox Injections Cause Health Problems?

Botox treatment is generally safe and does not cause severe allergic reactions. However, if too much of the toxin is injected, it may cause unwanted facial changes, such as drooping or tautness of the eyelids or other facial regions. That is why it is important to visit a qualified, experienced skincare specialist for botox treatment.

What Are The Side Effects Of Botox Injections?

The side effects associated with botox treatment are generally non-severe. Some of these include:

Transient pain, swelling or bruising at the site of the injection
Drooping eyelids or cockeyed brows
Headaches or flu-like symptoms
Drooling
Dryness in the eyes or excessive tearing

What Is The Best Affordable Treatment For Hyperhidrosis?

Your dentist will recommend a suitable treatment for hyperhidrosis after a thorough clinical examination and determination of your medical needs. However, botox treatment has been regarded as one of the most cost-effective and efficient treatments for hyperhidrosis.

If you are suffering from excessive hand-sweating and looking for a renowned and reliable skincare specialist in Oxford, The Smile Practice is at your service! To find out how hyperhidrosis treatment in Oxford or Didcot can help beat excessive sweating, please request a free video consultation today.

Dr Murgai

This post has been written by Dr Ajay Murgai, he is a highly experienced General and Cosmetic Dental Surgeon. Dr Ajay runs clinics in Hertfordshire, South Oxfordshire and Harley Street, and carries out a full spectrum of treatments from Aesthetic Dentistry to routine examinations.

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Tags: Botox, excessive sweating, Sweating
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Dermal Fillers, Naturally Derived Solutions For Facial Revitalisation

Monday, July 4th, 2022

Dermal Fillers, Naturally Derived Solutions For Facial Revitalisation

In today’s modern world, the need to look beautiful is evergrowing. From the clothes you wear to your shoes, your body and even your smile – people notice everything! That is why there has been an unprecedented rise in the demand for cosmetic treatment in the UK. Among these cosmetic treatments, dermal fillers are routinely used for treating facial aesthetic problems such as wrinkles, creases, and sagging skin. So, if you are also one of those who feel self-conscious around people because of their facial defects, dermal fillers are the answer to your cosmetic problems.

But, “what are dermal fillers and are they safe?” you might ask. Well, the answer to these questions and many others lies in this article. So, continue reading to find out everything you need to know about dermal fillers and their use for smile enhancement.

What Are Dermal Fillers Used For?

According to the British College of Aesthetic Medicine, dermal fillers or injectable fillers are materials that are used for improving the appearance of the skin and restoring skin volume. For example, facial dermal fillers are used to smooth facial wrinkles and creases and to volume or “plump up” the skin by filling the contours, restoring facial aesthetics and making one look younger and prettier.

Some of the common uses of dermal fillers are to improve:

Facial lines wrinkles
Deep smile lines across the corners of the mouth
Vertical “smokers lines” on the upper lips
Lip unevenness and volume
Acne scare
Appearance and shape of the nose

How Long Will Dermal Fillers Last?

Dermal fillers are not permanent and will require re-treatment after some time. However, high-quality dermal fillers injected by an experienced cosmetic specialist produce better results and last longer than regular ones. According to the National Health Service (NHS). Dermal fillers can last anywhere between 6 and 18 months. Their lifetime also depends on the type of filler used for dermal treatment.

What Is The Difference Between Dermal Fillers And Botox?

Although the function of is the same, i.e., to improve skin appearance and volume, they work differently. For example, botox or botulinum injection contains purified bacteria that freeze the facial muscles, thereby helping in minimising the skin creases and lines around the face. On the other hand, dermal fillers contain ingredients that physically add volume to the skin, thereby reducing wrinkles and treating sagging skin.

Do Dermal Fillers Really Help In Removing Wrinkles?

Dermal fillers add volume to the skin and remove wrinkles and creases around the face. The fact that dermal fillers physically remove facial defects by adding sufficient volume to the skin shows their effectiveness in improving one’s appearance. Different dermal fillers are used by cosmetic specialists, such as hyaluronic acid and collagen-based dermal fillers, all of which have been proven to provide excellent aesthetic results.

How Does Dermal Filler Work On The Face?

Dermal fillers are directly injected into the skin. The procedure is painless at takes around 20-30 minutes to complete, depending on the area being treated. Once the fillers are injected, they add volume to the skin and remove creases and wrinkles, thereby rejuvenating the skin.

What Are The Expected Results Of A Dermal Filler Treatment?

Unlike Botox injections, dermal fillers take time to provide their aesthetic results. Similarly, the skin-rejuvenating effects of dermal fillers last longer than botox. Please keep in mind that slight swelling and discomfort are not uncommon for the next 24-48 hours after the procedure, which gradually decreases over time. For best results, physicians advise against doing heavy physical work or weight lifting for the next 72 hours after the procedure. Similarly, alcohol intake should be avoided for the next 24 hours post-operatively.

How To Prolong Dermal Fillers And Make Them Last A Long Time?

Like botox, dermal fillers are not permanent. However, there are ways in which you can prolong their life and aesthetic results, such as:

Avoid Putting Pressure on the first day of the injection, avoid touching your face or applying pressure. Similarly, you should try avoiding sleeping on the sides, as it may result in the movement of the fillers away from the treatment site.
Stay Hydrated – Staying hydrated reduces facial wrinkles and maintains the injections. In addition to drinking water, you should use topical hydration sources such as moisturisers to reduce inflammation and accelerate healing.

Avoid UV Exposure – excessive exposure to UV rays can reverse the effects of cosmetic treatment. That is why, you should avoid exposure to the sun after dermal filler treatment and use high-quality sunscreen when going out.

Eat Right – avoiding a carbohydrate-rich diet and processed food helios in subsiding the inflammation and accelerating the overall healing process.

Avoid Stress – Stress is a common factor in our routine life. While it is impossible to eliminate it, we should find ways to rescue it as much as possible. Excessive stress results in the release of a hormone called cortisol, which accelerates the ageing process. So, by avoiding stress, you can enhance the lifetime of dermal fillers.

If you search the internet for dermal fillers, you will find numerous practices providing this service. However, you must visit a qualified and trained esthetic medicine specialist or dentist for your filler treatment, to ensure long-lasting results and safety. So, if you live in Oxford or neighbouring areas, you visit The Smile Practice for all your facial aesthetic treatment needs, where all services are available under one roof. So, what are you waiting for? Book a free video consultation appointment with us today, and let us give you a lasting and healthy smile.

Tags: Botox, dermal filler, smooth skin, wrinkles
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Get A Hollywood Laser Hair Removal Treatment – The What, Where And How?

Wednesday, May 4th, 2022

Get A Hollywood Laser Hair Removal Treatment

Whether it is the wrinkles or hair on your face, anything unwanted on your body can significantly affect your appearance and attractiveness. If you’re also concerned about excessive hair on your face or other areas of the body, you would like to get rid of them completely. This article is for you. In this article, we discuss the most effective method for saying goodbye to your unwanted body hair permanently. So, read to find out how you can become more attractive through laser hair removal.

Is It Worth Getting Laser Hair Removal In The Bikini Area?

Yes, it’s totally worth it. Imagine no longer having to use various temporary, partially effective, and sometimes painful methods to remove hair from your bikini area? Laser hair removal treatment can make that possible for you. This is because laser hair removal treatment done by an experienced doctor will permanently stop the growth of hair in these regions. So, you don’t have to worry about shaving your pubic hair anymore before going on a date!

How Risky Is Laser Hair Removal? What Are The Side Effects?

Laser treatment is one of the most effective methods for getting rid of unwanted body hair. While there are no major adverse effects associated with laser treatment, the American Society of Plastic Surgeons highlights various minor, transient side effects that can occur due to laser treatment. These include:

Mild, transient swelling around the hair follicles
In some cases, particularly in dark-skinned individuals, pigment changes may occur. However, these changes are usually temporary
Some people may experience slight redness in the treated area
Other temporary side effects include blister formation, crusting, and scarring in some cases.

It is recommended to use a lower power laser to reduce the risk of skin damage.

How Long Does Laser Hair Removal Last?

Laser hair removal performed by a qualified and experienced cosmetic professional usually lasts permanently. However, permanent results are not always guaranteed. For example, some individuals are resistant to laser treatment and they may experience transient or partial results. However, this occurs in a very small amount of individuals. Generally, the effects of laser hair removal are very long-lasting.

How Do Actresses Manage Their Underarm Hair?

Hollywood actresses and celebrities have to constantly look after their appearance. This includes making sure they get rid of their unwanted body hair, such as facial and underarm hair, so that they continue looking attractive. One of the most commonly used procedures by actresses is to get rid of their underarm hair permanently with laser hair removal. But, the good news is that underarm hair removal with lasers is not just for celebrities; you can benefit from it too! Simply visit your cosmetic professional or dental practice and walk away with a gorgeous and attractive body.

What Is It Like To Get Laser Hair Removal On Your Armpits?

Despite many claims that underarm hair removal with lasers is painless, it is not. You can expect slight pain or discomfort during the procedure. Some patients feel the “zap” of the laser every time it flickers. According to some people, the discomfort of laser is like flickering rubber bands into your underarms for 10 minutes. Besides, you may also expect your underarm area to remain tender for the next 24 hours after the procedure.

Why Is Laser Hair Removal Better Than Waxing?

If you are prone to ingrown hair, you might be looking for a long-term solution. Many women use waxing to remove their unwanted body hair. Unfortunately, the results of waxing are not permanent. Besides, waxing causes significant pain and discomfort. On the other hand, laser hair removal offers a long-term solution to get rid of body hair. Although waxing is more cost-effective, you should look at the cost-to-benefit ratio here; laser treatment is expensive, but you will need to undergo this procedure only once or twice. So, laser hair removal is undoubtedly better the waxing.

How Long Should One Wait Between Laser Hair Removal Sessions?

Although the results of laser hair removal are long-lasting, some people need to undergo multiple sittings for the best results. Experts generally recommend waiting 6-8 weeks before undergoing another session. However, your cosmetic doctor is the best person to advise regarding the waiting time, based on your individual body needs.

How Do Actors Seem To Get Such A Clean Shave?

Have you ever wondered why Hollywood male actors have such a clean shave? Do you think they use a better and more effective safety razor than you? No, it is not their safety razors. The fact is that male actors also rely on laser hair removal to enjoy a completely hairless face. So, if you also want to enjoy a clean shave to appear more attractive, you can also visit a cosmetic doctor for laser hair removal treatment.

A beautiful smile and a hairless, perfectly shaped body are essential requirements for looking charming and attractive. At the Smile Practice, we believe that cosmetic treatment is not just for Hollywood stars. Instead, everyone deserves to look beautiful and enjoy a charming smile.

If you are fed up with removing your facial or body hair with waxing with only temporary results, it’s time to utilise the power of laser hair removal at the Smile Practice. Our expert cosmetic specialists have extensive experience in laser hair removal, and they can truly transform your appearance and smile. So, book an appointment with us today and let us give you a Hollywood body and smile.

Tags: laser hair removal, remove hair
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What Is Hyperhidrosis (and How Do I Treat It?)

Monday, October 26th, 2020

The International Hyperhidrosis Society estimates that 365 million people suffer from excessive sweating. If you are among them or suspect that you are, it’s important to know the facts about hyperhidrosis.

In fact, hyperhidrosis is a medical condition, and treatment options do exist.

Read on to learn more about hyperhidrosis and its treatments.

What Is Hyperhidrosis (Face, Feet, Hands, Underarms, and Full Body Excessive Sweating)?

“Hydrosis” is the medical term for sweating. Of course, sweating is a natural bodily process that helps you cool down. It is necessary when you are active or exposed to extreme heat or other stimuli, like stress. As with many bodily processes, however, your body’s cooling process can go awry.

The prefix “hyper” means “over” or “excessive.” Thus, hyperhidrosis refers to a condition in which your body sweats more than normal. People with hyperhidrosis also sweat in the absence of stimuli, like exertion or heat.

Some people with hyperhidrosis experience excessive sweating all over the body. Others find that their excessive sweating is limited to certain parts of the body. Common localised diagnoses include:

Axillary hyperhidrosis (underarms)
Facial hyperhidrosis (face)
Plantar hyperhidrosis (feet)
Palmar hyperhidrosis (hands)

While these locations tend to have a high concentration of sweat glands, people with hyperhidrosis don’t have more sweat glands than others. Rather, they have more active sweat glands than others. People with hyperhidrosis have an overactive sympathetic nerve response.

What Causes Excessive Sweating (Neurological Disorders, Genetics, Medication, and More)?

Hyperhidrosis can be a primary or secondary condition.

Primary hyperhidrosis is genetic. It can occur in the absence of any other medical conditions. Individuals with a family history of hyperhidrosis are more likely to experience excessive sweating.

Secondary hyperhidrosis occurs as a side effect of medication or a symptom of an underlying condition. Conditions commonly associated with hyperhidrosis include:

Hyperthyroidism and other hormonal disorders
Heart disease
Obesity
Diabetes
Gout
Anxiety
Menopause
Spinal cord injury
Neurological disorders, including Parkinson’s disease
Cancer
Certain infections
Heart attack

In addition to these conditions, the International Hyperhidrosis Society publishes an extensive list of medications associated with hyperhidrosis. These include prescription and over-the-counter medications. Alcohol use can also cause excessive sweating.

When Should You See a Doctor for Excessive Sweating?

Many people with hyperhidrosis are reluctant to seek treatment. Some are embarrassed by their condition. Others incorrectly assume that their excessive sweating is simply a fact of life, even when excessive sweating significantly impacts their lives.

This is unfortunate because hyperhidrosis is not a reason for shame, and it need not be a fact of life. In fact, hyperhidrosis is a medical condition that can be treated.

You should see a medical professional and pursue treatment if you meet any of the following conditions:

Excessive sweating prevents you from going about your daily routine
Excessive sweating has caused you to experience mental distress or social withdrawal
A pattern of excessive sweating has come on suddenly
Excessive sweating occurs at night

As you prepare for your appointment, it’s important to keep track of your symptoms and make note of any triggers. These observations can help your doctor to diagnose and treat your condition.

Because excessive sweating can occur during a heart attack, it’s especially important to seek emergency medical assistance if you experience it along with chest pain, lightheadedness, or nausea.

How To Stop Excessive Sweating All Over the Body: What Are Hyperhidrosis Treatment Options?

Whether you’re hoping to eliminate localised hyperhidrosis or you’re wondering how to stop excessive sweating all over the body, treatment is available. Treatments include self-help measures, medications, injections, and surgery.

Self-Help Measures for Hyperhidrosis

You can take steps to calm your body’s sweat response. These include proper hygiene and skin care. Daily baths or showers are especially important if you sweat excessively. While bathing or showering won’t affect how much you sweat, it will help you control any odours associated with perspiration.

Proper hygiene, especially for those with hyperhidrosis, includes using an antiperspirant. Astringents can further help to clean the skin and constrict the pores.

If you suffer from excessive sweating, you should also take your condition into account when choosing clothes. Loose-fitting clothes made from natural materials, like cotton, are more breathable. They can, therefore, keep your body cooler and reduce sweating.

If your body’s sweat response is particularly reactive to stress, you might benefit from relaxation techniques.

Finally, modifying your eating habits to avoid skipping meals and reduce alcohol consumption can also help.

Many people with hyperhidrosis find some relief from these self-help measures. However, proper diagnosis and treatment from a medical professional remain necessary.

Medication for Hyperhidrosis

Treatment options for hyperhidrosis include various prescription medications.

Most hyperhidrosis patients find little relief from over-the-counter antiperspirants. Prescription-strength antiperspirants can be a more effective option. These include sprays, creams, and roll-ons. If you suffer from excessive sweating all over your body, you might find antiperspirant sprays easiest to use. Other topical applications are commonly used to treat localised hyperhidrosis.

Your doctor might also prescribe oral medications to control your hyperhidrosis.

If you experience secondary hyperhidrosis, taking medication to address the underlying condition can control excessive sweating.

The most common oral prescription medications for primary hyperhidrosis are anticholinergics. These drugs impede communication between the nerves and the sweat glands.

In the UK, the only anticholinergic approved to treat hyperhidrosis is propantheline. Other drugs in this class may be used off-label to treat hyperhidrosis. These include oxybutynin and glycopyrrolate.

While these drugs can provide effective relief, they can also cause side effects. Some of these may be severe. Side effects of anticholinergics include:

Blurred vision
Dry mouth
Constipation
Stomach cramps
Difficulty urinating

Recent studies have also noted a potential link between these drugs and dementia and brain atrophy.

Botox Injections

The side effects and long-term risks of prescription medications make them a less-than-appealing option for many hyperhidrosis patients. Many of these patients find that Botox injections offer a safer alternative.

Botox injections work by paralyzing the nerves that send signals to the sweat glands. Without these signals, your glands can’t produce sweat.

Botox treatments for hyperhidrosis focus on a particular area of the body. During treatment, your doctor will use a microneedle to inject a small amount of botulinum toxin protein in a grid-like pattern. These injections directly target the affected area. If you experience hyperhidrosis in more than one part of your body, you can receive multiple injections.

Treatment with Botox injections is quick. You can expect to be in the office for only 30-40 minutes. You’ll also be able to resume your regular routine within two hours of your visit.

When you choose to treat your hyperhidrosis with Botox, you can also expect quick results. Most patients experience a noticeable decrease in sweating within two days. Studies show that, within a week, Botox treatments reduce sweat production by an average of 87%.

These results usually last between six and twelve months. Eventually, the nerves in the treated area will regenerate. When this happens, you’ll begin to experience symptoms again. However, you can return for treatments as necessary.

Even when it is used on an ongoing basis, Botox is a safe treatment option for hyperhidrosis. Botox injections rarely cause side effects. The most common side effect is minor bruising at the injection site. This bruising usually fades within a few days.

Surgery

Conservative treatment options are effective for many hyperhidrosis patients. Patients who have pursued more conservative treatments without success may consider surgery.

Surgical Removal of the Sweat Glands

Some hyperhidrosis patients choose to have their sweat glands surgically removed. Besides excision, or cutting, procedures can include curettage, or scraping, and liposuction. The goal of this treatment is to remove or damage enough sweat glands to reduce perspiration in that area.

Compared to other surgery options, removing sweat glands involves fewer risks and a shorter recovery. Doctors usually perform these procedures in the office with the patient under local anaesthetic.

Fortunately, current research suggests that removing sweat glands from one area does not increase sweating elsewhere. However, sweat glands are tiny. Thus, precision in their removal can be difficult to achieve. Patients who elect this treatment may, therefore, see varied results.

Endoscopic Thoracic Sympathectomy

Endoscopic thoracic sympathectomy (ETS) is the most invasive surgical treatment for hyperhidrosis. ETS involves cutting the nerve path from the spinal column to the sweat glands. This procedure is complicated and requires general anaesthesia. During the procedure, the surgeon must temporarily collapse the patient’s lungs.

Risks include oxygen deprivation, brain damage, and even death. ETS patients also risk severe hypotension, arrhythmia, and heat intolerance.

A less serious but still problematic side effect of this surgery is compensatory sweating. Like many other treatments, ETS targets excessive sweating in a particular part of the body. While ETS may reduce sweating in the targeted area, it can lead to excessive sweating elsewhere.

Because ETS is irreversible, it’s important to weigh the risks and benefits before pursuing this option. It’s also extremely wise to try less invasive treatments, like Botox injections, first.

Don’t Sweat It: Seek Effective Treatment for Hyperhydrosis

Hyperhidrosis is a common medical condition, affecting millions of people worldwide. Despite the condition’s prevalence, hyperhidrosis patients often suffer alone and in silence. This is unfortunate and unnecessary because treatment is available.

Treatments for hyperhidrosis include safe and effective options, like Botox injections. Talking to your doctor is the first step toward enjoying the benefits of these treatments.

Contact The Smile Practice to book an appointment or video consultation with Dr Ajay Murgai, our hyperhidrosis expert, today.

Dr Murgai

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Does Aloe Vera Gel Work? What to Do After Your Laser Treatment

Monday, September 28th, 2020

Does Aloe Vera Gel Work? What to Do After Your Laser Treatment How do you take care of yourself after having a laser treatment for hair removal? Should you take a hot shower? Slather on aloe vera gel? Enjoy a relaxing beach day?

Laser treatments are safe for most people and your technician will let you know if you are not eligible — such as if you are pregnant.

However, there are some dos and don’ts you should be aware of so you can take good care of yourself after your treatment. Read on to find out what you should do after a laser hair removal treatment!

Avoid UV Light and the Sun

UV rays already have a detrimental effect on the skin and too much exposure can cause premature ageing. Laser hair removal can make your skin even more sensitive. To limit the risk of skin redness, irritation, and other side effects, avoid exposure to the sun and UV rays for a least 7 days both before and after treatment. Also, avoid sunless tanning products for 7 days before.

If you get a sunburn or a tan, your skin needs time to heal before treatment with the laser. Avoid both for at least 2 weeks before. If you have a sunburn or tan at the time of treatment, you will usually be asked to wait 2 weeks and come back.

After the procedure, use sunscreen of SPF 30 or higher to further protect the skin.

Avoid Heat

Exposing the treated area to heat too soon after your treatment can lead to blisters and even burns. Avoid heat as much as possible for at least 48 hours after treatment.

Opt for a cool shower rather than a hot one. Definitely stay away from hot tubs and saunas and avoid using heating pads or a heated blanket.

Use Aloe Vera Gel

We mentioned this at the beginning and yes, it’s true! Aloe vera gel is an excellent way to take care of yourself post-laser treatment. Apply the cooling gel to the affected area for up to 3 days after treatment.

Aloe vera gel helps to keep your skin moisturized as well as speed the healing process with it’s anti-inflammatory and wound healing properties.

If your skin blisters, the gel will help to soothe the irritation and help clear it up. Don’t puncture the blisters on purpose, but if they break, be sure to apply a bit of antibiotic ointment to help avoid infection.

Exfoliate

As the hair follicles die and fall out, very gentle exfoliation is good to help remove the excess debris and clean the skin. Only use a very mild exfoliant and don’t scrub too hard. Remember, your skin will be more sensitive than normal and you must take care.

Choose a Competent Laser Treatment Professional

Choosing the right professional to handle your laser treatment is crucial. Proper techniques can diminish laser hair removal side-effects and ensure that you have a more pleasant experience and get the results you expect.

Once you have undergone the procedure, follow these laser hair removal instructions to properly care for your skin and promote healing.

Ready to get started? Contact us here at The Smile Practice for a free consultation!

Dr Murgai

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Tags: aloe vera, laser treatment
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Fat Freezing – 8 Questions You Want the Answers to

Monday, February 10th, 2020

As with many new body sculpting treatments there are often a whole host of questions that people want answered… In this article we look at fat freezing and tackle 8 of those questions.

1 – What is fat freezing?

Fat freezing was initially discovered whilst researchers were investigating frostbite, they noticed that fat freezes before skin does, this freezing altered the cells of the fat without damaging the skin. The process is undertaken with a nonsurgical machine which is designed to target fat, cellulite and to treat skin tightening. It is often known as coolsculpting procedures. The fat freezing process destroys fat cells using 2 processes, cavitation and a phenomenon called cryolipolysis. Because the fat cells are destroyed internally and turned into a liquid state they can be disposed of via natural body processes, without the need for additional invasive treatments.

2 – How does fat freezing work?

Cryolipolysis (fat freezing) targets fat cells specifically, it lowers the temperature to -6°, crystallising them and leaving them free to be disposed of naturally in the body. some of the best systems, such as the 3-D Lipomed use cavitation at the same time as this freezing. Cavitation uses ultrasound waves which causes destruction of the fat cells, breaking down their membrane. The dead fat cell is then disposed of naturally within the body via the liver and lymphatic system.

The results of cavitation are often seen on the first appointment and the results of cryolipolysis can be seen within a couple of months.

The procedure can be used in a range of locations on the body to assist with weight loss through diet and exercise, including waste (love handles) and double chins. One should always note that this procedure should be considered in conjunction with other techniques to lose weight.

3 – Does fat freezing work?

Yes is the simple answer but the best thing we can do is to show you before and after photographs of fat freezing so you can see the results for yourself.

Leg and Buttock treatment in 3 sessions

Before

After

Cellulite Reduction – before and after

Before

After

Belly Reduction Before and After – Full Circumference

Before

After

4 – How much is liposuction in the UK?

Lyposuction is usually more expensive than cool sculpting. Liposuction treatments usually start around £2500 and can often increase to just over £6000. These costs can increase considerably if a general anaesthetic is used. Fat freezing on the other hand depends upon the area treated but this typically starts at around £124.50 for a small area per session – with a course of 8 recommended.

5 – Can you freeze your fat off at home?

Whilst this is a very common question, the answer is no. You cannot freeze your fat of at home. The cavitation and cryolipolysis processes involve soundwaves at a very specific frequency which turn the fat into a liquid to be absorbed into the body. It is just not possible to achieve the correct frequencies using any form of home treatment

6 – Fat freezing vs tummy tuck

The primary difference between fat freezing and a tummy tuck is that fat freezing is the nonsurgical procedure whereas a tummy tuck is surgical. A tummy tuck, known medically as abdominoplasty, is where excess fat and skin are removed. The tummy tuck process is primarily designed to provide a toned and flat profile, very much like fat freezing but it achieves it in a very different way. A tummy tuck will require an anaesthetic, most usually intravenous sedation or a general anaesthetic. An incision will then be made, the skin lifted and the underlying weaknesses in the muscle repaired.

In contrast to this, fat freezing does not alter the muscles, it simply removes the fat by liquefying it and allowing it to be absorbed naturally in the body

7 – Is fat freezing safe?

in 2015 researchers from the Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery publication reported that there were no major health risks associated with the procedure. They said there was no reduction in liver function (this is where the fact is taken in the body). In this particular study they noted that people lost between 14.67 and 28.5% of the fact in the areas treated. Another study in Aesthetic Surgery Journal also found that the average fat reduction was around 19.55%.

8 – Are there any side effects from fat freezing?

Even though fat freezing is usually considered a ‘lunchtime treatment’ due to the fact it requires no incision or anesthesia there are sometimes side-effects, typically these include:

Localised sensitivity – this generally subsides within one week.
Tagging sensation during treatment – this is not painful but can be surprising if you are not expecting it.
Mild redness, bruising or swelling.
A slight tingling or stinging sensation on the treatment site – this again usually subsides within one week.
Very occasionally a rare condition called paradoxical adipose hyperplasia can occur, this happens more frequently in men and is where the cells in large in size rather than reduce. It is not fully understood why this happens.

Dr Murgai

thesmilepracti.wpengine.com

Tags: cavitation, cryolipolysis, fat freezing
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Everything You Need to Know about Lip Filler After-Care

Tuesday, December 10th, 2019

lip filler after care blog title

Lip filler after-care is something that is concerned for many people after they have had lip injections. This type of cosmetic injectable injection has become increasingly popular in modern times and this article is dedicated to helping resolve some of those concerns and answer those questions.

How to reduce swelling after lip fillers

Our top tips for an incredible final result include:

Avoid excessive or very strenuous exercise for at least 24 hours after treatment.
Avoid sweltering temperatures for at least 24 hours after treatment.
Use an ice pack on your lips.
Drink plenty of water.
Avoid excessive salt for 24 hours as this can dehydrate.

Can I eat after lip injections

Yes, but stick to our top tips, and you won’t go wrong, particularly if you have a big event coming up:

On the first day stick to foods that are easy to eat and chew, this means you’re less likely to have to wipe your lips and disturb the injection site.
Avoid vitamin E supplements for a couple of days as this can increase the risk of bruising.

Do’s and don’ts after lip filler

Lip filler aftercare advice:

do stick to foods that are easy to eat
do bring lipstick and lip liner to the appointment as this can be applied immediately after treatment to cover up any immediate bruising
do avoid kissing or massaging your lips directly after the procedure and possibly for up to 24 hours if it is your first lip filler injection
do be gentle with your skin while washing for 24 hours
don’t use and exfoliating agent for 24 hours or any harsh cleaning brush
don’t have a facial massage for at least two weeks
don’t drink through a straw for the 1st day as this puts pressure on the lips
don’t drink alcohol for at least 24 hours after you have had fillers
don’t exercise excessively for at least 24-hour is

Long-term side-effects of lip fillers

If the practitioner undertaking the treatment is highly skilled, then there should be no adverse long-term side-effects from having lip fillers. Short-term side-effects can include:

a small amount of bleeding from the injection site
bruising
swelling
tenderness

These should all pass within approximately 48 hours after the initial treatment.

Some people purchase their lip filler hyaluronic acid online and attempt to inject themselves, some people also go to lesser trained beauty therapists for their injections and cosmetic treatments. These may result in more long-term side-effects which can include, but are not limited to:

excessive bleeding
excessive bruising and swelling
lip asymmetry where the injection has not been even been placed
lip bumps and irregularities caused by improper injection technique

If you experience any of these more severe side-effects after treatment, then we recommend you contact your skin clinic immediately, if you get no response you should seek medical advice.

Lip necrosis after filler symptoms

Necrosis is defined as “the death of most or all of the cells in an organ or tissue due to disease, injury, or failure of the blood supply.” necrosis with lip fillers is fortunately quite rare with only 1 in every 100,000 cases, it usually happens from one of 2 causes:

By obstructing supply to blood vessel, usually by injecting too much filler or by producing too much swelling near a blood vessel. This obstruction then causes the lip necrosis as the soft tissue is unable to get the blood flow it needs.
Via direct damage caused by poor injection technique.

The symptoms of lip necrosis can include, but are not limited to:

severe pain which can slowly build after the treatment, this is because the numbing cream used during the initial therapy begins to wear off and the full pain is felt
prolonged white blanching after the lip fillers, this is caused by a lack of blood flow to the affected area
the reduced temperature of the lips, this again is caused by the lack of blood flow reducing the temperature
discolouration, often purple or dark grey, this is the final stage when tissue death is beginning to take hold

I think I have lip necrosis after lip fillers, what should I do?

If this begins to happen during your injectable treatment then, according to the Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology, your practitioner should stop the treatment immediately, massage the area, apply heat, tap the area and repeat.

If this does not immediately halt the necrosis, then the practitioner should begin remedial treatment, depending on the type of filler or used. Aspirin may then also be prescribed. If this still does not stop the necrosis, then referral to another medical expert and ongoing wound care may be required. You may also need antibiotics to prevent further complications developing from secondary opportunistic infection

It is, therefore, possible to see that injecting fillers at home by yourself is incredibly dangerous as you would be unlikely to have the knowledge, experience and drugs available to counter any necrosis should happen at the time.

Do lip injections damage lips?

On the whole lip injections do not damage lips, the filler used (hyaluronic acid) is a naturally occurring acid which gets slowly absorbed by the body. Any damage caused to the lips is usually by poor technique created by the person doing the injections. Swellings, lumps and bumps around the lips can be a sign of this type of problem. To prevent this type of problem this is why a dentist is ideally suited to providing lip filler injections as they have detailed knowledge of the anatomy of the lips (Obicularis Oris).

Do lip fillers shrink lip size afterwards?

Lip fillers won’t shrink your lip size afterwards however the hyaluronic acid which is used as the filler will be slowly absorbed by your body again, this can give the illusion of shrinking lips however they won’t shrink smaller than before treatment.

Thinking of starting your lip filler journey?

See our lip fillers treatment page for essential information and prices from our resident facial aesthetics expert, Dr Ajay Murgai.

Dr Murgai

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Tags: lip fillers
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Excessive sweating – Why Do I Sweat so Much?

Tuesday, June 4th, 2019

Excessive sweating-why do I sweat so much

Excessive sweating can lead to embarrassment from sweaty palms and hands to soak through shirts, not to mention often being accompanied by an unpleasant odour. So what can we do about profuse sweating? Why do we do it and how can we stop it?

our bodies respond to excessive temperature is to sweat. When our brain senses that our core temperature is rising then it begins releasing sweat from 2.5 million eccrine (sweat) glands on our body. This then lowers our body temperature as the heat in the body is used to evaporate the liquid from the skin.

In addition to the eccrine glands. We also have apocrine glands, which secrete a different type of sweat. This type of sweat contains more nutrients and is largely emitted in the armpit and growing areas, it is from this type of sweat that the smell emanates. These glands are activated when we get emotional or excited as well as during exercise.

Because the human body excretes sweat from these two different types of gland we need to ensure that we look at each type before we decide on how we can overcome the problems that sweating causes.

In addition to this natural sweating process. Some people also suffer from hyperhidrosis (excessive sweating), for these people the eccrine glands in the skin become overactive producing large amounts of sweat when the body actually doesn’t need it.

How to stop sweating

It depends on the reason for sweating as to how you can control it.

Sweating during exercise. If this is you then try wearing breathable fabrics to ensure your body can regulate its temperature.
Sweating throughout the day with no exercise. Try applying an antiperspirant before bed. After you have had a shower and are clean. Apply the antiperspirant, please take a little time to block the sweat ducts and should be completely active by morning. If you applied antiperspirant in the morning then the sweat ducts can be more active and antiperspirant doesn’t get a chance to work by blocking those ducts. You should also make every attempt to stay cool throughout the day, keep regularly hydrated and keep your body temperature lower by staying in a well vented room, this should help your body regulate its own temperature and negate the need for excessive sweating.
Sweating whilst eating spicy foods. Well, you may just have to avoid those spicy foods!
As a side effect from various medications. Seek advice from your doctor if you have started sweating excessively after beginning a new course of medication.

How to stop armpit sweat

Armpit sweat specifically contains sweat from both the eccrine (cooling) and apocrine (smelling) glands. This means that heavy sweating can lead to sweat stains as well as a bad odour.

Excessive armpit sweating, medically known as axillary hyperhidrosis can be treated with a couple of home remedies but you may need to talk to your doctor for some of the more advanced remedies.

Apply antiperspirant before bed. Antiperspirants work by blocking the sweat pours in your skin, most people tend to sweat less at night, meaning the antiperspirant has a chance to get into the pores to prevent sweating during the day.
Combine and antiperspirant (to block the pores and prevent sweating) with a deodorant to combat any lingering odour.
Wear breathable clothes. This firstly prevents your body from heating up in the first place but also allows any sweat produced to evaporate through your clothes.
Consider asking your doctor for prescription antiperspirants.
Speak to your doctor or dentist about the use of botulinum toxin for excessive sweating.

Sometimes people suffer from primary focal hyperhidrosis, this is where the excessive sweating is not as a result of another medical condition or a side-effect of medications taken, primary focal hyperhidrosis is the condition itself. This does make things more difficult to treat as breathable clothes and antiperspirants are unlikely to work. Speaking to your doctor or a practitioner, which uses treatments such as botox injections may be an option.

How to stop sweaty hands – 9 Things You Can Do

Sweaty or clammy hands, known as palmer hyperhidrosis can be really embarrassing, particularly if you work in a social environment which includes handshaking. It can also make operating some equipment, like a computer mouse trackball really difficult. The good news is that there are a variety of ways to stop sweaty hands including, but not limited to:

Dedicated hand antiperspirant. These are absorbed quickly and don’t leave a residue on your hands. Sweat Guard is one such product, others are also available.
Wash your hands with water only. Unless they are particularly dirty, then, of course, use soap but remember that soap can try your skin out and exacerbate the sweating.
Don’t wear gloves. Unless it is particularly cold out, avoid wearing gloves as this can prevent your hands from breathing and again make the more sweaty.
Carry around a small container of talcum powder. Talcum powder can absorb excessive sweat and a quick dab onto your hands can work wonders.
Reduce stress. If stress is the cause of sweaty hands try to identify why you are stressed and look at ways to reduce it.
Ask your doctor for a prescription. There are some drugs which are able to reduce the amount that your hands sweat.
Speak to your dentist about the use of botulinum toxin type A.
Don’t skip meals. Low blood sugar can also contribute to sweaty hands.
Avoid too much alcohol. If you are prone to palmer hyperhidrosis then alcohol causes your blood vessels to dilate, this then leads to warming of the skin which triggers your parasympathetic nervous system to kick in and you start sweating.

Thinking of getting hyperhidrosis treatment to stop sweating?

If you’re in Oxfordshire and would like to stop excessive sweating then please visit our hyperhidrosis treatment page for essential information and prices from our resident expert, Dr Ajay Murgai (GDC No: 85639).

Dr Murgai

thesmilepracti.wpengine.com

Tags: Hyperhidrosis, palmer Hyperhidrosis, Sweating
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lip injections, are they a good idea?

Tuesday, March 5th, 2019

Lip injections, are they a good idea

As a practice that offers facial rejuvenation from our clinic in Oxford and Didcot we are often asked about lip injections, people often want to know if they are a good idea and what the potential problems could be. Our latest blog post is dedicated to answering these questions.

Do lip injections hurt during/after lip injections?

Lip injections will always be given with a topical numbing cream such as lidocaine and prilocaine, this ensures that the skin is numb prior to having any injections.

After treatment you may find there is some mild discomfort as the injection sites settle down, this will not normally last longer than a couple of days.

Why use lip fillers to enlarge your lips?

Lip fillers are one of the most natural ways to enlarge your lips, hyaluronic acid (dermal fillers) is a naturally occurring acid in your body. It is using your body to bind water and retain moisture, hence, as we age and hyaluronic acid levels decline asking can look drier and more wrinkly due to the dehydrated skin. Fillers can help to reverse this process.

Do lip injections damage lips?

So long as the lip injections are done in a controlled environment by professional with full training then no, lip injections do not damage your lips. This is one of the reasons that dental practices are some of the best places to go for a lip injections, dentists have such a detailed knowledge of the anatomy of the muscles, nerves and blood vessels in your head, face and neck. Beauty therapists, on the other hand do not have this detailed knowledge.

What is the lip enhancement or lip augmentation procedure?

The process is usually quite simple and includes:

An initial consultation to work out if lip fillers are the best form of treatment for you. During the consultation we will discuss any possible side-effects, additional treatments, ongoing care and costs.
Treatment begins at an appointment time suitable for you.

Usually all treatment can be accomplished in one single appointment.

What’s it like to undergo lip augmentation?

Treatment is usually:

Comfortable. Anaesthetic is given to numb the skin.
Affordable. Lip enhancement is usually start from about £380.
Quick. Treatments can often be completed in a single appointment.
long-lasting. Treatments often last for up to 2 before needing to be redone.

How long do lip injections last?

Typically treatments will last up to 2 years. Typically you may find that anywhere between 6 and 12 months you might see some difference in your appearance and require a top up.

What did your lips look like before and after lip injections?

The easiest way to answer this question is to show photographs of patients having before and after lip injections.

Before

After

Before

After

How much do lip augmentations usually cost?

Treatment costs can vary depending on the exact nature of the augmentation of treatment and the exact treatment. Typically lip enhancements start at around £380 and lip contouring from £350. There are also usually many special offers available.

More information on fees here.

Do lip fillers shrink lip size afterwards?

No, however after your lips have been made fuller and more plump with lip fillers, by contrast, once the fillers have been fully absorbed into your body it may look as though your lips have shrunk, they will only however have shrunk back to what they were prior to treatment.

Why are Botox and filler injections so expensive?

Botox and filler injections are always worth investing in the highest quality. After all, you are going to be asking someone to inject something into your face! You need to be sure that:

You know absolutely 100% what is being injected. NEVER purchase these treatments online and try to inject yourself.
You 100% trust the person doing the injections. A dentist is the ideal person to trust for this type of treatment as they have a detailed knowledge of the anatomy of your head, face and neck. Someone that has been on a short training course will not have this detailed anatomy, nor may not have the emergency facilities available in the event of any unforeseen allergic reaction.
The environment in which you will be seen is completely clean and sterile. You want to ensure that any cross contamination chances are all but eradicated, again this is another good reason to choose a dental practice as they will have proven cross infection control procedures in place and will also be highly regulated by the Care Quality Commission.

It is for the reasons above of using the best materials, the best clinician in the best environment that makes Botox and fillers injections expensive.

One last thing to say about the cost is that it is worth considering this over the life of the treatment. A typical augmentation may cost £380 but could quite easily last two years, taking the cost over a two-year period means that treatments cost approximately £3.64 a week – The price of a large cup of coffee!

What is the difference between dermal fillers and botox?

These treatments working completely different principles. Wrinkle relaxation treatments such as Botox are a toxin which reduces the ability of muscles to move, by reducing visibility to move we can make the wrinkles disappear. Fillers, on the other hand inject hyaluronic acid into the treatment site, this is a naturally occurring body acid which binds water, therefore making your skin look more hydrated and younger.

Depending on which area of your face you would like rejuvenated will depend upon which treatment you have, dermal fillers or wrinkle treatments such as Botox.

Dr Murgai

thesmilepracti.wpengine.com

Tags: Botox, botulinum toxin, Dermal fillers, Hyaluronic acid, Lip injections, Numbing cream
Posted in Skin clinic, Uncategorised | No Comments »

4 surprising uses for Botox

Tuesday, June 5th, 2018

Did you know that Botox is a prescription drug and therefore it is not possible to walk into any clinic and ask specifically for Botox? Botox may be one of the treatments offered to help resolve your problem and indeed, the practitioner may decide that another form of botulinum toxin is preferable over the use of Botox. Throughout this article the terms botulinum toxin and Botox will be used interchangeably for the same treatment.

There are however a considerable number of uses for Botox which you may be unaware.

Facial lines and wrinkles

This is the most common use and is the most widely known use for botulinum toxin injections. The toxin works are relaxing the muscles and as they relax facial lines and wrinkles also disappear. Botox can also be used for:

Chronic migraines

This was first reported by Dr William Binder back in 1992. He was a doctor in Beverly Hills and he noticed that as he used Botox on his patients they tended to report fewer headaches after treatment. One of the manufacturers of Botox then began Testing his claims and found that they were indeed true.

Whilst the research conducted did indeed show a link between the use of botulinum toxin and headaches, it didn’t conclude as to whether the link was medical or placebo.

Excessive sweating treatment

This was also a side effect noticed by many clinicians in the early days of using Botox to treat facial lines and wrinkles. Botox stop excessive sweating (hyperhidrosis) by blocking the neurotransmitters that stimulate the sweat glands. Hyperhidrosis is a condition which affects approximately one percent of the population and doesn’t discriminate between men or women. The treatment was approved in the United States in 2004 and involves several injections around the affected area, usually in the armpits. The treatment last for around eight months each time.

Reducing gummy smiles

A “Gummy Smile” is a phenomenon that when some people smile, their upper lip elevates too far above their upper teeth, exposing gums and producing an unattractive smile. This happen due to a number of causes which can be assessed by your dentist/practitioner (This is one of the advantages of having a dental practice work with botulinum toxin as well as treatment). One of the causes is hyperactivity of the muscle which elevates the upper lip. Occasionally, the gummy smile is also aggravated by a thin upper lip that further contributes to the problem by exposing the upper gum even more.

Simply and safely we can help correct your gummy smile by reducing the muscles strong pull on the upper lip. To make a thin lip look fuller you may also wish to have some dermal filler treatment.

Bruxism or tooth grinding treatments

Bruxism is a medical term that describes the act of grinding the teeth and clenching the jaw. Regular and persistent grinding of the teeth can result in an ache in the jaw, headaches, earache, disrupted sleep and can also contribute to the wearing down, darkening and breaking of the teeth.

Most cases of bruxism occur subconsciously during sleep. It is usually associated with contributing factors, such as stress or anxiety. Severe bruxists often have overvdeveloped muscles giving them a swollen square like face.

It’s possible to treat patients with bruxism using a combination of botulinum toxin and mouth guards to help relax the muscles involved.

As mentioned previously when we were talking about headaches, you may also notice a reduction in the headaches after treatment for bruxism with botulinum toxin.

A word of warning About Botox

You should not be treated with BOTOX® if you have:

a disease that affects your muscles and nerves (such as amyotrophic lateral sclerosis [ALS or Lou Gehrig’s disease], myasthenia gravis or Lambert-Eaton syndrome).
allergies to any botulinum toxin product
had any side effect from any botulinum toxin product in the past
a breathing problem, such as asthma or emphysema
swallowing problems
bleeding problems
plans to have surgery
had surgery on your face
weakness of your forehead muscles, such as trouble raising your eyebrows
drooping eyelids
any other change in the way your face normally looks
are pregnant or plan to become pregnant. It is not known if BOTOX® can harm your unborn baby.
are breast-feeding or plan to breastfeed. It is not known if BOTOX® passes into breast milk.