As we continue to search for the Fountain of Youth, new advancements in skin care have provided us with highly-effective products that can help reverse the signs of skin aging. Right now, the buzz word in skin care is “peptides”. Products that contain peptides have been gaining popularity due to their performance, and their ability to be used by all skin types.

But what exactly are peptides, and how can they help us look younger? Let’s find out..

Aging Skin, and the Importance of Collagen

Our skin is made mostly of collagen. Young people have smooth, firm skin because their bodies produce ample amounts of collagen. As we get older, collagen production decreases, and collagen begins to break down due to aging and accumulated sun exposure. This results in skin that is thinner, less elastic, and more wrinkled.

What are Peptides, and How do they Work?

When collagen breaks down, it naturally forms peptides – short chains of amino acids. These tiny proteins act as messengers that tell the skin it has been damaged, and that it needs to make new collagen. Thus, peptides stimulate the skin’s repair mechanism, resulting in the production of new skin tissue.

What are the Anti-Aging Benefits of Peptides in Skin Care?

Although peptides are naturally found in the body, several synthetic peptides have been formulated that mimic their function. When included in skin care products, these peptides “trick” the skin into thinking it has lost collagen recently and needs to make more. When collagen production increases we see improvement in wrinkles, elasticity, skin tone and texture.

There are many different types of peptides that have various anti-aging effects on the skin. Benefits to the skin (and their associated peptides) include:

• increased collagen and elastin production (i.e. palmitoyl pentapeptide-4)
• decreased wrinkle depth (i.e. Matrixyl 3000)
• increased production of hyaluronic acid (i.e. palmitoyl oligopeptide)
• relaxing of facial muscles/smoothing of wrinkles (mild Botox-like effect) (i.e. Argiriline, Snap-8)
• reduced inflammation (i.e. palmitoyl tetrapeptide)
• improved circulation and decreased puffiness under the eyes (i.e. Eyeliss)

How can I Incorporate Peptides into my Skin Care Routine?

Peptides can enhance any skin care routine, and help maintain results from cosmetic treatments. Peptides are typically found in serums, lotions, and moisturizers, and may be applied twice per day. Consistent use is required, and results from peptides will be visible after 8-12 weeks. Of course, daily use of a broad-spectrum sunblock is always recommended to prevent further collagen breakdown.

The following peptide-containing products are available at Physician Skincare Centre and Pender Medi Spa:

Vivierskin C E Peptides Serum ($149.50) – restores aging or damaged skin by combining peptides with pharmaceutical-grade vitamin C and vitamin E. A top seller!

Jan Marini Age Intervention Peptide Extreme ($94.40) – a serum packed with peptides and antioxidants that provides firmer, smoother, and fuller skin.

Vivierskin Platine Peptide CR Eye Cream ($112.50) – the ultimate eye cream combining peptides, retinol, and vitamin C to increase firmness, elasticity, and improve wrinkles around the eye.

SkinMedica TNS Essential Serum ($260) – all-in-one serum combining peptides, antioxidants, growth factors, and skin brighteners to improve wrinkles, skin tone, and skin texture. No need for additional treatment products!

Dysport is now available at North Vancouver’s Physician Skincare Centre, by Dr. Bieg, our experienced injector. Dysport is comparable to Botox in that the chemical structure is very similar. Dysport like Botox has been available in Europe for many years and in the Untied States for a couple of years. Health & Welfare Canada recently approved Dysport for essentially the same indications as Botox Cosmetic. The most dramatic difference in the two products is that the onset of action is very rapid with Dysport. Most patients report complete effect within 48 hours, whereas Botox generally requires about one week. Dysport units are not equivalent to Botox units. Although the price per unit of Dysport is less than Botox it requires approximately 3 times as many units of Dysport to achieve the same benefits as a unit of Botox.

Neither Botox nor Dysport ever result in Allergic reactions or Infections. Very rarely they may cause a small bruise which resolves in about one week. This is all the more rare because Dr. Bieg is unique in using a new needle for every injection, and having an assistant apply pressure immediately after the injection. He also administers very superficial injections to avoid larger blood vessels deeper in the skin. The primary concern is relaxation of an inappropriate muscle. This is the result of injector error. Dr. Bieg has been using Botox since 2003 and training other Doctors since 2005 and thus is very accomplished in only injecting the appropriate muscles. Dr. Bieg prefers minimal amounts of Botox or Dysport to ensure a natural, yet improved cosmetic appearance.

The most common site for Botox or Dysport is the ‘Frown” which gives individuals an angry appearance. Botox and Dysport can also be used for Forehead “horizontal lines”, “laugh lines” (Crows feet), Jaw-line definition, Marionette lines (droop down from the corner of the Mouth), as well as dimpled Chins, Neck bands or horizontal Neck lines.

Botox and Dysport generally last 3 to 4 months. There is some controversy as to whether or not Dysport lasts as long as Botox. When the relaxed appearance slowly wears off, the muscles return to their previous state. With consistent use of these products, the muscles require less Botox or Dysport, and the effect lasts longer. Many of Dr.Bieg’s patients only require a “touch-up” every 6 months. Occasionally patients may only need minimal amounts of Botox or Dysport after years of consistent treatments.

Although Botox and Dysport are indicated for Cosmetic purposes; they are also used medically. They are extremely effective for Hyperhidrosis (excess sweating), Migraine Headaches, Blepharospasm (Eye twitching), Cervical Dystonia (Neck muscle spasms), Trigeminal Neuralgia(Nerve pain in the Face), as well as other muscle spasm conditions related to Cerebral Palsy or Multiple Sclerosis.

The primary indication of Botox and Dysport is for relaxing muscles. Although it is never discussed, Dr. Bieg has often noted that these medications improve the texture of the Skin. This is particularly evident when Botox or Dysport is used in the décolleté region on Women’s Chests.

North Vancouver’s Physician Skincare Centre offers complimentary consultations by our knowledgeable staff:

…or fill in the form on our Contact page:

FILL IN THE FORM

Did you know that April is Rosacea Awareness Month? Although rosacea is becoming more widespread, very few Canadians have any knowledge of the condition, including how to recognize it, or how to improve it. If left untreated, rosacea’s effects on personal appearance can lead to significant social, psychological, or occupational issues. Let’s learn more about this very common, yet misunderstood skin condition.

What is Rosacea?

Rosacea is a skin condition that first appears as redness or blushing on the face – usually on the cheeks, nose, chin, or forehead. Over time, the redness becomes more persistent, and visible blood vessels may appear in these areas. As the condition progresses, red bumps or pimples may also develop on the skin. Because of this, rosacea is often misdiagnosed as acne.

In severe cases, rhinophyma may occur in which the nose becomes swollen or bumpy due to thickened tissue. Another form of rosacea, ocular rosacea, causes the eyes to become red, watery or irritated.

How Common is Rosacea?

Rosacea affects approximately 1.6 million Canadians, in particular those who are fair-skinned and who blush easily. These individuals are often of northern European descent (i.e. English, Irish, Scottish). Rosacea typically appears after age thirty, and tends to affect more women than men.

What Causes Rosacea?

The cause of rosacea is still a mystery, however scientists believe it may be attributed to one or more of the following:

• Blood vessel or connective tissue disorder
• Microscopic skin mites, fungus, or bacteria
• Genetic predisposition
• Abnormal immune or inflammatory response
• Sun damage of the connective tissue under the skin

Rosacea sufferers often find that certain triggers will cause their condition to flare-up, where there is an intense outbreak of redness, bumps, or pimples. Triggers may include:

• Weather – sun, cold, heat, humidity
• Food/Drink – hot beverages, alcohol, spicy foods, chocolate, dairy products, spinach
• Intense exercise
• Stress
• Medical conditions – fever, colds, cough, menopause/hot flashes
• Medications

Is There a Cure for Rosacea?

Unfortunately there is no known cure for rosacea. However, there are treatments available that can significantly reduce rosacea symptoms and keep the condition under control. These include:

• Oral antibiotics
• Topical medications (antibiotics, steroids)
• Laser treatments to reduce redness (Intense Pulsed Light, vein removal)
• Use of gentle skincare products to reduce inflammation
• Daily use of sunblock

Rosacea sufferers can also manage their symptoms by identifying and controlling the triggers that cause their flare-ups.

If you suffer from rosacea, please schedule a complimentary consultation with our team of experts to discuss the treatment options available at our clinics.

Reward yourself with longer, fuller, and darker lashes by summer!

For a limited time, purchase the following:

One 5ml Latisse ($240)

or

Two 3ml Latisse ($290)

….receive a $50 rebate* by mail from Allergan!

Latisse and rebate claim forms are available at Physician Skincare Centre (604-929-3299) and Pender Medi Spa (604-681-6399). Complimentary underground parking is also available at both locations.

*Your eligible Latisse purchase must be made between April 1, 2013 and June 30, 2013. Your rebate claim must be received by Allergan on or before July 31, 2013. Offer expires June 30, 2013 and is not valid in combination with any other offer or rebate.

Don’t miss this opportunity to take advantage of Physician Skincare Centre’s special Boxing Week package, available for three days only – December 26th, 27th and 28th, 2012

Purchase a $200 Gift Certificate… Receive $200 in Additional Savings!

Make an Appointment

North Vancouver’s Physician Skincare Centre offers complimentary consultations by our knowledgeable staff:

by phone:
604-929-3299

by email:
info@skincare-centre.com

…or fill in the form on our Contact page:

FILL IN THE FORM

New Laser Hair Removal Packages
Buy 4 treatments, Get 2 free!!!

http://www.skincare-centre.com/treatments/laser-hair-removal-north-vancouver/”>Laser Hair Removal is one of the most effective treatments for permanent hair reduction. Best results are typically achieved with a series of treatments spaced six to eight weeks apart.

We are pleased to offer state-of-the-art laser systems that can safely treat all skin types and skin colours!

Please call us at 604-929-3299 or e-mail us to book your appointment.

Complimentary consultations are always available!

Complimentary underground parking is also available for your convenience.

Physician Skincare Centre in North Vancouver will be hosting our Customer Appreciation Event Wednesday October 24th, 2012

BRING A FRIEND and join us for a very special evening!!!

Wednesday October 24th, 2012

6pm – 8pm

*Meet our staff

*Enjoy refreshments

*Discover the newest treatments

*Win fabulous prizes

*Sample skin care products

…and much more!!!

Space is Limited – RSVP by October 20th

Call now:  (604) 929-3299

or

E-mail:  info.

Hope you all had a wonderful summer!

For many of us, all of that sunshine may have left its mark in the way of brown spots, and/or redness on the face, chest, or hands. These changes in the skin are the result of accumulated sun exposure throughout one’s life, and contribute greatly to overall skin aging. Along with uneven pigmentation, sun-damaged skin may also be characterized by tiny red facial veins, fine lines, or wrinkles.

Melasma is a related pigment condition that causes brown, patchy discoloration on the cheeks, upper lip, forehead, or chin. Melasma primarily affects women, and is often seen in those with olive or darker skin tones. The main causes of melasma appear to be chronic sun exposure, and/or hormonal changes.

As we move into fall, we are shifting our focus to repairing sun-damaged skin, and correcting pigmentation such as melasma. Now is the perfect time to transform your skin, and restore its youthful radiance for the upcoming holiday season.

Physician Skincare Centre and Pender Medi Spa are pleased to offer effective solutions for sun-damaged skin including:

LimeLight (Intense Pulsed Light) Photofacial – for reducing brown spots, redness, facial veins, and rosacea.

Pearl Laser - a minimally-invasive resurfacing laser that will improve texture, and restore a pearl-like glow to the skin with one treatment.

Obagi Nu-Derm System – targeted skincare that will correct sun damage, and truly transform your skin. Ideal for darker skin tones, and for patients with melasma.

Younger, healthier, glowing skin IS possible!

Please contact us to learn how you can repair your skin, and prevent new sun damage from occurring.
Complimentary consultations with our team of experts are always available!

As a thank you to all of our valued clients, Physician Skincare Centre and Pender Medi Spa recently introduced our Customer Loyalty Program. This exciting program will offer savings to our clients, while allowing us to provide more services and benefits to everyone who chooses our services.

Our clients will now accumulate reward points automatically with every purchase, which may be redeemed as dollars off any of our treatments, services, or products. The more points that are accumulated, the greater the reward! There is no expiration date for reward points.

Please contact us at 604-929-3299 if you would like more information on our Customer Loyalty Program.

Physician Skincare Centre and Pender Medi Spa are proud supporters of Project HANDS – a Canadian, non-profit organization currently working among the indigenous Maya in rural regions of Guatemala. The goal of Project HANDS is to improve the quality of rural Mayan life by providing healthcare, education, and family support to those living in impoverished conditions.

Because the Maya have little access to medical care, Project HANDS sends medical teams to run outreach clinics, and surgical teams to perform elective surgery in such areas as gynecology, general, and reconstructive surgery.

In addition to medical projects, Project HANDS has also started an education sponsorship program to assist Mayan girls and women who wish to continue their education. They also provide support to families in need by providing housing materials and food as necessary.

We encourage you to learn more about Project HANDS and incredible work they do by visiting their website at www.projecthands.org.