Silk Touch Cosmetic Surgery & Medical Spa - Blog

Sara Barrett

Sara Barrett is the marketing and communications director for Silk Touch Med Spa. She is passionate about skin care, aesthetics and healthy living!

Recent Posts

Is it Harder for Older Moms To Get Their Pre-Baby Body Back?

Posted by Sara Barrett on Jan 15, 2018 3:38:00 PM

mommy makeover boise

Why Older Moms Have A Harder Time Getting Their Pre-Baby Body Back and How To Combat This.

It’s no secret that as we age, it becomes more difficult to maintain our dream body. Add a pregnancy on top of aging, and it can feel like it’s nearly impossible to get your pre-baby body back. This got me wondering, why is it harder for older woman to regain their body post-pregnancy?

As discussed in a recent article on NewBeauty.com, the main thing for older patients is that the elasticity of the tissues is not as good. Because of this, the skin on the breasts and abdomen that has stretched may not snap back asynchronous as it would in a younger patient. This makes sense considering the loss of skin elasticity is what causes wrinkles and sagging skin. But elasticity isn’t the only culprit. Another effect of later pregnancies is that our metabolisms are a bit slower and muscle mass a bit less so dropping the baby weight is much tougher to accomplish.

Most people agree that “having good genes” is the best way to bounce back. But don’t lose hope, there are several ways you can give your post-baby body a fighting chance.

Apart from genetics, the next best thing is to be in the best shape you can be before your pregnancy. The more energetic, fit and vital a woman is before pregnancy, the faster she will recover and regain all that she can of her pre-pregnancy body.  After you have the okay from your doctor to start working out again after giving birth, the key is to be consistent with your workouts. Workouts that will help your body bounce back quicker include core strength, cardiovascular training and overall full body strength training.

As for your skin, try to limit the amount of time you spend in the sun because it breaks down elasticity. Additionally, practicing good skin care on your body and face can boost your elasticity.

However, even with proper exercise and healthy eating habits, it’s still pretty tough to get your body back to where you want it to be. And usually the last thing you want to after a pregnancy is to go through anything invasive and surgical. That’s where non-surgical post-pregnancy procedures like CoolsculptingVenus Freeze Skin TighteningAffirm for stretch-mark reduction, and Acne/Skin Treatments, come in handy.

Each of these treatments are non-invasive, and get you back to your pre-baby body in no time, with ZERO downtime! Want to learn more about these procedures? Ask us a question or Schedule A Free Consultation.

What's your post-pregnancy experience? Would you have a mommy makeover?

Sources:

NewBeauty.Com

Topics: skin tightening, Weight Loss, post-pregnancy

The 5 Venus Freeze Questions You’ve Been Dying To Know

Posted by Sara Barrett on Dec 29, 2017 10:30:00 PM

venus freeze01

Is it permanent?

Venus Freeze is not maintenance free, but the effects are long lasting. After your Venus Freeze treatment series you will require maintenance treatments to ensure that you keep the aging process at bay. While the minimum treatments needed to maintain your result are one treatment once every season (4 treatments a year), we find that many patients like to come back as often as once a month because they love the treatments and the results. Discuss with your treatment provider what the best treatment plan is for your skin.

Is it cold?

Contrary to the name, Venus Freeze is not cold at all. In fact, it can feel like a hot stone massage!

Is there any pain involved?

None! In fact, most patients nap or just simply relax during the treatment.  The sensation is absolutely pleasant and warm.  You can watch a few patient testimonials here.

How soon will I see results?

Many patients report improvement after one treatment, but typically most patients see more of a result in as little as three treatments.

Try Venus Freeze for only $99 for your first treatment! 

Does it really work?

Absolutely yes.  We only use before and after photos of real patients with typical results. Many of our staff members have  gone through or are currently doing Venus Freeze treamtents themselves. Feel free to call us with any questions or concerns.

venus freeze

 

Topics: skin tightening, venus freeze

Is it safe? Black Market Aesthetics On The Rise

Posted by Sara Barrett on Nov 20, 2017 2:43:00 PM

botox 300x230 IF THE PRICE SOUNDS TOO GOOD TO BE TRUE... IT PROBABLY IS!

Recently many advertisers have been offering steep discounts on Botox and Dermal Filler prices. Some people have even seen Botox advertised on Craigslist (SCARY!!).  While everyone enjoys a good deal, when it comes to Botox and Fillers, you should be extremely careful. If you come across pricing that is extremely low, you could be buying illegally imported “Botox” or Fillers from Canada, Europe or even China. These products are not safe to use.

Liquid facelifts rank among the most popular non-surgical cosmetic procedures, but the growing demand for toxins and fillers has triggered a rise in illegal injectable products that has become a worldwide epidemic. The availability and use of fake products has emerged as a mounting problem for the aesthetic market as a whole, as doctors report that they are being inundated with offers from offshore vendors pitching cheap toxins and fillers not approved for sale in the EU or the US.

Don’t risk your beauty by being injected with un-safe product from sources unknown.

When it comes to your beauty treatments, injector experience and reputation is crucial. At Silk Touch, we guarentee that we only use verified products from reputible vendors.

Request a Free Consultation

Topics: Botox, Anti Aging

Transformation Tuesday: Male Breast Reduction

Posted by Sara Barrett on Nov 7, 2017 12:54:00 PM

Gynecomastia is a condition of over-developed or enlarged breasts in men that can occur at any age. The condition can be the result of hormonal changes, heredity, obesity, or the use of certain drugs. Gynecomastia can cause emotional discomfort and impair your self confidence. Some men may even avoid certain physical activities and intimacy simply to hide their condition.

Gynecomastia is characterized by:

  • Excess localized fat
  • Excess glandular tissue development
  • Sometimes excess breast skin
  • Presence unilaterally (one breast) or bilaterally (both breasts) 

The treatment:

This patient had avoided any sort of activity that involved taking his shirt off, and developed gynecomastia at a very young age. 

Dr. Kerr was able to reduce the appearance of his enlarged breast (gynecomastia) by using a combination of Smartlipo and PAL. 

male breast reduction before and after

This patient was extremely pleased with his results and the minimal amount of downtime after his procedure. He was ready to hit the beach in no time!

male breast reduction before and after

 

Click Here To Request a Free Consultation >>

                                       

Topics: Before and After Photos, Transformation Tuesday, Male Breast Reduction

6 Things You Need to Know About Sunscreen

Posted by Sara Barrett on Jul 6, 2017 7:01:00 AM

silk touch med spa, sunscreenOne in five Americans will develop skin cancer in the course of a lifetime, and over the past 31 years more people have had skin cancer than all other cancers combined. Because of this, it is absolutely essential that we wear sunscreen every single day - even in the winter. 

Here is a guide for you to reference when ever you have a question about sunscreen. From how much you should use and when to tips for telling when your sunscreen is past it's shelf life. 

What sunscreen should I use?

  • The American Academy of Dermatology recommends everyone use sunscreen that offers the following:

  • Broad-spectrum protection (protects against UVA and UVB rays).

  • Sun Protection Factor (SPF) 30 or greater. Water resistant.

A sunscreen that offers the above helps to protect your skin from sunburn, early skin aging, and skin cancer. However, sunscreen alone cannot fully protect you. Dermatologists also recommend that you seek shade when your shadow is shorter than you are and protect your skin by wearing long sleeves, pants, a wide-brimmed hat, and sunglasses whenever possible.

When should I use sunscreen?

  • Every day. The sun emits harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays year round. 

  • Even on cloudy days, harmful UV rays can penetrate your skin.

  • Snow and sand increase the need for sunscreen.

  • On a cloudy day, up to 80 percent of the sun’s UV rays can pass through the clouds.

  • Snow reflects 80 percent of the sun’s rays, and sand reflects 25 percent of the sun’s rays.

How much sunscreen should I use, and how often should I apply it?

Use enough sunscreen to generously coat all skin that will be not be covered by clothing. Ask yourself, “Will my face, ears, arms, or hands be covered by clothing?” If not, apply sunscreen.

To be sure you use enough, follow this guideline:

  • One ounce, enough to fill a shot glass, is considered the amount needed to cover the exposed areas of the body. Adjust the amount of sunscreen applied depending on your body size.

  • Most people only apply 25-50 percent of the recommended amount of sunscreen.3

  • Apply the sunscreen to dry skin 15 minutes BEFORE going outdoors.

  • Skin cancer also can form on the lips. To protect your lips, apply a lip balm or lipstick that contains sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher.

  • Re-apply sunscreen approximately every two hours or after swimming or sweating heavily according to the directions on the bottle.

The FDA released sunscreen guidelines. How will these affect my sunscreen?

By the end of summer, you’ll begin to see several changes to sunscreen labels. These changes, which are required by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), will provide you with more information about what type of UV protection a sunscreen offers, and what a sunscreen can do.

On the label, you’ll see whether the sunscreen:

Protects against UVB and/or UVA rays.

  • Reduces the risk of skin cancer and early skin aging in addition to helping prevent sunburn, or just protects against sunburn alone.

  • In order to reduce the risk of skin cancer and early skin aging, the sunscreen must offer two things: broad-spectrum protection (protects against UVA and UVB rays) and an SPF of 15 or higher. Without both, the sunscreen only helps prevent sunburn.

  • Is water-resistant up to 40 or 80 minutes

  • Sunscreen manufacturers will no longer claim that a sunscreen  is “waterproof” or “sweat proof.” This is not possible because all sunscreen eventually washes off.

Can I use the sunscreen I bought last summer, or do I need to purchase a new bottle each year? Does it lose its strength?

Dermatologists recommend using sunscreen every day, not just during the summer. If you are using sunscreen every day and in the correct amount, a bottle should not last long. If you find a bottle of sunscreen that you have not used for some time, here are some guidelines you can follow:

  • The FDA requires that all sunscreens retain their original strength for at least three years.

  • Some sunscreens include an expiration date. If the expiration date has passed, throw out the sunscreen.

  • You also can look for visible signs that the sunscreen may no longer be good.  Any obvious changes in the color or consistency of the product mean it’s time to purchase a new bottle.  

Topics: Skin Care, sunscreen

4 Botox Myths BUSTED!

Posted by Sara Barrett on Feb 14, 2017 6:09:00 PM

Botox is still one of the most popular cosmetic treatments. However, there are still some pretty big misconceptions and myths about Botox out there. 

Did you know Silk Touch Med Spa, Laser & Lipo of Boise was recently named a Top 250 Allergan Account. That means we are one of the top accounts in the Nation! This places our injectors in the top 1% in the nation.  Allergan is the maker of Botox, Juvederm, Voluma and Latisse. 

We're here to spread some truth on some of these 4 common myths.

Myth 1: If you stop getting Botox, your wrinkles will get worse.

Latisse-and-Botox.jpg

Nope - they won't get worse but they will return to the state they were originally.  If you choose to stop Botox treatments completely, the regular development of wrinkles will continue. But no, Botox will not make your wrinkles worse. 

Myth 2: Botox is only used to treat wrinkles

FDA-botox.png

This is probably the biggest misconception about Botox. Botox is FDA approved for many medical conditions including: pain relief for Migraines, TMJ and to stop excessive sweating. 

See more suprising Botox uses here.

Myth 3: You can get Botox at any age

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While there are no age limits for Botox (we even treat patients 65+), you can be too young to get Botox. While the minimum age is 18 and many patients like to start treatments before they even have wrinkles for preventative reasons, we suggest that patients wait till they are in their early 20s to start preventative treatments. Waiting a few years won't cause any irreversable damage.

Read more about preventative Botox treatments.

Myth 4: Botox is only for Women

brotox.jpg

Absolutely not! They don't call it "Bro-Tox" for nothing! Studies show that men are getting cosmetic treatments like Botox and fillers more and more each year. We see all ages of men for Botox treatments. Wrinkles can sometimes make men appear angry, in addtion to looking older. Getting Botox can soften up a persons look to just give them a more approachable appearance - which can help men personally and proffessionaly. 

 Request a Free Consultation

 

Topics: Botox

Microneedling with PRP Treatment

Posted by Sara Barrett on Jan 23, 2017 2:01:00 PM

facial-rejuvenations

The Ultimate Facial Rejuvenation: Microneedling with PRP

Now more than ever, people are looking for ways to completely rejuvenate their skin without having to go under the knife. Popularly known as the Vampire Facelift, PRP treatments have become recognized for their ability to completely rejuvenate the face - resulting in tighter, refreshed and younger looking skin.

The combination of two cutting-edge new treatments,  is getting incredible results and is even being used by many celebrities.

What is PRP (Platelet Rich Plasma)?

Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP) Therapy involves the use of blood plasma, enriched through a special process to increase the concentration of platelets. PRP treatments are performed by collecting blood from the patient and spinning it in a centrifuge to separate the platelets from the blood. This “platelet-rich plasma” is drawn out and can then be used via injection or micro-needling back into the patient.

While this may seem different, PRP has amazing skin care benefits.

The platelet-rich plasma is full of growth factors which can aid in the repair process of tissue, including the skin. It helps promote cell growth, tissue repair and the production of new collagen - which can decrease healing time.

What is Microneedling?

Microneedling, also known as collagen induction therapy, is performed with a small hand held device that makes tiny controlled micro-injuries or channels to the skin. This triggers body to produce new collagen and elastin within the dermis, as well as in new capillaries for improved blood supply. The results are improved skin texture and a reduced appearance of wrinkles, fine lines, texture/tone, stretch marks, and acne scars.

The Ultimate Duo – Microneedling + PRP

aging2-300x280Combining these two treatments can take years off of the appearance of your skin! Clients are seeing some fantastic results with the topical application of PRP. During this treatment we utilize Microneedling to “stamp” the skin creating tiny channels along the surface. Then PRP is applied topically to the skin, allowing the full penetration of PRP deep down into the dermis and epidermis layers of the skin.

Since this procedure does not break down the epidermis the downtime is minimal. Your skin may appear slightly red (similar to a light sunburn) with some mild discomfort for a day or two after the procedure. This treatment can also be done on almost any part of the body including the face, neck & hands.

Interested in learning more? We invite you to request a FREE consultation to see if this treatment is right for you!

 

 

 

Topics: microneedling

How to Get Rid of Dark Eye Circles For Good

Posted by Sara Barrett on Dec 2, 2016 9:41:00 AM

describe the imageALWAYS WEAR SUNSCREEN

Because the skin beneath your eyes is so thin, it's especially prone to sun-induced hyperpigmentation (and skin cancer). But sunscreen can also be especially irritating if it gets in your eyes. Use a nondrippy or stick formula that won't migrate.

CHOOSE THE RIGHT MAKEUP REMOVER

When you rub your skin to pry off your liner, you're causing inflammation and capillary damage—both of which can contribute to dark circles. Cleansing oils, like melt eye makeup with the least amount of rubbing. As a bonus, you'll lose fewer lashes, too.

COOL DOWN

Washing your face with hot water worsens puffiness and can accentuate dark circles. 

 

GET A PROFESSIONAL LASER TREATMENT

To reduce bluish and red discoloration under the eyes, lasers can help by constricting visible blood vessels.

 

CHOOSE THE RIGHT EYE SHADOW

A shimmering nude cream or powder shadow can brighten up your eyes, as long as it's a touch darker than your skin tone. If it's lighter, it looks frosty and dated.

 

USE FILLERS AS A MORE PERMANENT SOLUTION 

consult silk touch

At the first signs of hollowing, using a filler such as hyaluronic acid or fat can help to fill in the spots that appear in the tear troughs. Fillers like Artefill are extremely effective in filling deficient areas under the eyes when it is injected deep into the tissue. Artefill is different from temporary injectable wrinkle fillers. The unique microspheres in Artefill are not absorbed by the body and provide the support your skin needs for natural, long lasting results. 

The patient below came to us with concerns about the hollowness of hers eyes, something that has bothered her for as long as she can remember! Dr. Kerr used Bellafill under the eyes and in the tear trough. The end result? No more looking tired! If you are wary about using a permanent filler, other injectables can be used to get the same result.

Bellafill Under Eyes - Before and After 

artefill, silk touch

 

 

Topics: Anti Aging, Artefill, Eyes

The #1 Area Your Injector Really Wants to Inject...

Posted by Sara Barrett on Nov 8, 2016 10:39:00 AM

The #1 area your Injector really wants to Inject…

In the hands of an expert injector, wrinkle fillers can take years off your appearance. But while it’s easy to get caught up in chasing fine lines and wrinkles, there is one area on your face that, when injected properly, makes a major difference and can give you a very natural and youthful appearance……

What is that #1 area?? THE CHEEKS!

Before-and-After-Oxnard-Ventura-JUVDERM-VOLUMA-XC.png

As we age, we lose volume in our mid-face causing our cheeks to look hollow and sag. By restoring the volume with fillers specifically designed for mid-face correction, we can add plumpness to the cheeks while also helping to diminish the appearance of wrinkles around the nose and mouth.

"The cheeks are my favorite area to inject because it looks so natural and makes the biggest difference in restoring youthfullness."  - Autumn Heuman, PA-C

This month only - Buy 2 Voluma, Get a free syringe of Juvederm! ($550 value)

Why Mid-Face Correction Makes a Huge Difference — The inverted triangle of youth

The reason restoring volume in the cheeks makes such a major difference has to do with the triangle of youth.

 triangleofyouth.jpg

When we are young there is a fullness in the middle and upper part of the face with a slimmer lower face around the smile lines and jawline. With aging, the fullness around the cheekbones begins to sag and descend.  There is also volume loss in these areas.  You lose that brightness and rested look around the eyes and cheeks. And the volume loss in the cheeks can make the bottom of the face look heavier.  The end result is that the youthful triangle flips upside down.

agingface.jpg

Fillers can turn back the clock and restore volume to the cheeks while also giving a subtle lift .

Choosing the Right Filler for Mid-Face Correction

For re-volumizing the cheeks you need a  filler that is able to provide that extra lift. There are 3 fillers that are specifically made for mid-face correction:  Juvederm Voluma, Restylane Lyft, and Radiesse

It is a quick and easy treatment that can be done in less than an hour. These fillers are temporary.  Since they are made of substances that are naturally occurring in your body they are slowly reabsorbed over time, but on average last anywhere from 10 – 24 months.

How long the results last will depend on 3 factors:

  • Which filler was used (some last slightly longer than others)
  • How much was used (did you use enough for full correction?)
  • How fast your body metabolizes the filler

During your consultation, you and our expert injectors can review the specific advantages of each filler to determine which is the best for your customized treatment plan.

Claim Your Special Here Buy 2 Voluma, Get a syringe of Juvederm free! 

Request a Free Consultation

Topics: Wrinkle Fillers

Why can't I lose those last few pounds?

Posted by Sara Barrett on Oct 11, 2016 9:30:00 PM

lipo boise

FACT: Many people's bodies reach homeostasis at 10 or 15 pounds above the "fashionable" weight dictated by society. They're genetically programmed that way.

Hard-Wired to be Different

Their metabolisms, hormones and dozens of other balancing mechanisms in their bodies are hard-wired for a different look than the one they are trying to achieve. They might be pear-shaped, hourglass-shaped or just generally misshaped.

Liposuction Can Help

"Most of the patients who come to my consultation room to discuss liposuction are at exactly this stage of exasperation. They've tried every diet on the planet. They exercise a few times a week, they are conscientious and really trying hard to keep the weight off.. But, they are fighting a losing battle," say Dr. Brian Kerr of Silk Touch Med Spa.

They want an answer. Liposuction using Smartlipo & Vaser/PAL is often the answer they've been waiting for.

Improved Contours

After their treatment, their contours are improved, misplaced fat cells have been permanently removed, and they no longer face a daily struggle against the inevitable.

These patients continue to watch what they eat and exercise regularly. Liposuction isn't a reprieve from self-discipline.

smartlipo, laser lipo, smartlipo boise

Lipo Pushes the Re-Start Button


It presses the "re-start" button on your body so you continue life on a doable maintenance program - not an uphill sprint against reality. It’s much easier to maintain your weight than it is to lose weight. Liposuction can help you get to the maintenance point without years of work and frustration.

Are you ready to start your transformation?

Request a Free Consultation

 

Topics: smartlipo, Weight Loss

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