Silk Touch Cosmetic Surgery & Medical Spa - Blog

When it comes to the fight against fine lines there are seemingly endless options for giving your appearance a more youthful look.

We’ve all heard of Botox thanks to the popularities of celebrities who use it, but what about fillers, the other option for smooth, line-free skin? If you’re not sure what the difference is, or how to tell which option is best for you, we are here to help!

When to Use To Botox

One of the most familiar ways to smooth out fine lines and wrinkles, is Botox Cosmetic. These treatments work by causing facial muscles to relax temporarily. Botox effectively treats frown lines, forehead lines, crow’s feet, lip lines, and many other wrinkles that result from facial expression.

You’ve seen how Botox can take years off your favorite stars (and maybe even a few or your friends), but is it right for you? The advantages speak for themselves. Botox is an excellent treatment for many types of patients. Someone in their late 20s or early 30s might choose Botox to help prevent wrinkles and enhance their complexion. Older patients may opt for the treatment to soften existing lines and prevent new ones from forming, she explains. In truth nearly every cosmetic patient can benefit from Botox as a component of his or her cosmetic treatment and maintenance plan. Most importantly, Botox has an excellent established safety record and is the most popular cosmetic procedure worldwide.

What about Fillers?

Like Botox, fillers are an injectable treatment used to tackle some of the most frustrating signs of aging, but unlike Botox they don’t relax facial muscles, but instead work to fill creases and restore volume to our face (we lose volume at an accelerating rate after age 30). Soft tissue fillers can be used to restore a semblance of youth through the replacement of lost tissue volume well as filling folds and wrinkles. Whether you want Angelina Jolie’s luscious lips, or you’re hoping to rid you face of frown lines, there’s a filler that can help. Silk Touch Med Spa carries a wide array of the best fillers available to meet each individuals concerns and needs.

Botox and fillers: Can you get both?

While you might think that Botox and fillers can only be used separately, they’re actually better together (kind of like chocolate and peanut butter, or strawberries and champagne). Botox is often used in conjunction with fillers (and even lasers) to enhance the overall results of those treatments. Botox and fillers are a perfect combination.

Botox and fillers perform differently, so a combination of those treatment works better than either treatment alone. Botox paralyzes the underlying facial muscle, while fillers plump the skin and smooth out fine lines and wrinkles. Together they provide the most soft and natural looking improvement in facial appearance and age related cosmetic concerns. In many cases soft tissue filler will last longer when used with Botox. During an initial consultation at Silk Touch, our expert injectors will help form a individualized treatment plan that is right for you and your budget.

Between Botox and fillers you should have no trouble finding a skin smoothing solution that works for you. Wrinkles and fine lines don’t stand a chance against either, and if you really want a put stop to aging skin — use a combination of both.

Are you ready to try both?

This month we are offering a FREE Botox Treatment* when you purchase a Filler.

Expert Beauty Blogger for Aesthetic TV, Laurel House recently wrote a great blog on the latest cosmetic procedure to hit the market, Microneedling. 

We recently added this brand new procedure here at Silk Touch, and we are seeing some fantastic results. 

To learn more or schedule a consulation call us at 208-939-3110, or contact us online.

Microneedling: Dipping a Toe into the Cosmetic Procedure Pool

By Laurel House

June 12, 2013

When it comes to needles, particularly needles in the face, some people can be a bit squeamish. But I'm not talking about cutting, opening or injecting, I’m referring to the newest technology in needles that just barely break the surface of the skin and penetrate a few layers deep. This treatment is called microneedling and it’s one of the most cost-effective, yet efficient ways to see significant changes in skin texture, tone, pigmentation and overall youthful appearance.

The Eclipse Micropen is a sterile pen with a head of tiny needles that produces small perforations along the surface of the skin in a controlled and precise manner, creating micro “injuries.” These injuries trigger your skin to heal itself through the production of new collagen and elastin growth, resulting in plumper, younger looking, more lifted skin that reveals less wrinkles, scars and stretch marks, with little to no discomfort and negligible downtime. Beyond the benefits of the microneedling itself, by adding topical skincare products, the needles are introducing nutrients and antioxidants directly into the deeper layers of skin, reaching the cells and tissues in most need of attention.

If you have fine lines, sagging skin, acne or trauma scars, stretch marks, or sun damage on your face or hands you might want to consider this gentle cosmetic procedure. Revitalized skin is just a few pricks away.

Venus Freeze Mommy Makeover – Get your Pre-pregnancy body back!

Being a new Mom is one of the greatest things in the world, but for many women, getting their pre-pregnancy bodies back can be a challenge. The Venus Mommy Makeover utilizes a new non-invasive technology called Venus Freeze designed to re-contour the body, tighten loose skin and reduce the appearance of stretch marks. Because there is no pain or downtime, you can resume your normal daily routine and be on your way to fitting into those pre-baby jeans while respecting your new mommy’s budget.

 In this clip from The Doctors, they perform a Venus Mommy Makeover treatment on Jennifer, a mother and former swimsuit model, who had been disheartened by the lack of results from diet and exercise. Jennifer said that after her pregnancy, her stomach just wouldn’t “go back to normal”. After only a couple treatments, the results are astonishing. Completely painless, Jennifer says that the Venus Freeze treatment “feels very nice.”

Get the answers you are looking for below!

How does Venus Freeze work?

Venus Freeze employs a patented new technology which combines Multi-Polar Radio Frequency and Pulsed Magnetic Fields. The Multi-Polar RF delivers fast, pain free, homogeneous heating to multiple tissue depths resulting in superior outcomes for body shaping and skin tightening. Pulsed Magnetic Fields technology has been used in traditional medicine for decades and is scientifically proven with regard to its regenerative properties.

Is there pain with Venus Freeze?

No. The patented design of the Venus Freeze treatment applicators allow for fast, even delivery of the energy which most compare to a hot stone massage. There is no pain or discomfort whatsoever, and no downtime, which means you can get back to your normal day right after the treatment. 

Am I an ideal candidate for Venus Freeze?

Venus Freeze can be an effective solution for many patients but as with any treatment, there are some considerations. Venus Freeze is not an alternative for those needing significant weight loss or surgery such as liposuction. It is designed for patients who have a Body Mass Index of less than 30 and have a commitment to living a healthy lifestyle.  

What areas can I have treated with Venus Freeze?

Venus Freeze is designed to treat the entire body and face, however most new Moms prefer to focus on the abdomen and hips to reduce the size of the post baby pooch as well as the appearance of stretch marks.

What is the treatment frequency and how long does each take?

Each patient has different needs but on average, optimal results can be achieved after 6-8 treatments for the face and after 8-10 treatments for the body. Treatment frequency is once a week and last anywhere from 15 to 30 minutes for one area. Most new Moms enjoy having a little “Me Time” in order to relax and get pampered.

How safe is Venus Freeze?

Venus Freeze is safe for all skin types and because there is no downtime, you may resume your normal daily routine right after each treatment. Your physician or clinician will determine if you have any risk factors which will prevent you from being treated.

When can I get started?

Today! Schedule a free consulation with us by phone at 208-939-3110 or request a appointment online. 

Give yourself the second best gift and get back your pre-pregnancy body with Venus Freeze. 

source: VenusFreezeTreatments.com

Summer is right around the corner, which means it's officially shorts season. It’s only May and we are already hitting temps of 90+, and with this heat – who wouldn’t want to break out the shorts and mini skirts? Baring a lot of leg is fine for some, but for others with cellulite, saddlebags, varicose veins or troublesome unwanted hair, it causes a good amount of anxiety.

That's why we have rounded up the best procedures for getting sexy, lean legs in time for the summer heat! After these treatments, you wont ever want to cover your legs up.

Varicose Veins

Spider and varicose veins are really just enlarged veins, but many women find them to be extremely unsightly. With 50 percent of women in the United States suffering from them, they can be a result of genetics, pregnancy and/or hormonal changes. There are however a couple of options for treatment. Sclerotherapy, when a doctor injects the veins with a solution that irritates the lining of the veins, forcing them to collapse, is a popular and effective option. There are also lasers like Intense Pulsed Light (IPL), which work to reduce redness and the look of enlarged veins.

Learn more about Scelortherapy or IPL treatments.

Hairy Legs

If you hate to shave your legs or simply wish you just never had to deal with it, laser hair removal might be a good option for you. After just one session hair growth is stunted and after several sessions the hair grows back thinner and virtually invisible until you’ve completed all of your prescribed treatments. At Silk Touch, we sell packages in series of 6 treatments, though sometimes 2-3 additional treatments are needed for touch-up. It all depends on your hair type and how fast your hair grows.

Did you know you can save THOUSANDS of dollars on waxing and razors if you switch to laser hair removal? Now that’s a big amount for anybody. Read more here on why lasers are the way to go for hair removal.

Cellulite/Loose Skin

If the term "cottage cheese thighs" hits a bit too close to home, then you might want to consider a skin-tightening and body shaping treatment for cellulite-free legs. While diet and exercise are your best bet for fighting unwanted dimples, for those that can't get rid of rippling, there are some in-office procedures that might help. A combination of laser, vacuum, massage and/or radio-frequency devices may help to smooth out cellulite in problem areas. 

Sometimes when we do lose a lot of weight, or as we age, we start to get “saggy” skin on our thighs that increase the appearance of cellutlite. Venus Freeze is the go-to treatment for those looking to tighten and firm areas of the body.

This month only: Get 2 Free Peels with any Venus Freeze Package. 

Our new Venus Freeze treatments use radio-frequency to tighten the skin and reduce the appearance of cellulite. Check out the before and after photo below.

Ready to start your leg transformation? Schedule a complimentary consultation with one of our patient care coordinators to see what treatment plan is right for you. Call us at 939-3110 or schedule and appointment below. 

What is the Madonna Eye Treatment?  

The Madonna Eye is a new type of laser resurfacing. It utilizes a fractional CO2 laser using a light setting which creates tiny microscopic channels in the tissue so that new collagen can grow in to rejuvenate the skin. The Madonna Lift improves drooping skin, wrinkles and those telltale signs of aging around the eyes. This fractional CO2 laser technology has been used to perform a host of functions, including skin resurfacing and the treatment of acne scars. Now it can give men and women a younger look by rejuvenating the skin around your eyes including the eyelids.

What does the Madonna Eye Treatment do?  

It reduces the appearance of wrinkles and dark circles while tightening eyelid skin.

It works by utilizing a new fractional CO2 laser technology. Laser beam-like columns are created in the skin while leaving surrounding tissue intact. These beams eradicate damaged collagen and elastic fibers so that fresh skin with renewed elasticity can grow back in its place. Because only a "fraction" of the skin is affected, healing is very quick with minimal discomfort.

How do I know if I’m a candidate?  

If you have wrinkles around the eyes, loose eyelid skin, crow’s feet, or dark circles, you are a candidate. 

Will the laser work on darker skin?  

In most cases, it works very well on darker skin. However, to be on the safe side, we do a test spot in the eyelid area first to be sure there is no change in pigmentation. 

Do I have to stay out of the sun prior to laser treatment?  

No. But one should wear a sunscreen after the Madonna Lift as is the case after any laser treatment.

How many treatments are needed?  

The number of sessions depends on the individual changes present. On average, most people need between 3-5 sessions. 

How long in between each treatment?

We usually space treatments at 2-4 week intervals 

How many days of downtime?  

Most people are a little red and puffy for 3-4 days. However, one can apply make-up right after the treatment to hide redness. 

How long will the results last?

As new collagen is produced, we expect the results to last for at least several years. But as the technology is so new, it is difficult to be sure at this point.

Are there any other treatments and/or injectables I should be using to prolong my results (such as Botox)?

Botox can be injected after the Madonna Lift to help prolong the results. Long lasting fillers like Artefill are also a great addtion to the Madonna Lift. Artefill restores volumes while the Madonna lift opens the eyes, making the entire face more rejuvinated and younger looking.

During May, buy an Artefill Kit and get the Madonna Eye Lift at no additional charge.

How does Laser Hair Removal work?

Laser Hair Removal systems emit a gentle beam of light that passes through the skin to the hair follicle. The light is absorbed by the pigment, which damages the follicle enough to retard future growth.

Am I a candidate for Laser Hair Removal?

Laser works best on pale skin and dark coarse hair. The closer you are to this combination the better the results will generally be.

When can I expect to see results from Laser Hair Removal?

After treatment is completed, within 2-3 weeks, you should experience shedding of all treated hair. At first, the hair will look like it’s growing back in, but it is just coming through the skin to shed. Shedding starts in about 1 week and can last until 3 weeks post-treatment.  Exfoliating and/or scrubbing gently in the shower with a loofa can help speed up the process. After shedding finishes, you might experience little black dots still “stuck” in the skin, these are common and will shed eventually.

After shedding occurs, you should experience a hair-free period for a few weeks, until the next set of hair follicles that were dormant start to grow in. This usually happens within 6-8 weeks post-treatment. You will continue this process until the remaining hairs are too fine for laser to target, or until you have reached you desired reduction. Repeated Laser Hair Removal treatments are necessary to capture all the hairs in their various stages of growth.

How much does laser hair removal cost?

Laser hair removal prices in Boise vary, depending on the area being treated. Packages range from $400+ depending on the area. When compared to a life time of waxing or shaving – laser hair removal can save you thousands of dollars in the long run. Not including the time you spend shaving and waxing each month. Take a look at the infographic below. 

How long does the Laser Hair Removal treatment take?

The time involved with Laser Hair Removal treatment varies from person to person with skin, hair coloring and coarseness of hair all affecting the time. With this procedure numerous hairs are removed at the same time. The amount of time needed depends on the size of the area to be treated. The lip usually takes less than one minute; other areas, such as the leg, may take significantly longer.

Why are repeated Laser Hair Removal sessions necessary?

Hair goes through multiple growth cycles. Laser Hair Removal treatments work best on hair that is in an active growth stage. While one Laser Hair Removal treatment may have long lasting effects, repeated treatments are necessary for best results to capture all the hairs as they enter a new growth stage.

Ask us about our Laser Hair Removal Membership Packages!

Is Laser Hair Removal permanent?

The general opinion is that Laser Hair Removal is permanent, and the Food and Drug Administration approved it as “permanent reduction.”  Generally, this means that you shouldn’t expect laser treatments to remove every single hair from an area. Most will also need touch-up treatments 1-2 times a year after the initial set of treatments for any new growth your body develops with age and hormonal changes.

Is Laser Hair Removal safe?

Yes. The laser uses a wavelength of light which passes through the skin. Unlike x-rays, there is no residual radiation left in the body.Skin may appear pink or red after treatment. This disappears, in some cases after some minutes, in other cases up to 6 hours to a few days.

Is Laser Hair Removal painful?

This varies from person to person depending on their sensitivity. Some have described the sensation of Laser Hair Removal to a slight burning sensation or a rubber band snapping on the skin. At Silk Touch, we provide numbing that makes the experience comfortable and almost pain free.

It never fails. It could be the night before a big date or that all-important board meeting where you have to give a presentation. You glance in the mirror and see an unpleasant sight: an intrusive whitehead. Although your first thought might be to pop it and move on with your day, avoid making a hasty choice and learn what’s best for your skin.

For some reason, popping a pimple provides us with much satisfaction. While seeing an unwelcome nuisance disappear feels gratifying momentarily, consider the aftermath of your actions. Picking or popping a pimple can actually push the dirt and bacteria deeper into the skin, causing more swelling, redness and irritation. If your skin is prone to scars, popping a pimple can lead to long-term damage. Deep scars can even become permanent and require professional solutions like laser treatments.

Rest assured that most pimples will go away on their own in due time. If you want to speed up the process, there are several treatments and products that help clear up acne, reduce the appearance of scars and even out the complexion.

Acne Treatments at Silk Touch: 

• IPL ( Intense Pulsed Light)
• LED Light Therapy
• Photodynamic Acne Therapy
• Medical Microdermabrasion 
• Products – Our line Silk Touch Rx, Epionce and Vivete all have products specifically designed to clear acne and brighten complexion. 

Read more about treatments here.

As with most treatments, acne treatments are very individualized at Silk Touch. During a consultation, our aestheticians will meet with you and discuss your individual concerns, following that we use VISIA skin analysis to determine the underlying cause of your acne. Using this information, we will write up our recommended treatment plan and product suggestions – all based on your condition, budget and skin type.

We are offering free consultations and Visia Skin analysis. If you are struggling with acne, give us a call or request an appointment online.

If you feel the need to pop and can’t resist it, we recommend going to a professional for extractions – to avoid scarring and further trauma to the skin. But, if you absolutely must do it, make sure hands are washed, face is clean and you squeeze gently and stop before blood is drawn.

I WANT TO GET RID OF MY LOVE HANDLES!!

Love handles: the undesirable fat bulging over the sides of countless waistlines. Love handles remain a highly targeted area when it comes to fat reduction. For many people, these areas of excess fat are anything but loved.

Located around a person's midsection, love handles, or the bulges of fat at the side of waist, cover the oblique muscles and make the midsection appear larger. Generally, love handles increase in size as we get older. As our food intake increases and activity decreases, excess fat makes love handles a permanent home. Also, individuals with higher body fat percentages typically have more pronounced love handles than individuals with lower fat percentages.

In order to shrink your love handles, you'd need to reduce your body fat percentage. To do this, consume fewer calories through a healthy diet and increase cardio and resistance training. Building energy with nutrition, burning fat and building muscle are the only surefire ways to significantly decrease the waistline bulge. Diet and excercise is one of the best (and most cost effective) tools for getting rid of love handles But sadly, the exercise approach is not always effective for everybody – as it takes special targeted area work outs to start to tone this area. 

So what can you do to get rid of them when diet and exercise don’t seem to do the trick?

In the past, traditional liposuction used to be the only option. But not everyone is a candidate for this invasive surgery and most people tend to want quick results with little downtime. At Silk Touch, we now have a treatment that work wonders on eliminating love handles.

Non-invasive Liposculpture with Smartlipo & Vaser Lipo

Sometimes a combination of Smartlipo and Vaser Lipo is the best treatment plan for those looking to lose not only love handles, but other areas of fat on the abdomen, back, etc.  Liposculpture can usually be done in 1 session, and is most cost effective if you are looking to sculpt several areas of the body or you want to lose a substainal amount of weight at once.

 Read more about Smartlipo/Vaser Procedures and Technology

If you want more information on VASER or Liposculpture, or have questions on which procedure would most benefit you, we welcome you to come visit us for a FREE consultation with our patient care coordinator, Donna. She is more than willing to answer any questions and come up with the best treatment plan that is right for you, and right for your budget.