If you are interested in laser hair removal, you must first understand howit works and the technology and science behind it. Laser hair removaltechnology is the use of an invisible beam of light combined with a constantsource of heat.  When the heatpenetrates the hair follicle, it destroys its roots disabling its ability togrow hair again, while still preserving the surrounding skin.

Although laser clinics, medical spas and plastic surgeon’s offices may usethe term permanent hair removal loosely, the FDA only endorses the term“permanent hair reduction” rather than permanent hair removal.

Here is my compiled list of facts andfiction on permanent hair reduction, a procedure that has risen to the #1requested aesthetic procedures:

Fiction: Laser hair removal is permanent.  Laser hair removal technology provides a permanent reductionof hair growth up to 80-90% of the targeted area in the ideal patient, that iswhy we cannot say laser hair removal is permanent.

Fact: Laser hair removal requires multiple treatments. Hair grows inthree stages (growth, regression and resting) and hair must be in the growthstage in order to be effected by the lasers light. Since not all hairs areactively growing at the same time, several treatments are needed to target allhair in the active growth stage. Most areas require 4-6 treatments spaced 4-6weeks apart, depending on hair thickness and the area treated.

Fiction: Insurance covers laser hairremoval. Laser hair removal is an out-of-pocket procedure and is notseen as a medical necessity even when hair growth is related to hormonalimbalance.

Fact: Laser hair removal does not work on white, grey or blonde hair. Lasersuse laser light to create heat with the goal of targeting the dark melanin inthe hair follicle and destroying the hair follicle by its absorption of theheat.  Treating white, grey,blonde, light red and even light brown hair with lasers has a low successfulrate due to the lack of melanin in the hair follicle. 

Fiction: Any link between cancer and laser hair removal. Laser hairremoval devices use radiation that produces heat but does not penetrate farinto the skin or cause cell mutation. It is non-ionizing radiation which isdefined by the US Department of Labor as “a series of energy waves composed ofoscillating electric and magnetic fields traveling at the speed of light”.There has been no known connection between laser hair removal and cancer.

Fact: Laser hair removal saves money. Laserhair removal may seem expensive but over time laser hair removal costless.  When the cost is stacked upwith the cost of continuous waxing, electrolysis, razors or other methods ofhair removal, the reduction in cost is mind boggling.

Fiction: All laser devices can be used forlaser hair removal. There are currently several types of lasers thathave been approved by the FDA for laser hair removal.  The Alexandrite, Diode and Nd:YAG lasers offer versatilityin treatment modes with the Nd:YAG being the preferred choice of laser whentreating darker skin types.  AlthoughRuby lasers and Intense Pulse Light (IPL) devices are still in use for laserhair removal, they are not as effective and have become less popular in recentyears.

Fact: Laser hair removal is the most state-of-the art method in removingunwanted hair. Lasers offer hair removal in a controlled and efficientmanner especially for large areas such as the back and full legs. Hair isremoved for longer and indefinite periods of time.

Fiction: Laser hair removal is painful.  The feeling is not that of pain but discomfort. It feelslike rubber bands snapping against your skin and is tolerable to most people.

Simply stated, at the moment, laser hair removal is the most permanentsolution on the market offering patients as close to permanent results as theyare able to get. 

Make your appointment now and be ready for your beach bikini soon.

For more information please visit the Luxxery page:

http://luxxery.com/day-spa-services/Luxxery-Facials.aspx 

http://luxxery.com/before-and-after/laser-hair-removal.aspx

Acne Scarring Management

How We Do It

The key to management of patients with acne scarring beginswith a thorough analysis and a clinical examination with an emphasis ondetermining the cause of scarring, preventing scarring, and the types of scars.  Once all these factors have beendetermined, we can design the options for treatment of the scars.

A scar, in the simplest terms, forms at the site of injuredtissue.  In the case of acne, theinjury is due to the body’s inflammatory reaction to sebum, the oily substanceproduced by sebaceous glands as well as bacteria and dead cells in the cloggedsebaceous follicles.  The type ofscarring that results in people who are susceptible to scarring ranges fromdepressed scars such as ice-pick scars, to raised scars such as keloids,  to hyperpigmented scars and dark spots.  Facial scars resulting from acneregardless of how they manifest themselves often give the illusion of facialasymmetry or poor skin texture.  Mygoal in the treatment of facial acne scarring is managing by way of removal orlightening of such unsightly areas for my patients regardless of skin color orethnicity.  My objective is to givethe skin a more acceptable physical appearance with the understanding thattotal restoration of the skin to the way it looked before the occurrence ofacne is not possible . Our treatment approach will accomplish a tremendousimprovement of the appearance of the skin.

Old and new methods in treatment of acne scarring are only effectivewhen taking into consideration the patient’s skin type and ethnic background.  Knowing the patient’s susceptibility isimportant in the choice of techniques for management and effective treatment ofacne scars.  A variety of treatmentsare presented to the patient ranging from old methods such as the age oldhydroquinones and peels to new methods such as laser treatments and fattransfer or adipose accentuation of the sub-dermis. Our approach consist of a combinationof old and new techniques integrating medical strength product regimens, peels,microdermabrasions, laser treatments as well as stem cell laden fat transfer.

The scar treatmentscurrently available include:

Peels Only deeppeels such as phenol based peels work on acne scarring yet are not recommendedfor dark or asian skin types.  Worthmentioning is the new Vi-Peel™, a medical grade peel specifically designed fordarker skin types and works on all skin types, it offers significantimprovement to dark spots, hyperpigmentation and acne scarring in AfricanAmerican, Latin and Asian patients.

Microdermabrasions Asurface form of dermabrasion, microdermabrasion using crystals or crystal freepassing through a vacuum tube to remove surface skin requires multipletreatments and may not have an impact on improving acne scarring.  However, a microdermabrasion performedimmediately prior to a Nd-Yag laser treatment such as the Cutera Genesis,contributes to a better laser procedure. A combination microdermabrasion-complexion blending laser treatment canhelp significantly to improve scars.

Laser treatments Laserand light based treatments for acne scarring and hyperpigmentation haveincreasingly become the appropriate approach where other methods have failed oras an integral part of a combination treatment plan that combines traditionalmethods such as topicals, peels and systemic approaches.  For example the results with the Nd-YagCutera Laser Genesis treatments preceded by a microdermabrasion produce anexcellent result for patients with hyperpigmentation and old acne scarring.  The treatment results in smoothing out skintexture and reducing visible scars and blemishes.  Scar tissue can be recontoured and redness around healedscars and acne lesions can be reduced depending on the type of wavelength andintensity of the laser used.

Fat Transfer Whenused to correct deep contour ice-pick scars resulting from cystic acne, fattransfer where fat is taken from another body site and prepared for injectioninto one’s own skin can elevate depressed scars with the longest lasting resultsthan all other methods.  Recentstudies have proved that the newly injected fat contributes to the healing ofthe surrounding tissue where it is placed due the high number of stem cells inthe transferred fat.  The stemcells are involved in the repair of the skin and a remarkable repair of scarsas well as an enhancement of the quality of the skin underlying the transferredfat.  Multiple fat transferprocedures can achieve more of a permanent result.

Products Patientsseeking treatments of acne scars should also commit to a customized home care regimen that combine cleansers instead of traditional soap which can strip the skin ofits natural oils, with topical retinoids(Retin-A)  to reduce blackheads, whiteheads and induce skin cellturnover with the added benefit of reducing wrinkles, a skin lightening creamor hydroquinone to reduce or removehyper pigmented scars, and has an increased bleaching quality when used incombination with the retinoid.  Noregimen is complete without a moisturizerand a sunblock or a combinationmoisturizer sunblock as the final step to any customized home care regimen.

The decision to seek treatment for your acne scars dependson many factors, the most important one being the way you feel psychologicallyand emotionally about your scars and whether or not you are willing to livewith your scars.  Another importantfactor would be whether you have the budget and discipline to seek thetreatment options presented since acne scar treatments is not covered by healthinsurance.  Most physicians offertreatment package options and patient financing to ease the burden of the cost involved.

The uniqueness of our approach is geared towards making ourpatients feel good not just look good. At Luxxery we take care of your acnescars and surround you in beauty.

Luxxery Cosmetic MedicalBoutique Invites you to our

SpringAwakening Event For abetter looking YOU tomorrow

Saturday,March 20, 2009

10AM – 5PM

Please join us for aday of light fare, while learning more about the latest advancements incosmetic procedures available in our practice from Board Certified PlasticSurgeon Dr. Ayman Hakki.

·     Meetand Greet our staff

·     Productand Service Discussions

·     ComplimentaryCosmetic Consultations

·     ComplimentaryComputerized Skin Analysis

·     Drawingsup to 3 chances to win a complimentary “single area” of BOTOX® Cosmetic

25% Discounton BOTOX® & JUVEDERM®

If Injectedon Day of Event

(byappointment only)

20%Discount for Surgery Scheduled During this Event Only

20%Discount on any Laser Hair Remeval packages

“Bring A Friend” AndYou Will Each Receive: a 30-Day LATISSE™ Treatment.  (while supplies last)

RSVPToday – Space is Limited!

Byemail:  heather.coombs@luxxery.com

or call:  301 843-9769

http://www.luxxery.com/LuxxeryPromotions1.aspx 

Join All Women Growing Longer, Thicker & Darker Eyelashes

"Get the Last Lash!"

Purchase 2 Latisse for $220 & Receive 20 units of Botox Cosmetic FREE! 

Read More About Latisse and Luxxery here:

http://luxxery.com/Features/Latisse.aspx 

This offer good 02.01.10 thru 02.26.10 while supplies last.

Call to make an appointment today.

301.843.9769 

Your 2010 Project: Redefine your hair, your face, your body...

Saturday, January 23, 5-9PM

A David Palmer Salon
3028 Waldorf Market Place, Waldorf Maryland 20603

Join us for an evening of redefining your hair, face and body.

20% Discount for Services Scheduled During this Event Only!

This exclusive offer is only valid one night.

• Botox Cosmetic & Juvederm
• Hair cut, color Keratine and Brazilian treatment

We all want to look and feel our best. When it comes to your personal appearance, you can onyly trust the experts.

Rejuvenate yourself in one evening through anti-aging tips, hair styling and non-invasive cosmetic procedures with board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Ayman Hakki of Luxxery Cosmetic Medical Boutique and hair stylist David Palmer of A David Palmer Salon. The beauty driven duo have combined forces to provide you with an opportunity to redefine your look.

• Up to 3 chances to win a complimentary “single area” of Botox Cosmetic
• Receive a free 30-Day Latisse treatment lash lengthening kit (while supplies last)

RSVP Today – Space is limited to the first 20 guests.
Reserve your spot today by calling either numbers and we’ll coordinate your hair, Botox and filler treatments.

email: heathercoombs@luxxery.com
T. 301-843-9769

http://cosmeticsurgerytoday.wordpress.com/2009/12/25/doctors-say-more-politicians-turning-to-plastic-surgery/

http://www.harleymedical.co.uk/media/2009/12/17/are-american-politicians-cosmetic-surgery-fans/#more-920

While plastic surgery procedures and cosmetic enhancements are generally expected for celebrities and those in the media spotlight, some doctors are finding that more politicians are saying “yes” to going under the knife.

According to Dr. Ayman Hakki of the Luxxery Cosmetic Medical Boutique in Waldorf, Maryland, it’s interesting to note that a number of politicians have already had some type of cosmetic enhancement in order to preserve their youthful looks.

Dr. Hakki points out that Secretary of State Hillary Clinton has had Botox injections in her forehead, Vice President Joe Biden has had hair transplants, California Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger has had a partial facelift, and Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi has had both a neck lift and a face lift. (Source:  ThePlasticSurgeryChannel.com)

Experts say that election time is “peak season” for many plastic surgery procedures, but there is still a lot of stigma around the idea that certain politicians may come across as vain instead of coming across as friendly, youthful and healthy.  In these cases, politicians do their best to hide it.

According to board certified plastic surgeon Dr. Cap Lesesne, “patients who were politicians and who had cosmetic procedures every six months instead of all at once [would] avoid arousing any suspicion.” (Source: ABoardCertifiedPlasticSurgeon.com) Still, others believe that it would be better for politicians to just admit that they are having plastic surgery.

Cosmetic procedures continue to be an attractive option for individuals that want to maintain a healthy and youthful appearance, combat the signs of aging or improve their silhouette after weight loss. Some of today’s most in-demand procedures include breast augmentation, facelift surgery, rhinoplasty (nose job surgery) and liposuction. Minimally invasive procedures that continue to be on the top list of coveted procedures in the United States include Botox injections, injectable fillers, laser skin resurfacing and cellulite treatments.

http://www.glittarazzi.com/blog/2009/12/10/modern-luxxery/#more-4059

Plastic surgeon Dr. Ayman Hakki recently celebrated the launch of his cosmetic medical boutique, Luxxery, with friends and VIPs at a benefit for Zonta International.

Jazz musician Marcus Johnson was on-hand performing hits from his new album, Poetically Justified; celebrity hairstylist David Palmer coiffed the hair of guests as they enjoyed wine from Tarara Winery; and photographer Nakeva Corothers took lots of great pics (check them out, after the jump).

Also, at the event, Dr. Hakki announced the opening of Luxxery’s second location in downtown Washington, D.C., in 2010. (We can’t wait!)

$350 value for only $199

NO DOWNTIME, NO PAIN
ALL SKIN TYPES
IN A WEEK EVERY OTHER PEEL IS OBSOLETE

Do You Have:
• Skin Hyperpigmention
• Uneven Skin Tone
• Blotchy Skin
• Sun Damaged Skin
• Dark Spots

Powerful Results
• Improve the tone, texture and clarity of your skin
• Reduce or eliminate age spots, freckles, and hyper-pigmentation, including melasma
• Soften lines and wrinkles
• Clear acne skin conditions, reduce or eliminate acne scars
• Stimulate the production of collagen, for firmer, more youthful skin

Call now and schedule your appointment before 9/30/09 and receive:
A free Keep-it Snappy Facial
OR
20% off Luxxery Skin Care Products / Latisse Eye Lash Growth Kit
Call now at 301-843-9769

   The key to management of patients with acne scarring begins with a thorough analysis and a clinical examination with an emphasis on determining the cause of scarring, preventing scarring, and the types of scars. Once all these factors have been determined, we can design the options for treatment of the scars.

 A scar, in the simplest terms, forms at the site of injured tissue. In the case of acne, the injury is due to the body’s inflammatory reaction to sebum, the oily substance produced by sebaceous glands as well as bacteria and dead cells in the clogged sebaceous follicles. The type of scarring that results in people who are susceptible to scarring ranges from depressed scars such as ice-pick scars, to raised scars such as keloids, to hyperpigmented scars and dark spots. Facial scars resulting from acne regardless of how they manifest themselves often give the illusion of facial asymmetry or poor skin texture. My goal in the treatment of facial acne scarring is managing by way of removal or lightening of such unsightly areas for my patients regardless of skin color or ethnicity. My objective is to give the skin a more acceptable physical appearance with the understanding that total restoration of the skin to the way it looked before the occurrence of acne is not possible. Our treatment approach will accomplish a tremendous improvement of the appearance of the skin.

Old and new methods in treatment of acne scarring are only effective when taking into consideration the patient’s skin type and ethnic background. Knowing the patient’s susceptibility is important in the choice of techniques for management and effective treatment of acne scars. A variety of treatments are presented to the patient ranging from old methods such as the age old hydroquinones and peels to new methods such as laser treatments and fat transfer or adipose accentuation of the sub-dermis. Our approach consists of a combination of old and new techniques integrating medical strength product regimens, peels, microdermabrasions, laser treatments as well as stem cell laden fat transfer.

The scar treatments currently availableinclude:

Peels Only deep peels such as phenol based peels work on acne scarring yet are not recommended for dark or asian skin types. Worth mentioning is the new Vi-Peel™, a medical grade peel specifically designed for darker skin types and works on all skin types, it offers significant improvement to dark spots, hyperpigmentation and acne scarring in African American, Latin and Asian patients.

Microdermabrasions A surface form of dermabrasion, microdermabrasion using crystals or crystal free passing through a vacuum tube to remove surface skin requires multiple treatments and may not have an impact on improving acne scarring. However, a microdermabrasion performed immediately prior to a Nd-Yag laser treatment such as the Cutera Genesis, contributes to a better laser procedure. A combination microdermabrasion-complexion blending laser treatment can help significantly to improve scars.

Laser Treatments Laser and light based treatments for acne scarring and hyperpigmentation have increasingly become the appropriate approach where other methods have failed or as an integral part of a combination treatment plan that combines traditional methods such as topicals, peel and systemic approaches. For example the results with the Nd-Yag Cutera Laser Genesis treatments preceded by a microdermabrasion produce an excellent result for patients with hyperpigmentation and old acne scarring. The treatment results in smoothing out skin texture and reducing visible scars and blemishes. Scar tissue can be recontoured and redness around healed scars and acne lesions can be reduced depending on the type of wavelength and intensity of the laser used.

Fat Transfer When used to correct deep contour ice-pick scars resulting from cystic acne, fat transfer where fat is taken from another body site and prepared for injection into one’s own skin can elevate depressed scars with the longest lasting results than all other methods. Recent studies have proved that the newly injected fat contributes to the healing of the surrounding tissue where it is placed due the high number of stem cells in the transferred fat. The stem cells are involved in the repair of the skin and a remarkable repair of scars as well as an enhancement of the quality of the skin underlying the transferred fat. Multiple fat transfer procedures can achieve more of a permanent result.

Products Patients seeking treatments of acne scars should also commit to a customized home care regimen that combine cleansers instead of traditional soap which can strip the skin of its natural oils, with topical retinoids (Retin-A) to reduce blackheads, whiteheads and induce skin cell turnover with the added benefit of reducing wrinkles, a skin lightening cream or hydroquinone to reduce or remove hyper pigmented scars, and has an increased bleaching quality when used in combination with the retinoid. No regimen is complete without a moisturizer and a sunblock or a combination moisturizer sunblock as the final step to any customized home care regimen. The decision to seek treatment for your acne scars depends on many factors, the most important one being the way you feel psychologically and emotionally about your scars and whether or not you are willing to live with your scars. Another important factor would be whether you have the budget and discipline to seek the treatment options presented since acne scar treatments is not covered by health insurance. Most physicians offer treatment package options and patient financing to ease the burden of the cost involved. The uniqueness of our approach is geared towards making our patients feel good not just look good. At Luxxery we take care of your acne scars and surround you in beauty.