Reversing Complications from Cosmetic Procedures

Reversing Complications from Cosmetic Procedures

Have you ever undergone a cosmetic treatment only to find the results disappointing or even concerning? It happens more often than you might think. Cosmetic treatments can sometimes leave you with unbalanced facial features, disrupting the harmony of your appearance.

While cosmetic procedures are generally safe and effective, understanding the potential risks and complications is crucial for informed decision-making. Complications can manifest in various forms:

1) Asymmetrical Results… How can we fix this? 

Asymmetrical results following a cosmetic procedure can be disappointing, presenting as a lopsided or imbalanced facial appearance that disrupts the harmony and symmetry of your features. This can detract from your enhancement goals, leaving you with unnatural looking results.

- On the bright side, asymmetry can be fixed! The process to restore symmetry and harmonise facial features requires a skilled practitioner and a careful assessment plan to correct any imbalances effectively. Procedures to reverse these cosmetic complications can vary from non-invasive methods with the use of enzymes to more complex surgical revisions. A consultation with a practitioner will determine the best approach.

2) Formation of Lumps or Bumps

Lumps or bumps appearing under your skin after a cosmetic procedure is a common issue and can occur due to various factors, such as your body producing excess collagen in response to the treatment. 

Will this go away on its own?  - In many cases, a gentle massage and applying light pressure to the area can help smooth out minor lumps. However, the time it takes for these bumps to disappear can vary. If you find that the lumps persist or are causing you discomfort, it’s essential to reach out to your practitioner as further medical intervention may be required. 

3) Increased Skin Sensitivity and Blistering 

Blistering is an uncommon but possible side effect of laser treatments, often caused by excessive energy or an overreaction of the skin. Additionally, increased sensitivity in the treated area is frequently reported. This heightened sensitivity can make the skin more reactive to environmental factors like sun exposure, heat, and even certain skincare products, leading to discomfort. 

To support your recovery after laser treatments, we offer topical creams designed to soothe and accelerate skin healing. Additionally, our advanced therapies effectively address complications such as blistering and heightened sensitivity.

Navigating the aftermath of a cosmetic treatment can be challenging. However, our team of practitioners are highly experienced and equipped to help reverse any complications that may have occurred. Book a consultation. 

 Book an appointment to resolve cosmetic complications- Contact us at (03) 9826 4966 or reception@div.net.au to enquire today. 

How Seasonal Changes Are Affecting Your Skin

Seasonal Changes Call For a New Skincare Routine

As the seasons shift, so do the needs of your skin. Have you noticed that your skin can become dry and dull during the winter? Cold temperatures and low humidity levels are the main factors contributing to your skin's dryness, flakiness, and increased sensitivity. This is because cold air holds less moisture than warm air, accelerating moisture evaporation from the skin. When this process is accelerated, these environmental conditions make it difficult for your skin to retain moisture throughout the season. On top of that, indoor heating systems can worsen these effects by drying out the air.

What can this look like on your skin?

• Dryness and flakiness

• Irritation and increased sensitivity

• Dullness/compromised skin barrier

• Itching, cracked skin and chapped lips

Hydration is key to a healthy skin barrier…

By adjusting your skincare routine to accommodate seasonal changes, you can prevent winter dryness and maintain a healthy complexion year-round. Winter is the time to switch to thicker, emollient-based moisturisers to provide intense hydration and restore the skin's barrier. Consider switching to a gentle and hydrating cleanser to avoid further stripping your skin of its natural oils.

To combat these winter skin challenges, it's essential to establish a staple skincare routine that focuses on hydration and barrier protection.

What products can help with winter dryness?

SKINCEUTICALS Triple Lipid Restore 2:4:2
Intense Hydration Moisturiser

This unique lipid correction cream helps combat winter dryness by restoring the skin's external barrier with a cholesterol-dominant 2:4:2 ratio. It supports natural self-repair while potently nourishing ageing skin for improvement in the visible appearance of skin smoothness, laxity, pores, and overall radiance.

Shop Here.

ASPECT DR Mild Clean
Hydrating Cleanser

The Mild Clean cleanser by Aspect Dr provides deep hydration and gentle cleansing. It is suitable for hyper-sensitive skin types. Formulated with glycerin, a plant-based humectant, it prevents transepidermal water loss, maximising hydration levels and plumping the skin for a smooth, hydrated feel.

Shop Here.

*It's important to remember that not every product is suitable for everyone. Each person's skin is unique, with different needs and sensitivities. Pay attention to how your skin reacts to different products and environmental changes, and adjust your routine accordingly.

Not sure which products to use? A skin consultation is the best way to determine the right products for your skin goals. Schedule a skin assessment with our skincare specialist to receive personalised recommendations, guidance on correct product usage, and answers to any concerns or questions you may have for your skincare routine.

Want to continue browsing more skincare products? Visit our Script Skincare online store here.

If you experience persistent dryness or skin conditions exacerbated by winter weather, come in for a consultation with one of our dermatologists for a tailored solution. Book a consultation.

Tighten up your jawline with zero pain

Achieving a defined and youthful jawline no longer requires invasive procedures or painful recovery periods. We are one of the first clinics to bring EmFace Submentum to our patients, allowing them to experience the latest technology in skin tightening and facial contouring.

An example of how the EmFace submentum can reduce the appearance of a ‘double chin”

*Results courtesy of BTL Aesthetics

A well-defined jawline can create facial harmony by enhancing the balance and symmetry of facial features.

When your jawline is concealed by a double chin, this can alter the perceived shape and proportion of your face. A “double chin” is characterise by the stubborn pocket of fat beneath the chin, which can create an undesired rounded or sagging appearance. Despite our best efforts with diet and exercise, treating the submental area can be particularly challenging. This is because the presence of a double chin can be influenced by genetic factors which determine how your body stores fat.

How can the EmFace Submentum help?

The EmFace Submentum offers a unique approach to tightening up your jawline with zero pain, setting it apart from other treatment methods. It combines HIFES™ muscle stimulation with synchronized radiofrequency to target the double chin comprehensively. This dual approach effectively tightens and tones both the skin and underlying muscles in the submental area without causing any discomfort to the patient.

The key features of EmFace Submentum:

• Its precision allows for customisation of the treated areas, ensuring that every session is tailored to meet your individual needs.

• You can start to expect gradual improvements in your double chin's appearance after just four sessions.

• This treatment has zero downtime, allowing you to resume your daily activities immediately after treatment.
  

If you are seeking to achieve natural-looking and long-lasting results, EmFace Submentum is the treatment to try for an innovative jawline transformation experience. We are one of the first clinics to offer this treatment. Schedule a consultation today to be one of the first to experience this innovative facial contouring solution! Book your appointment now.

Do you have ‘Tech Neck’ Lines?

Your phone may be giving you neck wrinkles. Here’s what you can do to fix it.

The extended periods of time spent gazing downward on electronic devices could be causing subtle changes to your neck without you realising it. As you bend your head downwards to look at your phone or computer, this persistent posture places strain on the neck muscles and delicate neck skin. The repetitive straining motion can essentially weaken the skin's elasticity and collagen, making it more prone to wrinkling and sagging. Over time, this can lead to the progressive development of neck wrinkles and creases, also known as ‘Tech Neck.’

You may be wondering, how can we prevent the premature development of neck lines? 

Tech neck can be prevented through implementing the following methods:

1. Neck Exercises: Stretching exercises targeted at the neck muscles can help improve posture and reduce strain on the neck.

2. Maintain Good Posture: Avoid hunching over or tilting your head downward for extended periods.

3. Take Breaks: Incorporate regular breaks into your screen time to give your neck muscles a rest and prevent prolonged strain.

There are various solutions available…

Neck Rejuvenation- Combination of treatments Performed by Mike Clague (BSc (BMED))

If you find yourself among the many affected by 'tech neck,' rest assured that there are several procedures available to address this concern. Laser therapy, skin needling, radiofrequency treatments, and other rejuvenation methods offer effective solutions to tighten and smooth the skin on the neck and décolletage.

At the Dermatology Institute of Victoria, our team of skilled practitioners are highly experienced in addressing neck wrinkles and providing skin rejuvenation solutions for a variety of skin concerns. In the photo above, a combination of treatments were used to help improve the appearance of deep wrinkles on the neck. These results can be attained by the DIV team through a tailored series of treatments and personalised consultations aimed at meeting your unique skincare goals. Schedule a consultation with us today to discover how we can help you achieve your aesthetic goals and unlock a more radiant, rejuvenated appearance. Book now.

The Importance of Consistency in Achieving Glowing Skin

Skin needling has emerged as a highly sought-after skin rejuvenation treatment in recent years, offering transformative results for various dermatological concerns. However, one crucial aspect that is sometimes overlooked is the importance of undergoing multiple treatments.

This treatment involves the use of a device equipped with fine needles that create micro-injuries on the skin's surface. These controlled injuries stimulate the skin's natural healing process, prompting the production of collagen and elastin, which are essential for maintaining skin elasticity and firmness.

The Importance of Consistency.

While you may experience some initial improvements in your skin after a single skin needling session, the full benefits are typically noticed after completing a series of treatments.

Think of it as a fitness regimen for your skin – just as you wouldn't expect to see lasting results from a single workout session, the same principle applies to skincare treatments.

How does it work?

Skin needling is a gradual process that yields progressive results over time. Completing a series of treatments will help to continuously stimulate collagen production, leading to cumulative improvements in skin texture, tone, and overall appearance.

What skin concerns can skin needling address?

This treatment can address a wide range of concerns such as acne scars, age spots, fine lines, pigmentation, pores and uneven texture. Consistency maximises the results of these treatments by facilitating continuous improvement and maintenance of skin health. Come in for a consultation to create a tailored treatment plan for your skin concerns today.

Want to learn more about skin needling? Click here.

Transform your skincare routine with this new eye rejuvenation solution

Ready for a real solution to your under-eye concerns?

Eye creams have long been a staple in skincare routines for combatting common under-eye concerns, providing temporary hydration and some level of improvement. However, their effects are often limited and short-lived. If you're frustrated by the lack of significant results when dealing with stubborn issues like dark circles and fine lines, it may be time to explore a more effective solution.

Rejuran-I is an eye rejuvenation treatment new to the Australian market. This treatment goes beyond traditional eye creams to rejuvenate and revitalise the delicate under-eye area.

Here’s what you need to know:

Understanding the eye-area

The skin around the eyes is the thinnest and most delicate on the face, making it particularly susceptible to signs of ageing and tiredness. Factors like genetics, sun exposure, and lifestyle habits can make concern like dark circles, puffiness, and fine lines worse. Unfortunately, traditional rejuvenation treatments often don't work well for addressing this sensitive area.

A Solution Beyond Eye Creams

Unlike traditional eye creams that merely hydrate the skin's surface, Rejuran-I contains polynucleotides (PNs) derived from salmon DNA, which have remarkable regenerative properties. This includes stimulating collagen production, promoting skin repair, and enhancing overall skin texture and tone- overall, working to target the root causes of dark circles, resulting in brighter, more rejuvenated skin.

Effective for tackling these concerns

Dark Circles

Puffiness

Fine Lines & Wrinkles

The process explained.

Rejuran Eye targets the root cause of dark circles, brightening the under-eye area and reducing discolouration for a more refreshed look. It further helps alleviate puffiness by promoting lymphatic drainage and reducing inflammation, resulting in a smoother under-eye contour. Lastly, it stimulates collagen production and improves skin elasticity, helping smooth fine lines and wrinkles for a more youthful appearance.

Whether you're struggling with dark circles, fine lines, or puffiness, this treatment offers a safe and effective solution. Book your consultation today to learn more today. For more information click here

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Why AviClear is a breakthrough treatment for acne

Your Guide to AviClear Acne Treatment

If you're experiencing the pain of persistent breakouts or frustrated by the slow pace of results from traditional treatments, the AviClear laser could be the game-changer you've been looking for. Designed with patient comfort in mind- this innovative treatment targets the root cause of acne, offering a comprehensive solution for achieving clear, radiant skin.

AviClear is the first FDA-cleared laser energy device designed specifically for the treatment of moderate to severe acne.

AviClear Acne Laser: Dr Michaela Zallmann - Dermatologist (BBNSC (HONS), MBBS (HONS), FACD)

When sebaceous glands become unhealthy, they produce excess oil with a thick consistency, leading to clogged pores and breakouts. The AviClear laser takes aim at these troublesome glands, specifically targeting sebocytes – the cells responsible for oil production. Through the unique 1726 nm wavelength, this laser effectively reduces overall oil production, helping to improve existing acne and prevent future flare-ups.

What sets AviClear apart from other acne treatments?

Unlike other treatments that only address surface-level symptoms, AviClear works to effectively address the underlying cause of acne with three quick 30-minute treatment sessions spaced 4-6 weeks apart.

- But what about the aftermath of treatment?

While some acne treatments may trigger an excessive purge as they work to unclog pores and eliminate acne-causing bacteria, AviClear™ operates differently. Most patients undergoing AviClear™ treatments experience a short term purge. Followed by a gradual improvement in their skin's clarity and texture as the treatment progresses.

How soon will I see results?

While results may not be immediate, optimal results are typically observed a few weeks after completing the FULL treatment course.

It is important to note that results may vary from person to person.

Concerned about discomfort during treatment?

Fear not – AviClear™ is designed with patient comfort in mind. While you may experience a slight snapping sensation during the treatment, most patients tolerate it well, especially with the added benefit of AviCool™ contact cooling technology. While results may not be immediate, the gradual improvement in acne severity and skin texture is well worth the wait.

Book your consultation today and embark on your journey to a brighter, blemish-free future.
For more information click here

Has the recent humidity affected your skin? - We asked Professor Greg Goodman AM

First, we have to understand 'skin barrier function'

"The skin barrier is the delicate outer layer or ‘stratum corneum’ of our body and has similar permeability, thickness, and characteristics as a piece of glad wrap," says Prof Goodman. "It is important because it allows us to be terrestrial beings, keeping our insides in and protecting us from the outside environment."

"The skin barrier itself is a delicate balancing organ and starts off life down at the dermo-epidermal junction. The associated skin cells are somewhat communistic in nature; they give up life for the benefit of the body by dying slowly while they come up through the skin layers, becoming devoid of all living matter by the time they reach the surface."

"At this point, they are essentially sheets of interlocked keratin or ‘bricks’, and they stay this way until they are ready to shed. Between those ‘bricks’ are the ‘mortar’ or good oils – we’re talking cholesterol, free fatty acids, ceramides, and sphingomyelins"

(say 'ceramides and sphingomyelins' three times fast)

Goodman continues, "the whole transition from the base to the surface and then falling off the skin as individual cells is highly important as they take with them the allergens and microbes and all of the things you don’t want – a self-replenishing organ, if you like. Each part needs to operate in harmony with the rest to ensure a healthy skin barrier function."

"Another factor to consider is ‘trans-epidermal water loss’ which refers to gradual water loss through the skin tissue. Why is this important? You need 'good bugs' on your skin, and this process maintains a slightly acidic PH and critical level of humidity, fostering a mutually beneficial relationship, where the ‘good’ bugs keep out other nastier pathogens."

What can affect a healthy skin barrier?

"Overzealous cleaning (such as with alkaline soaps), excessive exfoliation (particular physically) and other general lifestyle factors such as changing atmospheric conditions," says Goodman.

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So, what about humidity?

Regarding humidity, the best way to see a change in skin barrier function is when someone translocates between climates of a vastly different nature – for example, moving between Darwin (humid) and Perth (dry).

Interestingly, common skin problems can arise from moving either way:

Acne – this can flare up moving from a dry to a humid environment.
Eczema – this can flare up with the opposite transition; humid to dry. This is of particular importance as we transition out of the current humid La Nina weather pattern in Victoria and into dryer Autumn and Winter conditions.

"Essentially, you can be a victim of where you live no matter the climate," says Goodman.

Sigh

To Victoria – our skin is used to living in dryer air. That is, we usually only see a handful of humid days through Summer, as hot desert air blusters in during our normal summer weather patterns. Currently, we’re seeing a lot of tropical weather being dragged down, giving us a summer more akin to Sydney or Brisbane's.

This is, however, not our first and certainly won’t be our last humid summer, so it begs the question – has anything else changed? Well, friends, that may come down to something much more recent in our history. Yes, we are talking about masks.

"Presentations of rosacea, acne and perioral dermatitis (bumps or dryness around the mouth area) have increased. We have also seen a lot of lip dryness – or cheilitis – recently," explains Goodman.

Now, this may seem counter-intuitive given the humidity but it may be that we are altering our skincare routines in an unhelpful way.

We’ve spoken about it before, and we will again – we need to adjust our skincare routine as the seasons change. To keep it simple:

In humid conditions -

Decrease the base – changing the consistency of your base from ointment to cream, cream to serum, strong chemical exfoliant to gentle cleanser, etc. is the most helpful change you can make.

Increase your actives – when our skin is not facing dry air, it is more adept at dealing with stronger active skincare; we’re talking retinols, niacinamides, and the like.

In dry conditions -

Maintain your base – you want to increase the moisture so the atmosphere can’t steal it. This of course depends on your skin type; most people will find moving from a hydrating serum to an ointment will cause their skin to get a little angry.

Reduce your actives – as the dry air strips away the natural moisture of your skin barrier, it is less able to cope with the stress of active skincare. Now don’t let that scare you away from active skincare entirely – they are crucial in maintaining an active and healthy skin barrier, however, in dryer conditions, it is easier to overdo it.

The cause of many cases of skin sensitivity might surprise you

We have noticed that many people are visiting us at DIV with complaints of increased skin sensitivity.

Want to hear a shocking truth?

You might actually be the cause, simply by overusing certain ingredients and products

DIV Dermatologist Dr Katherine Armour recently chatted with Mamamia’s Erin Docherty to break it down -

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First up, sensitive skin - Is it possible for your skincare routine to make your skin more sensitive?

100%! Symptoms and causes of sensitive skin obviously differ between individuals (underlying issues like eczema and such can trigger sensitive skin), skin experts are now noticing a lot of 'man-made' sensitivity going on.

The main culprits? Physical exfoliation, foaming cleansers and toners.

"We have become obsessed with exfoliation as if it is something that we need to do to avoid all the perceived evils that could befall our skin (dullness, dryness, congestion)," says Dr Armour.

this might be big news to a lot of people

"I believe physical exfoliants are completely unnecessary. They temporarily smooth the skin by removing the dead upper layer which will slough away on its own. In doing so, physical exfoliants, particularly if used too often, will disrupt the skin barrier, leading to irritation and sensitivity."

"In terms of harsh skincare, foaming cleansers and toners are the main culprits. When used over-zealously they too upset the epidermal barrier, stripping precious lipids and leading to 'man-made' skin sensitivity."

So what’s the best option moving forward?

"The main way to ensure a glowing complexion is by supporting your skin's precious barrier with nourishing moisturisers, B3 and B5 topically, and by targeting brown spots and pigmentation with appropriate cosmeceutical ingredients," she said.

Armour said chemical exfoliants (AHA’s and BHA’s) are appropriate in those without sensitive skin to smooth and decongest, but these kinds of ingredients are to be used with care (one to two products a day, maximum).

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This article was adapted from an article originally published by Mamamia - https://www.mamamia.com.au/man-made-sensitivity-causes-behind-sensitive-skin/