Tag Archives: Botox

Elixir tests Juvéderm® ULTRA SMILE – the lip rejuvenator

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Beautiful lips – that is lips with subtle volume always make a face look attractive. But in the past cosmetic procedures, using different types of fillers, have been hit and miss with some products in the early days that were totally unsuitable.

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Botox innovator Allergen launched the lip enhancer, Juvéderm® ULTRA SMILE two years’ ago and the results continue to impress. This product is the first hyaluronic acid dermal lip filler to contain a local anesthetic called lidocaine.

Hyaluronic acid is a natural substance within the skin, which amongst other things, hydrates the skin and adds volume, contributing to the overall smooth appearance by enabling the skin to retain water and absorb more than 1,000 times its weight. The hyaluronic acid in this filler is formulated in a lab.

Juvéderm® ULTRA SMILE has received European regulatory approval and has a CE mark following clinical trials at 13 clinics across the UK. The trial enrolled 57 patients requesting aesthetic treatment for lip definition and enhancement. Patients were treated with Juvéderm® ULTRA SMILE for a variety of reasons including top and/or bottom lip definition, top and/or bottom lip fullness, and to treat the corners of the mouth.

Importantly, 96 percent of patients treated felt Juvéderm® ULTRA SMILE gave natural looking results, and 98 percent said they would recommend the product to a friend.

OUR TEST RESULTS

ELIXIR has tested the claims made for this product. Our guinea-pig, a 58-year-old went along to try it at the clinic of Dr Tracy Mountford in London’s Harley Street.

Dr Mountford is a meticulous practitioner – ensuring first and foremost that you know exactly what the treatment involves and also insists on a detailed health questionnaire.

Juvéderm® ULTRA SMILE is about subtle enhancement – a treatment philosophy espoused by Dr Mountford – so our tester was confident she would not come out looking like Daffy Duck or certain celebrities.

The treatment itself takes around 15 minutes with injections using a fine needle at strategic points on the lip to bring out a subtle fullness. The lidocaine does not completely eleminate the pain but makes it less painful overall so that the doctor can work more precisely.

Our lady had about 8-10 injections – one phial of Juvéderm® ULTRA SMILE. Dr Mountford also recommended tiny injections at the corner of the mouth to give the lips a more positive unturned look.

At the end of the treatment there was minimal swelling and the subtle enhancement our tester had hoped for. Importantly there were no lumps, bumps – a completely natural look…

“I was pleasantly surprised. I have had one previous experience of lip fillers and mine swelled up enormously, although they went down later. This time there was virtually no swelling and I was very pleased with the result – younger looking lips which don’t look as if I have had any work done. A fantastic result and I would definitely have it done again.”

Our tester gave this treatment 9/10

Juvéderm® ULTRA SMILE costs between £200 and £400 and lasts longer than most others – up to one year.

Contact: Dr Tracy Mountford www.cosmeticskinclinic.com

BEFORE AND AFTER PICTURES OF Juvéderm® ULTRA SMILE

ALICE BEFORE

ALICE AFTER

LAURA BEFORE

LAURA AFTER

Compare the subtle enhancement above with these celebrity disasters:

Lesley Ash

Melanie Griffiths

Pete Burns

More information on Juvéderm® ULTRA SMILE and information on finding a qualified practitioner visit www.juvedermultra.co.uk

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Dr Tracy Mountford – Non Surgical Cosmetics – London & Buckinghamshire

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Dr Tracy Mountford is the Medical Director of The Cosmetic Skin Clinic and has over 20 years experience in facial rejuvenation techniques.

Having qualified in London in 1985 she initially worked as an anaesthetist before training as a Cosmetic Medical Practitioner.

She has full registration with the GMC (no 3085451) and MPS, and is a founder member of the BACD (British Association of Cosmetic Doctors).

Dr Mountford is highly regarded by her peers and is considered a key opinion leader in the ever expanding field of non-surgical aesthetic medicine.

She is often quoted in the national media including: The Times, The Telegraph, The Daily Mail, Tatler, Grazia, Woman & Home, & Woman’s Own to name but a few. She also regularly appears on television including – BBC Breakfast, GMTV, ITV ‘This Morning’, 10 Years Younger: The Challenge, UK Living’s ‘The Truth About Beauty’, & carried out many radio interviews which have been broadcast throughout the country. She is frequently asked to present at conferences & workshops at key industry events across the UK.
More about her clinic at www.cosmeticskinclinic.com T: + 44(0)1753 646 660

Botox must carry highest health warning

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New York: Allergan Inc.’s wrinkle smoother Botox must carry the strictest warning about the risk of potentially deadly botulism, US regulators have ordered.

The new caution applies to all botulinum toxins used to relax the muscles that cause forehead lines or to treat spasms of neurological disorders, the Food and Drug Administration said today in a notice posted on its Web site. Doctors and patients should watch for side effects and shouldn’t interchange different botulinum products, the agency said.

Botox has about 83 percent of the global market for so- called neurotoxins, with sales of $1.31 billion last year. The FDA raised concerns about the drug’s safety in February 2008.

Another brand of the drug, Dysport, a competing toxin has also received FDA approval with the stricter warning.

“With the approval of another botulinum toxin, the FDA’s request for updated class safety labeling and the reinforcement of non-interchangeability is timely and responsible,” said Sef Kurstjens, Allergan’s chief medical officer, in a statement.

Almost 2.5 million Americans had Botox injections last year for cosmetic purposes, according to the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, based in Garden Grove, California. The drug was approved in 1991 for medical uses and in 2002 as a wrinkle smoother. It became fashionable among aging celebrities as a nonsurgical way to appear younger.

Botulism poisoning can occur if the toxin spreads beyond the site of the injection, leading to muscle weakness or difficulty swallowing and breathing.

Most side effects have been reported following treatment of arm and leg spasms, a use not approved by the FDA, and a neck- twisting disorder called cervical dystonia. The agency ordered manufacturers to better explain these dangers to doctors and patients and to implement new programs to minimize risks.

Solstice Neurosciences Inc., a closely held company in Malvern, Pennsylvania, sells a botulinum toxin called Myobloc in the U.S. for cervical dystonia.

Wimpole Aesthetic Centre – London

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Wimpole Aesthetic Centre
48 Wimpole Street
London W1G 8SF
T: + 44 (0)20 7224 2247
www.wimpoleaesthetics.co.uk
This clinic offers all kinds of fillers and anti-ageing facial treatments such as Botox, skin peels, mesotherapy as well as treatments for skin conditions such as acne, hair removal, thread veins etc.

Dr Josh Berkowitz is also an expert in non-invasive forms of fat removal such as SmartLipo.

Dr Josh Berkowitz joins Elixir experts

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London: Dr Joshua Berkowitz of London’s Wimpole Aesthetic Centre has joined the panel of top experts who work with Elixir.

His practice in the centre of London offers a comphrensive range of treatments for the face and body, including fillers, Botox, chemical peels, dermabrasion, laser hair removal and the latest technology to zap fat including SmartLipo.

Dr Berkowitz graduated with a medical degree(MB ChB) from Birmingham University (UK) in 1980 and, after specialist training, obtained Membership and subsequent Fellowship of the Royal College of Obstetricians & Gynaecologists (FRCOG). As an experienced Medical Doctor and a very skilled surgeon, he owns and manages Wimpole Aesthetic Centre. To book a consultation with Dr Joshua Berkowitz, please contact us.

Before coming to England,he lived in Johannesburg (South Africa) and had a successful and prestigious private female-focused practice. He has always had a special interest in Women’s Health and Wellbeing, Endocrinology, Aesthetic Medicine and Anti-ageing Medicine.

He has a particular interest in aesthetic treatments that can be used as alternatives to cosmetic surgery and has attended many international congresses and workshops related to this genre of medicine. Before opening the Wimpole Aesthetic Centre in London, he spent time in Paris, Israel and in South Africa as well as in the UK at clinics specifically devoted to the practice of Aesthetic Medicine and Anti-aging Medicine.

Dr Joshua Berkowitz is fully registeredwith the General Medical Council (GMC) in the UK and with the South African Health Professionals Council. He is a member of several prestigious medical societies including the BMA and the SAMA. He is also a member of the Royal Society of Medicine (RSM) as well as the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (RCOG) and its South African equivalent, the SASOG. He is a member of the Independent Doctors Forum (IDF) and is, of course, a member of the British Association of Cosmetic Doctors (BACD).

As a recognised medical educator,Dr Berkowitz was on the academic staff of the Witswatersrand Medical School (Johannesburg) and on the part-time staff of the famous Chris Hani Baragwanath Teaching Hospital. Whilst in South Africa he had a live phone-in medical radio talk show specifically devoted to women’s health and other women’s issues.

Dr Joshua Berkowitz is one of the UK’s leading doctors for Smart Lipo and is a specialist in many other non-surgical aesthetic rejuvenation procedures and alternatives to cosmetic surgery, including Velasmooth, Microdermabrasion, Laser Hair Removal, Sculptra, Mesotherapy, Chemical Peels, Botox and much more! Please contact Wimpole Aesthetic Centre, London, to discuss your concerns and requirements or to book a free private consultation with a member of our highly experienced practitioners.

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Clínica San Roque, S.A. Gran Canaria

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Clínica San Roque, S.A.
C/ Dolores de la Rocha, 5.
CP: 35001, Las Palmas de G. C.
CIF: A-35064658
www.clinicasanroque.com
T: +34 928 012 600 –
10% discount on aesthetic treatments

• Anti-ageing programme: Complete investigation and treatments to meet the needs of the patient including: diet, exercise training programmes, peeling,
autohemotherapy-ozonetherapy, facial anti-ageing technques (mesolifting, hyaluronic acid, vitamins, mesoplasty etc), body mesotherapy, lymphatic drainage etc.
• Chemical peels for acne, acne scars, brown spots (sun and hormonal), facial anti-ageing, psoriasis, warts, solar keratosis, seborrheic dermatitis and stretch marks
• Wrinkle treatments including Botox and fillers, gold threading etc.
• Volumising treatments – for lips, cheeks etc
• Vein treatments including sclerosis and laser
• Surgery for the removal of benign growths
• Hair treatments including mesotherapy and hair grafting
• Cellulite and firming treatments – endermology, vibration therapy, lymphatic drainage and mesotherapy
• Nutrition and diet for weightloss, fertilty
• Psoriasis treatments – peeling, light and ozone therapies
• Skin treatments – dermatitis, eczema, herpes, skin fungus, acne
•Face and body mesotherapy including use of growth factors (plasma rich in platelets)
• Radiofrequency, iontophoresis and ultrasound therapies and treatments

Argeriline (Acetyl Hexapeptide-3)

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Argeriline (cetyl Hexapeptide-3) – is another substance that temporarily inhibits the activity of neurotransmitters responsible for facial muscle contractions, preventing the formation of wrinkles. It works without toxic side-effects.

GABA

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Gamma-aminobutyric Acid (GABA) is the body’s natural muscle-relaxing agent, this ingredient is a neurotransmission inhibitor, which instantaneously relaxes muscle contractions that cause wrinkles and fine lines in the skin. It is used as an alternative to BOTOX.

Botox

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This is the brand name for a form of botulinum toxin that is injected into muscles to bring about temporary and partial paralysis – this helps eliminate wrinkle lines around the eyes, forehead and neck. Botox is also used in cases of excess persperation and other serious medical conditions.

Wrinkle implants may cause arthritis

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Permanent cosmetic implants could cause allergic reactions such as arthritis, according to a report published in the Archives of Dermatology journal.

Doctors have reported that some patients developed problems over a year after the fillers or implants were placed.

The report said that the safety of polyalkylimide implant gels is questionable.

Dr Jaume Alljotas-Reig of the Vall d’Hebron University Hospital and Autonomous University of Barcelona said that both doctors and patients needed to be aware of delayed reactions.

The team examined 25 patients who had adverse reactions a year or more after having filler implants.

Can Botox damage the human brain?

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Pisa: A new study has found that the popular anti-wrinkle treatment Botox may travel from its injection site to the brain.

The study in which botulinum toxin — the active ingredient in Botox — was injected into the whisker muscles of rats, may disrupt brain activity, is published today in the Journal of Neuroscience.

Following the injection the scientists looked at the connected brain areas for signs of the toxin. Within three days of the injection, they found remnants of a protein broken down by the toxin in an area of the brainstem.

The toxin also moved from one hippocampus, which controls long-term memory and spatial navigation, to the hippocampus on the opposite side of the brain, and from the superior colliculus, the part of the brain associated with eye-head coordination, back to the eye.

The study found that brain cell activity was disrupted both where botulinum neurotoxin was injected and in some of the distant-but-connected sites.

The study’s author, Matteo Caleo of the Italian National Research Council’s Institute of Neuroscience in Pisa, called the finding a concern and noted that the effects of the botulinum injection on the hippocampus were still present six months later.

He said more work is needed to better understand how the toxin spreads along nerves and how to prevent the spread or use it therapeutically.

In February, the Food and Drug Administration warned that Botox and a competitor had been linked to dangerous botulism symptoms in some users, including cases so bad that a few children given the drugs for muscle spasms had died.

Two weeks earlier, the nonprofit organization Public Citizen petitioned the FDA to strengthen warnings to users of Botox and competitor Myobloc, citing 180 reports of US patients suffering fluid in the lungs, difficulty swallowing or pneumonia, which resulted in 16 deaths.

The FDA is probing reports of illnesses in people of all ages who used the drugs for a variety of conditions, including at least one hospitalization of a woman given Botox for forehead wrinkles.

Get ready for summer with skin treats from Renew Medica

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London: Renew Medica – the market leader in non-surgical cosmetic procedures, Laser Hair Removal and Advanced Skin Treatment in London and the South East – is offering three special deals this Spring all aimed at pampering your face in time to greet the first summer rays.

The exclusive Spring offers at Renew Medica include a FREE Skin Analysis using the VISIA Complexion Analysis System, 3 zones for the price of 2 Botox Wrinkle Treatments, or 2 for 1 treatments for Photo-Rejuvenation (IPL) and Micro-Dermabrasion. All of the treatments at Renew Medica, which is Healthcare Commission-registered, are non-invasive and individually tailored to each client’s need. The impeccable expertise of Renew Medica’s practitioners ensures that these procedures are carried out with the highest level of service, information and care.

Know the state of your skin with a FREE VISIA Complexion Analysis System

Let’s face it. Climate change and pollution are not just environmental hazards. These factors, along with intense tanning during the summer months, combine to adversely affect the health of your skin. Through the adoption of technological advancements, Renew Medica conducts state-of-the-art skin analyses with a UV scanner or the VISIA Complexion Analysis System. The results of the analysis will reveal common skin conditions, such sun damage, wrinkling, vascular lesions and hyperpigmentation, and help you plan for a summer of healthy-looking skin.

Ban those wrinkles with 3 zones of Botox treatment for the price of 2!

Good news! Renew Medica’s approach to Botox is unique in that it strives to create a natural look by tailoring its Wrinkle Treatment to each client’s facial anatomy. Nobody wants to trade fine lines for a frozen face so commonly seen in American Botox practices. Renew Medica’s unique treatment is effective for reducing facial lines and also serves as a remedy for inducing and augmenting eyebrows, eliminating tension headaches and excessive sweating.

Rejuvenate, correct and heal the skin with 2 signature treatments for the price of 1!

Now there is a way to look ten years younger without going under the knife. Renew Medica’s breakthrough Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) technology can correct a variety of skin conditions, such as facial imperfections, the signs of ageing and unsightly small veins. This treatment, also known as Photo-Rejuvenation, can drastically improve skin texture and other blemishes. Celebrate Spring by treating yourself to Renew Medica’s 2 for 1 offer on IPL or Micro-Dermabrasion, which resurfaces the skin to remove dead skin cells, eliminating those unsightly blackheads and unblocking congested skin.

Employing a team of 115 industry experts, Renew Medica encompasses 14 prime locations in London and is entering a stage of further expansion. The institute recently launched its flagship spa in Urban Retreat, Harrods, featuring new arrivals in its unparalleled portfolio, including the Soprano XL System, a revolutionary, painless laser hair removal system and Alma Accent, an advanced laser system for the treatment of cellulite, skin tightening and body contouring. Additional treatments available across all Renew Medica clinics include Hyperhidrosis Control, Dermal Fillers, Remedial Electrolysis, Micro-Pigmentation and Sclerotherapy. Renew Medica also carries Cosmedix, the cosmeceutical range of plant botanicals-based skin care products, which contain retinol, the Holy Grail in Anti-aging.

For further information on Renew Medica and for full list of clinics please visit Posted in Facial Elixirs, News | Tagged , , , , ,

Hypnox – the natural alternative to Botox?

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Toronto: Hypnox is a 25-minute hypnotherapeutic audio recording which alleviates the signs of facial aging. The process was developed as an alternative to cosmetic botulinum toxin type A injectables (like those sold under the brand names Botox or Dysport).

Cosmetic injectable products work by paralyzing the facial muscles, making it difficult to frown. Wrinkles can then smooth away, temporarily. Hypnox targets and re-trains the five main groups of facial muscles. The process stops the frowning, and allows wrinkles to ease away, permanently.

Absentminded frowning or furrowing of the face (while working or concentrating) will cause the skin to begin to wrinkle. The more persistent and habitual the frown, the more aggressively the wrinkles will take hold.

Hypnotherapy is perfectly designed to fight habits – it has been used successfully by millions of people to quit smoking, and to curb over-eating. Think of persistent frowning as a habit. Now, prepare to break that habit.

Hypnox offers an alternative : your unique face; healthy, relaxed – and free of unnecessary lines and wrinkles.

That is true beauty!

Hypnox was developed at our studios in Dundas, Ontario by a fully trained, NGH Certified Hypnotherapist. It is the result of seven years of research, uniting the latest advances in skincare technology with state-of-the-art hypnotic technique. The process is enhanced with a proven psychological approach for promoting healthy self-esteem. The recording is available as a CD or MP3 download at www.hypnox.ca This ground-breaking product will be launched at the Holistic World Expo at the Metro Toronto Convention Centre in Toronto, Ontario on March 14th, 2008.

Never mind the Botox – try a face workout!

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NEVER MIND THE BOTOX – try a face workout!
By Dean Hodgkin

‘Keep young and beautiful, if you want to be loved’, the old song goes, but that’s easier said than done when gravity and time take their toll. But you don’t have to resign yourself to the belief that there’s nothing that can be done about it.

Well, the good news is you can do something and the ideal time is right now. Don’t kid yourself into thinking your porcelain features will last, you’re simply in what the experts call the incubation period, whereby ultra-violet radiation, environmental pollutants and dietary toxins are beginning to silently take their toll but are yet to reveal the cumulative effects. However, before you rush off to buy expensive lotions, let your face become a pin-cushion or call Sharon Osbourne for a recommendation, sit tight, the answer is a lot closer to home. You could say it’s right under your nose (although all around it is a better description).

It’s somewhat ironic to think that some of us spend time conditioning our tums and bums yet do nothing for the risorious (actions a smile), the zygomaticus (opens/closes the eyes) or the procerus (effects a frown) even though these are the ones on show all the time!?!

So get ready to iron out your frown lines, tone up your turtle neck and lift the jowls with our selection of cheek tricks.

Guidelines:

– Sit in front of a mirror to check technique. Remember, these muscles are untrained so you will need to practice each technique.

– Shoulders and neck need to be relaxed so do a little mobility work and perhaps stretch these areas before your workout.

– Ease into each movement and hold for 6-8 seconds, then slowly release.

– Repeat each exercise 5 times.

– Take a deep breath in between each repetition.

Exercises:

1. Beat the Double Chin

Keep back teeth together, extend chin forwards.
Lift bottom lip over top lip.
Press tip of your tongue against roof of your mouth.

2. Lose the Lip Lines

Thumbs under top lip, thumb nails resting against your gums.
Contract upper lip muscles in small movements to press thumbs.

3. Rock Your Jawline

Head up, chin forward, upper lip gripped between lower teeth.
Feel stretch in front of neck.
Slowly smile without losing grip of top lip.

4. The Eyes Have It

Place index fingers under eyebrows, thumbs on side of head.
Push eyebrows up and hold by pressing against eye socket bone.
Gently close the eyes.

5. For your Eyes Only

Place palms on forehead to fix eyebrows in place.
Gradually open eyes as wide as possible.
Release and look down, as low as you can.

FACE FACTS

– Regular exercise, such as brisk walking, will help to maintain good circulation, which can be seen in your face.

– Sun sensibly by ensuring you always wear block during the summer months.

– Drink at least 8 glasses of water each day to keep your skin hydrated.

– Observe government guidelines for alcohol consumption and note that red wine contains antioxidants so should be preferred to other tipples

– According to market research company Zogby International only 6% of men would like a woman to use Botox rather than have natural wrinkles.

About Dean Hodgkin

A truly international fitness ambassador, having appeared at hundreds of events in 35 countries, Dean collected the Best International Fitness Presenter and Career Achievement awards at the glittering ‘One Body One World’ ceremony, in Times Square, New York. He is renowned for offering an incredibly wide range of themed masterclasses and workshops, from mind-body through to dance through to many forms of conditioning……….and even juggling! As an established writer, his articles have been published in The Times, Sunday Times, Daily Express, FHM, Men’s Health, GQ, Esquire, Zest, Health & Fitness, Slimming and Women’s Health. Dean has a number of broadcast credits to his name, including fitness expert on the Terry Wogan show, a regular slot on Saga Radio and presenting corporate dvds. He has acted as a consultant to Whitbread, Marks & Spencer, Reebok, RAC, David Lloyd Leisure, Norwich Union Healthcare and NIKE. Former 3-times world karate champion, he is now Senior Manager at leading spa, Ragdale Hall.

For information on weight loss visit Dean’s unique website
www.why-weight.co.uk
to download fun workouts, delicious recipes and motivational tips designed to fit around your lifestyle.

Cosmetic surgery more popular in UK than anywhere in Europe

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London: 1,500 cosmetic treatments are carried out in Britain every day by women and men aspiring to a new notion of beauty

577,000 cosmetic operations and treatments were carried out in Britain in 2007. Cosmetic fillers and other non-invasive treatments have had the biggest increases, accounting for 472,000 of the total -that’s nearly 1,300 a day.

As non-invasive procedures like cosmetic fillers start to make injections a gentler experience, many women are simply thinking ‘why not?’ The UK launch of Juvéderm® ULTRA range, the first cosmetic filler with anaesthetic, heralds things to come as for many people, the idea of being injected was the one thing holding them back.

Yet it is not just medical progress that is the catalyst for the increase in cosmetic treatments. An international study confirms that women are attempting to capture a new notion of beauty. The global survey, commissioned by Allergan, revealed that women do not want to remove all traces of aging and look ‘perfect’, choosing instead to reduce some specific wrinkles, like frown lines. It also found that UK women are literally under the most pressure in the world to look good. 59% felt there is increasingly more pressure on them to look more attractive compared to 48% of US women and 30% of traditionally glamorous Italians.

The ever-growing pressure on women to meet all expectations while looking effortlessly, naturally beautiful means the beauty ideal is no longer defined by the need to look perfect. That’s why stars with ‘natural’ beauty like Gwyneth Paltrow and Nicole Kidman have topped the ‘natural look’ list for both men and women. In fact anti-aging creams are now something that 1 in 10 men in the UK would consider as part of their grooming routine.

For more information on Juvéderm® visit www.allerganbeauty.co.uk

FDA investigates anti-spasm toxin in cerebal palsy child deaths

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The US’s Food and Drug Administration said yesterday that it has opened a safety review on reported side effects of Botulinum Toxin for the treatment of a number of non-cosmetic conditions.

Under review are Allergan brands Botox, Botox Cosmetic, and Myobloc, by another manufacturer, privately held Solstice Neurosciences.

All these products are injections of botulism toxins that block nerve transmissions and paralyse muscle. Such treatments can be used in small amounts to relax facial muscles to smooth wrinkles or calm severe spasms, such as those in patients with cerebral palsy.

The FDA said it was re-view-ing deaths and severe side-effects in children, in-cluding respiratory problems requiring ventilators and feeding tubes. The most common side-effects were in children with cerebral palsy.

In addition, the FDA said it had had reports of adult botulism cases, with symptoms such as difficulty holding up the head, weakness and numbness of the lower extremities. No adults had died and none required ventilators or tubes as a result.

The agency said that it was looking into whether these were reactions to “overdosing” and that no evidence linked the cases to “any defects in the products.”

Allergan said the most severe cases were often “severely compromised” children receiving high doses for spastic symptoms.

“We are continuing to work closely with the FDA to ensure they have all the necessary information to formulate their conclusion on the adverse event reports. We fully support the agency’s evaluation of the safety information they receive on our product,” Allergan said.

The company’s shares fell 6 per cent to $63.30 yesterday in New York trading.

Scrutiny over the safety of Botox has re-emerged in the past few weeks. Public Citizen, a US safety watchdog, recently asked the FDA to strengthen warnings on botulism products, citing deaths and fluid in the lungs and other side-effects.

Allergan has said Botox has a long safety record.

Allergan sees additional potential uses for Botox, including injections for severe headaches. It is a blockbuster product with at least $1.36bn in sales expected this year.

Cosmetic surgery advice misleading says Which?

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London: Non-medical staff giving advice, misleading claims, remote prescribing and pressure selling are just some of the findings from a new Which? investigation* into the UK cosmetic treatments industry.

With nearly 1 in 5 UK adults saying they would consider having cosmetic surgery**, more needs to be done to protect consumers and put an end to the current ‘sales before safety’ cosmetic treatment climate.

Which? undercover researchers visited 19 clinics in England and Wales posing as prospective patients for breast surgery, liposuction and Botox®*** to test whether the clinics were giving patients sound advice. Transcripts of the consultations were analysed by independent experts**** and provided an unimpressive snapshot of the cosmetic treatments industry.

Experts were concerned to discover some clinic staff describing invasive surgery as ‘scarless’ or a ‘minor procedure’, with one sales assistant showing her breasts to a Which? researcher in order to make a sale. Even more worrying was literature which offered liposuction in an ‘office setting’ to avoid hospital costs.

Which? has identified three major areas of concern from the research:

Use of aggressive marketing puts undue pressure on consumers.
Poor information makes it hard for consumers to make informed decisions about their treatment or where to have it.
Rule breaking is going unchecked because of weak and patchy regulation*****.
Which? health campaigner, Jenny Driscoll, says:

“There are risks with all cosmetic treatments, so when people go for a consultation they should get accurate and in-depth advice from a medical professional, not a pitch from an unqualified salesperson.

“Our investigations in recent months have revealed a relaxed attitude to non-surgical treatments such as Botox and it is worrying to find that it is being prescribed by doctors without them having seen or even spoken to the patient.

“The Health and Social Care Bill is currently going through Parliament and Which? will be calling for the Government to make sure that regulation of this industry is more robust.”

More information on this campaign:
*For its report The good, the bad and the ugly – the cosmetic treatments industry, Which? visited 19 clinics in England and Wales in summer 2007. The consultations took place at well-known chains and local clinics in London, Birmingham, Manchester, Leeds, Nottingham, Bristol, Leicester and Cardiff. Which? researchers had one pre-surgery or pre-treatment consultations at each clinic. Each consultation was recorded using hidden audio equipment. The visits focussed on two types of cosmetic surgery: liposuction (7 visits) and breast augmentation (6 visits). Six clinics were also visited for initial consultations on Botox®.

**Which? face-to-face omnibus survey of 2089 adults 16+, August 2007.

*** Botox® is a prescription-only drug and must be prescribed by a health professional (usually a doctor) with prescribing rights. Which? found examples where Botox® would be provided without the direct involvement of a doctor or other health professional with independent prescribing rights.

****Each visit was assessed by an independent expert for aspects of the consultation, the practitioner and the verbal information given to the prospective patient. Which? also assessed any written information provided at the visit. The overall ratings for the clinic visits were mixed – with no clinics rated as excellent and just 5 clinics rated as good.

***** To see a copy of the Independent Healthcare Advisory Services (IHAS) Good Medical Practice in Cosmetic Surgery, please visit www.independenthealthcare.org.uk. For more information on the Medical and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency’s (MHRA) position on Botox®, please visit www.mhra.gov.uk

The findings follow a recent Which? investigation at the Body Beautiful show in London (2nd -4th November) where 20 examples of breaches of industry rules were found.

On 5 December the Advertising Standards Authority (ASA) censured the Harley Medical Group for a poster advert that said “Gorgeous breasts just got easy with cosmetic surgery … ” as it implied that breast augmentation was risk free.
Anyone considering a cosmetic treatment can visit www.which.co.uk/cosmetic for a comprehensive guide and the opportunity to feedback.

Dr Raj Chopra MD

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Discount to be advised

Dr Rajesh Chopra is a renowned Harvard-trained facial plastic surgeon pracitising in Beverly Hills, California. Aesthetic, facial plastic surgery are a passion for Dr Chopra. This includes all aspects of facial and neck rejuvenation including the most modern minimally invasive techniques.

Visit www.rajchopramd.com

Elizabeth Roche MD MedSpa, New Jersey

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15% discount on all treatments including:

Comprehensive Skin Analysis
Botox
Dermal Fillers
Laser Hair Removal
Laser Resurfacing
IPL Photofacials
Laser Spider Veins
Sclerotherapy
Microdermabrasion
Chemical Peels
Facials
Mesotherapy

Elizabeth Roche M.D. MedSpa is located in Perillo Plaza at 577 Chestnut Ridge Road, Woodcliff Lake, New Jersey.
T: +1 201 505 1020

For more information, please visit www.elizabethrochemedspa.com

Today’s clientele want more than just quality work when they visit a medical spa. They want a full experience that is relaxing but professional; spa-like, but also provides them with the latest medical treatments. Welcome to MedSpa 2008 – a blend of design, professionalism and cutting edge equipment – it’s a new standard in what a medical spa should look like.

When Dr. Elizabeth Roche opened her new medical spa, she did more than install the latest equipment. She hired a designer to create an atmosphere for her to practice in. The result is a business that is thriving. She is an example of a medical spa owner who raised the bar in the spa industry and is seeing the results. At Dr. Roche’s medspa, clients enjoy the benefits of a well-designed and modern facility with state-of-the-art equipment, a board-certified physician, and experienced skin care professionals that offer the latest esthetic treatments.

“We have designed our modern medspa to create a soothing environment to de-stress the mind the moment they step into the medspa,” says Dr. Roche. “The lighting and design of the medical esthetic center creates a soothing environment where my clients feel comfortable knowing they are being treated by a board-certified physician and certified estheticians.”

Hiring certified skin care professionals is not enough to make a world class medspa. Medspa owners need to take a step further and focus on the design elements of the space to reflect the outstanding quality of care and service.

“Working with an interior designer to create a cost-effective plan is important when creating a medspa,” says Dr. Roche. “My designer used lighting to highlight the various treatment rooms and made the facility look elegant and spacious.”

There will be more medspa owners like Dr. Roche who are influencing the direction that medspas should take to become noteworthy and distinct. Dr. Roche is available for interviews on the medical esthetic business and the latest developments in the spa industry.

About Dr Elizabeth Roche

Dr. Elizabeth Roche is the founder of Elizabeth Roche M.D. MedSpa. Dr. Roche is a board-certified physician certified in the use of Botox, dermal fillers, and other medical aesthetic procedures. She was one of the first doctors to use Botox, and began administering it for aesthetic use on family and friends. After years of experience, her practice has grown to a full service medical spa, providing clients with non-invasive, non-surgical, up-to-date, safe and effective skin care treatments and procedures that restore youth, while preserving beauty and functional health of the skin. A former Elite model, she is a well-rounded beauty expert who provides the safest and most effective aesthetic beautification treatments available today.

Rujuvenation at the Fortina Spa Hotel Malta

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Valletta: Overlooking Valletta’s bastion walls across the harbour, Fortina Spa resort is a temple to self-indulgence and luxury so it’s little wonder that it has earned itself the accolade of grandest spa in the Mediterranean.

The number of spa, health and wellbeing treatments total over 300 which can make the decision making process of which treatments to opt for dizzy-making for even the most experienced of beauty junkies. New for 2008 they are hosting Botox breaks administered by their resident Cosmetic Dermatologist, Angèle Farrugia.

The choice of mid-week or long weekend breaks will be held once a month from January until June and then in October and December. The Fortina Spa Resort has teamed up with Operations Abroad, a specialist medical tourism provider in overseas healthcare, who will accompany the groups going out to Malta.

Emphasis is placed upon having fun in a relaxed and pampering environment where groups of friends can stay on an all inclusive basis in the 5 star Fortina Spa Resort whilst being administered a total of 50 units of Botox per person. The areas treated with Botox will be the upper face, eyes, forehead and the area between the eyes. For guests seeking further Botox treatments there is the potential to have more whilst staying at Fortina up to a maximum of 100ml.

There will also be plenty of time to explore and enjoy one of Europe’s most comprehensive spas which is divided into four sections: Thalasso Therapy Spa, Spa Sante, Belle Epoque and Hypogeum. At this super-sized, supersonic spa, guests are simply spoilt for choice. You can take a dip in the vast pool, stretch at a pilates or yoga class, or if chilling is your thing book time in for some serious spa relaxation. The treatment menu is vast with therapies inspired from the Caribbean, Far East and Europe.

So if you’re looking for rejuvenation and a short spa break why not let Operations Abroad take the hassle out of booking a trip by doing it all for you – there’s step one to looking younger sorted!

For further information about Botox treatments at The Fortina Spa Resort call Operations Abroad who can talk through any requirements on freephone from the UK only 0800 081 0018 or

visit www.operations-abroad.com

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Harley Street Medical Skin Clinic, Harley Street, London

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20% discount on all treatments
Harley Street Medical Skin Clinic
98 Harley Street
London
W1G 7HZ
T: + 44 (0)20 7935 0986
Website: www.harleystreetskin.co.uk
Email: enquiries@harleystreetskin.co.uk

About the Harley Street Medical Skin Clinic
The Harley Street Medical Skin Clinic, offers the best advice and treatments to protect, repair and cosmetically enhance the appearance and texture of your skin, all from our conveniently located clinic, in the heart of London. Dr Aamer Khan is one of the most experienced medical professionals in the UK in the field of injectables and beauty aesthetics, including fillers and body sculpting such as SmartLipo.

Renew Medica opens new clinic in Harrods London

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Renew Medica, a leader in non-surgical cosmetic procedures in London and the South East, has opened a new clinic at Harrods in London.

On offer at Harrods and its other 14 clinics in the South East is a full-range of of on invasive skin treatments on offer including Laser Hair Removal, Photo-Rejuvenation (IPL), Skin Health Restoration, Micro-Dermabrasion, Botox, Wrinkle Treatment, Hyperhidrosis Control, Dermal Fillers and MesoGlow, to VISIA Complexion Analysis System, Remedial Electrolysis, (spelling) Micro-Pigmentation, Facial Chemical Peels and Sclerotherapy.

Clinical Director, Dr Sach Mohan, leads Renew Medica’s impeccable team of doctors, nurses and aestheticians.

He comments, “With such a fantastic team of skin experts and specialists, I am proud to say that Renew Medica is leading the Industry in advanced skin treatments and laser hair removal, with the highest level of service and clinical results. To announce the opening of our new flagship site within the Urban Retreat, Harrods is another milestone for us, but we will continue to make Renew Medica more accessible and affordable to all, and we look forward to build on our current 14 clinics.”

Renew Medica’s Harrods Flagship Site will also conduct Body Contouring and Skin Tightening treatments – The Accent System – a painless dual mode radio frequency device used for the treatment of Cellulite, body and facial skin tightening and contouring to help eliminate stubborn fat areas that diet and exercise alone are unable to remove. The Accent system is already accruing a phenomenal response, and this safe, non invasive treatment requires fewer sessions than other popular systems with longer lasting results, and finally gives a genuine alternative to those not wishing to go under the knife.

The most popular chain in London for Laser Hair Removal, Renew Medica is the one of the few practices that offers a variety of Laser treatment systems, according to different skin types, contrary to most clinics, who only offer one treatment type for all. The three types of Laser treatment that Renew Medica offers are: YAG – for ethnic skin types; Alex – for extremely fair skin; and Diode – for all other skin types. Renew Medica will also be launching the new Soprano XL System, the revolutionary painless laser hair removal system.

“Not all Lasers are the same, and clinical results and efficacy vary, depending on the technology used and whether this is appropriate for your skin type.”

Renew Medica is also renowned for the unique Botox Wrinkle Treatment it offers to clients. Creating a natural look by perfecting the technique, avoiding the frozen look associated with American practitioners, the artistry adopted by the Renew Medica specialists revolves around appreciating each individual’s facial anatomy. As well as the obvious purpose of removing facial lines, the Botox treatment at Renew Medica is also effective in inducing and augmenting eyebrows, eliminating tension headaches and excessive sweating, especially popular amongst the hand shaking right palms of city executives.

With climate change and increased exposure to environmental pollution accelerating the rise in poor skin health, another popular service offered by Renew Medica is the superior quality skin analysis. Adopting the technologically advanced Visia skin mapping system, which allows for the identification and monitoring of common skin conditions such as the extent of sun damage to the skin, wrinkling, vascular lesions and hyperpigmentation, Renew Medica has established itself as the leading provider of Skin Health Restoration treatments, and a full range of treatment options are provided, to improve the client’s skin.

Cosmedix, the cosmeceutical range of plant botanicals-based skin care products carried by Renew Medica offers a variety of retinol based creams.

Hailed as the Holy Grail in Anti-aging, retinol helps in increasing skin cell production, collagen synthesis and blood supply. Renew Medica skin experts also offer effective treatments for acne, sun damage, dark patches and open pores, that are available following a thorough skin analysis and consultation using the Visia or Woods Lamp.

For further information on Renew Medica please visit www.renewmedica.com or call 0800 027 2029. Renew Medica clinics in London are located in Oxford Circus, Bayswater, Hampstead, City, Knightsbridge, New Kings Rd, Winchmore Hill, Weybridge, Croydon, Richmond, Muswell Hill, Barnet, Holloway Rd and Harrods.

Website www.renewmedica.com

• Appointments can be made by calling free-phone 0800 027 2029, or emailing info@renewmedica.com

• Renew Medica Clinics:

Oxford Circus 28 Maddox Street, Oxford Circus, London W1S 1PR
T: 020 7499 4904 E: maddox@renewmedica.com

Bayswater 160 Queensway, London W2 6LY
T: 020 7221 2219 E: queensway@renewmedica.com

Hampstead Oriel Court, 12 Heath Street, Hampstead, NW3 6TE
T: 020 7435 1199 E: hampstead@renewmedica.com

City 26 Widegate Street, London E1 7HP
T: 020 7247 0500 E: widegate@renewmedica.com

Knightsbridge 26 Beauchamp Place, London SW6 4RE
T: 020 7584 6691 E: knightsbridge@renewmedica.com

New Kings Road 291 New Kings Road, London SW6 4RE
T: 020 7348 7111 E: newskingsroad@renewmedica.com

Winchmore Hill 948 Green Lanes, London N21 2AD
T: 020 8360 3108 E: winchmorehill@renewmedica.com

Weybridge 11-15 Baker Street, Weybridge, KT13 8AE
T: 01932 858 099 E: weybridge@renewmedica.com

Croydon 105 High Street, Croydon CRO 1QG
T: 020 8681 7318 E: croydon@renewmedica.com

Richmond 157 St Margarets Road High, Twickenham, Middlesex, TW1 1RD
T: 020 8744 2427 E: richmond@renewmedica.com

Muswell Hill 22-24 Muswell Hill, London N10 3RT
E: muswellhill@renewmedica.com

Barnet 152 High Street, Herts EN5 5QP
T: 020 8440 0443 E: barnet@renewmedica.com

Holloway Rd 258 Holloway Road London N7 6NE
T: 020 7607 5212 E: holloway@renewmedica.com

Harrods Urban Retreat, Fifth Floor, Harrods, Knightsbridge, London, SW1X 7XL
T: 020 7893 8333 E: info@renewmedica.com

Cosmetic surgeons condemn mail order Botox

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London, UK—9 July, 2007- The professional body, the British Association of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons, today cautioned the public against buying non-surgical treatments, including Botox and dermal fillers, from well-known mail order catalogue Grattan.

Consultant plastic surgeon and BAAPS President Douglas McGeorge says:

“I’m surprised that any cosmetic surgery company claiming to provide quality of care would choose to market through a clothing catalogue. It is essential the public understand that aesthetic procedures, even if they are non-surgical, are not commodities to buy off-the-shelf and cannot later be exchanged for a different style or size. Side effects from injectables may be rare but they do happen, and the latest warnings from manufacturers serve to highlight the need for proper consultation and thorough informed consent by the patient.”

Douglas McGeorge is referring to a recent statement from Allergan, the makers of Botox, which reiterates the toxin should only be administered by physicians and warns of adverse events in patients with certain disorders.

Nigel Mercer, consultant plastic surgeon and BAAPS President-Elect, adds:

“By its own nature, the choice of a catalogue defines these treatments as easy to purchase, even frivolous, undermining the seriousness of what is still a medical procedure, even if it’s non-surgical.”

Adam Searle, consultant plastic surgeon and former President of the BAAPS;

“Aesthetic procedures seem to have been reduced to the status of socks and pants selection.”

Purchasing the autumn/winter catalogue also offers buyers the chance to win the chance to have a cosmetic makeover on ‘10 Years Younger’, generally involving treatments such as lip enhancement, teeth whitening and even laser eye surgery.

Adam Searle add:

“The offer of a cosmetic procedure as a prize is an awful manifestation of the trivialisation of medical care in general, and any patient making irreversible decisions in circumstances of hype, excitement and emotion, are putting themselves at very great risk.”

Look younger for less – Botox now only £99

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London: To celebrate the opening of The Hospital Group’s new state-of-the-art clinic in Weymouth Street, W1, the leading cosmetic surgery provider is offering Botox treatment at a massively reduced price of £99.00 for any one area.

The new stylish clinic, now open, provides a full range of non-invasive procedures including fillers, chemical peels and skin rejuvenation. The clinic also provides consultations for their pioneering weight loss surgery.

The Hospital Group’s special offer for Botox treatment is designed to raise awareness of its anti-aging preventative qualities and its easy application. This exclusive offer is also available until the end of the year from all 16 of their high tech clinics across the UK.

With an every increasing demand for Botox from men and women of all ages, The Hospital Group is keen to make it even more accessible to anyone who wants to lessen the signs of ageing. As a result The Hospital Group has greatly reducing Botox prices from £195.00 to £99.00 for one area.

Botox is a simple, non surgical treatment that can temporarily smooth lines for both men and women. It has also been successfully used to treat migraine headaches, excessive sweating and numerous conditions caused by overactive muscles.

Botox is a purified protein produced by the Clostridium botulinum bacterium, which reduces the activity of the muscles that cause those lines to form over time. It works by temporarily reducing the contractions of the muscles that cause persistent lines.

Patients should see positive results within days of treatment which should then last between 4-6 months. The procedure is so quick and easy it can be completed within an hour. The safety of Botox is considered to be excellent; it has been used on patients for over 10 years in over 60 countries.

For appointments call The Hospital Group on: 0800 138 3058. For more info visit www.thehospitalgroup.org

LOOK TEN YEARS YOUNGER – WIN A MAKEOVER WITH THE LEADING NAMES IN AESTHETIC BEAUTY

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The leading names in aesthetic beauty and anti-ageing rejuvenation treatments are offering one reader a makeover using the latest treatments on the market. This wonderful package is worth up to $3,984 (£2,000, €2,931).

The reader makeover will include a consultation with experts at the Skin Health Spa www.skinhealthspa.co.uk at top London store Selfridges where they will receive a divine anti-ageing facial, a BriteSmile teeth whitening treatment (only offered as a suitable treatment for those without veneers or caps) or alternatively a Botox wrinkle erasing; a hair makeover consultation and a restyle cut and colour by with Tracey Gallagher, superstar stylist at Saks www.saks.co.uk . A look younger consultation at aesthetic specialists Collagenics www.collagenics.com and a remedial treatment package of treatments. Reform Surgical www.reformsurgical.co.uk which is headed by top surgeons Dai Davies and Nick Percivial is offering a free consultation to discuss any further areas of concern.

All the treatments will take place in London and the winner will have her look ten years younger transformation pictured in ELIXIR.

To win this wonderful prize please email us at makeover@elixirnews.com with your name, address and daytime phone number by 31 May 2007 and you will be entered into the draw.

TERMS & CONDITIONS

1) There is no cash equivalent offered

2) To be eligible to take part the entrant must be over 21

3) Since all the treatments take place in London, the winning entrant must meet all their own travel and / or accommodation costs.

4) Only one entrant per household address

5) The winning entrant must be able to take the prize before July 2007.

6) The editors decision is final and no correspondence will be entered into

7) The winner must be willing to take part in before and after photos

8) The Editor’s decision is final