Scope This Eye of the Beholder: Services & Products for the Eye Area The eyes, the proclaimed windows to the soul, give insight into people’s deepest emotions. Yet, on the outside, they tell a very different story. Comprised of the most delicate skin on the face, the eye area’s susceptibility to environmental stressors reveals the first signs of aging and reflects how much attention is given in this fragile area. Vulnerable to the same aggressors as the rest of skin, the eye area experiences fine lines and wrinkles, dark circles, dryness, uneven texture, puffiness, and loss of firmness to a greater degree. Repeated exposure to ultraviolet rays damages collagen and elastin, thinning skin further and resulting in fine lines and dark, hollowed areas beneath the eyes. Skin degradation is further progressed through hereditary factors and daily lifestyle habits, such as smoking, lack of sleep, smiling, frowning, and repetitive squinting. Want to read more? Subscribe to continue reading this article, plus gain access to all DERMASCOPE has to offer. SUBSCRIBE
Scope This Stressed Out: The Effects of Stress on Gut & Skin Health Chronic stress is increasingly becoming ingrained in day-to-day life. Many forms of stress are tolerated in many societies, but the health consequences of stress are not. Stress has the appearance of an unwelcome guest who is always present. Despite many research articles linking stress to a variety of diseases, it is frequently ignored as a culprit when skin problems arise. Skin issues directly related to the gut and skin are gaining attention. PHYSIOLOGY OF STRESS More than 100 billion neurons make up the brain. These neurons communicate by sending chemicals, neurotransmitters, and hormones. During communication, an estimated 11 million messages can be processed within a single second.1 Interestingly, the brain can also anticipate or predict certain outcomes of missing pieces.2 A primary nerve involved in stress messages is the vagus nerve. Want to read more? Subscribe to continue reading this article, plus gain access to all DERMASCOPE has to offer. SUBSCRIBE References Mahmud, R., Akter, S., Tamanna, S. K., Mazumder, L., Esti, I. Z., Banerjee, S., Akter, S., Hasan, R., Acharjee, M., Hossain, S., & Pirttilä, A. M. (2022). Impact of gut microbiome on skin health: Gut-skin axis observed through the lenses of Therapeutics and skin diseases. Gut Microbes, 14(1). https://doi.org/10.1080/19490976.2022.2096995 Khmaladze, I., Leonardi, M., Fabre, S., Messaraa, C., & Mavon, A. (2020). The skin interactome: A holistic “genome-microbiome-exposome” approach to understand and modulate skin health and aging. Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, Volume 13, 1021–1040. https://doi.org/10.2147/ccid.s239367 Dong, K., Goyarts, E. C., Pelle, E., Trivero, J., & Pernodet, N. (2019). Blue light disrupts the circadian rhythm and create damage in skin cells. International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 41(6), 558–562. https://doi.org/10.1111/ics.12572 Saif, G. A., Alotaibi, H. M., Alzolibani, A. A., Almodihesh, N. A., Albraidi, H. F., Alotaibi, N. M., & Yosipovitch, G. (2018). Association of psychological stress with skin symptoms among medical students. Saudi Medical Journal, 39(1), 59–66. https://doi.org/10.15537/smj.2018.1.21231
Treatments Body & Soul From Cleopatra’s milk baths to Turkish hammams and Egyptian and Chinese reflexology, body treatments and the caring of skin below the neck have been around for centuries. No culture has ever neglected its skin and the body it covers, nor should modern day people. Currently, more people are beginning to take responsibility for their own health, and studies show that Americans are now more interested overall in taking care of their bodies as a whole. Gone are the days of basic body scrubs and burrito wraps with fluffy descriptions. Body treatments are now a fully integrated multisensory experience combining modalities that target multiple concerns at one time. PINS & (MICRO)NEEDLES Microneedling has taken the spa industry by storm, and no one can deny the dramatic results this modality can achieve without much downtime or negative side effects. What is not to love? Clients are signing up for microneedling treatments on the face for scaring, glycation, and hyperpigmentation but very few are capitalizing on microneedling for the body. Aesthetics and microneedling teacher, Millicent Russo says, “There is nothing else currently on the market that can address scars and stretch marks like microneedling. It is unique because it regulates cellular functions like the melanocyte and fibroblasts. By regulating we mean, we control the amount of trauma to the cell and when it heals, the natural healing of skin regulates cellular function. Internal vitamin C is necessary to create collagen and proper healing. Of course, a low inflammatory diet is imperative for healing the body from the inside out.” It is important to remember that less is sometimes more and more is not always better. Going too strong could cause post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. Master aesthetician, Darcy Debernarde specializes in scalp microneedling. She confirms that this treatment is a “life-changing treatment for those suffering from hair loss due to medications, illness, or hormones. Needling combined with the proper supplements and topicals will stimulate dormant hair follicles to promote natural hair growth without surgery.” GUA-TO-THE-SHA If one is weary of needles, or if a skin care professional’s state does not allow microneeding, gua sha, cupping, and lymphatic drainage are options that aestheticians have been getting great results to smooth scars, break down scar tissue, create more definition, and increase circulation throughout the whole body. Master aesthetician, Zen Miller says, “It is really a niche market, and everyone has a scar. It is important to get to that scar as quickly as possible. In about six to eight weeks, so you can get that collagen moving the way you want it to. Cupping is great to build collagen on atrophic scars, and a warm gua sha stone is good [for] crossing fiber to smooth it out and then go in the same direction as the scar. Get in with local surgeons in the area and let them know you specialize in scar remodeling.” Want to read more? Subscribe to continue reading this article, plus gain access to all DERMASCOPE has to offer. SUBSCRIBE Lora Condon is an international award-winning aesthetician, guest on Dr. Oz, author of “Spa Wars,” and a beauty consumer advocate known as The Beauty Buster. Condon was named InStyle Magazine’s “Best Eyebrow Shaper in New Jersey” and has worked with Ladies’ Home Journal, The New York Times, Success Magazine, Good Morning America, Cate Blanchet, Toni Colette, and Tea Leoni. Condon was featured in videos by Cosmo, Refinery29, Beauty Insider, and Entertainment Tonight. Beauty Buster Organic Skin Care was created to target specific skin conditions and even contains luxury lip treatments with olive oil from her great grandfather’s town in Ital
Scope This Why Skin Mapping Matters The art of mapping the face has been around for thousands of years. In the past several years, I have made some interesting discoveries about the patterns on the face and body that are shared by many. As I dove further into the medical history of certain clients, I learned that Skin Mapping is not just a fun tool to use but a critical part of skin analysis that makes the diagnosis and treatment of what is going on much easier. Want to read more? Subscribe to continue reading this article, plus gain access to all DERMASCOPE has to offer. SUBSCRIBE
Skin Care New Heights: High Altitude Skin Care Living and treating clients at high altitudes presents challenges to skin care professionals for so many reasons. For example, Colorado’s extreme weather can be particularly unforgiving on skin, and those with an affinity for spending time outdoors are constantly putting their skin in harsh conditions. The first thing visitors will often say is how dry their skin is and the effects the lack of oxygen is having on their overall feeling of wellbeing while they adjust to the altitude. How does skin respond to more extreme environments? For one thing, the extreme temperatures and increased ultraviolet exposure causes damage to the acid mantle. Because the air at higher altitudes is dry, skin is exposed to significantly less humidity, which causes cells to become dehydrated. Transepidermal water loss (TEWL) compromises the barrier function and with the lack of moisture, skin feels dry and itchy and looks weathered in appearance. In turn, dry skin cells can build up and absorb oil in the pores which can cause mild to severe acne. Want to read more? Subscribe to continue reading this article, plus gain access to all DERMASCOPE has to offer. SUBSCRIBE
Marketing Marketing Prowess to Activate Consumers and Drive Growth for Aesthetic Providers PARK CITY, UT, October 23, 2023 -- Sentient, the premier, full-service aesthetic device provider and the exclusive U.S. provider of Tixel by Sentient and Sentient Sculpt®, announces the appointment of two dynamic leaders to its executive leadership team. Brian Kirk joins as Chief Marketing Officer (CMO) and Jennifer Redmond joins as Chief Revenue Officer (CRO). These strategic additions to the c-suite reflect Sentient’s unwavering commitment to bringing disruptive technologies and a customer-centric approach to aesthetic medical device providers. Marketing Prowess to Activate Consumers and Drive Growth for Aesthetic Providers As the newly appointed CMO, Brian Kirk is charged with elevating Sentient’s marketing investment to support the continued success of Tixel by Sentient and Sentient Sculpt®, while advancing the Confidence Assured® service, financing and warranty offerings. With more than two decades of experience in branding and marketing, Kirk brings a strong track record of driving results for the companies he has served. Most notably, in his role as vice president of marketing at Built Brands, LLC, he was instrumental in driving over $100 million in e-commerce revenue and attracting more than 250,000 new consumers. At Purple Innovation, LLC, Kirk conceived and implemented a marketing and brand campaign infrastructure that garnered 5.2 billion content views and delivered a 210 percent year-over-year increase in top-line revenue. His rich history in senior marketing positions at ROKA and Skullcandy Inc. is a testament to his well-rounded expertise in building brand identities and driving growth. Kirk is charged with building a professional and lifestyle brand that embodies Sentient's commitment to helping consumers who want to look and feel their best. Seasoned Medical Aesthetics Leadership to Guide Revenue Growth Jennifer Redmond steps into the role of CRO of Sentient and will be charged with leading all revenue growth functions for the company. She brings a wealth of knowledge and diverse experience in national sales leadership, marketing and KOL relationship development from more than 18 years in medical aesthetics. Notably, as employee number two at Endo Aesthetics, Redmond played a critical role in the strategic planning and execution for the launch of Qwo®. There she built and led a highly talented and tenured team of more than 85 aesthetic sales professionals, while simultaneously earning her MBA from NYU Stern School of Business. In 2015, as the national sales director for Merz Aesthetics, Redmond led a strategic transformation of the facial injectables team, growing the business for the first time to more than $150 million. In addition, during her tenure in filler marketing, she led professional and consumer rebranding efforts that positioned Belotero® Balance dermal filler for future success. Redmond’s deep relationships within the aesthetic KOL community, resulting from her time in professional relations, also will prove to be extremely valuable for Sentient. In her new role, Redmond will spearhead strategies aimed at strengthening customer relationships while identifying opportunities for revenue advancement. “We are excited to welcome Brian and Jen to our company,” said Chris Cella, CEO and founder of Sentient. “In Sentient’s first 14 years, we have diligently built our operations to offer industry-leading service and financial solutions, along with an exceptional suite of advanced proprietary technologies to practices of all sizes. With the addition of these two talented leaders, we are positioned to reach new heights, driving innovation, excellence and growth for aesthetics providers across America, and our support for consumers who want to look and feel their best with confidence assured.” ### About Sentient Sentient is the leading full-service provider in the aesthetic medical device industry, offering advanced technology and industry-leading service and financing with integrity and transparency. From its Park City, Utah, headquarters to nationwide, Sentient provides an exceptional suite of advanced proprietary technologies to practices of all sizes. With longstanding professional relationships and more than 10 years of providing the best-refurbished equipment, Sentient's industry-leading service model ensures quality laser and medical device repair and refurbishment services for 84 types of medical and cosmetic systems. Committed to building collaborative relationships with clients, Sentient significantly enhances practice efficiency, drives stronger profitability, and delivers an exceptional client experience. About Tixel by Sentient Tixel by Sentient uses the first and only thermal-mechanical action technology to resurface skin. Tixel technology uniquely combines heat with the forward motion of a medical-grade titanium tip without the use of lasers, radiation, ultrasound, or needles, providing a comfortable treatment experience that creates a smoother and more even-toned appearance without social downtime. Proven on a global scale, Tixel has been used in Europe since 2011 and is now exclusively available in the United States through Sentient. Cleared by the FDA for treatment of all skin types, this proprietary, non-invasive technology transfers thermal energy to skin very quickly and safely. About Sentient Sculpt® Sentient Sculpt® is the first non-invasive professional electromagnetic wave and microwave treatment for cellulite reduction that consistently produces results on all skin types. Unlike other products on the market that are absorbed in the skin or medical devices that incise tissue, Sentient Sculpt’s controlled energy elevates tissue temperature to reach all-important cellulite fibers and fat cells, while simultaneously cooling the skin. Successfully utilized in Europe over the past four years under a different trade name, it is being offered in the U.S. exclusively by Sentient. The technology behind Sentient Sculpt has been cleared by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Media Contact: Ivy Cohen Ivy Cohen Corporate Communications (212) 399-0026 This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. Rona Cherry Ivy Cohen Corporate Communications Cell: (917) 446-7151 Email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. www.ivycohen.com
Scope This Fan Club: The Power of Pre-Made Fans Eyelash stylists looking to keep up with the ever-changing world of beauty need to stay ahead of the game. One way to do that is by using pre-made fans for any volume eyelash needs. The voluminous eyelash look has taken the beauty world by storm and pre-made fans have become the go-to choice for many licensed professionals. PRO TIME SAVER In the past, creating the perfect handmade fan could take hours and required a great deal of skill and expertise. However, pre-made fans are a quick and easy alternative that saves time and reduces hassle. These fans come in a range of dimensions, from 2D to 15D, and diameters, from .03 to .07 millimeters in thickness, allowing the artist to create the perfect fan for their client's desired look. However, pre-made fans offer more than just convenience. They also provide maximum flexibility when it comes to wetting and applying the fan, especially in shorter lengths. Additionally, they can last up to three weeks with proper care, making them an ideal choice for busy clients who do not have time for frequent touch-ups. Want to read more? Subscribe to continue reading this article, plus gain access to all DERMASCOPE has to offer. SUBSCRIBE
Spa Improvement Greetings to Goodbyes: The Ultimate Day Spa Experience “Welcome to our day spa Mr. and Mrs. Jones. We have you both down for our signature couple’s massage followed by our signature facial today. It looks like you filled out the paperwork and signed the waiver online. Thank you for taking time to get those completed upon your arrival. Please follow me to your separate lockers where a spa attendant will be waiting to assist you with the items you’ll need for your spa experience today.” Want to read more? Subscribe to continue reading this article, plus gain access to all DERMASCOPE has to offer. SUBSCRIBE Amra Lear is a licensed massage therapist and aesthetician, NCBTMB provider, trainer, and co-creator of world-renowned treatments such as the Nobu Go. She just recently relocated to Pallavi Luxury Spa in Clearwater, Florida after spending the last 22 years of her career on the Las Vegas, Nevada strip at two prestigious spas. As a spa spokesperson, she appeared internationally on various media platforms sharing her knowledge on spa treatments and wellness.
Wellness New Wave Wellness: Wellness Spa Experiences In today’s fast paced and stressful world, finding ways to relax, rejuvenate, and prioritize self-care has become increasingly important. Traditional spa experiences have been popular for their ability to create relaxation and pampering, but in recent years, a new wave of wellness experiences has emerged, offering unique and innovative ways to enhance our physical and mental health. We will look at a few experiences that have gained attention: sensory deprivation tanks, virtual reality, mindfulness and empowerment retreats, intravenous therapy, and cognitive enhancements. SENSORY DEPRIVATION TANKS Sensory deprivation tanks, sometimes called floatation tanks or isolation tanks, offer clients a chance to escape from the external world and immerse themselves in a world of complete relaxation. These tanks are filled with body temperature water that is saturated with Epsom salts. The Epsom salts create a buoyancy that allows the client to effortlessly float on the surface of the water. The tanks have dimmable lighting and are soundproof, eliminating any external stimuli. The experience of floating in a sensory deprivation tank has numerous benefits for the body and the mind. The weightless feeling and the absence of sensory input promote deep relaxation, reduce stress, and facilitate a meditative state. Your clients are able to focus inward and find enhanced creativity and problem-solving skills. The high levels of Epsom salts in the water provide muscle relaxation, pain relief, and improved circulation. Want to read more? Subscribe to continue reading this article, plus gain access to all DERMASCOPE has to offer. SUBSCRIBE Technician, educator, mentor, and business owner, Mary Nielsen has been at the forefront in medical aesthetics since its infancy in the early 1990s. She is an Oregon-certified advanced aesthetician and a licensed aesthetics instructor. She serves as vice chair of the Oregon Board of Certified Advanced Estheticians. She is the author of several aesthetics books, including four chapters in the latest “Milady’s Esthetics” textbook.
Treatments Acuperfect: The Benefits of Cosmetic Acupuncture Acupuncture is an ancient technique used in traditional Chinese medicine that is now a common alternative medical treatment used worldwide. According to the National Institutes of Health, acupuncture has been used in some form for at least 2,500 years. It involves inserting very fine needles into the energy meridians or pathways in the body to balance and optimize the flow of the life or energy force known as Qi. Traditional Chinese Medicine believes that disorders of the energy flow, Qi, are the root cause of illness, emotional dysfunction, and aging. THE MIND-BODY CONNECTION Acupuncture provides benefits to both the body and the mind. In addition to its use as a treatment for physical ailments, acupuncture is widely used to treat diverse mental health problems, such as depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), substance addiction, and insomnia. Cosmetic acupuncture also provides a host of aesthetic benefits from acne treatment to anti-aging. Traditional Chinese Medicine recognizes that a link exists between the mind and body that make them an integrated system. This system connects the organs in the body, the energy pathways (meridians) throughout the body, and the psychological state. Through acupuncture, the body’s energy meridians are balanced and optimized so Qi flows freely, producing better mental and physical health. NONRISKY BUSINESS A 2018 article in Psychology Today, “Acupuncture in Mental Health Care,” states that research studies suggest that conventional needle acupuncture, electro-acupuncture, and computer-controlled electro-acupuncture treatments show consistent beneficial effects on depressed mood and anxiety. A more recent article, “Acupuncture for Psychological Disorders Caused by Chronic Pain,” published in 2021 in Frontiers in Neuroscience, explains that “acupuncture tackles the multidimensional nature of pain with fewer or no serious adverse effect.” The article goes on to state that an estimated 20.4% of adults in the United States suffer from chronic pain, with depression and anxiety being the most common psychological disorders resulting from this chronic pain. An estimated eight million Americans have used acupuncture, primarily for pain-related problems, and it has had a beneficial effect in the treatment of psychological disorders caused by the chronic pain. Want to read more? Subscribe to continue reading this article, plus gain access to all DERMASCOPE has to offer. SUBSCRIBE Internationally recognized aesthetic business development expert. Cheryl Whitman. is the founder and CEO of Beautiful Forever Consulting. She is a sought-after speaker and industry marketing specialist. who assists physicians and medical spas in creating new profit centers, developing profitable private label product lines, ghost writing articles and eBooks, and identifying and executing new business strategies aimed at improving their bottom line. A celebrated author, Whitman’s “Aesthetic Medical Success System,” a turnkey educational system, has assisted clients in opening or jumpstarting their current businesses. Her second book, “Beautifully Profitable, Forever Profitable,” provides solid, practical information on how to create, launch, and grow successful aesthetic medical practices and related businesses.