The Harley Street Journal

Bi-monthly newspaper for the cosmetic and plastic surgery sector

Laura Casewell

Official UK Distributors of Revitacare to Exhibit at IMCAS

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Next month, IRB Trade will join Revitacare UK and Laboratoire Revitacare France for the IMCAS World Congress 2022, joining industry professionals from across the UK and around the globe for one of the biggest exhibitions in the industry. 

Held at the prestigious Palais De Congress in Paris on June 3 to 5, the highly anticipated IMCAS congress will be the first one back in 2.5 years following the Covid-19 Pandemic and will bring world-renowned experts together for an intensive educational congress that covers major themes across dermatology, plastic surgery, and aging science. 

Renowned as a key player in the field of aesthetic medicine for over 20 years, Revitacare provides a range of injectable medical devices based upon hyaluronic acid and specialised ingredients to prevent and correct the visible signs of ageing. 

Currently, there are four main products within the range, including the world-renowned Cytocare, which combines Hyaluronic acid and a unique rejuvenating complex to smooth fine lines, firm and smooth the skin, promote elasticity and boost overall radiance within the skin. 

The Cytocare line also includes Cytocare 532 and an S-Line variation which are perfect for use around the delicate eye area to brighten, and treat the peri-orbital bone. Cytocare 532 contains 32 mg of non cross linked Hyaluronic acid, and the S – Line variation is a pre-filled syringe containing 18 mg of non cross linked Hyaluronic acid. 

The Revitacare range also includes the Haircare line which is ideal for treating a range of concerns, including male pattern baldness. The haircare line combines Hyaluronic acid with Zinc and Biotin to target and strengthen the hair follicle, hydrate the scalp and improve overall hair texture and strength.

Based on its use, each product within the Revitacare line nourishes the deeper layers of skin to provide smooth, natural, and long-lasting results. Based on its intended use, each line is available in a wide range of viscosities and concentrations available and can be used either alone, or in conjunction with other treatments including PRP and Microneedling.

Malieh Hillman, Director of IRB Trade comments: “We are thrilled to be attending the IMCAS event in June. The pandemic has meant this event had to be postponed, so this is the first time in two years we can properly reconnect with Laboratoire Revitacare and many of our colleagues and esteemed practitioners from all over the world. 

With the Revitacare range, we are excited to showcase the world-renowned Cytocare range, introduce the latest innovations to new practitioners and be able to demonstrate how each product works both alone and in conjunction with other aesthetic treatments.” 

Saleh Roudi, Business Partner at IRB Trade adds: This industry moves on so quickly, but with the pandemic a lot of things were delayed. IMCAS is a great opportunity for us to catch up and learn about the new innovations, trends, and products that will help shape the industry in the future.”

The IMCAS event will be taking place on Friday 3rd, Saturday 4th and Sunday 5th June 2022.

Industry Insider: Why clinics should consider investing in “body layering” concept

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Michael Hands, UK Sales Representative for Deleo UK joins us at The Harley Street Journal to explain why clinics should consider investing in Deleo’s body layering concept. 

What is your role within the UK Deleo team and what does it entail?

I have recently been employed as the UK Sales Representative for Deleo, which involves me focusing on bringing in new business and supporting our current client base as much as possible. 

What makes the body layering concept so different to other devices on the market?

I think it is the approach of combining three treatments that compliment each other so well. Not only are you getting rid of unwanted stubborn fat, but you are toning and tightening the skin – this offers your body natural results, which are the same as a year of exercising and dieting. 

It also appeals to everyone. So whether you’re struggling with stubborn fat, or you’re an avid gym goer looking to tone the muscles further – you can do both! It’s revolutionary really. 

What innovative technologies are used to create the concept which sets it apart from other devices on the market?

The Cristal body layering concept has been created to offer a global and tailor-made approach for the body of your patients. These 3 synergistic and non-invasive technologies treat 3 layers of the body: the dermis, the hypodermis and the muscle. 

The Cristal Pro has features that are unparalleled to anything that is available on the market, and the Deleo engineers have done an amazing job. 

From a consumer perspective – and business perspective – having four different applicators working simultaneously helps with saving time and increasing optimal ergonomics for patient comfort. In addition, the applicators allow for homogeneous cooling down to -12°C thanks to patented cooling system – Cavity Cooling Diffusion System™ technology.

The Cristal Fit has the highest tesla on the market and the Cristal Skin has 3 size variety applicators to treat various areas of the body. These are just a few to name and all of the innovations are created with the consumer at front of mind.

Why should clinics invest in the body layering concept?

If they want to have the most advanced devices on the market that cater for different body types, it’s a no brainer. 

Deleo may be new to the UK but they have been the leading manufacturer of aesthetic devices in Europe for the last 11 years, and you don’t get there by not having the best products on the market. 

Can you tell me a little bit more about the three-step treatment?

Sure, the first step of the process is the cryolipolysis treatment, which is also known as fat freezing. This treatment is performed by initially freezing the fat cells – this essentially kills and drains them through the lymphatic system over the course of the next 12 weeks. 

The second stage of the body layering concept is the Cristal Fit, which focuses on toning the muscles through electromagnetic pulses, causing muscle contractions. 

The third and final step is the Cristal Skin that is a multipolar radiofrequency that is used to treat skin laxity, or saggy skin. 

How does the three-step approach affect patient outcomes?

Besides the fact that they are left feeling a lot happier and more confident about their physical attributes, it also has a positive effect on their wellbeing and mindset. 

Is the treatment more cost effective for businesses?

With the right patient recruitment in place, clinics can pay off the devices in 6 months – and when I say the right patient recruitment, I mean a couple of treatments a week. 

I understand that safety and efficacy is at the core of everything Deleo does – do clinics receive training upon purchasing the concept? If so, what does this entail?

Of course! Training is given to all clients who purchase a Deleo device. It is an extremely important part of our process as it helps educate the doctors and the therapists on the device. 

All our devices have pre-registered protocols to help guide the therapists during the treatments too and emergency buttons on all the devices in case anything does go wrong. 

Training is also available at any time for the clinics if they get a new therapist or just want a bit of a refresh.

What would you tell anyone who is interested in purchasing?

It’s an investment that cannot only make money for your business but one that has a proven track record of over 90% patient satisfaction and patient retention. The results are remarkable and the non-invasive aesthetics sector is only going to get more popular as the technology develops.

Cherry Healey announced as the host of the Aesthetics Awards

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For the second year in a row, TV personality Cherry Healey will host the annual Aesthetics Awards presentation.

Healey began her acting career on BBC Three, where she starred in a number of immersive documentary shows. She’s also been on Channel 5’s 10 Years Younger in 10 Days, where she discussed the newest beauty tips and non-invasive cosmetic methods.

Healey presented the Aesthetics Awards remotely last year and has also graced the front cover of Beauty Uncovered.

“We are happy to introduce Healey as our Aesthetics Awards emcee for the second time,” stated event manager Courtney Baldwin. “Her vivacity and upbeat demeanour will be a welcome addition to the Awards ceremony! We’re ecstatic to honour the aesthetics specialty’s incredible achievements over the previous year, so be sure to get your tickets now.”

In addition, a brand-new Awards sponsor has been revealed! Medical aesthetic supplier John Bannon Pharmacy will sponsor the Best Clinic Ireland and Northern Ireland Award.

Following the second day of ACE, the Aesthetics Awards will be held on the evening of March 12 at the Royal Lancaster Hotel in London.

Is regenerative medicine the future of aesthetics?

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In recent years, we have seen PRP treatments rise in the popularity ranks once again. With technological advancements and new data aiding the success, the results also speak for themselves. Being able to target multiple problem areas, whilst in conjunction with other treatments, there is no doubt why PRP has become a favoured treatment all round, for the patient and practitioner. 

Cosmetic Doctor, Ryan Hamdy, is an expert within the industry who primarily practises non-surgical aesthetic treatments – such as PRP. While owning his own clinic and training academy and working with various companies such as RegenLab as a consultant and trainer, he is also well versed in the world of PRP. 

Dr Hamdy comments:  “I have been using PRP for about 10 years now. I initially started using PRP as an aid to post-ablative laser healing but more recently have become an advocate for its use in dermal regeneration and rejuvenation. 

I certainly felt in the early days of this technology that firm data on the efficacy of PRP was lacking. However, this is no longer the case given the number of high quality studies and publications available.”

While Dr Hamdy has been using PRP for many years, there was a period of time he noted that he stopped due to lack of data and studies. Now, it is clear that studies are more robust and PRP does in fact make a difference to patient outcomes. 

An easy to use and safe treatment can make PRP sound like a dream treatment for clinics and patients alike, however often the question can be ‘which provider to use’?  

From his own research, Dr Ryan Hamdy chose to invest in RegenLab products. “I chose to use RegenLab largely because of their commitment to research and education in this field and their ongoing product development.”

RegenLab’s proprietary technologies have been used to treat over 2 million patients in a variety of therapeutic fields (musculoskeletal, dermal, wound care, and intimacy), resulting in over 120 research projects. Their expertise and knowledge make them market leaders within the field of PRP. 

Dr Hamdy comments: “The main reasons I use RegenLab products is because of their quality and ease of use. The process, from taking blood, transferring to a test tube, centrifuging and finally administering are standardised, resulting in less chance of errors.”

With that being said, PRP on a whole has an array of benefits for the businesses and consumers.  Dr Hamdy adds: “PRP has multiple applications both in aesthetics and mainstream medicine. It is widely used in the fields of orthopaedics, genitourinary medicine as well as dentistry and veterinary surgery. The platelet rich plasma used is rich in multiple growth factors which orchestrate tissue regeneration and accelerated healing.”

While PRP is growing in popularity, there is still a lot to be done on educating the end-consumer who often are still unaware of the treatment itself and the benefits. Dr Hamdy expresses that it would be fantastic for more patients to be aware of this form of therapy and the multiple benefits it confers. 

“The benefits include ease of use and simple treatment protocols as well as less risk of blood borne infections. Patients consider this a very safe treatment with little or no risk of adverse reactions.”

On the plus side, Dr Hamdy comments that more patients that visit his clinic are becoming increasingly more aware of this form of treatment and are looking for alternatives to traditional injectables such as toxin and filler.

We are now seeing more celebrities and high profile individuals who are having PRP therapy – this without doubt raises the profile of regenerative treatments. In addition, RegenLab and The Biobridge Foundation’s commitment to on-going education and study in this field means that more practitioners are turning to this form of therapy and in turn promoting this another treatment option for their patients.

Treatment areas include the face, periocular area, neck, chest, hands and scalp. Dr Hamdy adds: “I view PRP as a treatment that can be combined with a number of other modalities or technologies. It combines well with laser, skincare, skin needling, LED (to name a few).

Most patients would benefit from a course of treatments and results will often take a few months to evolve fully whether it be scar, stretch mark remodelling, improvement of fine lines and wrinkles, or hair regrowth and stabilisation.”

Another great advantage of using PRP is the way in which it can treat the area around the eyes, compared to alternative treatments. Dr Hamdy particularly loves this method of treatment. “I use PRP around the eyes a lot in my practice. We are aware that HA fillers in this area are not without potential issues and a lot of patients will not be suitable, whether they are prone to swelling /oedema, or have thin or lax tissue in that area. 

I find PRP an interesting and effective treatment in this area. Depending on which medical device is used, PRP can be used as a filling agent or as a collagen/elastin stimulator in this region.”

So, is regenerative medicine the future of Aesthetics? Dr Hamdy suggests: “The field of regenerative medicine is fascinating and growing very quickly. I think the way we practice in the future will be very much multimodal. Toxin and fillers will continue to have their place but the use of PRP or stem stell therapy will undoubtedly complement these. How we practice in 10 years time may well look very different to what we do now.”

Skin health trends for 2022

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The year 2021 was pretty on-point when it came to skin trends. We saw ‘game-changing’ hacks, including using saran and vaseline to MELT blemishes – yes really! But honestly, looking at 2022 things are about to get even weirder. Did you know Salmon Sperm could be the secret to a youthful glow!? 

Here, we have asked the experts to weigh in on skincare trends, and give us a sneak peak of what we can expect to see this year, from the weird and wonderful to downright bizarre. 

Salmon Sperm 

Ok! Hear us out on this one. Before you let your imagination run wild, we’re not about to tell you to slather fresh fish sperm all over your face, but it might just be the secret to that youthful glow we strive for. 

Hagen Schumacher, a leading Consultant Plastic Surgeon at Adore Life explains that some studies have shown that the DNA found in Salmon sperm could aid cell turnover, leading to a glowy, more youthful complexion.

He says: “This trend first started in Korea, but we have seen it slowly filter down into some luxury skincare brands, including Arentum’s la potion infinie. 

As we age, the skin naturally loses its collagen and elasticity, which may make the skin appear dry, thin and dull with more pronounced fine lines and wrinkles, this is where Salmon Sperm is said to help. 

When we say Salmon sperm, what we are actually referring to is the DNA found within it. It is said to have very potent regenerative qualities, and its ability to penetrate the deeper layers of skin means it helps to encourage healthy cell turnover and maintain elasticity for a brighter, tighter complexion.”

Of course if you’re not quite ready to take the plunge and add Salmon sperm to your nightly moisturiser, there is an all new anti-aging treatment available called Polynucleotides that is derived from that salmon fishy goodness that is set to make waves this year. 

Dr Ryan Hamdy, Medical Doctor and Trainer at RegenLab explains: “Polynucleotides is an innovative new concept in regenerative, biostimulation treatment that is derived from salmon sperm. Perfect for those who have noticed a loss in elasticity and are struggling with the signs of ageing skin.

Following treatment, the skin is exposed to the biostimulation process as a result of the therapy. The regenerative process begins, and the skin gets thicker and firmer because of the antioxidant and hydrating properties of the Salmon DNA. Small wrinkles are minimised, and the skin becomes brighter and more even-toned.”

Skinnimalism!

Let’s face it, none of us have the time for a rigorous 20 step skincare routine. The good news is, this year experts predict that we are likely to see a bigger shift towards ‘Skinnimalism’ (skin and minimalism). 

Dr Julietta Gusarova, Medical Doctor and Trainer at RegenLab explains that the world of skincare has become a maze. For better results we should be stripping it back, focusing on essentials, and cleverly combining active ingredients. 

She says: “Active ingredients are essential for healthy skin, but they don’t need to be standalone products. Single, mass-manufactured actives can be costly, time-consuming, and ineffective because of low potency levels. When combined, certain actives work harmoniously together and enhance the effects of one another. This means you get the results you want faster. 

Niacinamide, a popular ingredient for those with oiler skin types is a derivative of vitamin B3 but paired with ceremide’s, its hydrating, and protective properties are amplified. Similarly, hyaluronic acid, which helps to lock moisture in the skin can also boost the anti-aging effects of retinol. 

A lot of skincare brands are starting to combine active ingredients, for example, Farewell Skin. They combine active ingredients with a stabilised mixture of high and low-molecular-weight hyaluronic acid to target specific skin concerns. Not only is this a much more tailored approach to skincare, but it also delivers faster results.”

Enter the (Cellular) Matrix 

Regenerative medicine and PRP is not entirely new, in fact it is tried, tested and loved by a number of A-listers from Kim Kardashian and Angelina Jolie. However, it has been revamped for even better results. Enter Cellular Matrix. 

Dr Ryan Hamdy, Medical Doctor and Trainer at RegenLab explains: “The concept of PRP is rather simple, it works by drawing a blood sample from your body and spinning it to separate the plasma. This is then injected to help increase skin volume and instantly rejuvenate tired looking skin.

Cellular Matrix takes that concept one step further and combines platelet-rich plasma with hyaluronic acid for an instant lift. The hyaluronic acid helps to plump and add volume to the skin, whilst smoothing out fine lines and deep set wrinkles.

A big plus from using Cellular Matrix is that firstly it is non-invasive, there is little to no downtime and secondly, it works wonders around the eyes! 

Hagen adds: “PRP has actually been around for centuries. Back in the 90’s it was used to treat broken bones and spinal injuries to speed up the healing process. It has even been used in plastic surgery with microneedling and fat grafting procedures. 

10 years ago, there was a lack of good quality data when it came to regenerative medicine, especially PRP. As time has evolved, studies are now a lot more robust.”

Tailored Made Solutions

Whilst the market is flooded with new ingredients every day, it is important to remember that your skin is unique. No skin is the same, and we each have different concerns. Ultimately, for the best results that means our skincare regimes needs to be tailored. 

Hagen Schumacher, Consultant Plastic Surgeon at Adore Life adds: “Of course, nowadays there are a lot of surgical and non-surgical ways to achieve youthful looking skin, but you would be surprised how much the correct skincare regime could help. 

Whether you are trying to rebalance your skin, improve acne, or fight pigmentation, your skincare routine should be bespoke and tailored around your individual needs. We each have different chemical and genetic differences within our bodies, meaning some skincare products may be totally incorrect, ineffective, and may even cause irritation.”

Coming back to combining actives, this is key to customizing a skincare routine around your exact needs. If you have multiple skincare concerns, each one of those concerns can be targeted with just one product that contains carefully selected ingredients at a high concentration. 

Another key benefit of simplifying your routine, and opting for a more tailored solution, is a reduced risk of irritation. When you use products specially formulated for your needs, you will be able to identify any sensitivities you may have. 

Dr Julietta Gusarova adds: “If you suffer from skin conditions such as eczema, psoriasis or contact dermatitis, you may find it easier to shy away from skincare, but actually a tailored approach may be beneficial for you. Consult a professional to help you to understand where your sensitivities lie, and from there, you will be able to formulate a solution that targets your concerns, irritating your skin.”

Mild Retinols 

Retinol is no new notion in the world of skincare, but it is a trend that is here to stay. Derived from vitamin A, retinol has been proven to help treat fine lines, pigmentation, and even acne. 

Mel says: “Retinol has been a staple in skincare for years. By promoting surface skin cells to renew, it helps to promote cell growth beneath the surface, this, in turn, helps to retain collagen levels, boost radiance, and thickens the deeper layers of skin to help delay the formation of wrinkles. 

Typically, retinol is used as part of an evening skincare routine but try to be careful with it and introduce it to your routine slowly, especially if you have sensitive skin. As retinol is effective in promoting cell turnover, it can cause temporary irritation to the skin, including peeling and redness. 

If you are new to retinol, I would advise starting at a low concentration, three times per week and building up from there. To reduce the risk of irritation, you may want to prioritise hydration and ensure you are wearing a good SPF each day. I would recommend getting a retinol product that is enriched with hyaluronic acid, like Farewell Ageing Skin to really help lock in moisture, minimise any irritation, and amplify the effects of retinol.”

More Variation in SPF

Like retinol, SPF is no new notion in skincare, and it is one a staple product that you should NEVER skip. However, in the spirit of keeping things simple, this year we are likely to see more variations in formulation.

Hagen explains that even when it is snowing, the sun still emits invisible radiation that is extremely damaging to the skin. 

He says: “Whilst the sun is a provider of vitamin D, which helps to regulate calcium within the body, the sun emits powerful UVA and UVB rays which are extremely bad for the skin. Overexposure to these rays causes pigmentation, severe irritation, and even Melanoma.

Whilst UVB rays directly impact the skin’s surface causing red, itchy, painful rashes, UVA rays which you won’t feel, penetrate the deeper layers of skin causing skin cells to become abnormal, and break down your vital support substances, such as collagen which keeps your skin healthy.

At the moment, the market is saturated with cream SPF products, but as we move towards a more simplistic skincare routine, I think we will begin to see more SPF sprays, or booster serums that are a little more user friendly and allow for on-the-go use.”

Dr Julietta Gusarova adds: “It is worth noting that UVB rays are most intense between the hours of 10:00 AM and 4:00 PM, and UVA rays are present all day at a consistent level. I recommend using SPF 30 or above every day to ensure your skin has that first level of protection. Without it, the damage to your skin could result in premature ageing, pigmentation, acne, and more complex skin conditions. Remember, even if you are not going outside, harmful rays can still penetrate windows, people often forget this.

Hyaluronic Acid – It’s Here to Stay 

Hyaluronic acid (HA) is not just a trend. In fact, in recent years, it has become an OG product, and a firm staple, not just in skincare but also in cosmetic procedures, including dermal fillers and Cellular Matrix injections.

Suitable, and highly effective for all skin types, hyaluronic acid really is one of the best skincare ingredients you can use. 

Hagen explains: “It’s clear to see that Hyaluronic acid is here to stay. In 2022, I think we will see more and more brands infusing skincare with higher concentrations of HA, and we’ll see fewer stand-alone HA products as we embrace more simplistic target-specific skincare.”

Hyaluronic acid is a glycosaminoglycan, which means it is a naturally occurring substance and forms part of the skin’s youth-supporting matrix. It works to stabilise, safeguard, and renew the skin, keeping it hydrated and glowing. 

Considered a humectant, hyaluronic acid draws moisture from its surroundings, and its large molecular structure allows it to hold up to 1,000 times its weight in water which helps the outer layers of the skin retain moisture. 

Hyaluronic acid can also help to improve the overall elasticity of the skin. Studies have shown that regular use within everyday skin care can reverse the signs of ageing by smoothing fine lines and wrinkles for a more youthful, plump appearance.”

Dr Julietta Gusarova adds: “Most good moisturisers do contain a percentage of hyaluronic acid nowadays, but it is important to understand how much is in there, and where it sits on the ingredient list. For best results, I recommend opting for formulas that are based on hyaluronic acid, this will ensure your skin is receiving an effective concentration, and it can enhance any other actives that might be present.”

No matter if you’re ready to dive into Salmon sperm, or enter the Cellular Matrix – 2022 is certainly shopping up to simplify skincare. Remember though, skincare is personal and you always take the time to listen to your skin, and identify its exact needs. If you need help, you should always seek professional advice. 

The toll poor sleep takes on the body

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As we head into the festive season, late-night celebrations become part of the fun, and maintaining the perfect sleep balance can become tricky, but did you know that sleep is essential to fending off a range of health concerns. 

Sleep – both quantity and quality is one of the most frequently discussed topics among healthcare professionals, and studies have shown that up to 36% of UK adults struggle to get to sleep and manage less than 5 hours each night.

Here, leading health experts explore the six dangerous side effects poor slumber can have on the body and reveal expert tips to help you catch all the ZZZ’s you need.

Your Sex Drive Diminishes 

Did you know that a lack of beauty sleep could affect your performance in the bedroom and even fertility?

Studies show that not getting enough sleep may decrease testosterone levels by up to 15% in just one week, and it’s that that testosterone that is responsible for giving you that additional boost of energy needed for the bedroom. 

Dr. Martin Kinsella, leading hormone expert and founder of BioID Health explains: “Testosterone is a vital hormone present in both men and women that plays a vital role in supporting both libido and satisfaction. 

For women specifically, a lack of sleep can impact vaginal arousal which may lead to significant discomfort during sex. Studies have also shown that women who frequently get less than seven hours of sleep are up to 15% less likely to get pregnant, than women who got the recommended seven to eight hours.” 

Your Mental Health Pays the Price  

You probably know first-hand that a poor night’s sleep makes you grouchy the next day. Studies have shown that even missing one night of sleep can lead to some major cognition issues, including confusion, forgetfulness, decreased alertness, and irritability.

Dr. Kinsella adds: “People who struggle to get an adequate amount of sleep may find they become more easily stressed, angry, sad, and mentally exhausted than those who get the recommended amount. This can really take its toll on daily life and impact everything from performance in work to family life. 

Those who struggle to sleep on a regular basis or suffer from Insomnia may be up to five times more likely to develop psychological problems such as anxiety and depression.”

You Gain Weight 

When we think of weight, we think of diet and exercise, but you might be surprised to learn that sleep plays a major role in your weight but is often overlooked. 

Dr. Charlotte Norton, Medical Director at The Slimming Clinic explains that when you don’t get enough shut-eye, you may feel less motivated to exercise, which may lead to you making poor food choices throughout the day.

“If you are sleep deprived, you may find yourself reaching for sugary snacks more throughout the day. This is ultimately down to a lack of energy, which may make you crave foods that are high in calories fat, and sugar. Overall, this may increase your risk of developing Type II diabetes.” This tends to be worse around Christmas time, with the abundance of festive food and drinks.”

Hagen Schumacher, a Consultant Plastic Surgeon from Adore Life adds: “Unfortunately, weight gain is something that can affect people both physically and mentally, particularly around Christmas time, when people tend to put a lot of pressure on themselves, and there is more temptation to consume calorie-rich festive foods. From stubborn body fat to sagging skin weight gain can impact overall self-confidence, which can negatively affect mental health.”

Andre Fournier, Co-Founder of Deleo adds: “The sagging skin and stubborn body fat can be a real struggle for some, but there are some solutions that may help. Deleo’s Cristal body layering concept was created with the consumer in mind; built-in with three fundamental functions to help target volume, tonicity, and firmness.”

Your Skin Suffers

The phrase ‘beauty sleep’ doesn’t come without merit. Studies have shown that poor sleeping habits could directly impact the overall condition of the skin and paving way for premature aging, dullness, and uneven skin tone.

Lou Sommereux, a leading Clinical Nurse from Cosmex Clinic in Cambridge comments: “The skin is the human body’s largest organ, so sleep is vital to maintaining its overall health. Without regular, quality sleep, you may notice that your skin appears duller with more pronounced fine lines and wrinkles, this is because a lack of quality sleep impacts the skins’ natural ability to repair itself.”

Hagen Schumacher adds: “As we sleep, the body goes through three distinct repair stages that contribute to the overall wellbeing of the skin. 

The first stage is where the body produces two vital hormones, somatotropin (growth), and melatonin (antioxidant), which contribute greatly to the skin’s overall health and ability to repair itself. Without these hormones, the skin is unable to repair itself effectively which may lead to accelerated aging. 

During the final stage of sleep, your body begins to produce collagen, which is essential to maintaining skin health.”

Mel Gravel Barnes, Skin Lead at Croma Pharma and Universkin explains: “Collagen is a vital protein for the skin. It helps the skin retain moisture, and elasticity which keeps the skin looking plump and youthful. Lack of sleep means collagen production decreases, which leads to the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. To further support skin health, I recommend incorporating hyaluronic acid into your skincare routine; this natural humectant can hold up to 1,000 its weight in water and may help to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.”

You Get Sick

While you sleep, your immune system naturally produces antibodies to help fight infections. Sleep deprivation prevents your immune system from building up the necessary forces to keep you protected, which may also impact your ability to recover from illnesses. 

Long-term insomnia may also increase your risk of more serious health complications such as heart disease, diabetes, and certain cancers. This is because shortened sleep can increase the production of CRP, a reactive protein that is released with stress and inflammation, unfortunately, if CRP levels are constantly high, it may increase the risk of more complex health issues.  

The take-away

Between Christmas festivities, make sure you are prioritising and maintaining a healthy sleep pattern. The experts recommend sticking to a consistent schedule and trying to avoid too many stimulants, including alcohol and caffeine that will keep you awake. 

Ideally, a healthy adult should aim to get around seven hours of uninterrupted sleep each night. If you struggle to fall asleep, try taking a warm bath before bed, and switching your mobile phone out for a good book that will help to relax the brain.

Universkin and Dr Martin Kinsella join forces

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A cosmetic doctor specialising in anti-ageing treatments has revealed the most popular skin concerns his patients are presenting with and why he’s proud to be a KOL for Universkin.

Based at the Re-Enhance Clinic based in Manchester, Dr Kinsella – who has practised for over 16 years making him one of the most sought after in the industry – revealed how a combination of video calls and face mask use over the last 18 months has led to a surge in treatments and medical grade skincare.

According to the skin expert, patients are finding that the use of masks has caused them blocked pores, possibly even more acne as well as spots and irritation.

He says: “Everyone wants a bright, clear complexion with smooth skin, minimised pores and a glowing effect. This is why people are now asking for peels, or injectable treatments that improve the actual look of the skin.

“In terms of skincare, one of the big things we use at our clinic is Universkin and I’m delighted to now be a KOL for the brand. We customise serums to the patient by adding antioxidants like vitamin C as well as hydrating agents like aloe vera.

“For me this is the very best in professional skincare,” he says. 

Martin says he’s also seeing requests for under-eye tear trough filler because of Zoom overuse and social media, and jaw, cheek contouring and also fillers in the nose are becoming even more popular.

A unique, science-based and physician-dispensed bespoke skincare, Universkin personalised skincare is offered by cosmetic doctors, dermatologists, plastic surgeons and aesthetic practitioners in 35 countries worldwide.

Universkin is available for HCP from John Bannon Pharmacy.

Cambridge Stratum hails AM Live a ‘most productive show’

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John Culbert of Cambridge Stratum has hailed the latest Aesthetic Medicine Live exhibition ‘the most productive show’ after showcasing a new portfolio of devices.

Showcasing a range of platforms including lasers such as the Pico300 and the Spectra Vein, John said the 2 day event attracted visitors seriously interested in investing in quality aesthetic devices. 

“We were pleasantly surprised how productive the first show coming out of the pandemic has been. We were concerned that Covid may have overshadowed it but we were busy from virtually the minute the show opened.

“Importantly, the people who attended had a serious interest in the products on show and many had imminent purchasing intentions. The initial impression is that this was the most productive show we have exhibited at.”

According to John it was obvious within minutes of the announcement that “AM Live 2021 is now open” that there is a pent up demand from clinic owners for the latest technology but at affordable prices.

“The first morning of the show was virtually non-stop and most of the people attending were there for a business; with the intention of finding the product that would give them that vital edge over the competition. What that constituted varied from person to person and the interest was spread across the full product range on offer.”

Cambridge Stratum was pleased to be able to exhibit some excellent showstoppers.

John says: “The Pico300 and 500 range of picosecond lasers at mainstream prices. However, the Nano 3 – a 3.5ns active Q switch laser – also attracted a lot of attention.”

The combination of skin tightening and skin resurfacing has been in the news lately leading to a lot of interest in combination treatments that includes the Stratum 1550: a non-ablative 1550nm scanning laser for skin resurfacing and the SkinTyte III our latest 3 D Hi-Fu machine to tighten the skin.  

John says: “The combination of these two treatments produces excellent results 100% non-invasively and with zero downtime. In order to further promote this hot combination we were pleased to include the show offer of a £5000+ vat discount from the normal price ( £19,500 + £12,500 both plus vat so normally £32,000 + vat  – special offer £27,000 + vat ). Again both machines are offered with our market leading 3 year warranty as standard.”

Cambridge Stratum evolved from the founders’ need to source a broad range of aesthetic and medical equipment for their own use, that is world class in performance, with uncompromising build quality and safety.

All of the equipment offered through Cambridge Stratum has been evaluated and is in daily use in the associated company – Cosmex Clinic – run by award-winning nurse Louise Sommereux. 

All equipment supplied is either CE or Medical CE approved as appropriate and all products have been verified as suitable for the UK.

Cosmetic doctor reports 100% increase in patients seeking anti ageing eye treatments due to ‘ŒZoom Doom’

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An award-winning Cambridge cosmetic clinic has reported a 100 per cent increase in eye rejuvenation enquiries in the months since Covid restrictions limiting aesthetic treatments lifted. 

According to Cosmex Clinic, the post-pandemic boom in cosmetic treatments has been remarkable, but it’s those designed to improve the appearance of the skin around the eyes that have been requested more than ever.

Seeing the huge rise in enquires for non surgical treatments to tone, tighten and smooth the skin around the eyes, Clinic Director Lou Sommereux says it stems from the  ‘Zoom doom’ effect many patients have complained about post pandemic. 

An expert in aesthetics, Lou says: 

“Over the last 18 months we’ve all spent so much time on Zoom and things like FaceTime, it’s no surprise people have started to notice their own appearance more than ever. We can see this in the enquiries we’ve been getting at the clinic since we reopened to the public in April, most notably regarding facial rejuvenation. 

“Of course the demand for facial rejuvenation injectables – such as dermal fillers – has been high, but we’ve particularly noticed a surge in patients seeking treatments to refresh the skin around the eyes. It makes sense – the eyes are the focal point of the face”

It’s easy to be disappointed as the signs of ageing start to take a hold, particularly on the face. Ageing is, of course, totally natural but for those who want to rejuvenate the eyes there are some options that offer great results.

If lines are starting to become more obvious around the eyes, it might be worth considering a combination of non surgical, minimally invasive treatments to ensure you keep that twinkle in your eye for as long as possible.

Lou says the key to success when reducing signs of ageing around this area is ensuring each patient is given a bespoke treatment plan, with a focus on the patient journey and individualised care plans. 

“We are a medical clinic offering medical treatments; there’s no one size fits all plan. We support patients from the start to the end of their treatment, offering tailored plans that take into account a variety of factors including age and lifestyle.

“In many cases it’s not one treatment but a combination of aesthetic treatments that are used in synergy to provide the best results. This could be injectables such as muscle relaxing injections or fillers, skin tightening using devices such as SkinTyte.”

Lou says her clinic, based in Cambridgeshire, is also seeing more demand for body sculpting treatment, probably as a result of the notorious ‘lockdown stone’ we’ve heard so much about in the media.

She says: “There’s an increased demand for energy-assisted treatments as part of facial rejuvenation, but sculpting the body post-pandemic seems to be very popular too, especially as summer is in full swing. We’ve invested in quality devices such as Stratum Synergy to make sure we can safely help patients look and feel their best – because ultimately all of these treatments are really about well-being.”

On cosmetic trends we’re likely to see during the second half of 2021, Lou believes collagen boosting treatments and skin resurfacing are likely to grab the attention of patients, particularly as weddings and big events will be back up and running properly. 

CCR 2021 launches Surgical Arena featuring ISAPS Symposium UK

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Following three years of the ISAPS Symposium UK being hosted in London by Easyfairs, organisers of CCR, the international meeting of the world’s leading aesthetic plastic surgeons will be housed for the first time at CCR on 14 & 15 October 2021 at the ExCeL, London. 

This new addition to the UK’s leading medical aesthetics event will unite the UK’s aesthetic plastic surgeons under one roof, integrating surgical education and networking into CCR.

The addition of this world-class programme will add further value to the 250+ surgeons who attend CCR each year to network and attend the non-surgical talks. 

With a focus on breast and body, the ISAPS Symposium UK will feature an internationally renowned faculty from across the globe, putting CCR and the ISAPS Symposium UK on the world stage.

Naveen Cavale, ISAPS UK National Secretary, commented: “It’s great to be working with CCR for the fourth year running and we’re thrilled to be able to host the ISAPS meeting at the event this year. The ISAPS Symposium provides expert education for plastic surgeons each year and, because CCR provides such an open forum for medical aesthetic professionals, all surgeons involved in the aesthetics sector will be able to join the ISAPS meeting, giving them the opportunity to be educated by and learn best-practice from the best of the best.

“The ISAPS presence the in UK has grown exponentially over the past few years and this enriched partnership represents further expansion of the phenomenal growth that ISAPS has seen in the UK. Adding to this, there will also be an opportunity for aesthetic plastic surgeons to sign up for ISAPS membership at CCR at a reduced rate, as part of their delegate fee.”

Mo Akhavani, ISAPS UK Assistant Secretary, added: “The excellent thing about being alongside CCR is that any medical professional in the aesthetic sector, whether surgical or non-surgical, can mingle and network with the world’s best plastic surgeons. This not only strengthens the partnership between ISAPS and CCR, but it also enhances the reputation of ISAPS education and closes the gap between surgical and non-surgical specialties, which will in turn help to provide a safer and more regulated industry.”

In addition to the opportunity to learn from the most highly regarded aesthetic plastic surgeons in the world, attendees of the ISAPS Symposium UK at CCR will be able to discover the very latest surgical equipment and solutions at the accompanying exhibition, to ensure their clinics are kitted out to the highest and most up-to-date spec.

With a focus on a holistic approach to aesthetic medicine, surgeons will also have access to the full agenda of free-of-charge non-surgical education at CCR and the opportunity to meet with the leading suppliers of non-surgical products and practice management solutions.

Francesca White, Tatler’s Health and Beauty Editor-at-Large, will once again be press ambassador for CCR and will use the opportunity to speak to the surgeons featured in the 2020 Tatler Cosmetic Surgery Guide. Francesca will be interviewing key opinion leaders and exhibitors during the event, as well as reporting on the latest news in the aesthetics industry.

CCR and the ISAPS Symposium UK 2021 will deliver the best of the best in content, demonstrations, new treatments and education for all medical aesthetic professionals on 14 and 15 October 2021 at ExCeL, London.

Register to attend today at www.ccrlondon.com