Back To School, Back To You, Mommy Makeover Beauty Tips

"Back to School, Back To You Mommy Beauty Tips With The Beauty Spotlight Team."

Now that your kids are back to school, it's likely that your house is a little quieter, and you have a little more time for some me-time! This extra peace is the perfect time for a mommy makeover, with these mommy makeover skincare tips, mommy makeover makeup tips, and some tips to taking care of yourself in body, mind, and spirit. Enjoy!

 Mommy Makeover Skincare Tips

Beverly Hills MD Cosmeceuticals Lift+Firm Sculpting Cream for Face and Neck is a wonderfully effective cream that firms, lifts, hydrates and nourishes the skin. Lola’s Secret Beauty Blog loves this cream because it lives up to its claims and it is a pleasure to use.

Aging is a fact of life, but looking your age is not! And that is when good skincare comes into play with anti-aging ingredients like Retinol, aka the fountain of youth. More than likely, you heard about Retinol and maybe some of its anti-aging benefits but do not really understand this star ingredient and everything it can do for your skin! So, if you are ready to venture into Benjamin Button’s magical elixir of youth, continue reading on Barbie’s Beauty Bits.

Dry lips? Thinning lips? Don’t like thick waxy lip balms? Check out new Paula’s Choice Hyaluronic Acid + Peptide Lip Booster: lightweight, clear, hydrating liqui-gel. Leaves your lips smooth, juicy and glossy! No fragrance or taste. Minimizes lip lines. Allison from Never Say Die Beauty thinks it’s anti-aging for lips! 

Mommy Makeover Makeup Tips

The advertisements are reminding us that it’s back to school time. What’s in your back to school wardrobe even if you don’t go to school? For Prime Beauty it’s cosmetics and especially Sorme’ lip products. There’s a wide array of terrific items that will leave you room to buy supplies as well. 

Do you like beauty subscription services? You might want to check out Cassie’s August Ipsy Glam Bag Plus Unboxing over on Southeast by Midwest. 

Mommy Makeover Motivational Tips 

Angie at Your True Self Blog wants you to take care of yourself and be well. That way, age doesn’t matter because you look better, your life is richer and you last longer. So she wrote an inspirational post exploring three ways to take care of yourself:  in body, mind and spirit.

Wanna be featured in this roundup? Comment below or send us an email as barbie@barbiesbeautybits.com 

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Nano Fat Grafting Vs. Dermal Fillers, Which Is Better For Facial Rejuvenation

 

Which Is Better For Facial Rejuvenation, Nano Fat Grafting or Dermal Fillers? Well, before we answer that question, let's see how many of you can relate to this.

Have you ever seen yourself tagged in a photo on Facebook and think something about your face looks older or looks more tired than you are?  Taking it a step further for those on those numerous zoom calls, who may notice some more unpleasantries, like some loose sagging skin around the mouth, flattened cheeks, even some slight notices of a possible jowl forming?

Well, beauties, you are not alone as what you are experiencing is the loss of facial volume, and there are facial rejuvenation treatments that can help with this. But before I get into these, we at Barbie's Beauty Bits think it is important that you understand why this change is happening, so those who may want to add volume, improve skin texture, etc., can better understand the options, reasons, and outcomes.

What Causes Facial Volume Loss
One quick way to look older than you are is the changes in our skin texture, shape, and volume. These changes come from the loss of collagen, elastin, and fatty tissue that once gave the skin a youthful appearance.

Think round full cheeks, smooth skin, even something I once called an upper lip.  And guess what, this volume loss can start as early as in our 30's. That's right, studies have shown that by the age of 35, our natural aging process causes us to lose about 10% volume in our face, with an additional 5-10% facial fat every 5-10 years. 

This means by the age of 55, the facial muscles are working closer to the skin's surface as many of us have lost about 40% off of facial volume, causing our cheeks to drop and sag, eyes start to appear sallow, and other signs of aging.

Add that to stress, hormonal changes, and environmental exposures, like makeup, smoke, and over-exposure to the sun. Your skin is going to be looser, thinner, and rougher. Leaving many left with more than they bargained for.

So, what treatments can we get that can help with facial volume loss?

Whether you’re struggling with sallow, sunken eye sockets, thinning lips, deflated” flattened cheeks, hollow temples, or loose sagging skin around the jawline, also known as jowls. Two main cosmetic remedies are using injectable fillers that will make a significant difference in the appearance of your face: Nano fat grafting and dermal fillers.

Well, to help me share these answers with you, I got with Dr. David Sieber Plastic Surgery in San Francisco. Let's see what he had to say on the subject.

Nano Fat Grafting vs. Dermal Fillers, Which Procedure Is Better To Help With Facial Volume Loss

If you’ve ever seen a plastic surgeon about the issue of facial volume loss, they have probably already listed both of these procedures as options. 

Still, you may have some follow-up questions — namely: What’s the difference between nano fat grafting and dermal fillers? What works better? What looks more natural? And which lasts longer?

Up ahead, we'll go over the basics of each one of these cosmetic procedures, followed by the major pros and cons, so that we can hopefully answer any questions you may still have about nano fat grafting and dermal fillers. By the end of this article, you’ll have a strong understanding of your options regarding loss of facial volume and will be able to make a sound decision moving forward.

Why Do We Lose Volume In Our Faces As We Age?
I touched briefly on this above. But let's see how Dr. David Sieber expands on this further.

Before we can examine the pros and cons of nano fat grafting vs. dermal fillers, it’s important to have a solid understanding of the aging process itself. Everyone knows our faces change as we age. But what’s actually going on beneath the skin?

For starters, when you’re young, you have mostly evenly distributed fat, and certain fat pockets nicely plump up all the right areas: the cheeks, forehead, lips, and temples and around the eyes. With gravity and time, however, small amounts of fat tend to shift downward. This causes bags to form beneath the eyes, jowls to form near the chin and neck, loose skin to gather at the bottom of the face, and fat to clump up in inconvenient locations.

The result is often a thin bony appearance, hollow-looking cheeks, and an overall tired and sullen look.

Fortunately, these signs of aging can be remedied with either nano fat grafting or dermal fillers.

The Benefits And Drawbacks Of Nano Fat Grafting Vs. Dermal Fillers

The skin rejuvenation process depends on many factors, but most healthy adults are good candidates for either nano fat grafting or dermal fillers. Let’s take a look at each of these facial fillers.

What Is Nano Fat Grafting?
The key to facial rejuvenation may already be hidden in your body with fat grafting (also known as fat transfer). This process can be performed on many parts of the body, including the breasts, buttocks, thighs, and more. It involves injecting fat (live) cells from one area of the body to another.

For example, if you have excess fat on your hips/thighs that you’d like to reduce, and you’d also like to increase the volume of your breasts, we can take fat from your hips (via liposuction), harvest, and process it, and move it to your breasts.

Nano fat grafting is very similar. The key difference between nano fat grafting and traditional fat grafting is the size of the grafts. With nano fat grafting, extremely small particle sizes are used. This is because smaller-sized fat particles are best at injecting into the face, repairing facial skin issues — namely, loss of volume, fine lines and wrinkles, and scarring.

It’s important to keep in mind that there is always some level of reabsorption when it comes to fat grafting. That is, not all of the transferred fat will survive; some will die, and your body will reabsorb it. This is totally normal, and your surgeon will anticipate this issue by slightly overshooting the amount of fat they transfer.

Using Your Own Fat For Facial Rejuvenation...Pros of Nano Fat Grafting For Improving Facial Volume Loss

• Uses your own fat-derived stem cells to rejuvenate and improve the overall tone, texture and appearance of aging or sun-damaged skin. Best for significant loss of volume on the face
• Usually less expensive than fillers
• Harvesting unwanted fat is a simple process (typically no shortage of fat supply for facial transfers)
• The area the fat is harvested from can appear slimmer and more contoured
• Long-lasting (usually lasts longer than dermal fillers)
• Bonus: They can even be used as alternatives to injectables like Botox to improve the appearance of lines and wrinkles around the forehead and eyes
  

Cons Of Nano Fat Grafting For Improving Facial Volume Loss

• You will need to have the cosmetic surgery to remove the fat
• The fat-removal surgical procedure usually requires the use of an anesthetic
• Post-procedure swelling and bruising may last longer than with dermal fillers
  
• Long-lasting for those that may wanna test the waters so to speak

What Are Dermal Fillers?
Dermal fillers are chemical substances used to augment the face in some way. Usually, fillers are used to smooth out fine lines and wrinkles, and they can also be extremely effective at adding plumpness where volume has been lost due to aging or significant weight loss.

Most dermal fillers are made of hyaluronic acid (HA), but there are several different types that include such recognizable brands as Juvéderm, Restylane, and Sculptra.

HA is found naturally in the skin and is responsible for hydration and plumpness. Your cosmetic surgeon will decide which filler will work best for your problem areas and ultimate goals. Some fillers are constituted best for areas like the undereye, while others do better in the lips, along the jawline, or on the cheeks.

Unlike the process of fat grafting, dermal fillers do not require anesthesia because there’s no liposuction step. The process is quick and simple and this cosmetic procedure is usually done in as little as 30 minutes right in your plastic surgeon’s office.

Pros of Dermal Fillers For Improving Facial Volume Loss

• A cost-effective way to “test drive” facial rejuvenation methods
• Good for "small jobs” (adding volume to the lips, for example)
• Fillers add volume, smooth facial folds, improve contour deficiencies and diminish wrinkles.
• Particularly beneficial for contouring near the eyes — great for sunken, sullen eyes with dark circles
• No anesthetics are needed
• Recovery time is fast
  

Cons of Dermal Fillers For Improving Facial Volume Loss

• Not quite as long-lasting as fat grafting (the skin eventually absorbs fillers and will require additional fillers to maintain volume)
• Long term cost can be more expensive than the fat transfer process, as it has to be done more often
• Although fillers are considered safe, you are injecting a foreign substance into your body.  It is important to choose a skilled plastic surgeon to perform this procedure to ensure that it is done properly.
  

To Sum It Up...Nano Fat Grafting Vs. Dermal Fillers, Which Is Better?
There is not a definitive answer as the both treatments work great for facial rejuvenation. The goal in deciding is to look at the pros and cons of both and see which one better fits your lifestyle. 

More About San Francisco’s Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon Dr. David Sieber And His Practice
Dr. David Sieber is board-certified by both the American Board of Surgery and the American Board of Plastic Surgery, making him one of the few double board-certified plastics and reconstructive surgeons in the San Francisco Bay Area.

After graduating from Loyola University-Stritch School of Medicine, Dr. Sieber went on to the Loyola University Medical Center to complete a five-year residency in general surgery. This was followed by a three-year residency in plastic and reconstructive surgery at the University of Minnesota and a one-year aesthetic surgery fellowship at the University of Texas Southwestern program in Dallas.

Among his many accolades, in 2015, Dr. Sieber received the award for best research paper from the Aesthetic Surgery Journal editorial board. He was the recipient of the inaugural Frederic Brandt, MD Memorial Scholarship. He currently serves on committees for the American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ASAPS) and Aesthetic Surgery Education and Research Foundation (ASERF).

For more information about Dr. Sieber, visit his practice online at Dr. David Sieber Plastic Surgery in San Francisco.

References:

What Are Dermal Fillers
History Of Fat Grafting

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How The Zoom Boom Has Impacted Aesthetics

The pandemic has negatively impacted many businesses, but one business that has not seen a negative impact is aesthetics.  In fact, the demand for aesthetic procedures has actually kept climbing despite the pandemic. There are a few reasons why... and one Barbie's Beauty Bits will be talking about today is "The Zoom Boom." and how it has impacted aesthetics.

That is right, with the pandemic, many of us have had our share of Zoom meetings, virtual happy hours, virtual family gatherings, and who knows, maybe even a virtual date!

And while the Zoom Boom has brought convenience, it has also brought some unhappy truths about how we look and never knew it. Think about it. Most people do not know what they look like when speaking, sitting at a desk, or even sitting across from somebody during a lunch meeting! It is not like there is a mirror in front of us to see our facial expressions or worse that sitting face you may notice in a virtual meeting while working from home (Boy, do I hate mine).

The "Zoom Boom" And Recent Aesthetic Trends
With the Zoom Boom, many people went from only looking at themselves in the mirror on their bathroom breaks to suddenly staring at themselves on a screen for hours each day, not liking what they see. As a result, they had plenty of time to scrutinize and evaluate their under-eye bags, fine lines and wrinkles, double chins, and more.

What happens when people spend hours every week studying unflattering images of themselves? An increase in requests for plastic surgery, even virtual consultations, of course.

The American Society Of Plastic Surgeon Annual Trend Report
The American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS) released its annual trends report for 2020 recently. It revealed the evolving aesthetic trends that occurred in plastic surgery during the pandemic and continues today. Below are some of the most notable results and other aesthetic trends cosmetic surgeons are noticing that are trending today.

More Women See Aesthetic Plastic Surgery Positively
The ASPS survey found that 11% of women are more interested in aesthetic plastic surgery today than before the pandemic started. One surgeon noted that people have learned how cosmetic procedures can improve their beauty, make them look younger, and enhance their self-esteem.

Nose Reshaping Is The Most Popular Pandemic Plastic Surgery Procedure
Breast augmentation has been the most popular procedure for years, but the zoom effect has placed a focus more on the face, and out of this the new aesthetic trend that is taking the lead is reshaping the nose with rhinoplasty (nose job). In addition, the COVID-19 pandemic has increased demand for many facial surgical procedures, including eyelid surgery and facelifts.

As we age, we tend to develop wrinkles around the eyes, mouth, and row. It’s easier to see those wrinkles and lines on a video camera, so people have wanted to do something about it with plastic surgery. 

Non Surgical Rhinoplasty Trend Due To The Zoom Boom
Another aesthetic trend for patients who are not ready to have an invasive procedure, like a full rhinoplasty, has been nonsurgical rhinoplasty. By injecting dermal fillers, it’s now possible for patients to have minor bumps and dips in the nose filled in to improve the profile of the nose.

Plastic surgeons also are seeing the other aesthetic trends in plastic surgery come to the fore this year, see some of these below.

The Zoom Boom: Navigating Your Facial Rejuvenation Options
Some surgeons report that patients are getting more sophisticated in their grasp of what their skincare products can do and how to find the items with the best ingredients.

Along with this improved knowledge, surgeons see more interest in nonsurgical procedures to enhance the texture and tone of facial skin. For example, hybrid fractional laser resurfacing can significantly improve the appearance of the skin and minimize sun damage and sunspots.

Plus, laser resurfacing has minimal downtime, and people won’t even know you had work done. Many patients like the idea of rejuvenating their faces and going back to work or their daily routine right away.

Dermal Fillers And Injectables
New types of hyaluronic acid (HA) fillers are being released, and they are highly effective in treating facial wrinkles around the eyes. They also help fill in lost volume in the lips and cheeks and make you look years younger.

There also are new injectables trending, such as the neurotoxin DAXI, that may last as long as six months. This can be a difference-maker for patients who want reduced wrinkles and smoother skin with fewer sessions.

Nonsurgical Eyelid Lifts And Rhinoplasties
These procedures are growing because surgeons are getting better fillers and are gaining skills in their techniques. In addition, many surgeons contend that the results with fillers for these procedures are impressive and can even match surgical results, although the effects are temporary.

Also, there is no pain involved with injections for eyelid lifts and rhinoplasties and very little recovery time.

Further, some plastic surgeons are using HA gel filler to improve the shape of the nose tip and lift it a bit, which works well for people of Asian heritage.

Combination Treatments Due To The Mask Effect
Another big aesthetic trend is combining plastic surgery with nonsurgical treatments to provide a more comprehensive result for the face. Some of the facial treatments include longer-lasting fillers, Botox, lasers, and procedures that use radio frequency to stimulate collagen production.

Some patients pair these treatments with fat grafting to restore lost volume in the cheeks and other parts of the face. 

High-Definition Liposuction Attributed To The #Quarantine15
Staying home means constant access to food and minimal access to the gym. Combine that with elevated stress and more time to experiment in the kitchen resulting in weight gain, which leads to the popular hashtag #Quarantine15 and a popular aesthetic trend, body contouring, including high-definition liposuction. With the talents of  highly skilled plastic surgery experts, it is now possible to remove or melt fat down to a mere handful of cells under the skin.

So there you have it, beauties. An inside look on The Zoom Boom, whether video conferencing or video calling, impacts the attitude towards aesthetic surgery-until next time!  

References

Aesthetic Trends 2021

Cosmetic Surgery Trends For 2021 And Beyond

American Society of Plastic Surgeons 2020 Trend Report

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End Of Summer Beauty Tips From The Beauty Spotlight Team

Summer affects the skin differently as there is an increase in temperature; combine that with the humidity and scorching sun, and you've seen some changes in your skin these past few months you may not like.

But no worries, as the beauty spotlight team has you covered with this week's end of summer beauty tips. 

End Of Summer Skincare

If you are looking for the perfect way to nourish, pamper and treat your dry and chapped hands, from all of the hand sanitizer and hand washing, then Lola’s Secret Beauty Blog highly recommends Spongellé Hand Creams. Available in 8 delectable scents, they are rich in Hyaluronic Acid, Shea Butter, Argan oil and Macadamia Seed oil. A+

Droopy eyelid skin? Allison from Never Say Die Beauty has been trying out brand new City Beauty Lid Lifting Treatment, and she likes what she sees! It’s on sale through Monday for 30% off. Check it out and get the code!

If you’re a HAPPY CBD lover, you already know that National CBD Day falls on August 8th. And if you’ve been under a rock and not aware of the benefits of CBD, well pour yourself a glass of wine as Barbie’s Beauty Bits shares with you the many skin-loving benefits and a must-have new CBD premium product. Happy Dance, created by Kristen Bell, now found at Ulta.

End Of Summer Staycation

When it comes to candles Cindy of Prime Beauty is a connoisseur. She loves having a luscious candle burning in her home to create mood and a peaceful environment. Her latest find is Anecdote Candles which are helping her have a summer staycation. 

Must Read Culinary And Fashion Tips

Healing is something we all want to do well. Maybe it’s an elective procedure or necessary surgery or just a random accident. Whatever it is we can heal better and more quickly using food and habit to put the odds in our favor to lessen bruising and improve healing. Read about how to give your body the important nutrients it needs to heal quickly on The Culinary Cure.  

Angie at Your True Self Blog has a style tip of the day for how to make basic tees and dresses look remarkable while you enjoy casual days in comfort!

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Why Medical Aesthetics Are Booming Despite The Pandemic

Medical Aesthetics Are Booming Despite The Pandemic? That is right! Even the pandemic hasn't slowed down the demand for Botox, fillers, and tummy tucks. I've been seeing this amongst my aesthetic clients, which is why I asked Plastic Surgeon, Dr. Matthew Schulman, to help me to understand better what has been going on in the medical aesthetics industry despite the pandemic. Let's read what he said about why the demand for cosmetic procedures is on the rise amid the pandemic.

Most people cannot remember a more challenging year in their lifetime than 2020. The pandemic changed everything — from how we work and interact with our families to how we grocery shop or ride the subway. Unfortunately, that fear, uncertainty, and dread that originated in 2020 have also followed us into 2021 and continues.

Like most other professionals, plastic surgeons have seen these global changes impact their practice. One of the things being how would we ever recover from the impact of this global setback?

But fortunately, over the past few months, the cosmetic industry has seen an increase in demand for invasive plastic surgery procedures as well as nonsurgical procedures. Across the board, we’re seeing new and impressive trends taking over the industry.

Below, please take a closer look at this phenomenon and the new medical aesthetics trends we see in 2021 as they continue to unfold, according to Dr. Matthew Schulman Plastic Surgery in New York City.

2021: Changing Trends In The Plastic Surgery Landscape Amid The Pandemic

Something unique occurs when people are forced to stay in their homes for long periods, and their regular routines are completely upheaved and drastically altered.

On the one hand, it’s a time to look inward. We are abruptly reminded that everything can change in an instant, so we take a deep breath and think that over: “Okay, what have I been putting off that I actually desperately want to accomplish?”

On the other hand, it’s a time to look beyond ourselves. Social distancing and quarantining make us reexamine our relationships with others and with the outside world at large. We ask ourselves anew: “When I do have a chance to see and interact with people normally again, what exactly do I want to show and present to the world that I’m not already showing and presenting?”

Take these two overwhelming trains of thought, and many people often conclude that changes need to be made in their lives. To be sure, the monotony of everyday living can keep us from making significant changes in the first place. “There’s always tomorrow” and “I’ll get started on that later” are sentiments that live very comfortably in routine and patterned behavior.

Throw in a pandemic, and things are very different.

When COVID-19 threw a wrench into our lives, everyone felt the blow. But as someone who works in an industry focused on radical life changes and big transformations, I had a unique vantage point. Whereas I was worried I’d see the industry falter because of the economic downturn and rampant fear of medical establishments and procedures, I was also aware that people don’t stop wanting to put their best feet forward even in the worst of times.

Lo and behold, as soon as restrictions softened last year, I saw an influx of people who had been reexamining their lives and who had realized they needed a change. After all, plastic surgery/cosmetic surgery is where they want to begin for many people who want a change.

Why Do We See An Increased Interest In Cosmetic Procedures Despite The Pandemic
Overall, we’ve seen an increased demand for both surgical and nonsurgical procedures in 2021. I’d say the main reason for this is that more people are working from home than ever before, which is ideal for recovery.

Reason #1: The Pandemic Has Allowed More Time For Isolated Recovery For Cosmetic Procedures
One of the main things that hold people back from getting plastic surgery is going through a lengthy recovery period. Even if you can get time off from work to stay home and fully recover, it can make people feel self-conscious to have everyone know why you're taking time off from work. During a pandemic, though, everyone's at home anyway. At certain points during this ordeal, you wouldn’t even be pressured to meet someone for a coffee or to go to someone’s birthday party.

Likewise, you can generally have all the recovery time you need when you work from home — or at least a lengthier period than you would otherwise have. With certain procedures, it’s hard to get up and get dressed for a while. Commuting and sitting at a desk for any length of time can be challenging too. Now, if you work from home, you can recover more peacefully and for longer.

Reason #2:  Nonsurgical Procedures Have Increased Amid The Pandemic
In terms of nonsurgical procedures, I see many patients happy to stay at home and away from others after getting Botox, fillers, chemical peels, and laser treatments. That way, they can remain isolated during any period of temporary redness, swelling, bruising, or discomfort.

Reason #3:  Finding Child Care Has Been Easier During The Panic
At the same time, when you get plastic surgery, and you have a family, you need to make arrangements for someone to take care of your children. If you get a tummy tuck when you have small children who need to be watched over closely, chased after, and frequently picked up, this necessitates help.

During this pandemic, finding easy childcare can go one of two ways. For some people, with quarantining, social distancing, and general anxiety is pervasive, it can be difficult to find child care. For many, though, it's actually easier to find childcare now than it was pre-pandemic. Friends and family aren't as busy and maybe around, ready, and able to assist in caring for children after your surgery. It all depends on where you live, who you know, and what your personal circumstances are.

The Hottest Pandemic Cosmetic Procedures? (Botox Boost)

I’ve also noticed changes in where people want to get surgery or nonsurgical procedures on their body. In many ways, the focus has shifted to areas that are covered by masks. Because mask-wearing is so pervasive, it’s easy to hide this area of the face if you’ve recently had lip fillers, chin augmentation, a neck lift, Botox, etc. This makes a recovery far easier for the patient.

For more invasive surgeries, it seems that patients who may have only been interested in augmenting one area of their body previously are now looking for full-body contouring and breast augmentation — often within the same procedure. Again, this seems to be due to the current ability of many to recover in privately isolated quarters for as long as necessary.

Quote From Dr. Schulman: "Undoubtedly, we are living in a unique era of history. More than ever before in our lifetime, it seems that no one knows what tomorrow will bring. As plastic surgeons, my colleagues and I have seen increased demands for our services across the board. We are trying to handle this influx as best as we possibly can — all while maintaining high levels of care and strict safety standards for the sake of our staff and patients."

For more information about Dr. Schulman, visit his practice online at Dr. Matthew Schulman Plastic Surgery in New York City.

References:

https://www.plasticsurgery.org/news/press-releases/american-society-of-plastic-surgeons-unveils-covid19s-impact-and-pent-up-patient-demand-fueling-the-industrys-current-post-pandemic-boom

https://www.bbc.com/worklife/article/20200909-why-plastic-surgery-demand-is-booming-amid-lockdown

https://journals.lww.com/prsgo/Fulltext/2020/12000/The_Impact_of_the_COVID_19_Pandemic_on_Plastic.56.aspx

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Escape To Your Happy Place With Kristen Bell's CBD Skincare

If you're a HAPPY CBD lover, you already know that National CBD Day falls on August 8th. And if you've been under a rock and not aware of the benefits of CBD, well pour yourself a glass of wine as I share with you the many skin-loving benefits and a must-have new CBD premium product- Happy Dance, created by Kristen Bell, which can now be found at Ulta.

Before I get into the benefits of CBD-infused beauty products, I want to tell you what it isn't, as many have some preconceived perceptions about what CBD is actually all about.

Will CBD Get Me High
First and foremost, CBD will not get you high! CBD stands for cannabidiol, a compound found naturally in hemp plants. Unlike THC, CBD is not intoxicating. And yes, we are sure it won’t get you high.
 
Ok, So I Will Not Get High From CBD, But What Is The Heck Is It
CBD is a cannabinoid that is extracted from cannabis. Like any other plant species, cannabis comes in various shapes, sizes, colors, and flavors. One group of cannabis strains is called hemp, which is high (no pun intended) in CBD with negligible amounts of THC. While hemp is excellent for things like building materials, textiles, food, and even CBD-based beauty products, what it is not suitable for is getting you high!

It's Time To Look Alive With The Help Of CBD
Okay, now that we got that out of the way, let's talk about this buzz-worthy ingredient found in beauty products. This cannabis compound is favorable for health and wellness and has incredible benefits when used topically, especially for the skin. CBD is known for its healing properties and offers some serious antioxidant and anti-inflammatory benefits. This is why this superstar ingredient is one of the newest skincare must-haves!

Not only is CBD impressive for anti-aging, moisturizing, bringing that dull skin back to life, boosting hydration, and neutralizing free radical damage. This holy grail ingredient is the secret weapon to fighting the tired mom face syndrome by giving you that alive, fresh face and glowing complexion you had before giving birth! How, you may ask? Find out below.

Stress Is Spoiling The Skin
We all know that stress is horrible for our mental health, but not many know that stress can wreak havoc on the skin. Yep, stress causes our body to produce a hormone called cortisol, aka the stress hormone. This hormone breaks down elastane and collagen, which leads to the formation of fine lines and wrinkles~~WTF? It can also trigger acne and dull skin from neglect. With our minds preoccupied with work, laundry, kids soccer, dance, and cheerleading practice, moms barely have time to breathe, let alone skincare or a mom beauty routine. 

Look Alive CBD Face Moisturizer
While those kiddies are a blessing, they can be stressful, and that is why Happy Dance, a line of premium CBD products, was created with millennial moms in mind. Why moms? Because if anyone could use a little more boost in their beauty routines, it’s moms.

Just ask co-founder Kristen Bell. Her personal experience with CBD skincare inspired her to create the Happy Dance brand and their newest product, Look Alive CBD Face Moisturizer. As when you can care for yourself, you can better care for those I love.

Tell Me The Benefits Of Happy Dance CBD Face Moisturizer
This replenishing hydrating face cream is the perfect first line of defense against stressed skin, your moisture barrier. CBD has moisturizing properties that can help combat dehydration and dryness that you may have misplaced along the way… under piles of laundry, 4 hours of sleep, or your 8th cup of coffee.

This face moisturizer has some other excellent benefits, making anyone wanting to do the happy dance. See some of them below.

CBD oil is an antioxidant that contains vitamins and other powerful, anti-inflammatory properties that your skin will love! Not only can CBD oil help to maintain a more youthful complexion, but the antioxidants found in it can also assist in:

• Promoting cellular turnover
• Balancing out your skin tone
• Reducing inflammation and puffiness
• Soothing the skin
• Simulating blood flow to help improve the skin's elasticity
  

Other Skin Loving Ingredients In Kristen Bell's Happy Dance CBD Face Moisturizer
If the above wasn't enough to win you over, I know this will! Not only is this face cream infused with Full Spectrum CBD, but it also contains avocado oil, hyaluronic acid, and plant squalene to soften skin and improve moisture barrier function, which defends against dry, stressed skin.

• Avocado Oil is a nutrient-dense oil rich in omega 6 & 9 fatty acids. It’s great for softening skin and acts as a hydrating hug, locking in good ingredients.
• It contains four types of hyaluronic acids; WHAT??? Yes, you read correctly. I said four hyaluronic acid types creating a sponge-like matrix that fills the skin with moisture for bouncy, hydrated skin.
• Bisabolol and Ginger Blend, a combination that possesses antioxidant properties and provides skin with a more even tone, combating the appearance of redness.
• All ingredients are vegan and cruelty-free.
• The product packaging components are made from recyclable materials, not to mention the packing peanuts are biodegradable.
• 150 MG OF CBD
  
• Certificate of Analysis that lets you see exactly what’s in each product (and more importantly, what’s not)
  

Phew, now that was a mouthful! So what are you waiting for? It's time to get your Happy Dance on with some CBD and Kristen Bell, they both will make you happy!

IMPORTANT: Since this product is targeting moms, you probably have the kiddies around when your attempting to have your 'Me time." Hence, please be aware to keep this product out of reach of children. Hemp or cannabidiol use while pregnant or nursing may be harmful. Consult your doctor before using if you are pregnant or nursing, have a medical condition or take pharmaceutical drugs. Take precaution when using multiple hemp or cannabidiol products at the same time or together.

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Top Reasons Why Women Choose Breast Augmentation

Plastic Surgeon, Dr Lahar Shares Top Reasons Why Women Choose Breast Augmentation With Award Winning Beauty Editor, Barbie Ritzman

Breast augmentation remains the most popular plastic surgery procedure in the United States, with at least 30,000 women having breast implants per year. I know that women choose breast augmentation for many reasons, not just vanity, like most assume. Therefore, I got with Dr. Lahar Plastic Surgeon in Beverly Hills, to determine why women choose breast augmentation.

Dr. Lahar was excited to share these details on this popular cosmetic procedure with Barbie's Beauty Bits. He wanted to stress above all that:

It's important to note that choosing to undergo breast augmentation is a highly personal decision and should be carefully thought through. The decision needs to be one that someone is doing for themselves, not anyone else.

So if you are considering breast augmentation, know that you are not alone. With its wide range of exciting and compelling benefits, there are many different reasons why millions of women decide to have breast augmentation surgery, and we're here to share the top 8 reasons:

A Breast Augmentation Can Boost Self-Esteem
A woman's breasts are often central to her identity. If you are displeased with your breasts' size, position, or shape, you may feel a lack of self-confidence that can even make you dissatisfied with life.

Studies show that breast augmentation is connected to improved self-esteem in women, making a boost of self-esteem a popular reason women opt for implants.

This does not mean that every patient getting breast augmentation lacks self-esteem, but even a woman with high self-confidence can enjoy an enhanced self-image after this procedure.

Obtain A Fuller Appearance With Breast Implants
You may have breasts that developed usually, but perhaps they are not as full and round as you want. This is where the skill of your plastic surgeon is essential; if they put in breast implants that are too big for your body, it will look unnatural. And there is a trend these days for breast augmentation to look natural and proportionate to a woman's body.

If you work closely with your surgeon, you can select a cup size and shape that makes you look fuller without appearing fake.

Remember that several factors affect which size of the implant is right for you. These include your body proportions, anatomy, and how much natural breast tissue there is. Your surgeon will consider these factors and your goals to decide the ideal volume of the implant.

A Breast Augmentation Can Correct Asymmetry
Did you know that most women's breasts are not symmetrical? This is another reason why many choose to enhance their upper body with breast implants to achieve better proportions overall. Although the difference is barely noticeable, it can be a problem with some patients. Women with mild to moderate breast asymmetry can have a lopsided look, making buying bras, shirts, and swimsuits hard.

Your surgeon can work with you to ensure that your breasts are both fuller and rounder as well as symmetrical.

A Breast Lift With Implants After Significant Weight Loss
Many women lose a significant amount of weight but find that their breasts sag. Your surgeon may recommend a breast lift and breast augmentation to provide a perkier look that makes you look years younger. These procedures can be done at once, and the difference can be stunning.

Some patients choose to have other work done with breast surgery, such as a tummy tuck or liposuction. This is a cost-effective way to have plastic surgery, and you get all of your recovery done at once.

Restore Body After Pregnancy With A Breast Augmentation
Pregnancy is one of life's wonders, but it can change a woman's body. One change that usually happens after pregnancy and breastfeeding is drooping or sagging breasts that may become smaller after you've stopped nursing. That's why many new mothers get a breast lift and augmentation when they are finished having children.

However, if you plan to have more children in a few years, it's best to wait on breast augmentation. This is because having more children could undo the work your surgeon has done.

Reconstruct Breasts After A Mastectomy With Breast Implants
Women who had a mastectomy to treat breast cancer usually want breast augmentation or reconstruction cosmetic surgery to restore how they looked before. But, unfortunately, this can have a significant impact on a woman helping with self-esteem and quality of life.

If you are thinking about breast augmentation after mastectomy, it's vital to consider a plastic surgeon highly skilled and experienced in breast reconstruction. There is a great deal of artistry in breast reconstruction to resemble a natural breast, so please choose your surgeon carefully.

Breast Implants Offer A Solution For Helping To Make Your Clothes Fit Better
Some women find that clothes don't fit their chests the way they want. Or, they struggle to find a bra or bathing suit that fits properly. This can be because of asymmetrical breasts or breasts that are too small or large for the rest of the body.

Breast augmentation can fill you out on top so that buying attractive, well-fitted clothes is much easier. This can make you feel better about your body and give you a jolt of self-confidence.

Breast Augmentation Can Offer A Solution To Those Whose Breasts Didn't Develop
Some women have breasts that did not fully develop during puberty, giving them tiny breasts in proportion to the rest of the body. This is a health condition called macromastia.

This condition is often genetic, but it also can be caused by radiation exposure, surgery, or trauma.

More About Lahar Plastic Surgery
Dr. Nicholas Lahar is a full-service plastic surgeon serving Beverly Hills, California, and surrounding areas. He earned his bachelor's degree in biomedical engineering from Johns Hopkins University in Baltimore.

Next, Dr. Lahar earned his M.D. from Virginia Commonwealth University School of Medicine. He refined his surgical skills and knowledge further through general and plastic surgery residencies at the University of California, Los Angeles. Dr. Lahar also completed aesthetic plastic surgery training at the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center in Dallas.

Learn more about Dr. Lahar Plastic Surgery in Beverly Hills by visiting him online.

References
How Will Breast Implants Change Your Life. (n.d.). Accessed at
https://www.webmd.com/beauty/features/how-will-breast-implants-change-your-life#1

The Reasons Women Get Breast Implants. (2019). Accessed at https://www.huffpost.com/entry/real-or-fake-reasons-wome_b_5537372

Why Today's Breast Augmentation Is Better Than Ever. (2018). Accessed at https://www.plasticsurgery.org/news/blog/why-todays-breast-augmentation-is-better-than-ever

Dr. Lahar Plastic Surgery - Breast Augmentation. (n.d.). Accessed at https://www.laharplasticsurgery.com/procedures/breast/breast-augmentation/

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End Of Summer Curly Hair Repair Guide

 Barbie's End Of Summer Curly Hair Repair Guide For Your Curly Haired Beauties!

August is the hottest month out of the year and one of the worst months for curly hair. While many of us love August because it represents the last month of the summer. Those with curly hair will be singing a different tune. 

When it comes to the health of the hair, the month of August is a buildup of everything from sun damage, salt water, chlorine exposure, and of course let's not forget about the August humidity! Mix that all together and you've got the perfect storm for making those curls into a damaged, hot, frizzy mess.

But fret no more you curly hair beauties, as all your summer-related hair problems can fade away with our "End Of Summer Curly Hair Repair Guide!" From protecting and treating your sun dried, damaged hair, to washing, hydrating and a lot more, we have you and your curls covered.

Protect Your Curly Hair From The August Summer Heat
Any source of heat is going to burn your hair and the UV rays from the sun will do the same to your once beautiful curls. The scorching summer sun can also strip the hair of its natural oils, leaving it more vulnerable to breakage. Luckily, we are here to help you restore your curly hair to its pre-summer glory, with these four simple steps.

1. Use a good conditioner after you wash your hair. It should contain heat-protecting ingredients, for example, argan oil or coconut oil.
   
2. Apply a leave-in hair moisturizer that will hydrate your curls and reduce frizziness.
3. Use hair oils that contain fatty acids which can coat and seal the hair follicles to make them healthy and strong. Hair oils also work great for a nourishing mask for damaged hair.
   
4. Use a thermal heat protector before styling your hair with a curling iron, straightener or blow dryer.
   

Use Hair Products Made For Curls
It's not to late to give your curls an extra layer of protection by using styling products designed for curls.  Start by using a creamy deep conditioner or a hair mask once a week. It will help retain moisture and prevent frizzy hair. Also, use a lightweight gel that will hydrate your hair while giving it hold - it's ideal for days when you want to achieve defined curls that aren't too tight or feel heavy on your hair.

Cut Your Hair With Texturizing Shears
If your hair gets weighed down easily, you can give it more body and bounce by trimming it with texturizing shears. What can texturizing shears do to your hair? It's a simple and inexpensive technique that will make your hair look healthier and less frizzy. You can get texturizing shears from any beauty supply store. Just remember to cut your hair when it's damp, and trim approximately one inch off from each strand.

Use Dry Shampoo When Going Out In The Summer Heat
If you have to go out even though your hair isn't thoroughly dried, you can give it a little boost by using dry shampoo. It will absorb excess oil and grease and make your curls look bigger and bouncier. That way, you’ll be able to leave the house with your hair looking fresh and healthy.

Deep Condition Your Curly Hair Once A Week
A great summer hair recovery is deep conditioning your curls once or twice a week, this will ensure that they become sufficiently hydrated, soft and frizz-free from the summer heat. If your hair doesn't require frequent washing, apply a deep conditioner once every three days, and if you shower every day, do it once a week.

Don't Wash Your Hair Every Day
You may think that washing your hair more often would ensure that it stays clean and healthy, but it actually has the opposite effect. Curls tend to get weighed down easily, so washing them every day can cause hair breakage and loss.

Instead of doing it every day, wash your hair twice a week at most and use a mild shampoo - it will not weigh down your hair but still will get rid of excess oil and product buildup. If your hair is prone to frizziness, use a leave-in conditioner or a curl cream after shampoo.

Don't Rub Your Hair When Washing It
Rubbing your curls while washing them will only cause frizziness and breakage because your curls are very fragile when wet. Instead of rubbing them, massage your scalp with your fingertips to stimulate blood flow. Thus, you will not only maintain the overall good condition for your lock but will also promote healthy hair growth.

Ditch The Towel On Humid Days And Dry Your Hair With A T-shirt Instead
Something as simple as how you dry your hair can make a big difference for your curls when the humidity is high, and boy is it ever so high in my neck of the woods. A trick we use is ditching the towel and replacing it with a cotton t-shirt. The extra moisture will result in frizz as soon as your hair is exposed to the humidity and towels retain more moisture.

Another reason why using a t-shirt to dry your hair instead is it is flat with no roof edges, so the t-shirt will glide through your hair with less friction. Less friction equals less frizz and damage to your beautiful curls. 

Let Your Curls Air Dry Whenever Possible
If you want to have bouncy curls let them dry naturally as much as possible. You can do this by air drying or blow-drying your curls with a hair diffuser. This way, your curls will hold their shape longer afterward. However, if you want to use a hairdryer, always use a low heat setting and protect your locks with a thermal heat protector.

Final Note
It is essential to remember that the way you take care of your curly hair throughout all summer months will impact its overall condition. While the above tips are for end of summer curly hair repair, you can get a head start by implementing these summer hair-care tips in June, this way you will ensure that your curls look amazing even in the hottest month of summer!

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Body Contouring - How To Get The Figure You Want

Plastic Surgeon, Dr. Stark shares with award-winning beauty blogger, Barbie's Beauty Bits on Nonsurgical Body Contouring Treatments To Help You Get The Figure You Want.

You may have worked hard with diet and exercise for months even years to get the body you want. Perhaps you have spent hours on a treadmill or Peleton to get rid of fat and give you the body of your dreams.

But despite all that work, you still have excess fat on your belly, sides, or under your chin. This is where body contouring can help you take the final steps to get rid of those stubborn pockets of fat and give you the svelte shape you have dreamed of. 

There are several ways to contour your body that is minimally invasive and without surgery that may give you ideal results. Lets see what Double-board-certified Philadelphia Plastic Surgeon, Dr. Stark is sharing with Barbie's Beauty Bits on how to get the body you want with body contouring.

Top Nonsurgical Body Contouring Treatments

Laser Lipolysis For Body Sculpting
This is known as SculpSure, and it uses laser energy to heat and destroy fat cells. The high temperatures created by the device cause the fat cells to overheat and die. Your lymphatic system will flush out the fat cells out after about 12 weeks.

The most popular areas of the body are the flanks (love handles) and abdomen. Each SculpSure treatment takes about 25 minutes, and there is no recovery time. You will usually need three or four treatments for the best results.

Radiofrequency Lipolysis For Non-Surgical Fat Reduction
This is a nonsurgical body contouring procedure that features ultrasound technology to contour your body. The advantage of this technique is it’s gentle to your skin as it treats fat pockets. Patients report that the treatment is effective and causes no discomfort.

It’s used most often on the flanks and abdomen, with each treatment taking about one hour. Most patients can go back to their activities the same day. Several treatments within those treatment areas are required to get the body shape you desire.

Injection Lipolysis For Effective Reduction Of Chin Fat
This technique uses the FDA-approved Kybella injectable treatment to treat fat tissue under the chin, also called a double chin. Kybella uses a form of deoxycholic acid that helps the body to absorb fat. When used in the chin, it reduces fat by killing undesirable fat cells.

Your body will metabolize the dead fat cells for several weeks after the treatment. Kybella is usually used under the chin only to treat a double chin.

The treatment takes about 30 minutes, and there is some bruising and swelling afterward. But you should be able to return to daily activities the same day. 

Body Contouring Compared To Liposuction
Tumescent liposuction is an effective way to remove undesirable fat pockets from the body. The surgeon places a cannula under the skin that injects lidocaine and epinephrine to reduce swelling and bleeding.

Next, fat is suctioned out with the cannula to give your body the contours you desire. However, liposuction is surgery, and there are risks, including:

• Infection
• Anesthesia risks
• Damage to organs
• Fluid accumulation
• Deep vein thrombosis
• Pulmonary and cardiac complications
  

The advantage of nonsurgical body contouring is fewer risks because it isn’t surgery and doesn’t require anesthesia. Also, non-surgical body contouring is usually less expensive than surgical procedures as liposuction.

The other factor is liposuction requires recovery and downtime. You also will need to wear a compression garment for several weeks after surgery.

Are You A Good Candidate For Body Contouring?
Body contouring is nonsurgical, so many people are good candidates for these procedures. Ideal candidates include:

• People who are close to their ideal weight. Remember that body contouring, like liposuction, isn’t a way to lose weight. It does get rid of fat cells, but body contouring is designed to fine-tune your shape, not eliminate many pounds of fat. The best body contouring patient is within 10 or 20 pounds of their ideal body weight. If you are above that weight, you should probably work with your doctor to slim down first.
• Those with realistic expectations. As with any cosmetic procedure, you should go into it with realistic expectations. If you have reasonable goals, you should be pleased with your body contouring results.
• People who want to firm up sagging skin. Some body contouring can tighten up the skin as well as eliminate fat pockets.
  

Body contouring can be an ideal way to help get the figure you want by fine-tuning your shape after significant weight loss. It is also is a great way to take that final step to give you the body you have worked so hard to achieve.

Experience The Stark Difference
More About Dr. Ran Stark And The Practice

Dr. Ran Stark is double board-certified by the American Board of Surgery and the American Board of Plastic Surgery. After medical school, he finished more than 10 years of surgical training, including an aesthetic surgery fellowship under Dr. Louis Bucky.

Dr. Stark was born and raised in Philadelphia and earned his bachelor’s in biology from the University of Delaware. He completed medical school at Tel-Aviv University, where he won the Hillel Nathan Award for Academic Excellence in Anatomy.

To learn more about StarkMD Plastic Surgery in Philadelphia, visit him online.

References

• Body Contouring Overview. (n.d.)
• What Is Body Contouring?
• Body Contouring by Dr. Ran Stark
• Liposuction by Dr. Ran Stark. (n.d).
  

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