Ageless Forever - Age Management and Longevity Treatment

Ask Dr. Pierce

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Questions and Answers

Hi Dr. Pierce, What do you think of CO2 laser or a medium chemical peer for a crepey under-eye area?
Answer: CO2 laser, yes, chemical peel will be a waste of time. JG 5.15.08
Hi Dr. Pierce. Can laser genesis cause red spots to form on the skin, or cause rocacea? Have you ever heard about that, or any other negative impact of laser genesis? Also, in your opinion, what is the best way to reverse under-eye crepiness? Finally, is restylane effective for forehead lines, or does it have to be used in conjunction with botox in this area? Thanks.
Answer: possibly, yes. For the lower lids I typically use a Rhytec Portrait treatment. As for the forehead, the Restylane will last longer if Botox is used at the same time. JG 5.14.08
I have silicone drops in my upper lip from a mistaken injection (supposed to be collagen). I understand the body encapsulates the silicone w/collagen which keeps the silcone drops in place. I have researched an enzyme called Serrapeptase which is said to help rid the body of internal scar tissue as well as cysts & other conditions. Do you think it would affect the collagen/scar tissue that encapsulates the silicone drops? I do not want to free up the silicone drops. Thanks.
Answer: I think the effect on the scar tissue will be small to none and will have no effect on the silicone itself at all. JG 5.12.08
I have freckles on my face and i am thinking about getting IPL i was going to a skin and laser clinic but have been told by alot of people to go 2 a dermatologist. Did i do the right thing about cancelling the skin and laser clinic? I am most worried about my face scabbing up and getting blisters and worried they will not go away. What should i do? Is there any fading or skin brightening cream i can try first?
Answer: the dermatology office will likely give you the most effective treatmtent. I do not think fading cremas work well on freckles unless they are very recent. JG 5.12.08
I have freckles on my face and i am thinking about getting IPL i was going to a skin and laser clinic but have been told by alot of people to go 2 a dermatologist. Did i do the right thing about cancelling the skin and laser clinic? I am most worried about my face scabbing up and getting blisters and worried they will not go away. What should i do?
Answer: I think the dermatologist will likely give you a more effective treatment than a laser center. JG 5.12.08
hello dr garcia
Answer: hello to you too. JG 5.12.08
Hello dr. Garcia, my husband bought me a Beautiful Image facial sculting machine for Mothers Day... It says Microcurrent causes the following: *500% increase in ATP (Adenosine Triphosphate, the chemical fuel of energy), *35% increase in blood circulation, *40% increase in Gluconeogenesis (production of new glucose), *45% increase in the number of elastin fibers in the dermis, *50% increase in the length of the elastin fibers, *10% increase in collagen thickness in the connective tissue, *35% increase in the number of blood vessels, *28% increase lymphatic drainage What are your thoughts on this???... even it it helps a little I`d like to try it as it was thoughtful anyway! :) Thanks so much!
Answer: waste of money, sorry. JG 5.11.08
I have gone for an initial treatment using the Perfector which uses nano technology to tighten and lift the skin. I can`t find much info about the effectiveness of this method on the web except what is written by the company that manufactures the machine. No dermatologists or cosmetic surgeons in my area seem to use it. It was on Oprah and showed amazing result though. What do you know about it re effectiveness and safety? After my first treatment my skin was a bit sore- like a sunburn on one side. I got different responses from different clinics about the frequency of treatments required to maintain results and no response re comparing it to laser effectiveness. Thanks for your time. Denise
Answer: I think it is over hyped with no legitimate science behind it, Oprah is a great marketer but she has certainly promoted many things over the years that have not panned out. Save your money. JG 5.10.08
I have olive skin. If I have had fotofacial rf treatments with no pigmentation problems, can I use IPL with no problems as well? Which is the better treatment: I want to firm, reduce wrinkles, pore size, redness and uneven skin tone, and a few brown spots and spider veins. I have had excellent results with fotofacial/fotofirm rf (syneron aurora) but got scared by (1) all the bad press on rf regarding possible sagging and (2) the general wifi/rf concerns re. cancer. Truthfully I love fotofacial and fotofirm treatments for the results, but after seven months now of no treatments I do see sagging. But this may be aging! I am 53. Thanks so much! also can facial resistance exercises cause surficial skin damage?
Answer: probabaly. I would go with the straight IPL. I think what you are seeing is the normal aging process and facial exercises will not reduce or improve anything, they might make things worse. JG 5.10.08
Dr. Garcia, I had a baby six months ago and just do not feel like myself. I am tired all the time, I am having difficulty dropping the last ten pounds even though I diet and exercise, and I am moody...very moody. Do you think I might need hormone replacement? I do not have a history of depression and I typically handle stress very well. Thank you for your time.
Answer: I think seeing your doctor and getting the blood tests done first is the first step. JG 5.8.08
which smoooths wrinkles more, mela-d or intense line defence skin ceuticals. thank you
Answer: neither will smooth wrinkles much but the SkinCeuticals might work a little. JG 5.8.08
I suffer from hypothyrodisim. I have been taking T4, 50 mg. My hair keeps on falling and I wonder if that means that I need more or that I need less (since hyperthyroidism also causes hair loss!) but my endocrinologist is on a trip and it will take me a couple of months to see her. In the meantime I am having my blood tests done. What I don`t understand is how to read the results. If my values ever fell off the normal range for someone taking T4, how could I know if those values indicate hypo or hyperthyroidism? Say, if the concentration was lower than the lowest number in the range, does that mean one has hypo? and if off the range but with a value higher than the higher level of that range, does that mean one has hyper? I am scared of taking too much or too little of T4 until my doc comes back (and boy I am scared to see my hairs fall like that!!!). I know you can only give me a guide, that your advice does not replace the doc`s. I just want to understand the blood test results and depending on the values and what it could mean, consider the urgency or not of seeing another endocrinologist until mine comes back from the trip. Hugs
Answer: you need to get the blood tests done and then see, the ranges are on the lab results, and then you can see your endocrinlogist, or whomever is watching his patients for him while he is gone. JG 5.8.08
When I drink much water my body seems to hold water, what can I do to prevent this. Do I need to take some pills for fluid retention. I take hormonal supplements, CLIMODIEN 2/2 which is Estradiol (= estrogene hormone) en dienogest (= progestagene hormone) is it because of this. Is this a good supplement ?
Answer: Sorry, you don`t give enough information to answer your question. You should see your doctor for further work up of this issue. JJP 5/09/08
What do you think of the Quicklift face lift - is it as good as a mini lift?
Answer: quick way to spend money and be disappointed. JG 5.7.08
my doctor prescribed Oracea for treatment of mild Roscea. It is costing me over $100 a month and I do not have insurance. Do you think this is the best course of action or can you recommend something else?
Answer: I think it helps, IPL treatments also help but they are about the same price. JG 5.7.08
Oraceaf or roscea
Answer: please repeat the question. JG 5.7.08
I am on synthroid and just got a metabolism booster. Should I mix the two?
Answer: I do not know what a metabolism booster is, so I can not answer the question informatively. JJP 5/07/08
I had 5 Smoothbeam laser treatments for under eye wrinkles. It now actually looks like I have more wrinkles than when I began. Is it possible for Smoothbeam to make wrinkles and the ones I already had to look worse.
Answer: while dehydrated, it will look worse, but it will not improve wrinkles overall. JG 5.7.08
Do you think I still can expect some improvement on my face after a MACS lift which left me with a much more hollowed look then before. It is now six months after the facelift. Is my face more hollowed because of the lift being too tight? Should I expect some improvement ? What is your experience with this? Thanks.
Answer: at this point the changes will be slight. Sorry. JG 5.6.08
How long before going on summer vacation, sunny place, should i stop retinol and glycolic acid creams to not have any skin irritation when swimming and going to the beach. Thanks
Answer: 7-10 days. JG 5.6.08
Hello Dr.Pierce.I am going to have IPL removal on my body how often i have to go for treatment?
Answer: might need a series of 6 to start and them likely one every 4-6 weeks. JG 5.4.08
three years ago at age 51, I had a tummy tuck after a 120 pound weight loss. The muscles in my tummy are still very tight and people are telling me that I walk stooped over. I have noticed it too. I have to constantly remind myself to straighten up. When I straighten up it pulls in my tummy. How can I loosen the muscles so I can walk straight again?
Answer: Stretching the muscles, if that is the true cause, will help. That along with strengthening the core muscles. 5/04/08
One more question if that is o.k Does alternatives such as evening primrose oil and fermented soy help with menopausal issues such as hot flashes
Answer: In some people it does. JJP 5/04/08
Hello Dr. Pierce, does a lack of estrogen or low levels prematurely age you? Can women take hormone replacement forever?
Answer: Low levels of hormones help to make people feel the effects of aging more profoundly. If a woman is on the proper balance of hormones she can take them indefinitely, unless there developes a problem. JJP 5/04/08
Dr. Garcia, I lost about 20 lbs a year ago during a stressful period. I lost it in about a month. I have sense gained it back (I was never overweight)but now have wrinkled saggy knee skin. Exercise doesn`t help. I`m told there really isn`t anything I can do because the skin was stretched and with my age (45) it will probably stay that way. Knee lifts aren`t really recommended from what I`ve researched. I have always had nice legs and still have great calves but the knee skin is really bothering me. Can collegan injections, fillers, fat transfers etc..be used in this area? If not , any suggestions?
Answer: all I can say is hopefully over time the skin wil shrink back since it was not a problem for very long. Not much else I can offer though. JG 5.4.08
post inflamotorry hyperpigmentation from IPL?? will it evenually go away on its own? and if so will it always come back if ur out in the sun?
Answer: should go away, might need a bleaching cream, if it goes away soon after you should stil use sunblock when out in the sun, it can come back. JG 5.4.08
Is there a risk of copper excess using Estraderm Estradiol Patch
Answer: I have not heard of that. JJP 5/02/08
could the estrogen patch cause copper level to rise
Answer: Not sure. Never heard anything like that. JJP 5/01/08
I recently found out that my chicken appearance aspect of my skin, especially on arms and lega, is due to solar elastosis. I live in a sunny climate and was too much exposed to the sun in the past years. I am not really having much sagging skin but the it is more the chicken texture of my skin that bothers me. Is there anything I can do to reverse this condition. Even when I lift up the skin on my arms this aspect does not go away, so I dont think it is due to sagging or too much loose skin. In winter months I tried some tretinoine cream on arms and legs but my skin seems to be so thin, visible veins etc... that I dont know if it is a good idea, and in summer time I dont want to use this creme. I have not seen improvemwnt with the tretinoine , maybe it has to be used for longer time,. I really want to do something to reverse this condition, Any solution is welcome. Thanks.
Answer: not much besides avoiding sun and good moisturizers, the Retin-A, retinols and glycolic acids might make it smoother but will likely not tighten it, and the non-invasive technologies out there are unreliable. JG 5.1.08
Hi Dr. Pierce, Have you ever heard of laser genesis making crepiness below the eye worse, for example if the setting`s too high? thanks.
Answer: it could, possibly. JG 5.1.08
Hi Dr. Pierce. If I`m 41 and I`ve got crepey expression wrinkles and other damage (puffiness, dark circles, visible capillaries and veins, milia) under my eyes from two months of overuse of Retin-A and Kinerase Under Eye Rescue, is there an approximate amount of time I can expect it to take for the damage to be undone? I understand that everyone`s different...
Answer: it might take double the time it took to get it, use some copper peptide creams and stay away from sun and topical ittitants like hydroxy acids or retinols. JG 5.1.08
is photo facial IPL?
Answer: yes. JG 4.30.08
Dr. Garcia what do you think about Photo Laser Facial? that is wat i got done today the plastic surgon said i dont really need a yag laser... any risks of photo laser facials thank you and God Bless
Answer: low risk, they are effective, less downtime than other stronger lasers, but if it does not resolve the issues, the other laser might be needed down the road. JG 4.30.08
Hi Dr Pierce, What do you think of CO2 laser for crow`s feet? I had an upper and lower bleph last year and while I am happy with the results, the crow`s feet are still there and I am sure will continue to get worse with age...:>(. Thanks!
Answer: it will help for a couple of years. JG 4.30.08
Dr. Pierce, can you please tell me how much vitamin D I really need. I am a 53 year old female (small boned). Thank you.
Answer: Most people require 1,000-5,000 iu. It really depends on your blood levels. JJP 4/30/08
I`m not overweight, nor overfat. I weight train & have a body fat percentage of 17. However, I have lose skin -- not hanging -- just not taut, on my abdomen & thighs. I know you`re not a fan of Titan & Cool Lipo, but short of surgery, is there any chance of improvement by some other method?
Answer: I do not think so, sorry. JG 4.29.08
Studies show that if you apply sunscreen every day, your skin will begin to repair itself.. is this TRUE
Answer: depends on your age and other health factors like smoking and diabetes. JG 4.29.08
Dear Dr. Garcia, My niece is scheduled soon for excision of excess, loose skin from her lower buttocks and upper thighs. She is a rather small woman (5`6 , 108 pounds) and has only a relatively small amount of redudant tissue. She is not a candidate for a circumferential lift, or even just a buttocks lift (with the incision at the lower back), as neither would really help the isolated problem she is seeking to fix. (She had liposuction in that region about a decade ago, and as she has aged--she`s now 40--the skin has simply begun to hang. It looks like a pre-op abdominoplasty, but from behind!) Her plastic surgeon plans to make the incisions in the creases below her buttocks, excise a modest crescent of skin from each side, and then suture the margins together. Although it is a relatively straightforward process, like other plastic surgeons, he rarely does this procedure, favoring incisions above the buttocks for the obvious reason that there will be great tension on the incisions below the buttocks, potentially causing them to widen and migrate; but he thinks he can`t really correct this particular problem in any other way. He has told her that this is a common, if now rarely used, surgical strategy, but I`m not sure about that. Before she does this, my questions for you are: 1) Have you ever heard of a surgery like this? 2) Have you yourself ever performed this particular procedure in cases like my niece`s and, if so, have your patients healed successfully? 3) What questions would you want a patient of yours to ask you before doing this? 4) What would you want to tell such a patient before proceeding? I just don`t want to see her make a mistake with potentially grave consequences. Thanks so much for your help and generosity, Dr. Garcia! Greatly appreciated!
Answer: I have heard of it but have not seen it done for many years, the results show a flattening of the buttocks and not a good shape in most people. I have done it once, about 18 years ago. Scars there can never be erased or hidden, in many cases the traditional buttock lift should correct that problem, including the thighs. JG 4.28.08
I have use a buffer TCA COMPLEX Peel at home. I swipe the solution once over my cheek and spot treat in areas. The spot treated areas frost and next day have dark red/brown spots. Will this fade away when it peel in 3-4 days Or I need to do hydroquinone? Thank you. Yen
Answer: it should fade on its own. JG 4.28.08
will Q-swithced YAG laser completely remove or lighten brown spots??? and wuts the risk of scaring??
Answer: complete or almost in most cases, the risks are of reactive post-inflammatory pigmnet problems on a temporary basis. JG 4.28.08
JG 4.27.08Hi, I;m currently using Tazorac cream 0.1% for acne and it is doing an amazing job...does this cream help to fight wrinkles???can it be used on the eye area where there is crows feet? Can it improve smoothness to face? Thanks Dr.!!!!
Answer: it can likley help wrinkels too, yes. It can be applied around the eyes as long as it does not get into the yes, that area is also more sensitive so the skin can get more red and dry. JG 4.27.08
I had botox one week ago in forehead, crows feet and between the eyes, now I have droopy eyelids, what can I do about it and how long will it last. Thanks for answer
Answer: Not much to do at this point. Next time, you should make sure to see a trained physician to have the procedure done. This wil last 3-4 months. JJP 4/27/08
I recently had a laser treatment done on my chest to remove years of sun damage and immediately after the treatment developed red stripes. The stripes crusted over and a pink color developed underneath. I now have pink stripes on my chest. How long will they take to fade and how soon and how often should I continue my series of ipl treatments? Should I wait for the pink to fade before continuing my treatments? Am I permanently scarred?
Answer: it might take a couple of months to fade and IPL might help the redness fade, yes. I do not think you are permanently scarred and I would have them turn the energy down on the next treatment to avoid making it worse. JG 4.26.08
what are HGH injections about? there was a discussion on tv last night
Answer: Please read our web site. We explain all about hGH replacement therapy. If someone has adult onset growth hormone deficiency, then growth hormone therapy is an option. JJP 4/26/08
I notice in older women there hands lack so much subcutaneous fat and actually that seems to be the worst part of aging. Why is that and what can be done, if anything/ Thanks
Answer: it is due to normal aging and loss of the fat, Resytylane injections can help though. JG 4.26.08
damage at a young age will the damage evenually repair its self since im still young or will i need treatments??
Answer: if young enough your body should hea itself as long as the dmage was not too severe. JG 4.26.08
at my age (20) do you think im doing to much to my skin obagi microdermabarion gycolic peels mild chemical peels??
Answer: unless you have skin discolorations I think peels are not needed at your age. Microdermabrasions are OK every 6 weeks or so if you have oily skin. JG 4.26.08
what do you think about the visia tesT?? is it accurlate and all the spots that show on the visia and not in person will they evenually show later on??
Answer: no experience with any patients that have used it, sorry. JG 4.26.08
What is the difference between the VI Chemical Peel and the Glycolic Peel?
Answer: pretty similar for the most part. JG 4.25.08
I am a 40 year old woman, blond, fair skin. Will I see results with 3 Pixel Fractional Skin Resurfacing Laser Treatments?
Answer: mild at best. JG 4.25.08
I have never seen this before, and am not sure if you can help me, but I sure hope so. The past 3 days, I have noticed a purple bruised looking line on my eyelid (where your eyeliner would go). At first I thought it was where I didn`t get the makeup off, but that`s not what it is. Do you have any idea about this? I do suffer from migraines. Thank you.
Answer: could be a dilated vein that arose from a migraine, typically if it is that they go away in a few days to weeks. JG 4.25.08
Dear Dr Garcia, I am 27 years old and the doctor put me injections in my frown lines, crows feet and forehead, he used 85 U in total ...I don�t like the results, it changed my facial expression completely...my questions are: When do you start to get rid at least a little bit of the effects? is it progressive since the injections? or is only after the 3 or 6 months that you start to note an improvement? with that dossage, in how many months do you think the botox will wear off? the location of the injections influences in the duration of the effect?...I mean, in some places it will go faster than in others? thanks a lot Dr Garcia! and sorry for my english...
Answer: nothing you can do to reverse or speed it up, it is a matter of time, usually 3-4 months in most cases. In areas that move alot the injections wear off faster. JG 4.23.08
Hi Doctor, i just purchased your neuropeptide cream and hope it delivers. Can I use it in the mornings and at night and can I use it with Retin-A at night. Just need some good advice on the best way to use it to help keep me looking as young as possible. Thanks
Answer: yes, it can be used twice per day, if you would like to mix it with Retin-A, apply the Retin-A first at night then wait ten minutes before applying the peptide cream.
What do you think of the proffesional dermaroller with vitamine A coming deeper into the skin, done at PS office for crepy sun damaged skin around mouth and neck. There were three treatments adviced with 4 weeks in between. Further once or twice a year to maintain.
Answer: I think it is a waste of time. JG 4.23.08
First of all, I can`t believe what a helpful site this is. If only you were my doctor! I have three questions. One, have you heard of any long-term risks for Laser genesis? Two, provided there are no long-term risks, can Laser Genesis help with dark circles and visible capillaries under the eyes? And three, you mentioned the damage done to my eyes by Retin-A is probably reversible because I used it for only 5-6 weeks. Over what length of time could the damage become permanent in your opinion? Is 5-6 weeks on the borderline of being long enough to cause more permanent damage? Thanks so much.
Answer: no negative long term effects from Laser Genesis. I do not think it will help with dark circles nor with visible capillaries on the eyes though. It would take months of use with an inordinate amount of irritation for it to cause long term problems but peopel heal well from chemical peels and they are much more irritating than Retin-A, it varies from person to person. JG 4.23.08
after obagi my skin got irritated red and painful i visisted a dermatologist and prescribed me Locoud Lipocream will this solve my problem?? and will the irritation be there forever?? or is it temporary???
Answer: it should help the irritation and it will not last forever. All temporary. JG 4.23.08
Dr Pierce if a woman`s lab results reveal she is menoapusal but displays little of the symptoms such as hot flushes or mood swings. Would you still advise her to take hormone replacment and if so why? thank you
Answer: Yes. Using minimal amounts to balance the hormones can be beneficial. If hormones such as esterone are out of balance the risk of cancers increases, according to the studies and my teachings. Also, bio-identical HRT will help to prevent osteoporosis. JJP 4/24/08
dr garia im 22 used obagi witch irritated my skin and causes broken cappilaries. and brown spots didnt improve now im always sad... im 2 young to be doing laser is wat i was told and uve said yag laser because its not not peeling the skin and wat i see on google yag laser is resurfacing?? so wuts the yag laser u reccomend called??? theres many different types thanks a million and god bless
Answer: I suggest a Q-swithced YAG laser for the brown spots and complete sun block too. JG 4.23.08
Dr pierce in your opinon would you agree that bioidentical hormone replacment helps the anti aging process? Is a lack of estrogen in menopausal women one of the main causes for aceleration in the aging process?
Answer: I feel that if a person has symptoms and they are severe enough to cause the person not to live the life they desire, they should be treated. I also think anti-aging is a bit of a misnomer. We can not stop time. We can however, deminish the effects time has on our lifes. If bio-identical hormone replacement helps one feel younger and live life to the fullest, than, in my opinion that is defeating the process of aging. JJP 4/24/08
Dr Pierce, I am menopausal and I am contemplating bioidentical hormone replacement. There seems to be alot of controversy surrounding these types of hormones, why is this and are they safe?
Answer: They have been safe to date. They have been used for a long time as well. The big drug companies like to cast doubt on bio-identicals, because they are competition. They can not patent Bio-identicals, therefore they can not make any money off of them. I ask you, when you`re ovaries are producing the proper balance of estrogen, how many problems do you have? There are always people that will have an issue, but they are individual cases and not the norm. BHRT is a personal decision, see a qualified practitioner and find out more and then make an educated decision. JJP 4/24/08
Hi Doctor, what can peptide cream do for me that retin-a can`t do. I have used retin-a for years should i maybe purchase a peptide cream to help with lines and some unevenness under the eye area. Thanks
Answer: it will stabilize cell membranes and assist in the creation of new collagen, but it does not irirtate the skin the way Retin-a does. JG 4.23.08
One week ago I had spot treatment with Pro-fractional laser on my cheeks for fine wrinkles. My face swelled unbelievably and I developed raised red demarkated areas where the treatment had been done. Everyone is saying they havent seen this before but I think I have been burnt.I am applying antibiotic ointment but am unsure if there is anything else I can do. can you suggest anything?
Answer: I think that you are doing is correct and I would stay in close communication and visit the doctor to make sure there is proper healing. JG 4.23.08
Hi Dr. Garcia, I used retin-a underneath my eyes for 5-6 weeks (my doctor told me to) and ended up with excessive vascularization, dark circles, and crepy, criss-crossed wrinkles that appear to be expression lines. Is this damage reversible, and if so, how do I reverse it as quickly as possible? Thanks, Sandra
Answer: stop the cream, use a copper peptide cream for healing and use sunblock when you go out, it should all get better if you used it for such a short amount of time. JG 4.23.08
dr garcia wat do you think about prevage MD??? the one sold in a derm office
Answer: overpriced and not much science to back up the claims. JG 4.23.08
Hi doctor, i have been using retin-a for 10 years and have never took a break from using it. Should i stop for a while and use something else and if so what? I am 43 yrs. old and have some fine lines under my eyes and some mild rosaesa also large pores. Some unevenness under one eye too. Thanks for your help!
Answer: I think just use sunblock and a good moisturizer is all. JG 4/22/08
A follow-up to the question I just posted, is that the retin-a also made the skin under my eyes very thing - the capillaries are visible and there are dark circles under my eyes. is this reversible?
Answer: all of that should reverse itself as it was short exposure. JG 4.23.08
Hello Dr. Pierce, I used retin-a under my eyes for 5 weeks on doctor`s instructions, and my under-eye area is now very crepy. My doctor offered me free botox to fix it - I think he believes it might be permanent. Could it be? He said it looks like expression wrinkles to him, and I am very concerned. They were not there before I used retin-a there. Thanks in advance for your response.
Answer: Botox will certainly not fix it and stopping the Retin-A and and using a good quality hydrating cream will fix what the Retin-A has caused. JG 4.23.08
Dr. at 45 although I have very few wrinkles to speak of, none around the eye area...I am perplexed when people say you look tired . This being the case, what would be the procedure recommended. I would like to avoid surgery if possible. I have noticed some shifting in the eyelid, kind of moving downward, and some small bags under the eyes.
Answer: well,looking tired can be caused by many different things that can happen as one ages, I really cannot say as it varies from person to person as to what is wrong and what can or needs to be done. JG 4.21.08
Doctor, as I am aging (52) my skin color seems to be getting lighter. Is there any way to bring back the melanin? Thank you.
Answer: just sun exposure. JG 4.23.08
I am a 53 year old female and my neck is sagging (turkey gobbler) and I`d like to find the least invasive procedure to fix this. What do you suggest?
Answer: all non-invasive procedures for a turkey gobbler neck I think will leave you disappointed, sorry. JG 4.21.08
Dr. Garcia, I posted a question last night that I don`t see - perhaps it did not go through. I am wondering if there is anything that can be done to counteract dark skin around the eyes. I don`t have dark circles beneath my eyes, but the skin from the inner corner of each eye to the bridge my nose is noticeably darker. I notice some people have this, and in my case it is so pronounced that someone commented on it once in a negative way. I was just wondering if there was anything I could do other than cover it with makeup.
Answer: injections of fillers can at times help but it is temporary. JG 4.20.08
Dr. Garcia, I don`t have dark circles under my eyes, but the skin between the bridge of my nose and each eye is noticeably dark. I read somewhere that this is due to capillaries leaking blood near the skin`s surface, which turns more bruisish as the blood begins to oxidize. Is this true, and is there any way to counteract dark skin near the eyes? Thanks for this wonderful site.
Answer: it is true but there is not much you can do to stop it from happening. JG 4.19.08
hello dr. pierce. great to have you here! how much does a lazer treatment cost if only done on marionette lines. thankyou
Answer: laser will not help marionette line, sorry. JG 4.21.08
dr garcia, i hope i can explain this right. i am a 57 year old fair skin, and blond so i have alot of zig zay type of wrinkles around my mouth and marionette lines, so that when i pull back my skin, the vertical wrinkles still show in my marionette lines and it looks stretched. what can i do . it seems like nothing can make them disappear. desperate for your advice. thanks so much
Answer: might need a combination of laser resurfacing followed by some fillers. JG 4.19.08
Doctor, as I am aging (52) my skin color seems to be getting lighter. Is there any way to bring back the melanin? Thank you.
Answer: not much besides sun exposue, but that will accelerate the skin aging.JG 4.21.08
Dr. Garcia, if I have fillers in my face, am I a candidate for Rhytec? Thank you.
Answer: should not interfere with the fillers or the Rhytec. JG 4.18.08
Dr. Garcia, can you tell me how long the results last with Rytec and the downtime (how bad your skin looks and for how long). Thank you.
Answer: it depends greatly on the type of treatment taht is done, your age and the quality of your skin. In the best circumstances it might last 2-3 years or so. The skin will look bad between 4-12 days, depending on how deep they go. JG 4.18.08
wen i strech my skin i see cappilaries is that normal if i dont strech it they dont show?? wat does this mean
Answer:
wen i strech my skin i see cappilaries is that normal if i dont strech it they dont show?? wat does this mean
Answer:
wen i strech my skin i see cappilaries is that normal if i dont strech it they dont show?? wat does this mean
Answer: yes, that is normal, does not mean anything bad. JG 4.18.08
hi doctor when i asked about Thermage and you suggessted Rytec..is that safe for Asian skin? i already have melasma and hypopigmentation from an overzealous VBeam/microdermabrasion/glycolic peel technician.
Answer: Yes it can be safe for Asian skin, but it will not do anything for pigmentation problems. JJP 4/18/08
i have got this kind of red skin on the bottom part on my penis glans i am taking canesten but it isint working
Answer: you need to see a urologist or dermatologist in person to determine cause and treatment, sorry. JG 4.17.08
hello doctor forgot to ask a question. i was born with full lips but with age they are starting to show a lot of lines. can Thermage help to plump them up a bit? thank you
Answer: Thermage will not do that. JG 4.17.08
hello doctor i`m a 48 female with deep nasolabial lines and a bit of sunken, sagging cheeks. Eyelids are also atarting to become hooded. don`t want a facelift if i can avoid it, so would you recommend full face Thermage or surgical fat transfer? thank you
Answer: I do not like either of the two options. We have had excellent results with the Rhytec Portrait. It will resurface the skin by getting rid of the uppper layer and it will also tighten by heating the collegen below the dermis. Look at the results at the Rhytec web page or go to www.lvcosmeticsurgery.com for more information. JJP 4/17/08
do you reccommend to stay out in the sun without protection in order to get Vitman D??
Answer: NO!!!! You can still get vitamin D with sunscreen on. JJP 4/16/08
dr garcia i would like to know why does the skin look worese after laser treatments i see some before and after with brown spots and i dont see a big difference besides little bit of lightning of the brown spots?? isnt laser used to remove brown spots ???
Answer: well, if the laser is too light, the degree of improvement is not very noticeable. It might require a stronger laser to be more effective. JG 4.16.08
how many fruits do you reccommend for a patient to eat a day???
Answer: I do not think that there is a specific number to eat. Suffice it to say they make great snacks in between meal and as a replacement for traditional desserts. JJP 4/16/08
Hi Dr. Garcia,please tell me if polaris laser treatment is effective for minor skin laxity in the lower face region and neck area for skin tightening and if you disagree then what have you heard about that works better, thank you
Answer: I do not think it is. I have not found any non-invasive technology to be uniformly effective for the lower face or neck. JG 4.15.08
Hello Dr. Pierce, How long does it usually take for one to get used to custom shoe orthotics?
Answer: It all depends on how aggressive one is in the beginning. I think about 3 months should be sufficient. I recommend asking a podiatrist for more information. JJP 4/15/08
good day Dr. Pierce, i`m sure you`ve heard about LASIK.. my question is , is the result from LASIK permanent .. i mean won`t the prescription of your eyes still change after getting a 20/20 vision from the LASIK procedure. Also, is your eye`s prescription changes after LASIK , can it be redone or you can only have one LASIK procedure in your lifetime
Answer: You should consult an opthomologist with this question. JJP 4/14/08
hi Dr. Garcia , i am nearsighted for quite some time now .. my left eye always changes prescription / grade ( it gets higher ) while my right eye`s prescription has been constant for over a long period of time .. my questions are , what causes the prescription of the eyes to change . Is it okay if the difference between the left eye and the right `s prescription is like -1.00 ( my left is -2.25 and my right is -1.25 )
Answer: I am sorry but you need to see an opthomologist for that information. JG 4.14.08
Doctor, I had V beam treatment on my legs and arms for brown spots 6 weeks ago. I was told that I can wait until the end of summer to do more treatments. It doesn`t appear anything is getting any lighter. Do you think these will lighten up some more from the first treatment? Also, can I wait that long before other treatments or did I just waste my money. Thank you.
Answer: it will likely need a series and there will probably be no further lightening until the series of treatments restarts. JG 4.14.08
Dear doc, how can i have a youthful skin ?
Answer: Eat a clean healthy diet with lots of fruits and vegetables. Moisturize your skin. Wear sun block when you are out and try to avoid prolonged exposure to the sun. JJP 4/14/08
Dear doc, how can i have a youthful skin ?
Answer: Eat a clean healthy diet with lots of fruits and vegetables. Moisturize your skin. Wear sun block when you are out and try to avoid prolonged exposure to the sun. JJP 4/14/08
Also, I forgot to add...I notice when he has hot flashes too. He just feels too warm when he cuddles up next to me at night. What to do? It`s so frustrating. Thanks again.
Answer:
Hi, doctor~ I need some help...My hubby started taking requip for what we think is RLS. His legs were jumping every few minutes at night- mostly it was me who was disturbed by this and occasionally it would keep him up. He got up to 1.5 mg a day and started experiencing bad hot flashes. He told his doctor and his doctor didn`t seem to think it was related to the medicine. My hubby is 36. Once he accidently took 2 mg.- he forgot he took his medicine and he really had horrible hot flashes. He recently cut his own dose down to 1 mg. again and the hot flashes stopped but now he`s twitching again. And it`s driving me crazy! I take Lunesta to keep him from keeping me awake. Are there other medications he can try that may not cause the hot flashes? We`ve been married 13 years and he didn`t have this issue then. Or are there some natural remedies? Have you heard of hot flashes being a side effect? Thanks for any help. I appreciate and understand his desire not to take too much medicine and not wanting to have hot flashes but I want to sleep too. Thanks for any help.
Answer: Sorry, I do not have a better option. JJP 4/14/08
Hi doc!! regarding Resveratrol..Will I SEE results or will I feel them inside? How long will it take for this? What should I expect? thank you!!
Answer: I do not think you will feel anything from taking resveratrol. I do not. The changes that take place are internal and will show up on your annual physical lab work. JJP 4/14/08
i have crows feet more to the side of my eye and on upper cheek)))) I have tried botox and it makes a my cheek look puffy under my eye when I smile and does nothing for the crows feet. Does botox not work on some peoples crows feet or are they putting it in the wrong place? If it doesn`t work on me then would the next step be Portrait or surgery.
Answer: Botox will never correct crows feet in the relaxed pose. It only works on dynamic wrinkles. It also does not work as well in the crows feet compared to the area between the eyebrows. JG 4.13.08
im 20 yrs old want to remove my freakles and sun damage do you reccomend yag laser or fraxel laser??
Answer: YAG. JG 4.14.08
from what i searched on google indoor tanning is safe and that its heathy by producing vitmain D??
Answer: Everything in moderation. Too much of anything can be problematic. JJP 4/14/08
Hi Dr Pierce. I hope you can help me. I had an ear infection at end of 2007. During this time it seemed to cause a slight swelling/redness on one side of my cheekbone. Once that cleared up i was unfortunate to be diagnosed with mild rosacea on both cheeks, sometimes it occures on the forehead/chin/nose Due to being in hot weather or a hot environment. I also have red spots on my cheeks sometimes my cheek would feel its burning. I dont want it to develop further but am quite worried about using IPL. What IPL treatments are most recommended for treatment of mild rosacea? What is the difference between FotoFirm/FotoFacial RF, Photorejuvenation and PPx Aesthera? I have also heard that Laser Genesis is also meant to treat rosacea. Would you recommend any of these treatments? Many thanks. Alice
Answer: I think IPL is the safest and least risky of the ones you mention and is effective for Rosacea too. JG 4.11.08
Dear Dr, I am an 18 year old and a size 12 uk. I want to lose 1 more size and become a size 10 uk.Is it possible in a month.i want to be fit for my cousins wedding!I weigh 66 kgs and am 4 `11 . recommend exercises and diet.i walk on da treadmill for 72 minutes.now i stopped cuz of exams.
Answer: Get back on the treadmill!!! Do it first thing in the morning on an empty stomach. You can drink water or a cup of black coffee or tea. No sugar. Stop drinking soda if you do. Eat 5-6 meals a day with protein and vegetables at each meal. You may have some carbohydrates in the first 2 or 3 meals of the day after that, NONE. Carbohydrates should be complex. No White bread, rice or potatoes. You may have brown rice, sourdough or pumpernickel bread, or yams. JJP 4/10/08
What application is the Genesis Laser used for and what in your opinion are the results like? Additionally, what is a microlaser peel and what is it best used for? JC
Answer: it is used for a number of applications but I do not like that laser. A microlaser peel is a super light skin exfoliation that is done to remove only the most superficial skin and attempt to create new collagen, YAG lasers are usually used for that. Good for pigment issues too. JG 4.10.08
Sorry, forgot to clarify... or do theses salts not cause a problem if their concentration is low? Can it be safe if used sparingly in low concentrations??
Answer: not sure what previous question you are relating too. JG 4.10.08
Dear Doctor, I am not sure I am asking in the right forum... if not, forgive me. In my country now a product called Grecian is being sold, for gray hair dyeing . I wonder if it is safe, considering the ingredients: aqua, menthyl pyrrolidone, mineral oil , stearyl alcohol, glyceryl sterate, ceteareth-20, bismuth citrate, parfum , sodium triethanolamine, sulfur, zinc pyrithione, linalool, benzyl salicylate, d-limonene , hexyl cinnamaldehyde, armyl cinnamal , citral, geraniol . As caution they mention only Caution - Keep away from children. Avoid all eye contact Do not use to colour moustasches For external use only Do not apply to cuts or abraded scalp What do you think? is it safe? It seems to be sold in many countries. If this is not the board to ask that, can you refer me to someone I might ask about this? Hugs
Answer: it has bee nused for many years and works fairly well, it is cost effective. JG 4.9.08
Dr. Garcia, thank you for answering my nose contouring question. Do you think it will smooth out when all the gel is gone? Thank you so much.
Answer: most likley, yes, I do. JG 4.10.08
Does a tummy tuck interfere w/your normal appetite after surgery? By making you feel full sooner? Or is it just a short term affect of the muscles feeling tight? thanks.
Answer: no, it does not on a long temr basis.It might make you feel full sooner until your tissues heal though. JG 4.10.08
Dear Dr. Pierce, What is the best treatment for vertical lines around the lips and is there any laser that helps to make hands look more youthful. Thanks, Bev
Answer: Verticle lines around the lips can be treated with Rhytec Portrait system. They can also be slightly reduced with dermal fillers in the lips. The Rhytec system is also indicated for treatment for the hands. JJP 4/09/08
Dr. Garcia, I had nose contouring with Radiesse 3 weeks ago. It looked great but has started to look a little bumpy. Is that because the gel is going away? Do you think it will smooth out more after all the gel carrier goes away? If so, can you tell me how long this should take? Thank you.
Answer: it is likely because the gel is going away and your body needs to build up the collagen around the longer lasting material still in place. It might take naother few weeks to start to get better though. JG 4.9.08
Hi Dr Pierce, To further my question sent to you yesterday about the small bumps and scar from pigment coming off after IPL. Can the spots get worse or is this as bad as it gets? I was told my treatment was very conservative by my Medspa and that I need exfoliation (via chem peel or mircroderm). I hardly turned red after my treatment and my forehead started to look that way after a week and a half post treatment. I have read some scary posts on laser sights about continuing damage from IPL lasting up to a year later and am constantly worried now. Any advice is greatly appreciated.
Answer: most likely it is as bad as it is going to get. I would hold off on any further treatments until your skin is more healed. The IPL is much safer than a laser in general terms. JG 4.9.08
is yag laser safe?? anyside affects will it thin the skin for a 20 yr old with brown spots or do you think its iam 2 young?
Answer: it is safe and is an effective method to remove brown spots at any age, even in children. JG 4.9.08
is yag laser safe?? anyside affects will it thin the skin for a 20 yr old with brown spots or do you think its iam 2 young?
Answer:
sorry its me again so now its been 4 months that i stopped obagi and my skin is still like that from obagi will it ever be back to normal??? i think its burned
Answer: I do not think it is burned but I think you need to see the plastic surgeon or dermatologist who prescribed the Obagi to you to see what has occurred, what you are describing is very unusual. JG 4.9.08
Me again!! sorry Im bothering you.. What kind of resveratrol have to be in order to be pure and better. recommended intake? mg? I didn`t know there is more than one..
Answer: Life extensions makes a good Resveratrol. Doses range from 20 mg to 400 mg. I personally use 200 mg a day. There is a large theraputic index, therefor it is very safe. JJP 4/08/08
I am wondering if ELOS is showing good results for facial skin in regards to skin tightening, rosacea, visible larger veins and pigmentation? Thank you, JC
Answer: I have been unimpressed. JG 4.8.08
Recently I noticed that after sleeping, a lot of lines all over my body from sheets, pillow and night cloths, are staying visible printed in my skin for a long time, also after wearing jeans, stich lines are printed in my skin. I did not have this before at least not in such a way and not for that long. What can be done, is this normal, thanks for answer.
Answer: It sounds to me as though you are holding water. Try decreasing you sodium intake. More exercise also improves the lymphatic flow, which will help to reduce edema(water retention) JJP 4/08/08
after obagi i see my skin got much thinner that i can see cappilaries but there not broken just if i stretch my skin i see them is this normal??
Answer: it might be due to the Retin-A. It happens in thin skin where one must be careful not to use too strong of a cream. JG 4.8.08
I had IPL approximately one month ago with the Palomar Starlux. I have 2 small scars where pigment came off. One is on the bridge of my nose and the other is near my eye. The one near my eye is starting to get small bumps on it and the brown spot seems larger than before treatment. I also have a strange texture on my temples thats looks like scars but is in fact little bumps close together when looking up close. It also has a shiny look to it. Is this normal?
Answer: sorry,not normal. Sounds like a burn. JG 4.8.08
HELLO DOCTOR, I ENJOY READING YOUR WEB PAGE. IN THE PAST YEAR, I HAVE HAD THREE IPL`S FOR REDNESS AND SUN DAMAGE. THESE WERE 4 WEEKS APART. IT HAS DONE WONDERS FOR MY SKIN AND I NO LONGER HAVE THE REDNESS. IT HAS BEEN ABOUT 4 MONTHS SINCE THE LAST AND I AM PLANNING ON ANOTHER TREATMENT BECAUSE IT MINIMIZES THE PORES AND MAKES MY SKIN LOOK FRESH. THIS WILL BE FOR MAINTENANCE ONLY. I AM WONDERING IF THERE IS ANY DANGER TO CONTINUED IPL TREATMENTS. I HAVE READ SOME QUESTIONS SENT TO YOU AND THERE HAVE BEEN SEVERAL INDICATING THAT THERE HAS BEEN SOME SKIN DAMAGE AFTER THESE TREATMENTS. I WOULD APPRECIATE ANY ADVISE YOU COULD GIVE ME. DO YOU THINK THERE COULD BE FAT LOSS WITH THESE LASER TREATMENTS? THANK YOU.
Answer: it is very safe and a treatment every 3-4 months is fine. JG 4.8.08
Hi Dr Garcia, What do you think are important vitamins/supplements for a 48 year old healthy woman (premenopausal). Especially in the area of staying healthy and youthful....And, what do you think of Gingko for memory? Thank you!
Answer: Ginko is wonderful for the memory. Good nutraceutical multivitamin, Omega 3, antioxidants are all excellent general choices. We get more specific on individual needs when we assess each patient. JJP 4/08/08
Hi Doc!! What do you think about Resveratrol? Thank you!!
Answer: good supplement in high enough doses and in pure form. JG 4.8.08
Hi Dr Pierce. What is you opinion of the Palomar TriLux Lazer? I understand that it is a 3 step treatment which uses the Lux G for pigmentation, the Lux 1540 for non ablative skin resurfacing and the Lux Deep I/R for skin tightening. I was told that I would probably need 5 sessions (1 for pigmentation, 2 for resurfacing and 2 for tightening). I am 53 years old and I am considering laser treatment but was interested in the least amount of down time, but really wanted results too. Since it is non ablative, does this mean it does not have the same success or favorable outcome as the CO lazer? The total cost is about $3,500.00 for the 5 sessions and I was worried if it was worth it. Thanks for your time.
Answer: I am not a fan, I will say that you desiring the least amount of down time is understandable, but that will seriously limit your degree of improvement. That laser will never give you the results that the CO2 will, but it will have shorter healing time and less potential issues with pigmentation. JG 4.8.08
I had 1 spot treatment of Sciton Profractional at 150 microns about 3 months ago. Now, the treated area is darker and smoother than the untreated areas. Will the treated area ever match the untreated area (tone, texture)? If so, how long will it take. Thank you for your time and expertise. KH 04.07.2008
Answer: might need some Retin-A and hydroquinone to get rid of the darker color. As to the texture, in time the treated area will start to feel like the untreated areas. It might take a full year or more in some cases though. JG 4.8.08
hi, am 57 and female, can i look less wrinkled if i stop tanning? does tanning make you look older and more wrinkled if you are wrinkled? thank you much for your time.
Answer: to a certain degree yes as the skin will not be as thinned and dehydrated. JG 4.7.08
once you do laser and get purpura is this permant??? or does it evenually go away??
Answer: it is temporary. JG 4.7.08
WHAT DO YOU THINK ABOUT Electrodesiccation for broken cappilaires?? side affects??
Answer: might leave white spots, it works though, they might come back in time. JG 4.7.08
Hi Dr Pierce. This is a great website. I just bought a NuFace device which is a hand held device that delivers gentle microcurrent impulses to the face. The product claims to reduce the appearance of minor facial lines and wrinkles as well as tones the face. I was wondering if you knew anything of this, and whether it will do as it says or if I just wasted my money. Thanks so much.
Answer: I have heard of the product. We are waiting to get some evidense based literature as to the efficasy. So no opinion as of yet. JJP 4/07/08
but from what i was told from you or your staff laser doesnt damage the skin.. and now your saying it does and once you have pixel scabs are they permant?? so whats the point of removing brown spots when your going to have red onces form???
Answer: it causes reversible damage, not permanent, if all goes well, that is how the laser causes its effect. Especially in pixelated laser cases where millions of little holes are made in the skin. The red spots should not be permanent, they should fade. JG 4.7.08
Will the Rhytec Portrait work for puffy/baggy eyes and the horizontal lines on the nose between the eyes?
Answer: It will help to tighten and resurface the skin around the eyes. This may help with the puffiness. Rhytids (wrinkles) have been shown in studies to be reduced up to 35%. JJP 4/07/08
Hello, I just had a vbeam treatment on Friday April 4th and it resulted in dark purple black bruising. How can I get rid of this and why did this happen. I told the technician that I had used the vbeam in the past at 595 wavelength and she said the strength they were using was in the 1000`s and I believe she used mm`s as the unit I don`t know. Regardless this result seems reckless and I was supposed to be going on vacation in one week. It won`t be able to be covered with makeup. I have never bruised like this before in my life. Please advise. Thanks JC
Answer: need to let the top layers of skin that are causing this to flake off over the next few days. You can try Arnica Montana from the health food store, topically. JG 4.7.08
What do you think of a product called GenF20-HGH-Releaser?
Answer: Never heard of it before. Unable to pull up any ingredients on the web. So far, there has been very little effective in oral secretagouges for hGH. JJP 4/5/08
Recently, a local medical cosmetic spa has been touting the effects of PRP Skin Treatment which uses the patient`s own blood to form a gel. Also, they are advertising Dermasweep. What are these and are they at all effective? Thanks.
Answer: I do not feel PRP will help unless all of the top layers of skin are removed and the advantage is small, as to Dermawand, not very different from other microdermabrasions out there. JG 4.5.08
Recently, a local medical cosmetic spa has been touting the effects of PRP Skin Treatment which uses the patient`s own blood to form a gel. Also, they are advertising Dermasweep. What are these and are they at all effective? Thanks.
Answer: PRP could be used for procedures when the top layers are removed but the benefits are small and DermaWand is no better than microdermabrasions. JG 4.5.08
from what i know pixel scabs are from laser its beacause laser damages the skin.... is this true
Answer: correct. JG 4.5.08
what do you reccomend for a 20 yr old female to remove brown spots with a laser that doesnt affect the skin??
Answer: all lasers, in order to remove a brown spot, have to have some effect on the skin. JG 4.5.08
Dr. Garcia, I had nose contouring 2 weeks ago. The doctor gave me a shot in my upper gums to numb the nose. My teeth still feel strange (like kind of numb). Will this go away? Also, what do you prefer for this kind of procedure..Jevederm or Radiesse. Thank you.
Answer: very unusual for it to last that long, they might have hit a nerve directly to cause that and resolution might take a long time. I have used both materials for that purpose, I think Radiesse lasts longer though. JG 4.4.08
Just wondering about the hormone pellets I have been reading about. If you had an allergic reaction to the gels and creams would the pellets cause the same problem? Do you use Soto pellets? Is this something you have done a lot of? If your symptoms are vaginal dryness and pain during sex would this be the route you would suggest using or is it too drastic for these symptoms. Thank you
Answer: Most of the allergic reactions are caused by some thing in the cream or gel. No we do not use soto pellets. We use a compounded pellet. It will work the same as any other hormone and if your symptoms are caused by a hormone deficiency will treat them. JJP 4/3/08
what do you think about fraxel laser and the risks?? for brown spots
Answer: might improve brown spots, they wil come back in time, do not feel it will do much else though. JG 4.3.08
After using Retin A cream 1% for about 6 months now, I`ve noticed that the veins on either side of my forehead are more prominent. Is this a side effect of using Retin A? Thank you!
Answer: I do not think that is due to the Retin-A, it is part of the normal aging process from subcutaneous fat loss. JG 4.3.08
Can you get a good benefit for your skin by taking Glucosomine orally? thank you.
Answer: I have read some reports of this, but have failed to see it. JJP 4/3/08
hi doctor, can i have a fair skin by taking a lot of vitamin c?
Answer: I`m sorry. I do not understand what you are asking. JJP 4/3/08
I`ve been taking high doses of vitamin E as requested by my plastic surgion after my B.A. I`m now 12 weeks pregnant and slightly concerned that I`ve been hurting the baby by taking high doses of vit. E and Omega 3 fats. Do you know of any adverse effects from either of these vitamin supplements while pregnant. I can`t find much information on the web... just thought you might be able to help. Thanks so much.
Answer: the Omega 3 is actually good for the baby`s brain, as to the vitamin E, just cut back to 200-400iu per day, I think the risks are small. JG 4.2.08
Are there any good OTC supplements for curcumin? thanks.
Answer: Try Life Extensions products. They have a high quality. JJP 4/02/08
Is Turmeric a good anti-inflammatory and is it good to take orally for swelling? What else is it good for? thanks.
Answer: Tumeric is the source of curcumin. A wealth of data shows that curcumin and its related chemicals (collectively known as curcuminoids) help to prevent and fight a wide range of diseases�from cancer to cardiovascular disease�through a variety of mechanisms. These include powerful anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, chemopreventive (cancer-preventive), and antineoplastic (cancer-fighting) properties. JJP 4/02/08
Laser Treatment Lasts In general we find that laser removal of age spots is permanent, however people do sometimes see new spots appear as they go back out into the sun. These are new spots forming as a result of age spots, not a recurrence of the old, removed spots. Good sun-avoidance is key if you wish to see your skin free of sun spots. IS THIS TRUE?
Answer: the only thing I aggree with is heh sunblock, skin cells have melanin and it has memory, so once a spot is there, sun exposure will allow it to return to the same degree. Will you get new ones with time, yes, will the old ones come back, yes to that too. JG 4.2.08
Can I have plastic surgery if I take Synthroid (150mcg).
Answer: as long as the thyroid is well balanced, yes. JG 4.1.08
DOES OBAGI REVERSE SUN DAMAGE? AND AFTER USING WHAT CAN I USE TO MAINTAIN THE RESULTS?BROWN SPOTS
Answer: yes, it does. Afterwards use sunblock. JG 4.2.08
the plastic surgon that i went to said to do obagi also under my eyes and now it looks like i got bags under my eyes that wont go away?? also where my mouth ends on both sides it seems a lil saggy im only 22??
Answer: most likely from the swelling, should all go away in time. JG 4.2.08
wen removing brown spots with retin a or laser does it lighten the brown spots or completely remove them
Answer: in most cases they are lightened. JG 4.2.08
Does L-carnitine when taken orally help with cellulite? thanks.
Answer: There has been nothing, to date, that consistently works in decreasing cellulite. JJP 4/01/08
Hello Dr. Pierce, I wanted to try IPL or a Palomar light system. I have sun damaged, blotchy skin on my face. I take Hydrochlorothiazde for hypertension, which I know makes me photosensitive, so I always wear sunscreen. If I forget to put it on my legs, for instance, they get a red rash look from the sun, so I try to be careful. I want to know if I will never be able to use IPL while taking this med? Or(if my doctor says it`s OK) would stopping the med a few days before each IPL treatment do any good, or does it take longer than that for my skin to stop being so photosentitive? I don`t want to end up with even worse skin that when I started!
Answer: I think the IPL is OK to try, just start slowly, not too strong. JG 4.1.08
I have been using a 12 % lactic acid cream that I get at Costco on my arms and legs for my dry skin for years and my skin definitely looks better at 70 than it did at age 60. Can I use it daily on my face? Gotta tell my friends about your site and column as it would save them a lot of money.
Answer: I think it is likely OK, it needs to be started slowly and then see if you tolerate it, but that is a pretty mild alpha hydroxy acid, thanks for visiting. JG 4.1.08
Hi Dr. Garcia -- I`ve been using Renova every nite for past 5 mos. I tolerate it really well. Should I be using something stronger? Or is there benefit to using twice a day? Thanks.
Answer: yes, there is s greater benefit to twice daily, I would increase it if you can tolerate it. JG 4.1.08
As I am recently went into menopause at age of 46 my skin changed completely, on my arms and legs , my skin always looks like chicken skin. I am always cold. I take already some hormonal supplements which helps with headaches and other symptoms but not with my skin problem. Do you have any solution for this how to improve my skin. Thanks in advance.
Answer: You should have your thyroid looked at. This may be the root of your issue. JJP 4/1/08
I recently asked about the FX or Fraxel treatment for acne scarring and was told that neither one was a good option. I would like to know what treatment would be best.
Answer: the best would be a CO2 laser. JG 4.1.08
Hi Dr. I am 35yrs old and have suffered from acne since elementary. I have acne scarring but not deep ones. I still break out but, I want to smooth out my skin from the old scars. I have been recommended to do Fraxel or FX and I don`t know which one is better.
Answer: I do not think either one will do enough I am afraid. JG 3.31.08
if i remove my brown spots with yag laser? how long will the results last if i dont tan any longer? months yrs? explain thanks and god bless
Answer: if you avoid sun and do not tan and use sunblock it should be months and possbly years. JG 3.31.08
how long in the sun would equal this long in a tanning bed? hours?
Answer: no way to tell, it depends on the tanning bed and where in the world the sun exposure comes from. JG 3.31.08
any risks on yag laser?? and is there permanent lightning of the skin??
Answer: risks of blisters and reactive hyperpigmentation, I have not seen a permanent lightening of the skin though. JG 3.31.08
Dr. Garcia Thanks so much for what you do, much appreciated!
Answer: it is my pleasure, all the best. JG 3.30.08
Do you think mesotherapy is a wate of money? When I was younger I did once a 12 time session on the stomach area, and finally noticed a bit improvement in firming the skin there, with no additional work outs. Of course after one year the results where gone. Do you think it would work for arms and legs to make the skin firmer and help with the crepiness. What else would be recommanded for crepy skin on arms and legs ?
Answer: yes, I think mesotherapy is a waste of money. JG 3.30.08
4 months ago I hade three ipl treatments, the first one was ok, the dr. said I could use Retin a with hydroquinone which I did. I deed not peel and it was right after the second IPL that i immediately started to peel, not even but in patches on one side. Around the patches I was left with hyperpigmentation. So I started to use the Retin a hydroquinone creme again, and applied more of the creme on the patches. Result became worse. I then did a 30% glycolic acid home peel. Result even worse dicoloration and inflamed skin. I stopped all treatment and went to the derm again. He then performed a tirth IPL to remove the hyperpigmentation wich it did but the red spots ( I dont know if it is burned) with the white discoloration is still present. The red patches are also different in skin structure, more rough. Now after more then four months since the first treatment, there is no improvent with the red and white spots and patches. I stopped all irritant treatment, except normal day and nightcreme and sunblock. Do you think it is permanent. What can I do to improve this discoloration, red and white. Thanks for reply, dont know any more what to do. I have to cover my face with make up all the time. Should I do a peel at a doctors office ? I am very afraid, it is permanent, especially the white part. Thanks for reply
Answer: I think you should not do any more peels at home, I think you will likely need a long series if IPL treatments to improve things, but you will need to be patient with the degree of improvements. JG 3.30.08
I am left with burn marks after my PS cleaned my face with alcohol based product, 5 months ago. The burn marks whre treated with IPL together with my complete face but the marks are still there, besides my eye. They are rough in texture and nothing seems to work to improve . Do you have any suggestion, is this permanent. Thanks for advice
Answer: might need a Rhytec to tighten and smooth along with brown spot removal. JG 3.30.08
ive tried obagi nu derm, gycolic peels microdermabartion and mild chemical peels for brown spots nothing works, since im young dr said he would not perform laser on my face due to my age and he said therse alot of risks
Answer: low risks of lasers in exeperienced hands, I do not think you need a resurfacing laser though, I think you need spot treatments with a YAG laser. JG 3.30.08
are lotions with urea good for crepy skin on arms and legs? Do they thin the skin and make it more crepy? What else can be used to restore crepy body skin? Thanks.
Answer: some people find urea to be a smoothing agent, but very temporary. JG 3.30.08
On the dr. Lam question forum about facial fat grafting, he writes that fat loss can be due to continious sun exposure. Do you think someone can lose fat from the sun? If this is true, is it because of the heat, then also IPl or other lasers can produce loss of fat. Thank you for your opinion.
Answer: I do not believe that is true, sorry. If it did there would not be any fat people with suntans JG 3.30.08
dr garcia thanks for everything that youve answered god bless you! Can you please suggest me any good products that will help my skin be more firm and glowy im 22 yrs old i have brown spots and wont irritate broken cappilaires?? my skin seems a little loose
Answer: might want to try hydroquinone 4% and use sunblock all the time, and no more sun. JG 3.29.08
can you please suggest good copper peptide creams??
Answer: we use NeoCutis brand.
how can i buid collegen to my face??
Answer: Retin-A, Rhytec Portrait or CO2 laser are the most effective. JG 3.29.08
is it true that some people have more collegen then others? is this genetic
Answer: yes, it is genetic. JG 3.29.08
Hi Dr, Thank you for this forum. The honesty is refreshing and appreciated. Im a 40 year old man who has slight joweling and loose skin along my jawline and under my chin. I tried a couple of mesotherapy treatments and a PSR3, but no luck in tightening skin and reducing the slight jowling. Any suggestions on how to treat those conditions? Will facial exercises help?
Answer: facial exercises will maake it worse. I suggest maybe Sculptra to fill in the cheeks and lift the skin a slight amount, otherwise it is surgery. JG 3.28.08
If I have fibroid tumors in the uterus, should I continue or stop using an HGH releaser? Will this shrink or grow the fibroid tumors? Please advise asap. Thanks!
Answer: Most firoid tumors are responsive to estrogen primarily. There is no evidense, to my knowledge, as any effect hGH may have. I think you should discuss this with your gynacologist. JJP 3/28/08
you didnt explain if new brown spots and cappilaries come out or the once you removed??
Answer: yes, they do, they are part of sun exposure and the aging process and once you have brwon spots and they are removed, they will always come back in time and the blood vessels will come back as the skin ages and thins. JG 3.27.08
i hear that laser caues fat loss and collagen loss to the face is this true???
Answer: not true.JG 3.27.08
sorry to write so many times, i was on obagi im 22 yrs old its been 3 months since im off it... reason i used it was for freakles now my skin is so sensative extremely thin and always sore and red... please suggest me any good products that would bring my skin back to the way it was
Answer:
sorry to write so many times, i was on obagi im 22 yrs old its been 3 months since im off it... reason i used it was for freakles now my skin is so sensative extremely thin and always sore and red... please suggest me any good products that would bring my skin back to the way it was
Answer:
sorry to write so many times, i was on obagi im 22 yrs old its been 3 months since im off it... reason i used it was for freakles now my skin is so sensative extremely thin and always sore and red... please suggest me any good products that would bring my skin back to the way it was
Answer: squalene or copper peptide creams and no alpha hydroxy acids. JG 3.27.08
ive been done with obagi now for 3 months my face is still sore and red and always burning please suggest something to use
Answer: migth want to use copper peptide creams or squalene oil to let it heal. And stop all alpha hydroxy acids too. JG 3.27.08
D.D. 3/27 Thank you for your response. Is there a certain skin care regime you would recommend to help with healing the skin from Activ FX and IPL?
Answer: get some copper peptide creams, they will help it heal. JG 3.27.08
doctor i see thses blue veins when ever i pull my foreskin down {retract it down} thses veins are purplish color and i wnated to know is this a sign of damaged valves in the penis what can i do about them ps i heard a doctor n.k lin that it is caused by frequent overmasterbation what do you say please help
Answer:
Dr. Garcia, is it ok to get botox in the same area as Radiesse? I had nose contouring and want the botox to horizontal lines on the bridge. Thank you.
Answer: There should be no issues with that. JJP 3/27/08
D.D. 3/26 I had an Active FX performed in Oct. and began to notice had a lumpy appearance when I became cold or chilled. My doctor suggestes doing a serier of 2 Lumenis IPL treatments in Jan. and Feb. A week later I began to notice laser indentations in my cheeks and along my jaw line, texture irregularities, hypo pigmentation marks and fat loss on my cheeks. When my skin is cold it looks as if I have hives all over my face. My doctor says that she has never seen this before. I am horrified. My skin was in great condition. I am 42 years old with very mild rosacea and sun damage. Is there any way to treat my skin to help it heal. Do the indentions ever go away, texture irregularities or fat loss be corrected. The condition is very transient. What is your opinion regarding the skins reaction when I get cold or chilled. Any help would be greatly appreciated.
Answer: I think most of the indentations and texture irregularities should improve on their own in time with good skin care and no more treatments, as to the bumps that occur when cold, not relaly sure what they are but they might continue. JG 3.27.08
Hi Dr. It`s Rose again from 3/25. One more clarification: you answered from both to my last question about what you were referring to when you said to take a break during the sunny months. I`m still not sure if you mean from both of the topical treatments or from both the topical treatments AND the laser treatments. Will you clarify for me please? THanks so much. Rose
Answer: both, all topical treatments and the laser. JG 3.27.08
I have had several deep skin treatments for my acne scars, 1 phenolpeel, 2 CO2 Ultrapulse laserpeels and 1 dermabrasion. I only have a few scars left but still want to go through another treatment but I want to limit the risks. How much higher is the risk for complications like hypopigmentation and so on for me than for another non treated person? Should I go for another dermabrasion or CO2 laser peel? Kind regards, Anders
Answer: repeat the one that gave you the best results, and yes, your risk is higher. JG 3.27.08
when you remove brown spots and broken cappliaries, do new ones come out or the ones your removed??
Answer: eventually, yes. JG 3.27.08
Hi Doctor I am 40 yrs old and have some fine lines under and around my eyes, I was thinking about getting the syneron Matrix laser b/c I was told there was no down time and that it stimulates collagen, what do you think of it, does it reallt work? Thanks in advance.
Answer: there is no free lunch, I do not think you will get much. JG 3.25.08
Hi Dr. Rose, here, again. Thank you so much for your answer to my question about laser hair removal and EpiQuin and Retrinal cream. Just one clarification... you suggested taking a few months off during the sunniest part of the year. Do you mean from the topical treatments (and if so, both of them?) or from the laser treatments? Thank you so much, again. Rose
Answer: from both. JG 3.25.08
Hi Dr. I`ve had laser hair removal done in various areas and have several questions related to this: 1)Do you know of any danger to having ongoing, repeated treatments to the same area (especially the areola) for years and perhaps for life (every 6-8 weeks)? (I`ve had good results, but the hair always grows back even though there`s much less of it and it`s much finer). 2)After having laser hair removal above my upper lip, I got hyperpigmentation there. I`ve used Epiquin for several months and it helps some. They`ve now recommended I try Retrinal 0.05 cream. Are these safe? Will either of these likely cause other problems? Can they be used indefinitely? Thanks very much in advance for your help. Rose
Answer: no long term negative effects have been reported. I think adding the cream to the upper lip should help it fade better. They are safe and can be used together. I would take a couple of months off during the sunniest part of the year is all. JG 3.24.08
Will these capillaries come back? Once a capillary is treated ,it will never come back, however new ones may appear. IS THIS TRUE???
Answer: ys, they will come back. JG 3.24.08
my friends do IPL and there skin always seems thinner and loose does IPL have those effects?? do IPLs make your skin thinner
Answer: I have not seen that happen. JG 3.24.08
WHAT CAN I DO TO PREVENT BROKEN CAPPILAIRES TO COME BACK AFTER REMOVING THEM?
Answer: sorry, but nothing, they will come back. JG 3.24.08
from what i was told by my plastic surgon i can remove broken cappilaries and they wont come back ?? but uve said they do come back what causes them to come back
Answer: they come back because anything done to clot the blood vessels off will eventually allow the vein to open once again. JG 3.24.08
from what i was told by my plastic surgon i can remove broken cappilaries and they wont come back ?? but uve said they do come back what causes them to come back
Answer:
can you give me a good vitmains C topical that you reccomend that wont irriate the broken cappilarires?
Answer: I think that risk exists for them all. JG 3.24.08
after obagi i got lots of broken cappilaries im in my twenties.. the reason i used obagi was for my brown spots, now im left with broken cappliares and brown spots? what can I use to remove them besides laser?? an every day remedy??
Answer: nothing topical, sorry, will need at least an IPL. JG 3.23.08
what do you think about skincetucials C E Ferulic for broken cappilaries and sun damaged skin?
Answer: unimpressed with their ability to remove those things. JG 3.23.08
and how long does it take for sun damge to show? how many yrs would you say?
Answer: it can show up in weeks in severe cases, once you have a sun tan there is damage, the lines might not show up for a few years though. JG 3.23.08
THanks for your reply okay you say that sun damage is reversable with topical vitamin a and C but you also said once you stop using these products your skin goes back to what it was so how is that reversable? your saying only temporarly so basically thats not reversable Thank you
Answer: since the aging process never stops, all we ever do is temorary, but if you never do anything to reverse or slow it then the skin will be even worse without it. JG 3.23.08
Hi Hope you are well..Ive posted before I havent been well thought id had a stroke but still being investigated as apparently it wasnt I seeing rhuematology next as one sided weakness, allergies seizure etc. Meanwhile its destroying me seeing the state of my skin. I have crepe like tiny lines on my cheek when i smile which happened all of a sudden when i went back to eating food allegic to and came off the pill..I also lost about half a stone qute quick and have noticed een wheni put weight on my face is different i think loss of fat beneaththe skin or sagging.. I have pcos with insulin resistance which may be why i react to sugar carbs i dont know and I am so sick of waiting.. I am seeing a facial reconstruction consultant about my right side facial droop next month and the creepeness is worse on the right side.. Ive sold my car to get my confidence back do you think i should wait til after facial reconstruction? I am looking into accent, scupltra etc for the crepe appearence on my cheeks..but also all of a sudden got sunken eyes particuarly on the right side with two lines underneah my eyes i think where skin has sagged. Can you give me the best advice on something i can use while I am waiting your products please? I will order them from you i just dont know what to orer. I am not sure if ihave fat loss or musclke wasting eitherso i know i need to wait but want something to treat it in the meantime. Sorry this is so long isnt it and Iam a very complicated case..I dont even like going out as i look so awful I look ike a young girl in an old body.. Thanks soooooooooo Much Mandy Ive sold
Answer: I really think you are past the point of creams, surgery is what is needed and that likely will need to be followed by a resurfacing of some sort. You must get all of the medical issues fixed first in order to get through the surgeries safely though. JG 3.23.08
Hi Dr. G, what treatment would you recommend to improve/erase pock marks/icepik type scars on the face? I am in my early 30s, have fair asian skin, oily with enlarged pores. My skin is very sensitive and discolors easily. I tried 10 microdermabrasions + 2 treatments of laser skin resurfacing, but the results are minimal, if not ineffective. Thank you.
Answer: you might need to get the ice picks scars cut out and then a super light laser over that a few weeks later. JG 3.21.08
im 22 yrs old my i used to do alot of indoor tanning and i always wanted the red look so my face can look fresh not knowing thats a burn i must of done it at least 50 times what can i do to reverse this or is this to late
Answer: some of it is too late, it will show signs of premature aging in time, but not rigth away, fot now, I suggest no more sun or tanning beds, using mild Retin-A and topical Vitmain C too. JG 3.21.08
Dr. Garcia you said sun damage is reversable and is this permanent
Answer:
Dr. Garcia you said sun damage is reversable and is this permanent
Answer: if you reverse some of it but continue the sun exposure it will eventually become irreversible. JG 3.21.08
Dr. Garcia you said sun damage is reversable and is this permanent
Answer:
from what i read on google sun damage is Not Reversable? and you said it is can you explain this
Answer: some parts of sun damage are reverible, the earlier you treat it, it can be reversed with Vitamin C and Retin-A, once long standing it might not be able to be repaired though. There are may things that sun damage does, and some are certainly treatable, like dermal thinning and excess skin keratinization. JG 3.21.08
Thank you for your suggestion on my previous question. I did go to my doctor and he said the post inflammatory hyperpigmentation is temporary and will clear up on its own, but said I could use TriLuma if I wanted to clear it up faster. Is this correct? You mentioned that it could be permanent if not treated soon. What is your recommendation on using or not using TriLuma? Are there any risks/side effects to using TriLuma? He also said the demarcation line will blend in and disappear (But, he also said there would be no demarcation line in the consult visit). Is he correct? Thank you for your time and expertise. KH 3.20.08
Answer: I think Triluma is fine and should speed it up, yes. Safe to use. I think there will likely be no demarcation, yes. JG 3.20.08
do you know any info about viapal hgh j and arginox plus what would you reccomend about vimax penis enlargment pills do they work can you tell me if viapal hgh j and arginox have any l arginine in them
Answer:
Dr garcia what do you think about silk peel? at what age should a person get this done and any side affects damaging the skin?
Answer: do not think it will do much, it is a very light superficial procedure. JG 3.20.08
what can be done for aging hands: Loss of fat and veiny hands? Thanks!!
Answer: fillers for the fat loss and lasers for the spots. JG 3.20.08
**what can i do to make my hands appear more youthful? Laser? Fillers? I have loss of fat and veiny hands.
Answer: both can help in some cases. JG 3.20.08
Hello Dr Pierce, Is there a website you can recommend where I can see results before and after for the Rhytec Portrait Laser? Also what is the difference between the Rhytec and the Sciton? Thank, you, JC
Answer: I think the Rhytec is better due to the heat geneated in terms of collagen production, otherwise you can look at www.Rhytec.com JG 3.20.08
Hello Dr. Garcia, Is there any cream/ointment/gel in the market to use topically to burn some of the face fat?
Answer: sorryy but no, there is not. JG 3.19.08
I am left with a stripe of hyperpigmentation of what it looks like as the result of a hematoma, blood collection under the skin after a facelift on one side of my face before the ear. I tried already three times ipl which improved a bit the color but the stripe is still visible. I was told it is very deep under the skin and more ipl or bleaching cremes neither retin a will help. Is there something I can do to get rid of this brown stripe ? Also the texture of the skin is more rough, ticker then before, maybe because of the ipl. Thank you for answer.
Answer: might want to try a YAG laser, it is much stronger, the texture should also get better in time once you stop the lasers. JG 3.20.08
hello i was using obagi i didnt get good results instead im left with dry skin. also my face is always really sore and tender what can this be? its been like this for a long time now almost a yr
Answer: it is from the Retin-A and that will get better if you stop, it is part of the process, and in most cases the skin adapts after 4-6 weeks or so. Your skin might just be too sensitive and not able to tolerate the program. JG 3.20.08
Dr. Garcia, What is your view of the combination of Matrix IR (wrinkle reduction), ReFirme (tightening) and Skin Rejuvenation with elos (pigment)in a series of 5 treatments, with each treatment a combination of all three?
Answer: a waste of money. JG 3.19.08
i do have brown spots can i go to the beach still and wear and spf 50 and not get brown spots or will i still get more?? im in my twenties i want to enjoy my youth
Answer: yes, but it will limit the number in the future, but you will still get some more. JG 3.20.08
i do have brown spots can i go to the beach still and wear and spf 50 and not get brown spots or will i still get more?? im in my twenties i want to enjoy my youth
Answer: well, you need to reapply it every two hours at least and I think because of sweating, there will be some more that will come but less than if you did not wear the sunscreen at all. JG 3.20.08
DR GARCIA AT THIS POINT I HAVE BROWN SPOTS.. I WILL PROTECT MY SELF FROM GETTING MORE BUT MY QUESTION THE TIME I DIDNT PROTECT MY SELF WILL I GET BROWN SPOTS WEN IM OLDER??
Answer: most likley more will come in time. JG 3.20.08
Why does it sometimes seem that when you look at pics of women that have had lipo on the abdomen,flanks and upper back that their arms look smaller after even though they have had no lipo on their arms?
Answer: many times they go on a diet or exercise more often after the liposuction as they are more motivated and other things can change because of that. JG 3.20.08
Dear Dr Pierce, I have rosacea and have undergone numerous Vasculight IPL`s which initially put me in virtually complete remission. I have also had touch up treatments to prevent the disease from taking full hold again. All went well, until suddenly I developed a large area of crinkly, crepe paper type skin and also orange peel type skin on my left outer cheek. This did not reverse itself. I was advised to use a topical cream containing 1000 IU, then 2000 IU of Retinyl Palmitate to try and repair the texture damage. This somewhat helped the crinkly skin, but the orange peel texture only alleviated slightly. It has been over two years since I developed the texture problems. I was told the creams would help the over all health of my skin and not aggravate the rosacea at all. Unfortunately they caused severe irritation initially and 6 months later, I developed full blown rosacea, with severe flushing, neuropathic pain and nose involvement.The latter swells quite a lot. IPL has failed to alleviate any of this and I am in constant pain and suffer dreadful flares of long duration on a daily basis. It is debilitating. I told my doctor that my skin has become worse since using the creams and also it is far more sensitive and IPL seems to inflame it further. He said this wasn`t possible. Also, he blasted the lower third of my nose recently, and now I have developed crinkly, orange peel texture there. The area feels like it has lost substance underneath it and is very slightly depressed. The nose is very central and obvious in the face and I feel distressed by this. Also, due to the severity of my rosacea and the need for some kind of treatment, I fear more damage in the future. My doctor says he has never encountered texture problems before. I feel he used too high an energy and performed the treatments too close together, every 11 days for some months. QUESTIONS: What can I do to repair the texture damage? What do you think has happened to those areas of skin? What is the best treatment to reduce flushing? What is your opinion of using topical Vitamin A on rosacea skin. Thank you for your time.
Answer: I suggest some copper peptide creams for the skin texture and you must certainly stop the Retinyl Palmitate because it will almost always irriate Rosacea. I do also agree that IPL treatments every week or so is too close, I think they need to be at least 3 weeks apart. Give it time and let the skin heal and it should all get better. JG 3.18.08
Dr. Pierce, I had some brown spots removed from my legs and arms with a photofacial laser. I had spray tanned 2 days before and am now reading that this was contraindicated. What will be the lasting effects?
Answer: the only thing is that it will not be as effective since the color absorbed the energy up. JG 3.18.08
Dr garcia please help me remove my brown spots and how can i make this last forever without the spots comming back im really young and always ashamed of my skin please help me
Answer: all the treatments such as YAG lasers, chemical peels or hydroquinone prescriptions will help but there is nothing permanent I am afraid. JG 3.18.08
hi doctor Pierce,I recently was seen by a dr who started me on regime of bioidentical hormones progesterone,testosterone cream,dhea and vitamins omega oil caps and hgh.my question is the growth hormone he prescribed for me is Tev Tropin 5mg vial/15 ml after reconstitution I inject 10U/1iu my concern is from what i have recently read about tev tropin is that it is indicated for children I have not read indications for adult onset growth hormone def(.by the way Im a 49 yr old female in perimenopause) have you used tev tropin or think it good for adult onset def I trust your opinion and knowledge and I hope I have not been taken advantage of I would appreciate any help or info you could give me thanks
Answer: We had used Tev Tropin in the past. We stopped using it because we found that it was not indicated for Adult Onset Growth Hormone Deficiency. This was not because it did not work. It was more due to the fact that legally using it in this manner could be considered off label and by law, hGH can not be used off label. However Growth hormone is growth hormone and it does not matter what company makes it, it will all have the same effect. I do not believe one brand is better than the other. JJP 3/18/08
Hello - I was wondering what treatmentlaser or otherwise you would recommnend for creating a smoother complexion - I am 41 years old with some uneven levels of skin from some chemical peels from 20 years ago. My skin is a fair olive and sensitive and also has some mild acne pitted scarring. Thank you for your help. JC
Answer: maybe a series of Rhytec Portrait treatments. JG 3.17.08
Ok. But what if I`m getting a $500. (local currencey) discount on the laser peel and I want fast results?
Answer: may not get $500 worth. JG 3.17.08
Are you familiar with the Softlight Laser peel which claims to exfoliate surface impurities, clarify the skin`s and improve colour and tone? If so, would that be the best bet for me since I`ve just recovered from an acne breakout with 6 recent brown spots and several others on the left and right cheeks respectively? Or should I use topical fade creams and start for the first time, to do regular facials to eliminate bacteria from the face etc? Also, does one treatment with softlight equal 1 treatment of microdermabrasion in terms of the clarifying effects overall? Thanks a million.
Answer: I would skip the softlight laser, it will not do much more than the bleaching creams and the regular facials, maybe some microdermabrasions. JG 3.17.08
My skin has rosacea - looks like a slight overall red flush, larger broken capillaries around the nose, melasma, large pores, T-zone oily, and some uneven texture from some chemical peels administered 20 years ago, and some post inflammatory marks. My skin is also very sensitive. I would like to address all issues with the most effective laser treatment. Vbeam has worked temporarily around the nose in the past - nothing else has, I am using triluma for the melasma and it is almost gone. I had an affirm treatment for overall tone and to diminish pore size - am concerned that this has/could aggravated the flushing. Am considering IPL as well as Vbeam, but would also do a laser treatment to address skin levels and brown marks. Do not want any problems with fat loss. What do you suggest? Thank you for your assistance. JC
Answer: I think fat loss is rare and I think YAG laser or Vbeam or IPL is a good option, but nothing is permanent. Not sure the Affirm will do much. JG 3.17.08
im 22 and im assuming my damage is long standing so i guess its to late to reverse my sun damage??
Answer: well, some of it can/ could be, but not all, the more damage you had the less can be removed. JG 3.17.08
Dr., 3 days ago I had the V beam to get rid of brown spots on my legs and arms. I was told the spots would get black and fall off. They are just a little darker, but not at all black, and my hands look the same as they did before the treatment. Do you think that maybe it`s not going to work? Thank you.
Answer: it likely needs a series of treatments in general. JG 3.16.08
im 22 yrs old with brown spots and remedy?? im trying to reverse my sun damage you think its a good age to start?? and fropm now on i will be wearing spf all the time
Answer: It is a perfect time to start. You will be ahead of the game. JJP 3/15/08
when you say not long standing damage?? how many yrs??
Answer: anything past a few weeks becomes long standing if not treated. JG 3.16.08
There`s a weight loss patch out that touts the use of diiodotyrosine, a bulding block for T3 and T4 thyroid hormones, along with an extract of coleus forskohlii that they say assists in stimulating the thyroid . Is this (a) safe and (b) effective? They also throw in some chromium, guarana, 5HTP. Vee
Answer: safe, maybe, effective, probabaly not. JG 3.16.08
How can you tell if you have loose skin versus extra fat= on say the inner thigh area? Thanks.
Answer: if you pinch it and it is thick it is fat and if it is thin it is likely skin. JG 3.16.08
DR. PRICE, I HAD SUBCISION APPROX 4 WEEKS AGO ON AN UPPER LIP LINE AND AM LEFT WITH A FIRM BUMP UNDER THE TREATMENT SITE. WILL THIS GO AWAY EVENTUALLY? IS THERE ANYTHING I CAN DO TO HELP DISOLVE IT? I HAVE BEEN MASSAGING IT FREQUENTLY.
Answer: yes, most likely only old blood and with massage and heat and a little time it will get better. JG 3.16.08
How can retin A work to correct sun damage skin texture when I do not peel from it. Even the 1% tretinoine cream does not cause peeling on my skin. Altough I have very thin skin. It does make the skin crepery but even after use of three months every night , no peeling. There is no improvement either , just more crepy. Not dry, since I take hormone supplementation, that makes my skin more oilier. thanks for reply
Answer: the damage to the skin from the sun is deeper and the peeling is only the epidermis and not the dermis where the Retin-A is doing most of it`s work. If your skin is crepey it is working. JG 3.16.08
Hi, Doctor, I have to go in and have a jaw plate removed that was put in 1 year and 1/2 ago due to inflamation- I had corrective surgery for an overbite and my jaw broke in 2 places on that side instead of 1. And I guess due to the extra trauma on that side- I`m having it removed(which it`s not really needed now anyway because my bone has healed)- so, that said....I wanted to have a Full Tummy tuck done- How long should I wait between having the plate removed and the tummy tuck? The jaw surgeon said it would be an out-patient procedure and it of course won`t be as invasive as the original procedure. Thanks.
Answer: I think a few days is enough, best of luck. JG 3.16.08
I am going to have a FTT done- How long should I anticipate not being able to walk completely upright? thanks!
Answer: 2-4 weeks. JG 3.16.08
you said sun dage is reversable but im assuming only temporarly whats done is done correct??
Answer: recent damage should be able to be repaired but not long standing damage. JG 3.16.08
Dr. Garcia Obagi ruined my skin.. i got more spots and its winter here were i live and im always using spf 30 but my spots seem more and more.. now i got broken cappilaries anything i can use that can get the brows removed without causing broken cappilaries besides laser
Answer: plain hydroquinoneor kojic acid I think is worth a try. JG 3.16.08
Hi,im thinking about getting my nipples pierced but keep putting it off because of a horrific abcess that i got in my armpit some time ago that took ages to go with 2 lots of antibiotics. is there a huge risk of this happening again and is there any link to breast cancer with this piercing? Im 42 does this also have any bearing on the above mentioned?Thank you
Answer: First off, any time that you open the skin there is risk of infection. This can be reduced by going to a clean, reputable parlor and having the procedure done there. Afterwards following the post care instructions and seeing you doctor if you have any signs of infection. These piercings do take some time to heal, up to 6 months. As far as I know there are no risk factors for developing breast cancer from piercing. JJP 3/12/08
I am a 36 year old asian male. About 7 weeks ago, I had a spot treatment (cheek) with a 4 micron laser peel and the Sciton Profractional for acne scars. It was red, weeping for about one week, then it crusted and peeled off, which left bright pink/red skin. Most of the pinkness has faded. But now I notice that the treated area is darker than the untreated area. Is this normal? Is it permanent or will it fade back to the skin tone of the untreated skin? I also noticed that there is a definate line caused by texture and tone between the treated and untreated skin. Will this fade over time? I was also wondering if my reaction to the laser was normal? I thought there was little/no downtime with fractional laser resurfacing. I am supposed to do 3 treatments, but, right now, I wish I never did one. Any chance that my skin returns back to how it was before the treatment. Thank you
Answer: well, not normal but a very common issue when resurfacing Asian skin. It is called post inflammatory hyperpigmentation and needs to be treated with hydroquinone. It likely will not be permanent if you reat it soon. The line of demarcation should get better in time but it might not totally blend in, that is one of the problems with spot treatments. I strongly suggest you go back to the doctor and tell them what has happened and have them treat you to repair it. JG 3.16.08
Dr. Garcia, I had ear cartlidge put in my nose 2 years ago. I am to have nose contouring with Radiesse next week. Can you tell me if this will be a problem. Thank you so much.
Answer: do not think there should be a problem. JG 3.10.08
Dr. Garcia please help im in my twenties i used obagi and i got lots of broken cappilaries on my face? i heard about the Vbeam? how long until the broken cappilaries return?? and i need something that helps with my broken cappilaries and brown spots??
Answer: no way to tell how long before they return but the VBeam is a good option.JG 3.10.08
does retin a make you get broken cappilaries???
Answer: it can, yes. JG 3.10.08
does retin a remove brown spots?
Answer: Yes, but nothing does it permenently. JJP 3/10/08
my face seems pretty loose my skin im only 23 anything i can do to make my skin tighter??
Answer: Difficult to tell with out seeing you in person. JJP 3/10/08
If I am 36 and have good skin if i get a little chin lipo does that make me more likely to show thin skin or muscle appearance on my neck- like that banded look? thanks.
Answer: it could, possibly. JG 3.10.08
I am 66 years old and am showing a lot of wrinkles when I laugh. Otherwise, my face looks very good for my age. I recently began using the Obagi system to prepare my skin for a Blue Peel. Do you think this is what I need or would I see more results with Rytech? A friend had that procedure recently and my husband doesn`t want me to do something that drastic. Pat
Answer: I think the Blue Peel wil do little for wrinkles and the Rhytec will do more. JG 3.10.08
If I have a Ftt and lipo of that area- Would it enable me when I exercise to maybe have an easier time when targeting the thighs because I have lessened the fat in my abdonomen? I am not majorly overweight. I seem to have excess fat in my stomach and thighs.
Answer: As we have said many times in the past on this site. There is no such thing as spot reduction naturally. If you have a surgical procedure to reduce fat in one area, that area will have less percentage of fat. The body will reduce fat evenly throughout the body. So the areas with a higher percentage of fat will lose more total fat. JJP 3/09/08
If I am considering FTT and lipo on bra strap area and lipo on inner thighs and a tiny bit under chin- Would it be better to combine the tummy and back and possibly chin and do the thighs later? Pros and Cons?
Answer: I think it is reasonable to do it all together to minimize anesthesia events. JG 3.10.08
What is the `best practice` for reducing frontal fat on the male chest and stomach. My BMI is 28.4 and I am a 55yrs who engages in daily aerobic exercise regimen. HH 03/05/2008
Answer: There is no such thing as natural spot reduction. As you lose weight it comes off evenly all over the body. You may increase the size and tone of the muscles in the problem areas for a better look. Liposuction may also be of benefit. JJP 3/07/08
What proven and tested methods re lifestyle changes, supplements, nutrition and exercise, can be taken to stem the growth of the male prostate gland. HH 03/05/2008
Answer: I do not know if anything has been proven in that specific area. I would reccomend a healthy low glycemic index/load diet rich in fruits and vegetables, exercise and proper supplementation. Saw Palmetto, nettle and zinc are all healthy for the prostate.JJP 3/07/08
I`m sorry I meant to ask is the Tumenescent technique better for the chin area?
Answer: almost all liposuction is done with tumescent fluid, but not all done under tumescent anesthesia. JG 3.6.08
What is your opinion of Injection Lipolyisis and how does it differ from Mesotherapy?
Answer: They are the same. JJP 3/6/08
Is the tumescent technique better the tissues in the chin area?
Answer: all liposuction now is done with tumescent fluid, but sometimes they use local anesthesia in the tumescent fluid and sometimes not, JG 3.6.08
And is this usually only an issue w/the chin or face area?
Answer: can happen anywhere liposuction is done, some areas like the inner thighs are more prone to it though. JG 3.6.08
Does liposuction in the chin area somehow damage the skin so that it doesn`t have the support system it once had and that`s what causes the premature sagging later or is it only because of the fat that was once there and stretched the skin? Also, why is it that just weight loss would make it less likely to sag?
Answer: anytime liposuction is done, some of the suspensary structures from the skin to the underlying tissue are severed and do not reform, so the amount of suspension after a liposuction is less than with weight loss alone, so skin will always shrink better with weight losss than with a surgical procedure, no matter how minimally invasive. JG 3.6.08
What is your opinion of mesotherapy?
Answer: waste of money. JG 3.6.08
F l e x E f f e c t� facial resistance training-Can something like this actually work?
Answer: nope. JG 3.6.08
Dear Dr. Garcia, Other than sunscreen/sunblock, diet and good hydration, what are other arsenals to have to help fight the aging process? Can you give us some good examples for both sexes that are affordable, known to work and you would use as well? Thanks in advance for those of us journeying through the process and want to be well educated.
Answer: please see adjacent answer. JG 3.5.08
Also,as to the question below I`m in my mid 30`s. Also, does the liposuction create a tightening of the skin that so many website proclaim? thanks so much!
Answer: liposuction does not cause skin to tighten, removing the fat allows the skin to shrink if it is in good shape since the fat is gone but the process of liposuction itself does not tighten skin that was loose. JG 3.5.08
Dear Dr. Garcia, Other than the obvious things like sunblock, good diet and hydration,what other things would you condsider to be the utmost items in our arsenal against the aging journey? This could be for men or woman and internal and/or external and affordable to the average person as well. What do the anti aging soldiers need the most???
Answer: no smoking, maintian good body weight, orally I think CoQ 10, Vitmain E,C, B complex, Omega 3 fish oils,topical DMAE, topical Vitamin C. JG 3.5.08
Is the inner thigh area when liposuctioned at great risk for leaving behind sagging skin? thanks.
Answer: it is one of the higher risk areas, yes. JG 3.5.08
What is the difference between Active FX and Fraxel Restor e- do you recommend Fraxel - I want something for mainly around my mouth and bottom half of my face
Answer: I do not recommmend either, I think the differences are small to none. I prefer Rhytec Portrait or CO2 laser there. JG 3.5.08
I have a question for myself this time. I am 40, I have had irregular periods for most of my life. I also have diabetes, underactive thyroid. I am talking medication for both. I am taking the generic version of synthroid 100mcg. I have been taking it for almost 1 year now and I am still tired. Actually for the first 6 months I felt great. Now I am tired again and even though I did lose 40 pounds a few months after starting the synthroid, I can`t seem to lose anymore even though I don`t eat much. I also have major unwanted facial hair. I have to shave once a day. My ob/gyn did hormone tests and said they were fine. I don`t see that doctor anymore, so I don`t know what my levels were. Laser hair removal seems to be my only option, but it`s so expensive and I can`t afford it. I don`t think vaniqua would help either. Could there possibly still be something wrong with my hormones? Thank You
Answer: Yes there could be an imbalance in your hormones. It sounds as if there is. I would suggest finding a qualified physician in your area to help you determine your needs and properly treat you. Go to http://www.worldhealth.net/p/51.html This will help you locate someone in your area. JJP 3/5/08
Hi Doctor, I have a follow up to the post I made earlier. My fiance who is 45 with diabetes had his testosterone checked due to no sex drive and no energy. The doctor ordered 1 shot of 100mg per month to see if he can raise it up to 500, which he was tested at 305 (complete testosterone). He was feeling great, full of energy, still no sex drive however. After 6 days, he crashed. He even left work early because he was just plain tired. He went back to the doctor that night, but saw another doctor. This one believes in super aggressive measures. He gave him another shot of 100mg and prescribed the testim gel due to insurance not covering the shot. Again, he feels great. He even felt a little desire but could not maintain an erection. The desire lasted maybe 2 minutes. At least it`s a start. My question to you is, how long does it usually take for the sex drive to come back. He`s on testim 50mg per day. Is it possible, because of his diabetes that he will need to take cialis or viagra to maintain an erection. And the testim just makes him want to have sex. Or should the testim be enough for both? Sorry for the long winded post.
Answer:
im in my early twenties and my skin seems really thin anyhting i can do?
Answer: sunblock, no sun exposure or smoking, light dose of Retin-A. JG 3.5.08
my plastic surgoen said he cant do ipl on my face because of my skin type but i m dark at all im pretty fair? what does this mean
Answer:
my plastic surgoen said he cant do ipl on my face because of my skin type but i m dark at all im pretty fair? what does this mean
Answer: You are not giving me enough information. If you are of African American desent even partially, then you are a skin type 6 by definition. It does not matter how fair your skin is in this situation. You run a greater risk of complications. JJP 3/5/08
im 22 yrs old and my skin seems really thin and i seem to gain weight everywhere but my face is there anything i can do to gain weight on my face??
Answer: Unfortunately, No. JJP 3/5/08
So, if I were to exercise and lost the chin pudge- would I still have the same result with the possibilty of premature aging in that area because the fat was still decreased?
Answer: no, the skin would be tighter if you lost the weight with diet and exercise. JG 3.4.08
For me, I am 36 and I have a fat pad just under my chin. I think that because I have a small chin I notice it more-not so much when I have my head up as when I have it pointing downward. I don`t have a thick neck. Thanks for your reply.
Answer: could do liposuction, hard to say without seeing you in person. JG 3.4.08
So, asthetically speaking- is the chin one of your least favorite places to do lipo? I`m just trying to decide if having a little pudge is the lesser of the two. Thanks so much for all your responses.
Answer: no, I enjoy doing it, it is just a matter of telling people about the risks and then letting them decide. If someone has had a very full neck for years and years and is a little older, they will look better for sure, but in time as that skin had been prematurely stretched by the fat, it will sag sooner than not. Ideally it would be a very young person and very little fat, but that is not a usual patient for neck liposuction. Usually the people that want it are older and have very thick necks, and in those, at times what is needed is a neck or facelift to remove the fat and redrape the skin.JG 3.4.08
Dr. Pierce: I thank you for your last answer. A friend recently mentioned Cutera Lazer . Can you tell me anything about the procedure and downtime, number of treatments to be effective, results and approx.cost . Thank you in advance, CJ
Answer: I reallly cannot in good conscience as I do not believe it is worth the investment. JG 3.4.08
ive gotten many broken capillaries on my face from obagi ipl laser can remove them but is this permanent? if not Y?
Answer: nothing is permanent for that condition. The blood vessels will reopen again in time most likely as once established, they cannot be removed without causing a scar. JG 3.4.08
i want to use ipl to remove some brown spots how long will the results last?
Answer: as long as you avoid sun and flourescent lights, a long time. JG 3.4.08
I have a bulging vein on the left side of my forehead. Is there anything that can be done to get rid of it?
Answer: not really because removing it could cause swelling on a permanent basis. JG 3.4.08
on the question below...if you have it done in your 30`s is there still a chance that it will accelerate aging in the neck area when you get older?
Answer: less, but it still depends on the amount taken out and how long it was heavy for. JG 3.4.08
Will liposuction on the chin cause the skin there to age faster as you get older because of the lack of fat? thanks.
Answer: potentially yes, especially in older patietns with a lot of fat removed. JG 3.3.08
Dr. Garcia, can you please tell me what can get rid of spider veins on the nose. Thank you.
Answer: YAG laser, IPL, hyfercator, but they are all temporary. JG 3.3.08
Are Suzanne Costa`s products for fat loss or stretch marks any good?
Answer: do not think so. JG 3.3.08
Dear Dr. Pierce, Are there any studies on the potential, LONG-TERM side effects of a CO2 laser treatment? If no studies, what are your observations? I.e., what will happen to the skin after 5-10-15 years? Will the skin be: a) Thinner b) Have lots of small, superficial wrinkles c) Be very sensitive to sun. d) Other? AND: Can a CO2 laser treatment SAFELY be repeated as many times as one might wish? Thanks a lot! Kind regards, Rozeta Andersson
Answer: the skin will continue to age and thin as that is part of the aging process. It should not change the sensitivity to the sun either. Whether it can be repeated depends on how deep they go, also the older you are the lesser the response to it so the second treatment will not give the same results as the first one. JG 3.3.08
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