Since they were first approved in the late 1990s for addressing cosmetic concerns, neuromodulators (botulinum toxin type A) have been considered the gold standard for relaxing and softening wrinkles. Recently, we introduced a new technique called “microtox”. This treatment does not replace the traditional neuromodulator injections that target muscle movement, but instead, is a superficial treatment that affects the skin. During your consultation, we’ll discuss your cosmetic concerns and guide you to see if neuromodulators from our Toronto practice would be the most suitable option for you. First, let’s take a look at the difference between standard neuromodulator treatments and microtox.

• Traditional Neuromodulator Injections
  Repeated facial expressions such as smiling, frowning, and squinting will cause your skin to form expression wrinkles, typically around the eyes, forehead and brow. Initially, you will see the wrinkles only when using the muscles that cause these expressions, but eventually, also in a resting state when those muscles are not being used. With traditional treatment, neuromodulators are injected right into the muscles to relax muscle movement and are the most effective way to temporarily minimize these wrinkles.
• Microtox
  Microtox is a treatment that consists of injecting tiny amounts of neuromodulator into the skin superficially. Unlike traditional neuromodulator treatments into muscle, microtoxing focuses on the skin as a skin renewal treatment and does not affect wrinkles or muscle movement. It is used over large areas such as the face, neck and chest to enhance the overall quality of the skin. It improves texture and tone, minimizes pore size by shrinking enlarged oil glands, decreases oil and facial sweat production, and helps control the redness and flushing associated with rosacea.
• Enhanced Combination Treatment
  Traditional neuromodulator treatments and microtox can definitely be used together and result in a refreshed, natural-looking appearance with enhanced skin texture and radiance.

Need more advice on what’s involved in having neuromodulators from our Toronto-based practice? We can help you get started and choose the best injectable for your specific concerns. Find out more about cosmetic treatments from our Gidon Aesthetics & MediSpa office by calling us at 416-483-4541 or fill out a contact form to request a consultation.

Gidon Aesthetics and MediSpa - Center for Laser Skin Resurfacing, Laser Skin Tightening and Cellulite Treatment. Cosmetic Dermatology practice of Dr Martie Gidon in Toronto providing a wide range of laser and light based therapies.

Intense pulsed light (IPL), also known as a photofacial, is a popular treatment to rejuvenate your skin, reverse sun damage spots and enhance your skin’s overall quality with minimal recovery time. The good news is, you don’t need to do much preparation for light-based treatments such as IPL from our Toronto practice but there are still some things that patients should be aware of to ensure the best cosmetic results. When you consider having this procedure, here are some points to remember for the days and weeks leading up to your treatment and afterwards.

• Avoid direct, unprotected sunlight
  You cannot be tanned before your IPL treatment to prevent burning and you must avoid the sun for 3 weeks after treatment to prevent pigmentation. In the weeks before your IPL session, limit your sun exposure as much as possible, so sunbathing and tanning beds are a no-go. Wear broad-spectrum sunscreen at all times, cover up your skin with protective clothing, don’t venture out when the sun’s rays are most intense, and wear sunglasses and wide-brimmed hats.
• Don’t wax
  Refrain from waxing the treatment areas one week before or after IPL to avoid irritation.
• Take antiviral medication if you are prone to cold sores
  If you have a history of cold sores, Dr. Gidon will prescribe antiviral pills to prevent a flare.
• Be aware of increased photosensitivity
  After your treatment, your skin is more sensitive to ultraviolet and blue lights. Some medications make your skin more sensitive to sunlight and significantly increase the risk of pigmentation. Examples include certain antibiotics such as tetracycline and sulfa. Blue light emitted from devices such as computer screens and cell phones can cause pigmentation, so not only is mineral-based sunscreen important even when you are indoors, but products containing iron oxide, found in foundation makeup and mineral-based powders, should also be worn. It’s best to speak to Dr. Gidon beforehand for specific instructions.
• Combination treatments may result in several days’ down time
  Dr. Gidon often likes to combine IPL treatments with other procedures, depending on a patient’s concerns. Light chemical peels, microdermabrasion or fractional laser treatments can be performed during the same session as IPL and may result in some downtime. These combination treatments are discussed beforehand so you can arrange your time accordingly.

Interested in learning more information about the benefits of IPL treatments? Reach out to our Gidon Aesthetics & MediSpa team by calling us at 416-483-4541 or fill out a contact form.

Gidon Aesthetics and MediSpa - Center for Laser Skin Resurfacing, Laser Skin Tightening and Cellulite Treatment. Cosmetic Dermatology practice of Dr Martie Gidon in Toronto providing a wide range of laser and light based therapies.

Have you noticed that your skin is drier during the Toronto winter months? Lower temperatures outside, decreased humidity and indoor forced air heating all contribute to water loss in the skin. The result is dry, flaky, itchy, uncomfortable and unattractive skin. Dry skin also has less resilience and is more prone to wrinkling. Several skincare products need to be switched during different seasons. The light-weight moisturizer that you use during the summer may not be rich enough for you in winter. As well, your face and body require different products for optimal results. Dermatologist Dr. Martie Gidon, Director of Gidon Aesthetics & MediSpa, shares some tips to help you prevent dryness and maintain a clear, healthy complexion throughout the winter season.

1. Prevent Dry Skin

Pass up those long, hot showers and use warm water instead for 5 to 10 minutes. Use a mild, fragrance-free hydrating body cleanser and exfoliate your body at least once a week so moisturizers can penetrate more effectively. Gently pat your skin dry with a soft towel.

2. Upgrade Your Body Moisturizing Routine

Ensure you use the appropriate moisturizer for your skin type and use it frequently, especially right after your shower to lock in water. Apply moisturizers that contain humectants, emollients and even occlusive ingredients if you are very dry. What’s the difference amongst these ingredients? Humectants attract water into the skin and include glycerin, hyaluronic acid, ceramides and alpha hydroxy acids. Emollients restore the skin barrier and smooth the skin, and include lipids, oils and shea butter. If your skin is very dry, you can also add a moisturizer containing occlusive ingredients such as silicone, lanolin and white petrolatum to seal in water.

3. Facial Skincare

Wash your face twice a day with a mild, fragrance-free cleanser. Gently pat skin dry and apply products lightest in texture first, such as antioxidant and hyaluronic acid serums. Moisturizer comes next and then sunscreen, yes, even in the winter. Use oil-free products if your skin is oily or acne-prone. At night, add your repair product such as a retinol or glycolic acid and top it with your moisturizer. Don’t forget to treat your neck as well. Remember to exfoliate gently twice a week to remove dead skin cells, improve product penetration and help skin glow. Add a lip balm to prevent chapped lips.

4. Try a Mild Hand Soap

Cold temperatures, frequent hand washing and the use of hand sanitizers all contribute to dry, chapped hands. Use a gentle soap and after washing or using a hand sanitizer, apply moisturizer immediately afterwards. Wear gloves outside and protective gloves indoors for any housework or food preparation. Use a rich hand cream at night and if you are very dry, wear cotton gloves as well.

5. Foot Work

Dry heels are a common concern during the winter. Pumice feet after soaking or bathing, use an AHA moisturizing cream to help exfoliation and top it up with an emollient cream. Pull on some booties for an overnight treatment.

6. Turn on your Home Humidifier

It’s surprising how many patients say they have a humidifier but it isn’t turned on! Although indoor heating keeps you comfortable in your home, the hot, forced air causes dry skin. A humidifier will re-introduce moisture back into the air to help keep your skin hydrated.

7. Drink More Water

Are you drinking enough fluids? Your skin cells are made up of water and just like any other body organ, it won’t function at its best without it. Studies have not proven that drinking eight cups of fluids per day will prevent dry skin, but it does keep our bodies healthier.

8. Wear Comfortable Clothing

Avoid rough clothing next to your skin. Wear soft, cotton fabric and then heavier woollen clothing over it if necessary. Layering is a good idea since you can remove layers to prevent over-heating which is uncomfortable for skin.

Need more advice on your skincare routine? Talk to our team at Gidon Aesthetics & MediSpa for more advice on calming your skin during the colder months. Give us a call at 416-483-4541 or fill out a contact form to learn more.

Gidon Aesthetics and MediSpa - Center for Laser Skin Resurfacing, Laser Skin Tightening and Cellulite Treatment. Cosmetic Dermatology practice of Dr Martie Gidon in Toronto providing a wide range of laser and light based therapies.