My Journey: Martine shares her experience with Fraxel and the Secret RF

Rewriting the history written on the surface of my skin

All my life, despite using expensive skin care products and prescribed medications, I fought acne and scars. So, I decided to have two popular aesthetic skin treatments offered by Kamloops Skin Solutions: Fraxel and Secret RF – microneedling with Radiofrequency. My goal was to achieve the fresh and smooth skin that I always wanted.

Here is my personal experience with these two procedures.

My first treatment was with Fraxel. Although there is a numbing cream applied prior to the treatment, I did feel some discomfort induced by the heat of the laser. After the treatment my skin was pink to reddish in colour for about 4 days. However, any discomfort did not last past the treatment itself.

The results from the course of 4 Fraxel treatments were truly amazing! It changed my skin texture and corrected the pigmentation due to sun exposure and aging. I am a triathlete and do get UV exposure despite carefully applying sunscreens.

The Secret RF treatment was virtually painless. The microneedling device punctures the skin very quickly. The treatment gave a soft pink shade to the skin on my face. The following day everything was mostly back to normal. There was no peeling or sensitivity after the microneedling treatment.

The Secret microneedling tightened my skin and gave me that young and healthier vibe by fading wrinkles and scars. As of now, I have completed 2 of 4 planned treatments.

I am truly happy with both treatments and I can say, without reservation, that it was all worth it!

Learn more about the Secret RF at Kamloops Skin Solutions.

My Journey: Martine shares her experience with Fraxel and the Secret RF2025-02-27T13:18:46-08:00

My Journey – SECRET RF Solution to Stretchmarks

Thank you to our client Megan for sharing her experience with SECRET RF.

As a mom of two beautiful young daughters, I was very excited about the opportunity to have the stretch marks on my abdomen treated using SECRET RF. My stretch marks are a result of my pregnancies. Prior to my first pregnancy, I already had some stretch marks on my lower back and knees as a result of a quick growth spurt when I was a young teenager. I knew I would likely develop stretch marks during pregnancy so I was diligent about applying bio-oil to my belly twice a day throughout both pregnancies. Although my diligence had possibly prevented the stretchmarks from being as severe as my mother’s were, in the end I still had stretch marks covering much of my abdomen.

I accept my stretch marks. However because I had made exercise and fitness a priority in my life, I will admit I was disappointed that I could not change the appearance of my stomach. It often derailed my motivation to remain focused on my core. The bumpy white stretch marks and loose skin were affecting my confidence especially when wearing a two-piece swimsuit.

I had no idea there was even a treatment option for stretch marks. Then I learned about SECRET RF at Kamloops Skin Solutions.

My experience receiving this treatment at Kamloops Skin Solutions was excellent. Dr. Leia-Stephen and Kairah both made me feel so comfortable. The office is warm and welcoming and they are so informative when I asked questions.

At the start of my treatment appointment, a topical anesthetic was applied to my abdomen. I got to sit for an hour in my comfy pants and read a book. An hour of down time was definitely welcomed in my life! Once the treatment began, it went by rather quickly and the ladies were very open and informative about what to expect next, the intensity and adjustments they were making during the treatment. It was not entirely painless but I can say it was quite bearable and well worth the short-term discomfort. As it was my first treatment, I had not taken any painkiller prior so I anticipate that if I take a Tylenol prior to my next treatment I will experience even less discomfort.

The first 24 hours after my first treatment I made a point of wearing clothing that was either loose or had a waistband that sat above or below my abdomen, just to prevent any unnecessary discomfort. My abdomen was feeling similar to how it feels with a mild sunburn. A feeling that faded as the days passed. I moisturized the area with shea butter a few times a day for the following week. The longest lasting effect of the treatment was patch-like markings that faded slowly during the weeks that followed.

It is now six weeks after my initial treatment and my stretch marks are definitely smoother to touch and there is an overall appearance of less loose skin. Any minor discomforts were well worth it. I will return for another treatment soon and I am very excited for the end result.

Learn more about Secret RF!

My Journey – SECRET RF Solution to Stretchmarks2021-05-04T12:25:33-07:00

Celebrate the holidays with gifts from SkinCeuticals

SkinCeuticals has the perfect gifts for skincare lovers. Give the gift of brighter, healthier looking skin to the special people on your list!

  • Cleansers (Simply Clean, Gentle Cleanser, LHA Cleansing Gel and Soothing Cleanser) and Sunscreens (Physical Fusion and Sheer
    Physical) starting under $50
  • Retinol, Phyto Corrective Gel, Retexturing Activator, Daily Moisture and Hydrating B5 Gel starting under $100
  • Holiday Gift Kits including the Lipid Correction Kit and Re-Density Kit starting at $250. (Lipid Correction includes Triple Lipid Restore, A.G.E. Eye Complex and 15ml Retexturing Activator. Re-Density includes A.G.E. Interrupter, A.G.E. Eye Complex and 15ml H.A. Intensifier)

We also have Gift Certificates! Call the clinic today to arrange for a GC in any denomination: 250-372-9995.

Celebrate the holidays with gifts from SkinCeuticals2019-12-10T16:00:20-08:00

Introducing Secret RF

A Novel Fractional Radiofrequency (RF) Microneedling System

The Secret RF is the latest technology in “Collagen Induction Therapies” (CIT). This device is designed to stimulate and remodel collagen and address the common signs of aging.

It’s a combination of microneedling with fractional radiofrequency. This non-invasive, high-tech computerized device created micro punctures in the skin, then delivers precisely controlled heat (energy) into the deeper layers, stimulating collagen growth and remodelling, ultimately firming the skin. The SYNERGISTIC effect of using two treatments simultaneously created a more dramatic response. It will improve mild wrinkles, reduce stretch marks, diminish scars and improve skin tone and texture on both the face and body.

Treatments are usually completed in less than 2 hours; 1 hour dedicated to application of a topical anesthetic and approximately 30 minutes for the therapeutic process. Patients report minimal discomfort during treatment and limited downtime, averaging 1-2 days.

These radiofrequency microneedling treatments are especially effective for treatment of lines around the mouth and eyes (crows feet), sun damage and post acne scarring / pigmentation.

Kamloops Skin Solutions offers the latest in safe and effective therapeutic applications to achieve your health and aesthetic goals. Under the direction of Dr. Maureen Leia-Stephen, it now also offers Secret RF radiofrequency microneedling.

According to Dr. Leia-Stephen, this unique equipment maximizes both service and results for her patients. “We see an increasing number of patients looking for ways to revitalize what aging and sun exposure has done to their skin. While their conditions are common, each patient is unique. Because this new microneedling equipment is so versatile and so precise, we can customize our dermal revitalization treatments to our patient’s unique concerns, events in their lives, time of year and budget.”

Secret RF Microneedling System – NEW at Kamloops Skin Solutions!

Introducing Secret RF2020-04-20T16:45:00-07:00

Listen Up Lips!

Your mouth deserves more than a swipe of lip balm as the weather changes.

At Kamloops Skin Solutions, the lower face and mouth are a common focus of rejuvenation inquiries. Its one of the first places that people notice the signs of aging. The marionette lines (from corner of mouth to jaw) and the nasolabial folds (from nose to corner of mouth) are often the main identifiable changes.

These changes are due to a combination of factors; general loss of volume and lengthening of the upper lip with decrease in thickness. The lips themselves become smaller and thinner. This loss of volume in the lip area can further accentuate the vertical lines from around the mouth (smokers lines). And as the chin recedes with age, it can make the lower lip slip back and look smaller.

Ultimately, the goal of any rejuvenation therapy is to have balance and harmony of the lips and face.

To correct and improve this area, a combination of therapies is often needed. These may include;

BOTOX

Tiny amounts of Botox can reduce the lines above the upper lip, lift the corners of the mouth, evert the upper lip and correct a smile where too much gum tissue shows above the top teeth, known as a ‘gummy smile’.

DERMAL FILLERS

To create balance, often volumization and lift of the lateral face is needed to support the midface (similar to what you achieve when you pull your cheeks toward your ears). Dermal fillers can be used to elevate and soften nasolabial folds and add volume to the lips themselves.

Injecting a bead of filler along the entire outside of the lip (like a lip liner) defines the lip and stretches out the lines. Then a little volume would be added to the body of the lip itself. Sometime this process is staged. Deeper upper lip lines can be individually lifted or filled as can the corners of the mouth.

SKIN TIGHTENING

Fine lines above the upper lip are also reduced with collagen induction and skin tightening therapies such as laser resurfacing, radiofrequency and microneedling. Kamloops Skin Solutions will soon be offering a new technology which is a combination of radiofrequency and microneedling.

RETINOL

Retinol should be a weekly staple of your anti-aging regime as it improves the growth cycle of the skin and stimulates collagen production.

Listen Up Lips!2020-04-20T16:46:21-07:00

What is Pre-Juvination and How to Achieve it?

Shifting perspective related to aging and skin

By Dr. Maureen Leia-Stephen

I often think about the difference between Eastern and Western Traditions. The Japanese esthetic is a lifelong passion for ritualistic wellbeing and beauty. It is about prevention; proactive and pre-emptive strategies to enhance inner beauty and recognition of  the importance of inner peace and enriched lifestyle. When it comes to beauty, what North Americans consider luxury, Koreans consider maintenance. Facials are a part of their daily routine.

Our Western esthetic is to be casual about our skin and lifestyle. Unfortunately, we embrace tanning, alcohol, poor diet, and lack of sleep. We have a tendency to wait until the signs of aging are significant and then search for corrective strategies. At that point the treatments required will often be much more extensive.  Some skin changes may already be irreversible or “precancerous.”

The earlier you begin taking care of your skin, addressing the early signs of aging as they present – or even better, pre-empting them — the less corrective measures you will ultimately need.

Pre-Juvination means starting treatment before aging is evident and it is something most North American’s should be making part of our ritual.  It is about shifting our perspective and habits related to aging and skin.

Step 1: Create a Skin Routine!  Make skin your focus if you want to look naturally radiant. This means developing a daily ritual for cleansing, correcting, and protecting.  Find a good medical grade line of skin care products. Meet with a professional for a skin analysis to determine which products are best for your skin type. Use corrective ingredients (i.e. If you have pigment, something to lighten it. If you have acne, something to decongest.) Incorporate vitamin C and retinol into your daily routine. Most importantly, if you do nothing else, use a sun block!

Step 2: Address Fine Lines Early! They only get worse with time. Consider collagen induction therapies like laser resurfacing, micro-needling, thermage and neuromodulators like Botox and Xeomin.
Collagen induction therapy uses your body’s own healing response as a bio-stimulator to improve the quality of the skin. Neuromodulators will prevent the facial muscle movements from creating deep, permanent lines in areas that are dynamic.

Step 3: Take Corrective Steps Now.  Use corrective strategies for conditions that may get worse over time, such as Rosacea, Melasma, and Photoaging. Understand that you may need a number of different treatments to address the abnormalities. There are benefits to ‘stacking’ treatments, one on top of the other. The synergistic effect of the combination of treatments is well recognized.  These are the most common:  Thermafrax- Thermage immediately followed by Fraxel, and Microneedling immediately followed with Hyaluronic acid

Step 4 – Your Lifestyle Shows!  Habits like tanning or unprotected sun exposure, smoking, drinking, poor diet, insufficient sleep, and no exercise are what we call extrinsic aging factors.  They all  contribute to the breakdown of collagen and elastin in the skin and dermis. Modifying your lifestyle by cutting out these types of habits will inevitably help to maintain the collagen and elastin of your skin.

Step 5: Maintain, Maintain, Maintain!  We lose 1% of our collagen per year starting at age 25.  Healthy and vibrant skin requires commitment to a good daily skin routine.  Once you have achieved your desired treatment goals, maintain your skin care program to reverse collagen loss.

What is Pre-Juvination and How to Achieve it?2019-10-28T14:04:25-07:00

Radiesse: Expanded treatment

Using Radiesse in a New Way – Skin tightening

Think of skin laxity on the neck, décolletage, upper arms, thighs that NO amount of exercise can correct. Finally, there is a non-surgical treatment option that can help!

Kamloops Skin Solutions is offering a new treatment using a proven, extensively studied, well established dermal filler, Radiesse. Radiesse has been licensed by Health Canada since 2005 and is an injectable dermal filler made of calcium-based microspheres suspended in a water-based gel.

This filler is unique because it has two properties;

  • Immediate volume replacement. (just as a traditional Hyaluronic Acid dermal filler does)
  • Stimulation of your own collagen production.

Before

After

The ability to stimulate your body’s own natural collagen and elastin is what makes this product truly unique. It’s the only filler on the market that has this ability. The body progressively replaces the calcium microspheres with type I collagen and elastin so your skin stays firm and contoured and your aesthetic results are sustained.

Recent innovations in treatment show that
when the product is hyper-diluted and injected superficially under aging skin it acts
as a bio-stimulating agent, rather than a volumizer. Collagen and elastin production starts as early as 4 weeks after injection. Ultimately, there is long term tissue remodeling and dermal rejuvenation. There is general
skin tightening with progressive natural dermal thickening (as much as 50% at 3 months.) This means that fine lines, crepiness, and skin laxity is reduced. The tone, elasticity and pliability of skin is markedly improved.

One to three treatment sessions, one month apart may be needed in the first year to achieve optimal aesthetic effects with maintenance of one treatment every 12 – 18 months.

Areas amenable to treatment include:

  • Upper inner arms
  • Thighs, buttocks
  • Neck
  • Décolletage
  • Mid and lower face
  • Abdomen
  • Knees

Treatment can be used in combination with volume augmentation, laser resurfacing and other modalities for optimal results.

Common side effects are related to injection and include bruising, swelling, mild discomfort and induration. Generally, this procedure is very well tolerated with high patient and provider satisfaction.

Radiesse: Expanded treatment2019-07-17T17:55:34-07:00

The Truth About Collagen

Separating fact from fiction more important than ever

Collagen is the most abundant protein in our body, found in bones, muscles, tendons and skin.  It’s what gives our skin its structure.  Unfortunately, like many things over time, Collagen production declines and the collagen we do have breaks down and is depleted.  In fact, we lose approximately 1% of our collagen per year, every year, after the age of 25.  This means the average 50-year-old could experience up to 25% of collagen loss.

Time is not the only enemy, exposure to UV light and smoking increases collagen loss as well.  Sun exposure delivers a double negative to our skin, damaging cells in the epidermal layer as well as increasing the enzymes that denigrate collagen – they are called Metalloproteinases (MMP).  If that were not enough, skin that is sun damaged produces less ‘new’ collagen to replace damaged collagen compared to ‘sun protected’ skin

This is the reason collagen has become a buzzword in so many skin care products and over the counter health supplements in the past few years.  It’s also the reason why separating fact from fiction is more important than ever.

Regardless of your age, the most effective way to safeguard your skin’s structure and appearance is to commit to a good skin care and maintenance program.

Thankfully, there is some plasticity to the aging process. To proactively prevent collagen loss, and reverse past collagen loss; commit to eating a balanced diet, getting plenty of exercise, stop smoking and avoid the sun.  It has been demonstrated that Retinoic Acid (Vitamin A) stimulates collagen production in aged skin.  Topical retinoid improves the appearance of aged and photo damaged skin so it’s worth adding Vitamin A or Retinol to your skin care regimen.

However, if you are looking for other ways to turn back the collagen clock, it is important to know the difference between fact and fiction.

FICTION
-Collagen skin care products do not add collagen to the skin.  The molecules in these products are too large to penetrate the skin and cannot be absorbed.
-Eating collagen will NOT build collagen.  It is simply just a protein that will be broken down in your stomach and will do nothing for the appearance of your skin.

FACT
There are treatment processes referred to as ‘collagen induction therapy’ (CIT).  Essentially these treatments involve creating microinjuries to the skin/dermis whereby the healing process stimulates production of collagen. These include laser resurfacing, microneedling, and radiofrequency.

Fillers such as Radiesse and Scultptra also stimulate collagen growth.

Learn more about collagen treatments available through Kamloops Skin Solutions. Book your consultation today!

The Truth About Collagen2025-02-27T13:18:08-08:00

Daily Routines Help Reverse Signs of Aging

Youthful appearance is more than genetics

There are simple routines anyone can incorporate into their daily lives that will reverse the signs of aging at minimal cost. Invest 5 minutes in the morning and at night and look 5 years younger.

In the morning

Cleanse: Not with a bar of soap. These products contain surfactants that cling to skin and dry it out. Use cleanser appropriate for your skin type. For dry skin, use a cleanser with a milky consistency. For oily or acne prone skin, try a foaming cleanser.

Apply Anti Oxidant: To fight free radicals that damage the skin, use topical Vitamin C. It’s best supplied as a serum and used in small amounts on the face, neck and décolleté. Avoid serums with Vitamin E if you are acne prone. Excellent options are Vivier’s Vitamin C + E or Kine-C and SkinCeuticals Phloretin CF, C E Ferulic, or Serum 10.

Apply Sunscreen: Use a minimum of 30 SPF. Consider using one with Zinc or Titanium for the best protection. Some brands provide tinted versions. Excellent options are Vivier’s Sheer SPF 45 or Skinceuticals Sheer SPF 50 Physical UV Defense (with or without tint).

At night

Cleanse: As above.

Apply Anti Aging Cream: Retinol (Vitamin A) is the most important. It simultaneously causes exfoliation of dull, damaged cells, stimulates growth of new healthy cells, and promotes growth of collagen/elastin. Peptides, Growth Factors, AHAs, BHAs, Antioxidants. (SEE NOTE BELOW)**

Excellent options are SkinCeuticals Retinol, Skin Ceuticals A.G.E. Interupter and Platine’s Peptide CR Creme.

Twice per week

Exfoliate: Face scrubs, facials, peels

How to Apply

When incorporating multiple products in your daily skin care routine, it can be difficult to decide what order to apply them in. Rule of thumb says you should layer products by their consistency going from thinnest to thickest, and always top with sun block and finish with makeup of choice.

Looking for products that make a difference in your daily skin routines? Visit Kamloops Skin Solutions today to browse the skincare products we carry.

**If you have never used Retinol before, start slowly with a lower concentration, once per week for the first month. Over time, increase frequency of use and progress to a higher formulation. Apply a small amount, (dime size), to the face at night, about 30-40 minutes before applying a moisturizer.

SkinCeuticals Retinol 0.3 is a good product to start with. Progressively increase to Retinol 0.5. This is a maintenance dose. If you have significant photo damage, progress to Retinol 1.0% but only after pre conditioning with the other two formulations. For more information regarding Retinol and how to use it, please contact us for a consultation.

Daily Routines Help Reverse Signs of Aging2025-02-27T13:18:08-08:00

What You Didn’t Know About Botox

Benefits for your skin

As people age, the combination of repeated facial expressions together with progressive loss of collagen and elastin cause wrinkling of skin. The loss of collagen and elastin also changes the texture of the skin causing fine lines and “crepiness”.

We love that Botulinum Toxin, aka Botox, releases lines between brows, around the eyes and forehead. It elevates and restores the natural height of the brow.

The added benefit of Botox is that it has been documented in studies to promote the production of collagen and elastin, a pair of proteins that make younger skin tight, firm and flexible. In areas treated with Botox there is increased elasticity and pliability due to the change in composition. The effects last at least 16 weeks post injection.

This effect is similar to treating the skin with Thermage (radio frequency), which heats the dermis, stimulating collagen production.

To get the best cosmetic result, it should be done every three to five months for the first 12 to 18 months. Very few patients will achieve optimal results if it is only used once per year, especially for individuals older than 40. It’s best to start earlier to prevent those deep lines from forming and maintain that relaxation.

From now through to the end of April, enjoy 20% off Botox treatments.
Call today – 250-372-9995

What You Didn’t Know About Botox2019-04-11T18:49:03-07:00

BEFORE AND AFTER

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