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Skin Care

UV Safety Awareness Month at Abraham Family Medicine

mother-daughter-at-beachNow that the summer is officially here, it’s important to be aware of the Sun’s UV rays and the potential risk of skin cancer. Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer diagnosed in the US each year. While protecting your skin from the Sun is most important during the summer due to warmer temperatures and more time spent outdoors, the truth is that it is imperative to take the necessary steps to protect yourself year-round. That’s why the healthcare providers at Abraham Family Medicine wanted to provide some easy steps on how to reduce your risk of developing skin cancer:

  • Be mindful of the time of day. The Sun is at its strongest between 10 am and 4 pm Daylight Saving Time (or 9 am and 3 pm standard time).
  • Use a broad spectrum (UVA/UVB) sunscreen with a minimum of SPF 30 every day, year-round. On days when you plan to be outside for an extended period of time, we recommend using a water-resistant, broad spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher. Reapply often during the day.
  • When possible, wear clothing that will protect your skin like long-sleeved shirts, pants, wide-brimmed hats, and sunglasses.
  • Be extra cautious around surfaces that reflect like water and sand that can lead to an increased risk of sunburn and skin damage.
  • Do not use tanning beds, as their ultraviolet light can cause premature skin aging and greatly increase the risk of skin cancer.
  • Perform regular self-examinations of your skin and do not hesitate to speak with a healthcare provider if you notice any irregular spots on your skin.

When looking out for skin cancer, it can be very helpful to use the ABCDE system of detecting irregular marks on the skin. “A” is for asymmetry. “B” is for an irregular or poorly defined border. “C” is for odd or varying colorization. “D” is for a diameter of 6mm or greater. And “E” is for evolving marks that change over time.

Like any other form of cancer, the earlier that skin cancer is detected and diagnosed, the easier it is to treat. These precautions are especially important for people with a family history of skin cancer. Regardless of whether you notice any unexpected changes or marks on your skin, we recommend visiting with a doctor at least once a year for a professional skin exam to make sure that your skin is healthy. For more information on skin health or if you would like to schedule an appointment, please contact Abraham Family Medicine today. Our office is located in Snellville, not far from Grayson, Dacula, Lilburn and Loganville.

Protect Your Skin During UV Safety Awareness Month

checking-mole-on-backWe hope everyone is having an excellent start to their summer. This is the time of year when it is most important to be aware of the power of the sun and the impact that its UV rays can have on your skin. Skin cancers including basal cell carcinomas, squamous cell carcinomas, and melanomas are the most common type of cancer in the US according to the American Academy of Dermatology. In honor of UV Safety Awareness Month this July, the healthcare providers at Abraham Family Medicine thought now would be the perfect time to provide tips about how our readers can effectively reduce their risk of developing skin cancer.

Limit Exposure To Direct Sunlight

We know that the summer season can mean lots of time spent outdoors at the pool, beach, and other outdoor happenings. However, it’s important to try to limit direct sun exposure when possible. This means wearing protective clothing (including hats) and sunglasses when spending extended time out in the sun. Try to find a shady spot, especially when outdoors between 10AM and 4PM when the sun is strongest.

Be Aware Of Your ABCDE’s

This helpful mnemonic device can help people detect changes in their skin that can potentially be cancerous:

  • A – Asymmetry. Does your mole or spot have an irregular shape or two parts that look very different?
  • B – Border. Does your spot have an irregular or jagged border?
  • C – Color. Is the coloring uneven?
  • D – Diameter. Any mole or spot bigger than the size of a pea is worth monitoring.
  • E – Evolving. It’s very important to be aware of any changes the mole or spot has undergone.

Never Skip The Sunscreen

Dermatologists recommend applying some level of SPF protection year-round, and the summer is obviously no exception to this. We recommend using a water-resistant, broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher when spending extended time outdoors and re-applying every 2 hours (or more frequently if swimming or sweating heavily).

Make Annual Screening Appointments

Screening for skin cancer testing is the most important step in protecting yourself against skin cancer. Doing so can help detect potential irregularities and find skin cancers when they are still in their earliest and most treatable stages. While we typically recommend being screened annually, it’s important to be screened as soon as possible if you have noticed any irregular growth.

While the prevalence of skin cancer may seem scary, the truth is that nearly 90% of all skin cancer cases are preventable with the right care and precautions. We hope these tips help all of our readers enjoy their outdoor summer fun as safely and responsibly as possible. For more information on skin cancer or other health and wellness topics, please contact Abraham Family Medicine today to schedule an appointment. Our office is located in Snellville, not far from Grayson, Dacula, and Lilburn.

The Cutting Edge of Laser Hair Removal

Laser hair removal has seen astonishing breakthroughs in recent years thanks to technological advancements in the field. What was once considered a specialty procedure for only very specific skin and hair types has surged to become one of the five most sought after non-surgical procedures in America and continues to grow. Industry experts expect the number of laser hair removal procedures to exceed 2.5 million next year alone. As laser hair removal treatments continue to become more affordable, faster and (most importantly) safer than ever before, the rapid growth of procedures in America is unlikely to dwindle. Despite several available options, perhaps no laser hair removal system offers the same astounding results as the Cutera® excel HR™ hair removal system.

The Cutting Edge of Laser Hair RemovalThe Cutera® excel HR™ laser hair removal system stands at the absolute cutting edge of laser hair removal. Unlike treatments in the past, excel HR™ treatment can be customized for specific skin tones. Patients can expect treatment minimal discomfort and astonishing, fast results. Additionally, the excel HR™ hair removal system laser has a built-in cooling system that provides unparalleled levels of safety, efficacy and patient comfort.

How it Works

The Cutera® excel HR™ combines Cutera’s proven long-pulse 1064 nm Nd:YAG laser and a new high-power 755 nm Alexandrite laser with the superiority of sapphire contact cooling to target unwanted hair from the face and body and leave the patient’s skin feeling smooth and replenished. The unique wavelength ranges have the benefit of allowing specialized treatment for patients of various skin tones with the added benefit of being located within the same laser system.

Additional Benefits

One of the main distinguishing characteristics of the excel HR™ laser technology system is the fact that it is capable of treating multiple skin conditions in addition to hair removal. The Cutera® excel HR™ laser can also safely treatment age/brown spots on the skin that develop over time due to exposure to the sun. Additionally, it can effectively help to reduce unsightly spider veins that appear on the face and legs. With sustained, long-lasting results, the the Cutera® excel HR™ eliminates the need for uncomfortable shaving and waxing entirely.

Adjusting to change may not always be easy, but we at Abraham Medical Cosmetics believe that as these technological breakthroughs continue, the benefits to our patients will only increase. Check back here periodically for updates and monthly specials regarding laser hair removal and the Cutera® excel HR™ and as always, please contact Dr. Ben Abraham at Abraham Medical Cosmetics with any questions, concerns or curiosities you may have.

The Next Generation of Anti-Aging: CerumWORX™

Untitled-1New to the Abraham Medical Cosmetic skincare line this year are two great anti-aging products, CerumWORX™ Day and DermWORX™ Night Serum. Using a powerful antioxidant formula, CerumWORX™ helps rejuvenate, smooth, and soften your skin! When searching the skincare market for the best products to reduce signs of aging, it can be hard to differentiate between what ingredients are beneficial and which ones aren’t. Luckily CerumWORX™ contains a specialized formula of antioxidants to deliver powerful results!

Antioxidants help to protect the skin by reducing the amount of free radicals it produces (these free radicals can be damaging to skin cells) and everything in between from anti-inflammation benefits to toning and tightening the skin’s overall appearance, in a natural way. CerumWORX™ softens, renews, refreshes, and refortifies the skin by delivering these anti-aging benefits in unique biodegradable single-use capsules that provide maximum potency in a day and night application.

To make this Valentine’s Day extra sweet, we’re featuring DermWORX™ skincare as our featured product of the month. From now until February 29th, 2016, purchase our NEW DermWORX™ Package and receive: CerumWORX™ Day Serum + DermWORX™ Night Serum Package (60-day supply) for only $125!

CerumWORX™ Day Serum

  • Smooths and softens the skin
  • Combines the powers of antioxidants, peptides, and phytonutrients to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles
  • Delivers maximum potency of Vitamin C, Vitamin E, and plant polyphenols to ensure lasting results
  • Improves the skin’s elastic and evens skin tone
  • Repairs and protects against visible sun damage

CerumWORX™ Night Serum

  • Smooths skin and boosts moisture
  • Combines antioxidants, phytonutrients, natural lipids, and smoothing agents to renew the skin’s appearance
  • Improves the skin’s hydration and elasticity
  • Reduces the appearance of wrinkles
  • Repairs and protects against visible sun damage

Believe it or not our skin works to rejuvenate itself even when we’re asleep – employing a great skincare routine that supports the skin’s work around the clock is beneficial to maintaining skin that feels and looks smooth and healthy. Our skin does so much for us on a daily basis, why not treat it to the TLC it deserves? Also this month we’re featuring specials on some of our additionally-popular anti-aging treatments (Botox® and chemical peels):

  • Buy ONE area of Botox®, get ½ OFF the second area
  • Buy TWO areas of Botox®, get third area FREE
  • Receive a FREE NEOCUTIS NEOˑPEEL (a $99 value) when you purchase $99 in ANY skincare products (patients must be at least 18 years old to receive a NEOCUTIS NEOˑPEEL treatment)!

All of our specials are good until February 29th, 2016 (while supplies last; some exclusions may apply). If you are interested in learning more about CerumWORX™, our complete cosmetic skincare treatments, or monthly specials, please don’t hesitate to contact Susan or Lisa at 770-978-1161. Don’t forget to connect with the Abraham Medical Cosmetic providers on Facebook, Twitter, and Google+ for more skincare news, specials, and updates!

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Combat Winter Skin with Age-Defying Treatments

Just because the weather is getting colder and we’re spending more time indoors doesn’t mean our skin is protected from winter’s harsh effects. Dry, cracked, and dull skin can leave your face feeling tight and uncomfortable if you’re not providing the skin with the moisture it needs the most, and nobody should have to deal with that! Since your skin is constantly repairing itself around the clock, why not treat it to the TLC it needs? Whether you’re trying to correct sun damage from outdoor summer activities or smooth signs of aging, Abraham Medical Cosmetics want to help you revitalize your winter skin with age-defying treatments and skincare specials.

abraham medical cosmeticsOne of the most noticeable changes to the skin during the winter is excessive dryness. As the humidity outside decreases so does the moisture in our skin. Indoor heaters may feel warm and cozy, but that too is drying our skin and leaving it dull and aged. Luckily, a combination of rock-star medical grade skincare products and anti-aging treatments can help restore your skin’s luster. This month we are featuring chemical peels and DermWORX™ skincare products for our January skincare specials!

Chemical peels work to improve the tone and texture of your skin by removing damaged, outer layers of skin with chemical solutions. They specifically combat sun damage (age spots), acne, fine lines, wrinkles, and uneven skin tones with little to no downtime required and can be customized for your unique skin type and concerns. Start your New Year with a newer, fresh appearance and try a chemical peel for yourself; receive a FREE NEOCUTIS NEOˑPEEL (a $99 value) when you purchase $99 in ANY skincare products (patients must be at least 18 years old to receive a NEOCUTIS NEOˑPEEL treatment)!

To maintain your new results you’ll want to compliment your treatment with an effective skincare routine. Many of our medical-grade skincare products offer great anti-aging benefits to promote healthy, new skin and one of the main reasons we suggest combining products with our treatments to yield the best possible cosmetic results. Discover the healing qualities of DermWORX™ and treat your feet to some at-home pampering. All month long, take advantage of our DermWORX™ skincare package and receive MoistureWORX™ Heel & Elbow Intensive Cream + MoistureWORX™ Callus Remover & Smoothing Device for $50.

If you’re looking to take the next step in anti-aging but aren’t ready for cosmetic plastic surgery procedures to revive your youthful looks, cosmetic injectables may be the answer. Less invasive procedures like Botox® Cosmetic have given patients the ability to target fine lines and wrinkles around/between the eyes and on the forehead. Botox® injections are FDA-approved for patients 18 years old and up and patients see immediate results following treatment that can last up to four months. Treat your skin to Botox® this January and save:

  • Buy ONE area of Botox®, get ½ OFF the second area
  • Buy TWO areas of Botox®, get third area FREE

Our specials are valid through January 31, 2016 – while supplies last; some exclusions may apply. For more details on our winter specials or the services and treatments we offer, or to book your next appointment, give Susan or Lisa a call at 770-978-1161! Be sure to stay connected with the Abraham Medical Cosmetics team on Facebook, Twitter and Google+ for the latest skin care specials and news.

Pamper Yourself and Your Mom this Spring

Spring has arrived!  Now is the perfect time to rejuvenate your appearance and get a jump start on the perfect Mother’s Day present for the special women in your life.  Now through April 30th, 2013, you can save 20% OFF SkinPhD™ rejuvenating facials (normally $80) when you and a friend book facial appointments.  We’re also offering special spring savings on Botox® and Radiesse® for wrinkles as well as makeovers with Jane Iredale® cosmetics.

Make sure to see our specials detailed in the April Issue of the Gwinnett Citizen on newsstands now.  To schedule your cosmetic treatment, contact Susan or Lisa by calling 770-978-1161.  You can also connect with Abraham Medical Cosmetic on Facebook, Twitter, and Google + for the latest Snellville, GA cosmetic treatment news and specials.

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Abraham Medical Cosmetics’ Injectable Facial Rejuvenation Options Explained

abraham medical cosmeticsAs we age the processes that once allowed our skin the elasticity and smoothness of youth begin to slow. Collagen, the scaffolding behind the skin that makes it appear firm and supple, is not as ample as in our youth and damage from unprotected sun exposure and the environment begin to take a toll on the way our skin looks. Along with the effects of age, repeated facial expressions can deepen lines around the brows, eyes, nose, and mouth.

Facial injectables like Botox® Cosmetic and Dysport® and facial fillers like Restylane® and Radiesse® work with your body to help smooth wrinkles and replump areas that have lost volume with time.

Botox® and Dysport® are two variations of dermal injectables that help to smooth fine lines and wrinkles in between the eyes and forehead. They are both made from purified strains of the botulinum toxin and work by temporarily relaxing the muscles that cause crow’s feet, frown lines, and forehead wrinkles.

For the other areas of the face, Restylane® and Radiesse® are fillers that can be injected around the nose, mouth, and cheeks to restore the volume and suppleness that our skin loses as we age. These fillers also refine creases, fine lines, and wrinkles to give you a younger-looking visage instantly. Radiesse® even boosts the body’s natural collagen production rate so results last longer!

Dermal injectables are an excellent option for those who may not be ready for more extreme anti-aging measures like plastic surgery, but still want to renew and refresh their appearance.  Contact us for more information on facial injectables or other wrinkle reduction treatments at Abraham Medical Cosmetics.

You Asked, We Answered: Your Questions about Chemical Peels

How Does a Chemical Peel Benefit My Skin?

Chemical peels use specific acidic combinations to help smooth your facial skin and even out its tone and texture. During the treatment, a compound is applied to the facial skin and left on for a predetermined amount of time. The chemicals penetrate the skin and lift the dead external layer of skin while boosting collagen production in the deeper dermal layers.

After the treatment, the skin begins to slough the damaged outer layer of skin, hence the name “peel.” A chemical peel can eliminate signs of aging like fine lines, sun spots, and acne scarring. Each peel is customized for each patient’s skin type and skin condition(s).

How long does a chemical peel treatment last?

Most treatments last from 30 minutes to an hour allowing many patients to schedule their treatments during their lunch breaks and return to work afterward.

Is there any downtime with a chemical peel?
Depending on the strength of the peel applied, you may notice skin redness and irritation. However these side effects should subside by the day after treatment. The dead and damaged outer layers of skin will begin to peel soon afterward. These minor side effects generally do not impede everyday activities, and most patients return to their routines immediately.

Which peel will give me the best results?

During a consultation, one of our Snellville skin treatment providers will take your skin type and any skin conditions into consideration and determine the best chemical peel to achieve your desired cosmetic goals. Whether you’re looking to eliminate the signs of aging, reduce facial scarring associated with acne, or reduce sun spots, we have a chemical peel that suits your needs and can rejuvenate your look.

For more information on chemical peels, other cosmetic treatments like hair removal and fat reduction, or to schedule your consultation, contact us. We’re also on Facebook and Twitter, so make sure to follow us to stay up to date on our events and news!

What Can I Do About Mild to Moderate Signs of Aging Besides Plastic Surgery?

Abraham Medical Cosmetics offers multiple solutions for wrinkle reduction for those who may not want or be ready for a more invasive cosmetic surgery procedure. Photofacial rejuvenation uses intense pulsed light (IPL) to reduce the appearance of many skin conditions that often show our age: fine lines, hyperpigmentation (sun spots), and even acne scarring.

Our ReFirme™ skin tightening system works to tighten areas of lax skin that may make us appear tired or older than we are from sagging brow skin, under-eye bags, and wrinkles around the nose and mouth. As we age our skin loses collagen, the scaffolding that keeps tissue supple and young-looking. However, treatments with ReFirme™ help to increase collagen production to rebuild the underlying structure in the skin, giving it a tighter and firmer appearance.

Light and laser treatments generally need multiple sessions for patients to see full results, though these results can last up to two years. Immediately after treatments, patients often notice a difference in the feeling of their skin and see full results after just one treatment.

We also offer facial injectables to help slow the signs of aging that work within the skin to relax the muscles that cause wrinkles or replump areas of lost volume. After years of repeated facial expressions, our skin tends to furrow or wrinkle around the eyes and forehead, hence the cause of crow’s feet, laugh lines, and furrowed brow lines. Botox® and Dysport® are both made from purified Botulinum and work by relaxing the muscles beneath the skin that are often the culprit of the fine lines that show our age.

As collagen production slows, certain areas of the face and even the hands begin to become hollowed out or lose volume. Facial fillers like Radiesse® and Restylane® fill these areas to reduce the appearance of wrinkles and rejuvenate a youthful visage. Radiesse® has an added benefit as it boosts collagen growth to continue the anti-aging process for up to a year after initial injection.

Patients who choose dermal injectables like Botox® and Dysport® will see results within 4 days of treatment, with full results visible around 10-14 days after treatment. Botox® users’ results generally last for 3-4 months, while Dysport® users can see results for up to 4-6 months. Radiesse® and Restylane® users will notice results immediately that will last 6 months to a year.

For more information on wrinkle reduction treatments or to schedule a consultation, contact us. We’re also on Facebook and Twitter with regular news and updates.

Ready for a Fall Makeover? Join Abraham Medical Cosmetics for Makeover Mania!

Do your cosmetics highlight your flawsabraham medical cosmetics instead of hiding them? Is your skin sensitive to makeups? Does your makeup fail at covering up your acne, rosacea, or wrinkles? Jane Iredale® cosmetics are the perfect solution to your makeup woes.

Abraham Medical Cosmetics will host Makeover Mania on Wednesday, October 26 featuring Jane Iredale ® mineral makeup. For those who register in advance, we’ll be performing makeovers with Jane Iredale® cosmetics, and a representative from the brand will be here to explain the benefits and hand out free samples. We’ll also have coupons available for $200 off Zerona fat reduction treatments at $50 off Botox®, Radiesse®, and Restylane® dermal injectables.

Jane Iredale® mineral makeup is perfect for all skin types—oily, aging, dry, rosacea-prone, etc. If you want to conceal it, Jane Iredale® cosmetics are for you. Mineral makeups from Jane Iredale® have been sensitivity tested and have virtually no allergy risk. They are non-comedogenic and won’t block pores while providing SPF 30, broad-spectrum UVA and UVB protection from sun damage.

We are also offering a $200 off coupon for Zerona fat and cellulite reduction. Using a cold laser technology, Zerona emulsifies subcutaneous fat cells so the fat leaves the cells creating a smoother, tighter silhouette.

Also available for Makeover Mania attendees is a $50 off coupon for Botox® Cosmetic dermal injectable and Radiesse® and/or Restylane® facial fillers. Botox® works to reduce wrinkles by relaxing the muscles in the forehead and eyebrows that cause furrows and lines, while Radiesse® and Restylane® are facial fillers that fill areas of lost volume around the nose and mouth.

Join us for a makeover event to top them all—a mania! Register for a Jane Iredale® cosmetics makeover by calling Abraham Medical Cosmetics at (770) 978-1161. You can also connect with us on Facebook and Twitter to stay up to date on all our latest news and events.

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