Happy “Don’t Fry Day”: Tips for Applying Sunscreen the Right Way

Posted on May 25, 2012 by admin

As National Skin Cancer Awareness Month winds to a close with Memorial Day weekend in which most people will be enjoying time outdoors and by the pool, the National Council on Skin Cancer Prevention coined today as “Don’t Fry Day.” Skin cancer is a dangerous and avoidable disease, and whether or not you develop skin cancer, cumulative sun exposure makes the skin age faster producing fine lines, wrinkles, and sun spots. Therefore, the providers of AYA Medical Spa wanted to offer you a guide to applying sunscreen the right way as well as a guide to the sunscreen products we offer.

Tips for sunscreen application:

  • Consider each part of the body, and be sure not to leave anything out (i.e., the ears are easy to forget but a painful place for sunburn).
  • Use a broad spectrum sunscreen that protects from UVA and UVB rays. Chemical-free products are better for sensitive skin, so look for products that contain titanium dioxide or zinc oxide. Rather than being absorbed by skin, chemical-free products sit on top of the skin causing less irritation.
  • Don’t be fooled by the SPF labeling. In most cases, SPF 30 should suffice as sunscreens with a higher SPF do not provide much additional protection.
  • If you use chemical-based sunscreen, be sure to apply it 20 to 30 minutes before going into the sun to allow time for in to absorb into the skin. This is not required for chemical-free sunscreens.
  • Reapplying sunscreen is vital. We recommend reapplying every 2 hours or after swimming or sweating.
  • For extra protection, use sunscreen before applying makeup, and use makeup with a built-in SPF.

Sunscreen products available at AYA:

We hope you’ll enjoy your long weekend, but don’t forget the sunscreen! Read this blog if you’re wondering what you can do to treat signs of sun damage you’ve already accumulated. For more information about services offered at AYA Medical Spa, visit our website. Connect with us on Facebook, Twitter, and Google+.

Posted in Uncategorized | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

Do-It-Yourself vs. Going to a Medical Spa for Cosmetic Skin Treatments

Posted on May 16, 2012 by admin

It’s human nature to want to do everything yourself, especially if that means saving time and money. Do-it-yourself activities are usually fun and rewarding, but there’s always room for mistake. When you’re reupholstering your sofa, painting your house, or making holiday wreaths, an error may be frustrating but can usually be corrected. However, there are certain things you just shouldn’t do yourself like at-home spa treatments. As recently reported by the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ASAPS), people are purchasing do-it-yourself kits for treatments like microdermabrasion, chemical peels, and laser hair removal online.

Unfortunately, doing skin treatments at home often causes more harm than good. Without experience, cosmetic skin treatments can cause long-term skin damage. In fact, second degree burns have been reported as a result of at-home chemical peel treatments. At-home laser hair removal systems have also been reported to cause burns, skin damage, and even scars. Likewise, over-exfoliation is common with at-home microdermabrasion, which can lead to bleeding. At-home skin treatments can not only be dangerous, but also the equipment and skin care products used are not medical grade.

You should be leery of websites selling prescription-strength products without a prescription as many chemical peel ingredients are prescription-strength. The prescription is needed for a reason. Certain prescriptions can interact with other medications and can cause allergic reactions, so it is important to be seen by a medical professional and discuss any medication (including herbal supplements) before receiving prescription medication. It is also important to understand that at-home spa technologies are not as advanced as technology used in a medical spa. For instance, since AYA Medical Spa is owned and operated through Atlanta Plastic Surgery, P.C., we are able to house top medical-grade technology and products. As the ASAPS article explains, at-home laser hair removal systems boast a 50-70% hair reduction after 5 treatments, while med spa hair removal laser technologies can produce a 70-100% reduction.

The list of reasons why you shouldn’t perform spa treatments at home are endless. There is too much room for error, and since a majority of these treatments are performed on the face, it’s not worth the risk. It is also important to seek the skilled experience of professionals at a reputable medical spa for these services. There are different types of skin care spas with providers of varying credentials, so do your research and make sure you are seeing a licensed provider with ample experience to maximize your results and minimize complications.

The licensed providers of AYA Medical Spa safely provide a variety of cosmetic skin treatments at our Phipps Plaza, Northside, and Newnan locations. By performing a skin analysis on each patient before treatment, we are able to discuss any concerns, answer questions, and ensure we are pursuing the proper protocol based on the patient’s skin condition. We strive to help patients make the best skincare decisions by providing helpful information on our blog, Facebook, Twitter, and Google+, so be sure to connect with us if you haven’t already.

Posted in Skin Care, Uncategorized | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

Facing Summer: Treating and Preventing Sun Damage

Posted on May 7, 2012 by admin

With summer quickly approaching, it’s easy to start thinking about summer activities like lying out by the pool and going to the lake or beach without considering the harmful sun exposure involved in these activities. Although a nice tan may seem more important than protecting the skin during youth, skin cancer is not worth the risk—not to mention the cumulative effects of sun exposure will eventually show up as sun spots, melasma, and wrinkles. It’s important to wear broad spectrum SPF 30 sunscreen every day—rain or shine. In fact, our licensed estheticians suggest patients use a moisturizing sunscreen to further benefit the skin. Although preventing sun damage is vital, there are ways to treat the damage you’ve already accumulated.

We offer a variety of options for reducing the signs of sun damage at AYA Medical Spa. Our services are catered to your needs, so we offer patients a complimentary skin analysis in order to determine which treatment will help them reach their skin care goals. Just like everyone’s skin type and tone is different, everyone’s skin reacts to the sun and ages differently. Some patients may benefit from certain chemical peels or microdermabrasion, while others will see optimal results with FotoFacial RF® or Matrix RF® skin resurfacing treatments.

All of the chemical peels available at AYA Medical Spa improve skin tone, and we can even customize a peel specifically for you. Our Melanage™ peel, known as the Skin Lightening System, is recognized for its ability to improve hyperpigmentation and sunspots while stimulating collagen production to smooth fine lines and wrinkles. Patients who receive this treatment are sent home with a skincare regimen to follow for optimal results. Those with milder sun damage can benefit from treatment with our Luminage peel, also known as the Melanage™ minipeel. Microdermabrasion is another great way to exfoliate the skin and remove superficial imperfections like hyperpigmentation and sun damage while also stimulating collagen production.

Patients who suffer from rosacea along with signs of sun damage can benefit from FotoFacial RF® treatment, and we even offer FotoBody RF® to treat sun damage on the chest, back, arms, and other areas of the body. FotoFacial RF® uses intense pulsed light (IPL) along with radiofrequency energy to improve skin texture and hyperpigmentation. Similarly, our Matrix RF™ technology emits fractionated radiofrequency to erase skin imperfections and smooth irregular textures.

Be sure to wear sunscreen this summer, and further protect your skin by wearing long clothing and hats when you will be in the sun for long periods of time. If you’re interested in taking care of the sun damage you’ve already accumulated, schedule a consultation with one of our licensed estheticians today to find out which treatment will best meet your needs. For skin care news and updates, connect with us on Facebook, Twitter, and Google+.

Posted in Skin Care, Uncategorized | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

Spring Clean Your Beauty Routine with Discounts at AYA Medical Spa

Posted on May 2, 2012 by admin

Now through May 31st, 2012, AYA Medical Spa is offering discounts on several skin care products and services including 15% off all of our sunscreens in recognition of Skin Cancer Awareness Month. Patients who receive a microdermabrasion treatment will receive a FREE Obagi® travel gift set just in time for summer vacation (while supplies last). You can also take advantage of cosmetic injectable rebates for Sculptra® Aesthetic and combination Botox® and Juvéderm® treatment. Additionally, Latisse® eyelash kits can be purchased this month for $99 to produce longer, thicker, and darker eyelashes. If you’re still searching for that perfect Mother’s Day present, be sure to take advantage of our gift certificate special. You can receive a FREE gift certificate valued at $20 with the purchase of a $100 gift certificate. Review the flyer below for more details, or contact us to schedule your consultation today.

Posted in Specials, Uncategorized | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

Laser Hair Removal: Show off Your Skin Instead of Embarrassing Hair

Posted on April 27, 2012 by admin

Wouldn’t it be nice not to have to worry about removing hair for the entire summer—or ever again? No matter which hair removal method you choose (shaving, waxing, threading, etc.), the hair just keeps coming back and you have to remove it all over again. Fortunately, with laser hair removal at AYA Medical Spa you can get as close to permanent results as possible. Laser hair removal is the perfect option for both men and women to get rid of hair on the back, chest, face, legs, arms, underarms, bikini area, or other places you have embarrassing or unwanted hair.

With specialized hair removal lasers, we are able to safely treat a variety of skin tones and complexions. Lasers are attracted to dark pigments, so laser hair removal works best on light skin with dark hair. However, the settings on our lasers can be adjusted specifically for your hair and skin color. In fact, the advanced technology of our GentleMAX™ laser provides faster treatment to safely treat dark skin tones. Similarly, our GentleLASE laser provides a rapid treatment time with an added Dynamic Cooling Device (DCD™) to further maximize comfort and safety. A consultation with one of AYA’s licensed estheticians will help you determine if you are a suitable laser hair removal candidate.

Since lasers are attracted to dark pigments within the hair, they are able to heat the hair follicles and destroy them at the root without damaging the surrounding skin. However, laser hair removal only works while the hair is in the process of growing. During the natural hair growth cycle, some hairs are actively growing while others are resting, which means multiple sessions are necessary for optimal results. The number of sessions required varies from patient to patient and can be determined during a pre-treatment consultation. However, most patients will require 4-6 treatments spaced about 6 weeks apart, and some patients receive up to 8 treatments for maximum results.

Proper aftercare following laser treatments is very important. Patients occasionally report minor itching, redness, and swelling after laser hair removal, but these side effects subside within a few days of treatment. Our licensed estheticians aim to minimize risks and complications, but aftercare is necessary to completely minimize risks. For example, it is important to avoid sun exposure for a few weeks before and a few weeks after laser treatment to reduce the risk of hyperpigmentation. If you can’t completely avoid the sun, wear SPF 30 sunscreen and protective clothing and only stay out as long as you must.

If you’re interested in laser hair removal, contact us today to schedule a consultation. Be sure to review our website to learn more about our other services and skincare specials, and connect with us on Facebook, Twitter, and Google+ if you haven’t already.

Posted in Laser Hair Removal, Uncategorized | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

Natural Ways to Delay Signs of Aging

Posted on April 17, 2012 by admin

Most men and women are in search of a particular treatment or skin care product to keep them looking young. Although we offer a variety of anti-aging skin care products and treatments at AYA Medical Spa, there are natural ways to delay signs of aging. In fact, the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons recently released an article about “the best skin tips you’ve never heard,” which appeared in the April 2012 edition of Allure magazine. Unfortunately, signs of aging eventually arise even with the best intentions. However, we can help you discover healthy habits to help delay signs of aging and treatments to reduce signs of aging when they appear.

Avoiding unnecessary facial expressions that occur when drinking from a straw, smoking, tensing the face during exercise, or chewing gum can help prevent wrinkles from forming. Instead, drink from a squirt bottle or glass rather than a straw, choose a mint over gum, try to focus on relaxing your facial muscles, and avoid smoking all together. Facial fillers are a viable treatment option for wrinkles starting to appear around the mouth, and certain fillers can be injected into the lips to add volume. Other skin tightening treatments like Ultherapy® or ReFirme™ skin tightening can also reduce signs of aging around the mouth.

It’s very important to wear sunscreen every day and remember to moisturize. Any moisturizer is better than none at all, but certain moisturizers contain ingredients that better help maintain youthful skin. We recommend finding a moisturizer with SPF 30 sunscreen to use in the morning to protect your skin from harmful UV rays. Schedule a skin analysis with one of our licensed estheticians if you’d like help finding the right moisturizer for your skin’s needs. If you’re already experiencing sun spots or other damage caused by the sun, services like chemical peels, microdermabrasion, and FotoFacial RF® can help even out your complexion for younger-looking skin.

Did you know that your sleep position can contribute to wrinkles? Another way to delay signs of aging is to sleep on your back away from space heaters! If you usually sleep on your stomach or side, choose satin or sheets with high thread counts to minimize wrinkles. Additionally, space heaters and fire places not only cause facial redness, but they actually cause collagen to break down so enjoy the warmth from at least ten feet away. Don’t worry if you’ve enjoyed many nights by the campfire throughout your life because we have services to boost collagen production. Botox® is perfect for minimizing wrinkles along the forehead and between the eyes, while facial filling Sculptra® reduces lines and wrinkles, plumps areas of lost volume, and actually stimulates collagen production.

If you’re afraid it’s too late to delay sign of aging and want to erase the damage you can already see, schedule an appointment today but remember to utilize these tips to continue improving the health of your skin. For more skin care tips and news, connect with us on Facebook, Twitter, and Google+.

Posted in Uncategorized | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

Teamine Concealer Now Available at AYA Medical Spa

Posted on April 10, 2012 by admin

Since AYA Medical Spa is owned and operated through Atlanta Plastic Surgery, P.C., we are able to carry the best medical grade equipment and skin care products. Just like the quality of each laser technology is different, the quality of skin care products differs from brand to brand. The providers at AYA understand how frustrating it is to spend money on skin care products or treatments that do not do what they say they will do, so we only offer you the best. We’ve recently added Teamine Concealer by Revision® Skincare to our product list.

Teamine Concealer is designed to improve the appearance of dark circles under the eyes. However, it does much more than your typical concealer. Not only does it hide dark circles, but it also works to repair tired and aging eyes. Teamine Concealer actually works to prevent new fine lines and wrinkles while firming, tightening, and brightening skin beneath the eyes.

The active ingredients work together to firm the skin, stimulate collagen production, reduce inflammation, and strengthen capillaries (to prevent future dark circles) while also nourishing this delicate area. Your eyes will appear brighter and less puffy even if you didn’t get a good night’s sleep.

This concealer is safe for all skin types. It’s currently available in light and medium shades that blends to match your natural complexion. For optimal results, use both in the morning and at night to achieve younger looking skin. Teamine Concealer can be used in conjunction with Revision®’s Teamine Eye Complex® for additional anti-aging results.

Teamine Concealer can be purchased at any of our locations or over the phone.Visit our website to learn more about the skin care services and products we have to offer at AYA Medical Spa. If you haven’t already, be sure to connect with us on Facebook, Twitter, and Google+ for skin care news and updates.

Posted in Skin Care, Uncategorized | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

Find Out if Ultherapy is Right for You at AYA Medical Spa on April 19th

Posted on April 5, 2012 by admin

If you missed AYA Medical Spa’s last Ultherapy® non-invasive skin tightening event and want to learn more about this new technology, come to our Phipps Plaza location Thursday, April 19th, 2012 for a hands-on experience. You might have seen Ultherapy® results featured on The Doctors, The Martha Stewart Show , or Good Morning America recently. Our open house is the perfect opportunity to find out if you’re a good candidate for Ultherapy®.

Representatives will be available to answer your questions, and our licensed providers will be performing treatment consultations. If you decide to schedule an Ultherapy® appointment at the event, you will receive $500 off a full face treatment. Join us to discover how Ultherapy® treatment tightens lax skin on the forehead, mid face, neck, and around the eyes. The ultrasound technology stimulates collagen production, so Ultherapy® patients report skin tightening for months following treatment.

Join us from 6pm to 8pm for drinks and light hors d’oeuvres and a chance to win a customized Obagi Nu-Derm® kit worth $400 in our raffle. Be sure to RSVP to 404-842-1772 or news@ayaskincare.com to let us know you’re coming. To stay updated about the event and other skin care news, connect with us on Facebook, Twitter, and Google+.

Posted in Events | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | 1 Comment

Shower Yourself with Spring Savings at AYA Medical Spa this April

Posted on April 2, 2012 by admin

Now through April 30th, take advantage of spring savings at AYA Medical Spa. You can get a head start on Mother’s Day shopping with our Obagi® Mother’s Day Gift Set. All you have to do to receive this FREE gift set is purchase an ELASTIDerm® Eye Cream or Gel for $99. Also take advantage of CoolSculpting® fat reduction, laser hair removal (initial fee only), and Botox® (while supplies last). We’re also hosting an Ulthera® Open House event on Thursday, April 19th from 6pm to 8 pm at our Phipps Plaza location, so be sure to mark your calendars and RSVP to let us know you’re coming. See the flyer below for more details.

aya medical spa

Posted in Specials, Uncategorized | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

Lash-Out Extension: AYA Medical Spa Offers MORE Eyelash Treatment Options

Posted on March 27, 2012 by admin

If you got excited about our last blog on available eyelash treatment services at AYA, you’ll be happy to hear about our newest service: eyelash extensions. The eyes are often considered the focal point of the face, and beautiful, healthy lashes can really make the eyes pop. Our brow artist can provide your eyebrows with the perfect shape, and now our new lash stylist can add volume, length, and even curl to your natural lashes.

Xtreme® Lash extensions are not like your typical full strip false lashes that are glued to your eyelids. Instead, these semi-permanent lashes are attached directly to your natural lashes with medical-grade adhesive 1mm from the eyelid—no glue touches the skin! Additionally, your lash extensions will last 30-60 days with proper after care, which may include touch ups by our lash stylist every couple of weeks. Like the rest of your hair, the eyelashes are constantly growing and shedding. An eyelash’s typical growth cycle lasts 45-90 days.

Although the lash extensions we use at AYA Medical Spa are safe, certain people may not be candidates. People who frequently rub their eyes or have sensitive eyes in general are not good candidates. People with extremely curly eyelashes or no natural eyelashes are also not good candidates for lash extensions. It’s also not advised to have your lash extensions applied if you have a cold because the secretions caused by the cold will affect how well the lash adhesive sticks, meaning you will be returning to have them redone sooner than you would if they were applied to healthy eyes.

Our lash stylist will help you choose the best lash extensions for you. You’ll get to choose the length, thickness, and curl of your lashes. Keep in mind that while certain mascaras can be worn with extensions, eyelash curlers cannot be used. We will provide more extensive aftercare instructions during your appointment. Many patients find they do not even need to wear mascara or eyeliner once their lash extensions are in place. However, other patients who know they will never leave the house without certain makeup like eyeliner or lipstick may consider permanent makeup.

Don’t forget about other AYA services that compliment the eyes. Our brow artistry and facial waxing services are an excellent complement to our lash extension services. If you’re worried about wrinkles around the eyes, Botox® can be used to smooth wrinkles across the forehead and between the eyes, and facial fillers like Juvéderm® or Radiesse® can fill in deeper wrinkles. We also offer skin tightening treatments like our new Ulthera® technology for overall facial rejuvenation. Visit our website or schedule a consultation today to learn more about our services. Be sure to also connect with us on Facebook, Google+ and Twitter for skin care news and updates.

Posted in Uncategorized | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment