CHIA SEEDS OR FLAXSEEDS?

WHICH IS BEST FOR YOUR SKIN?

Flaxseed has been known for it’s health benefits for a lot longer than Chia – and Flaxseed has also been studied much more. On the other hand – Chia has been reported as having more Omega 3, Calcium and Fibre. So let’s have a closer look to compare the 2.

PROTEIN

Chia - One ounce of chia seeds contain 4.4 grams of vegetarian protein – this is almost as high as meat, and higher than eggs! Chia seeds are complete protein – which is extremely rare for plant based foods.
Flax – The same amount of flaxseeds have even more protein – 5.1 grams per ounce. Flaxseed proteins are not complete. Combining with another plant based protein would be necessary to get a complete protein.

OMEGA 3

Chia – One ounce of chia seeds has around 5 grams
Flax – One ounce of flaxseed has about 4.7grams 

DIETARY FIBER

Chia – One ounce of chia seeds contain approx 10.6grams
Flax – One ounce of flaxseed contains around 7.6 grams
Things are not all down for Flaxseed though... in the vitamin department – flaxseed really takes over! See the chart below:

FLAXSEED V  CHIA

	FLAXSEED	CHIA
CALORIES	150	137
FIBRE	7.6	10.6
VITAMINS		N/A
C	0.2	N/A
E	0.1 mg	N/A
K	1.2 mcg	N/A
THIAMIN	0.5 mg	N/A
NIACIN	0.9 mg	N/A
B6	0.1 mg	N/A
FOLATE	24.4 mcg	N/A
CHOLINE	22.0 mg	N/A
PANTOTHENIC ACID	0.3 mg	N/A
BETAINE	0.9 mg	N/A
MINERALS
CALCIUM	71.4 mg	177 mg
IRON	1.6 mg	n/a
MAGNESIUM	110 mg	n/a
PHOSPHORUS	180 mg	265 mg
POTASSIUM	228 mg	44.8 mg
SODIUM	8.4 mg	5.3 mg
ZINC	1.2 mg	1.0 mg
COPPER	0.3 mg	0.1 mg
MANGANESE	0.7 mg	0.6 mg
SELENIUM	7.1 mcg	n/a

CONCLUSION:

Both flaxseed and chia seed have AMAZING health benefits! If possible, both should be included in the diet to get maximum benefit. I recommend most clients who are interested in great skin health to have 1 - 2 teaspoons of flax/chia oil per day. 

To gain the dietary fibre benefits – ground flaxseed and whole chia seeds can be included in cereal, smoothies and salads. 

For people with dry/dehydrated skin - they will generally notice a great improvement at around one month after beginning to take the oil as a supplement. Once the difference is noticed, you will not know how you lived without it!

For more advice, see your skin specialist.

Paula

WHAT IS L.E.D. PHOTOTHERAPY?

BELOW WE TALK ABOUT:  

...HOW L.E.D. ACTUALLY WORKS, HOW IT WAS DEVELOPED, WHAT CONDITIONS L.E.D. CAN HELP TREAT, THE SAFETY OF L.E.D., WHAT IS INVOLVED IN AN L.E.D. TREATMENT, AND MORE...

HOW L.E.D. ACTUALLY WORKS.  

L.E.D. is short for 'Light Emitting Diode'. This safe, gentle & PAIN-FREE technology assists in promoting healthy skin function. Different wavelengths (Light) stimulate specific cells to treat a range of conditions. For instance the Red light targets the cells which are responsible for repair and synthesis of the skin's supportive structure, including collagen and elastin. This leads to tighter, firmer & more youthful looking skin. Even the delicate eye area can be treated with brilliant results, with L.E.D. reducing fine lines.

L.E.D. is also a wonderful treatment for problem skin as the Blue light targets the oil glands and the acne bacteria. 

HOW LED WAS DEVELOPED?

L.E.D was re-developed by NASA in the 1980s when they tried to use L.E.D. to grow plants in outer-space. The L.E.D. was found to be very successful due to the regeneration of cells.
After this NASA applied L.E.D. to wound healing in humans. The natural healing time was spead up by 4 to 5 times!
Now L.E.D. is applied in the skin industry to regenerate cells and improve the skin's natural functions.

WHAT CONDITIONS CAN L.E.D. HELP TREAT?

1. Anti-ageing, skin firming & reduction of fine lines & wrinkles.
2. Reducing oil flow in over-productive oil glands, destroying the bacteria responsible for acne & reducing ance scarring.
3. Improves the results of intensive treatments including Chemical Peels, Microdermabrasion, C.I.T. (skin needling) & Plastic/Cosmetic Surgery - as well as speeding up healing time.  The use of L.E.D. during a course of intensive treatments or after surgery ensures the collagen fibers knit together in a uniform pattern - providing more attractive results. 

L.E.D. also helps treat psoriasis, rosacea & pigmentation.  L.E.D. has been used to treat depression and S.A.D. (Seasonal Affective Disorder). Many clients report feeling very uplifted and calm after each session.

THE SAFETY OF L.E.D.

L.E.D. is an extremely safe therapy - with no reported complications. L.E.D. is suitable for most people.  Due to it's safe nature it is fantastic to use on sensitive skin. Caution should only be taken post cosmetic injectables - as L.E.D. may be too stimulating to the skin cells immediately post injectables. Caution should also be taken for pregnancy.

WHAT IS INVOLVED IN A L.E.D. TREATMENT?

During your L.E.D treatment at Fletcher Brown, you will relax on our comfy treatment table while your therapist cleanses, & may exfoliate your skin - the L.E.D. light will then be place between 6 and 20 c.m. above your face for 20 minutes. The only sensation you may feel is a warm gentle heat. You will be be treated with appropriate serums, eye product and hydrators.  You do not need to wear goggles during your L.E.D. treatment, so your eyelids will also benefit from the treatment - leading to younger looking & firming skin in this area.

This treatment can be used:

1. As a course of ten X 30 minute treatments that should be undertaken 2 x per week for 5 weeks.
2. As a way to improve results during a course of intensive skin treatments such as C.I.T. (skin needling), chemical peels, Microdermabrasion & post Plastic/cosmetic surgery. L.E.D. helps collagen fibers knit together in a more uniform pattern post ablative therapies. Your therapist will discuss amount and frequency required.
3. To increase healing time immedially after your intensive skin treatment e.g. C.I.T. Chemical Peels, I.P.L. Microdermabrasion & Cosmetic/Plastic Surgery

Discuss this treatment with your skin specialist to find out more information, or email info@fletcherbrown.com.au. We would love to help you achieve the ultimate results you are after.

Paula x

DO REAL MEN HAVE PLASTIC SURGERY?

Blog by Plastic Surgeon Mr Andrew Ive's

ONCE UPON A TIME, THE ANSWER TO THAT QUESTION WOULD HAVE BEEN A RESOUNDING, "NO!"

A couple of decades ago, plastic surgery was considered a woman's domain. Sure, it was okay if you had to have it done for reconstructive purposes, preferably from some kind of manly activity like being bottom of the heap in a rugby scrum, but just to improve the way you looked? That was clearly the act of an effeminate or gay man.

Thankfully, attitudes have changed. We've all heard the term 'metrosexual', coined in 1994 by journalist Mark Simpson to describe the growing tribe of men—of all sexual persuasions—who were confident that good grooming and masculinity could happily coexist. Male personal care was thrust into the spotlight and hair styling, moisturising, waxing and manicures went mainstream. It was only a matter of time before plastic surgery followed suit.

The stigma surrounding male plastic surgery continues to fade for a number of reasons:

Celebrity influence

Although the jury is often out on who has and who hasn't undergone the knife, with male celebrities like David Beckham and Brad Pitt happy to discuss grooming tactics, men are becoming more confident that a little self-care is not a one-way pass to Emasculation Town.

Professional success

Many men are beginning to feel that a youthful appearance is important to achieving professional success. Women know only too well the usually unspoken expectations of looking young, attractive and well groomed at work. But as retirement ages increase, men are also starting to feel that an image of youth and vitality is necessary for professional advancement.

Normalisation

With an arsenal of male-specific grooming products, salons and services now available, men are receiving a clear signal that taking care of oneself and wanting to look good is widely acceptable.

Procedures for men

So what types of plastic surgery and cosmetic procedures are men most likely to have? Well, many of the same ones that women have, actually. Popular procedures for men include nose jobs (rhinoplasty), facelifts, eyelid surgery (blepharoplasty) and liposculpture. Less invasive procedures such as dermal fillers and anti wrinkle injections are also popular to help enhance and maintain a youthful appearance.

But it isn't just for facial freshen ups. Men who suffer from gynaecomastia ('man boobs') can find relief with breast reduction surgery designed specifically for males. Men may also choose pectoral, calf or buttock implants to enhance their physique.

Whether it's correcting a long-standing aesthetic concern, recapturing a youthful appearance or simply enhancing their existing physique, real men know that taking care of their looks doesn't endanger their masculinity. And yes, real men do have plastic surgery.

WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN ANTI-AGEING INJECTABLES & DERMAL FILLER?

When considering Cosmetic Injectables, the difference between anti-ageing injectables & dermal filler can sometimes be a little confusing.  Here, we have briefly explained the difference between these 2 products, how they work, what they are made of and more.

ANTI-AGEING INJECTABLES 

current most popular forms are Botox and Dysport

HOW DOES IT WORK?  Anti-ageing injectables works by relaxing wrinkle-causing-muscles, creating a smooth, rejuvenated and more youthful appearance.

WHAT IS IT MADE OF? This is a natural, highly purified and sterile protein that is extracted from bacteria, in a similar way that penicillin comes from a mould. 

WHAT IS IT USED FOR?  The most common uses are the treatment of frown lines, wrinkles around the eyes, worry lines on forehead, Hyperhydrosis, (excessive sweating of the hands, feet & underarms) and as a migraine treatment.  Other uses include the treatment of a gummy smile, to lift a droopy nose, treatment of bunny lines, to relax chin muscle and to lift eyebrows.  Also can be used as a corrector.

HOW LONG DOES IT LAST?  Average 4 months - depending on amount of product used.  Underarms can last from 8 to 12 months

DERMAL FILLER

current most popular forms are Restylane & Juvederm

HOW DOES IT WORK?  Deposited beneath the skin - this product enables you to replace your diminished volume.  Your facial appearance is immediately refreshed and restored.

WHAT IS IT MADE OF? Firstly - Hyaluronic acid is a substance we all have in our skin naturally.  Hyaluronic acid has many functions in the body, and one function it to keep the skin hydrated.  Hyaluronic acid depletes as we age.  Dermal filler is based on hyaluronic acid.  It is derived from a non-animal source.  This substance has a very smooth formulation. 

WHAT IS IT USED FOR?  Commonly - The treatment of lines around the mouth, forehead & nose.  It is also used to enhance lips.  Some forms of dermal filler are used for the volumising of nose, cheeks, chin and other parts of the face.  Also can be used a a corrector.

HOW LONG DOES IT LAST? Between 6 and 18 months.

The best place to start is booking a free consultation with your cosmetic Nurse.  He/she will answer all your questions, determine if your are suitable for cosmetic injectables and develop a plan for you to get the results you are seeking.

Enjoy refreshed, youthful looking skin!

Paula :)

THE SUBTLE SIDE OF PLASTIC SURGERY

By Plastic Surgeon Andrew Ives

 

 

Plastic surgery has undergone an extreme makeover in its own right. Years ago people wanted to turn back the clock twenty years. Unfortunately the results were far from acceptable. An old saying is true for cosmetic surgery… “Too much of a good thing is bad for you”. We’ve all seen the pictures in magazines, on the telly, and the internet of celebrities and socialites who have ‘overdosed’ on plastic surgery, thinking to ourselves “my god what were they thinking” and even “my god what was their surgeon thinking, or even drinking’ before they started work on them. Well, it may come as some comfort to know that plastic surgeons also look at these same pictures and think these same thoughts. Today plastic surgery and cosmetic treatments are considered to produce a refreshed look, rather than a wind tunnel appearance.

Fortunately in Australia we are blessed with a sense of style and good taste, and this is reflected in the surgical appearance of postoperative patients. Patients want friends and work colleagues to say they look refreshed and enquire if they’ve been away, as they look healthy and vibrant. They don’t want people to know they’ve had surgery whereas in the United States the opposite is true, where having had surgery is seen as a status symbol.

Botox is used to reduce wrinkles and fine lines: to freshen the face and not freeze it. Dermal fillers, both permanent and temporary, can be used effectively to enhance lips both their outline and body without the need to make them look like the rubber lips of a Mike Jagger cartoon, or a couple of marauding hot dog sausages. Most women requesting breast augmentation surgery want a more natural look, rather than a couple of breasts that walk in the room five minutes before they do. Liposuction is now called liposculpture for a reason. It’s more about fine-tuning the body’s shape rather than a procedure to suck enough blubber out of you to make you the equivalent of ninety nine percent fat free.

So in Australia, you can trust that when you walk out of a plastic surgeons office, you will look like you have returned from an island holiday as opposed to having just walked out of the Freak Factory.

DERMAL FILLER QUESTIONS ANSWERED!

2 OF THE MOST COMMON QUESTIONS I AM ASKED REGARDING DERMAL FILLER ARE:

1. If I have one treatment, will I then need to keep having treatments for the rest of my life?

2. What will I look like if I decide against further treatment?  Will I be more wrinkled or saggy?

Most dermal filler including Restylane are based on hyaluronic acid.  Hyaluronic acid occurs naturally in the body and has many functions, one of which is giving the skin hydration. Restylane is a safe product that is well accepted by the body.

1. Patients are more than welcome to just have a single treatment.  They may have a special occasion coming up, or just feel like a spur of the moment freshen up, and that is completely fine!

2. If you have don't have further treatments, the skin will return to its natural pre-treatment state.  Restylane, however, has been clinically proven to stimulate new collagen growth which may aid in improving the quality and texture of the skin.  So using a dermal filler has great long term benefits on the skin, even after discontinuing treatment. You are always going to be better off with having even just one treatment.

Some other questions asked are:

How long does Restylane last?
Restylane lasts 4 - 12 months, depending on the area treated, the depth of the lines, the condition of the skin and the lifestyle of the individual treated.

Does the treatment hurt?
A Restylane treatment involves injections into the skin, therefore, you may experience some discomfort, however local anaesthetic and topical creams can be used to minimise any pain.

Will people know I have has a Restylane treatment?
It is common for people not to notice the exact change, rather they recognise a subtle difference which may be expressed as 'looking well' or 'refreshed'.
It is however very important to find the right Cosmetic Nurse - who has achieving a 'natural look' as their top priority.  At Fletcher Brown Skin Clinic, this is extremely important to both our Cosmetic Nurses Donna and James.  Both owners - myself and Kate have have brilliant treatments at Fletcher Brown with cosmetic injectables and love our natural looks. Just ask us about it.

You will need to allow 45 minutes for your initial consultation with your nurse.  There is no charge for this consultation.  During this visit your nurse will determine if you are a suitable candidate for the treatment.  Your nurse will also advise you on the best course of action to get the results you are looking for.  If you have a specific budget - please let your nurse know so that an appropriate program can be written for your requirements.

If you would like to book your consultation, please call Fletcher Brown on 97496261.  We have a nurse consulting from Fletcher Brown every week - so we are sure to find a time to suit you :)

Paula :)



JAMES BARRETT RN MEDICAL AESTHETIC NURSE JOINS OUR TEAM!

Exciting News! The much loved James Barrett RN Medical Aesthetic Nurse is going to be offering Cosmetic Injectables from Fletcher Brown Skin Clinic! James is from the highly reputable Endless Solutions Cosmetic Surgery and Aesthetic Medicine practice.

James will be regularly offering treatments on the weeks our wonderful Cosmetic Injectables Nurse Donna Phillips is interstate. Injectables at Fletcher Brown are very popular, so we have felt the push to offer more days to our loyal clients. But don't worry, Donna is not going anywhere! Donna will still be offering treatments, as always every 2nd week

Donna has a close working relationship with Endless Solutions, and recommended that this would be the place to find another exceptional second nurse.

Since then I have spoken to a number of people in the field who tell me that James is brilliant. Patients absolutely love him and he gets fantastic natural looking results. He is warm, friendly and cares about his patients.

James completed A Bachelor of Nursing and Bachelor of Health Science in 2002 majoring in Health Education & Health Promotions. In 2003 he commenced work at the Alfred Hospital Emergency & Trauma Centre and in 2007 James achieved a ‘Nurse Clinician’ position with the Mobile Assessment Treatment Service (MATS) performing medical assessments and treating clients in the community for Alfred Health. James has over ten years experience providing professional Nursing services over Melbourne as well as internationally, both in public and private sectors. With a passion and talent for injecting and a drive to helping people achieve natural looking and excellent results, he looks forward to meeting and consulting with you.

James conducts a thorough 45 minute consultation before beginning any treatment - to ensure you are receiving the best treatment for your needs.

James' first day treating at Fletcher Brown will be Tuesday 23rd of July.

Just call 97496261 if this time suits you!

Paula :)

PAULA'S YOUTUBE CLIP ON LED

WOULD YOU LIKE TO KNOW A LITTLE MORE ABOUT LED?

Click this link to see Paula's clip on the history, theory and therapeutic applications of LED (Light Emitting Diode).

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2ZhgFLB9eYw

Have a watch! :)

PAIN-FREE IPL TREATMENT! almost :)

CAN IPL SKIN REJUVENATION BE A COMFORTABLE TREATMENT?

 

SO!!!  I have been having IPL skin rejuvenation treatments each winter for 6 years!  I have ALWAYS found them sooo painful that I actually cry real tears.  Although, I have noticed some patients don't find it painful at all. 

NOW listen... Before you start thinking I am soft.  I have always been the brave one in my family with needles, dentists & all manner of uncomfortable pain.  But IPL I cannot handle.  I only persevere because the results are just so good.

Let me explain my insistence on - what I find to be - an extremely uncomfortable treatment.

On my return to Australia, as a 29 year old - and after spending 3 years on-the-tear - I had accumulated definite forehead lines & severe pigmentation

Now as a 38 year old mother, I have not a line on my forehead & my pigment is practically clear, primarily because of IPL treatments.

BUT I HATE THEM!

Something AMAZING happened today.  I was introduced to the combination of a medical numbing agent with my IPL treatment.  My treatment was TOTALLY within my comfort levels.  I could still feel the pulses, but the sensation was completely within my threshold.  I did not flinch once, and the treatment was over a lot quicker than usual, as the Dermal Therapist did not have to stop for me while I composed myself.

I really was a wonderful turn of events.

There are a couple of things you may need to consider before adding a numbing agent to your next IPL treatment.

• It is not recommended if your concern is capillaries or redness - as your results may not be as good - because your vessels temporarily constrict with the numbing agent.
• Numbing agent cannot be used over a large surface area of the body ie, back and legs.
• A patch test may need to be done if you may be sensitive to numbing agents.
• There is an added cost

 I am planning to have one more treatment on my full face, neck & decolletage with the numbing agent this year.  Then if I have any capillaries that need treating, I will just have them spot treated without the numbing agent on my 3rd visit.  I think I can handle a hand full of zaps - full throttle, just not the whole face now I know there is an alternative :)

Happy Zapping!
Paula

BEFORE & AFTER CIT



BEFORE CIT

In this patient of Fletcher Brown's before photo, you will

notice visable lines around side of eye and under eyes.

AFTER CIT

This photos was taken after just one CIT. 
See the reduction in lines! Imagine the difference she will see in her over all skin after her
full course of 5 CIT!



  





                                                        

.

LED BEFORE AND AFTERS

Amazing LED results!



See our patient photos below who has had a course of 7 LED treatments this year (2012).  2 X weekly.  These photos are taken under an UV light so you can see dehydration (shown up as darker purple).

You will notice the significant reduction in creases on eye lids in the after photo.  Also a significant increase in hydration.  Products cannot be used on eyelids and other treatments cannot be carried out on eyelids, so this change can ONLY be made by the LED.

You will also notice the reduction in pigmentation and fine lines.

Before

 After

COLLAGEN INDUCTION THERAPY (CIT)

Relevant Information, everybody should read who is interested in CIT

Collagen Induction Therapy (also known as Skin needling) is a skin rejuvenation treatment that helps you restore collagen and elastin through a natural healing process.  Ultra fine, medical grade needles are passed across the skin vertically creating multiple skin punctures that induce a wound healing response to stimulate new collagen and elastin production. This will also assist in breaking down existing scar tissue and encourage further and better healing of acne scars and fine wrinkles so skin texture will be refined.  Skin needling also helps repair stretch marks and surgical scars.

HOW DOES CIT WORK?

Each of the thousands of tiny puncture wounds induces the release of growth factors that begin the process of wound healing. These factors stimulate new collagen and elastin growth in the surrounding skin. New collagen and elastin production is the goal of all skin resurfacing and rejuvenation treatments.

Once initiated, new collagen production can continue for up to 12 months to 2 years, resulting in an improvement in skin firmness and texture and a softening and lifting of scars and wrinkles.

WHAT DOES IT INVOLVE?

Vitamin A and C are essential for collagen production and sun damage reversal. It is impossible to achieve high concentrations of vitamin C or A in the skin by taking tablets orally. Therefore you will be recommended to use skin care products at home that contain high concentrations of these vitamins as well as Brightening Serum to enhance your results. These products must be used for a minimum of 2 weeks prior to your treatment as a healthy skin will respond better to this treatment.

The micro-fine needles are passed over the area to be treated multiple times to create an even distribution of tiny injuries. These needles will be of varying depth for different areas of the body and needles of various lengths are selected according to the condition to be treated and thickness of your skin. Numbing cream will be used to minimise any discomfort. After treatment, skin will appear red, swollen, with the appearance of sunburn or windburn.  A light graze consisting of tiny crusted areas that feel rough and look tanned may occur. Skin may feel tight and dry. Varying amounts of flaking/peeling may occur as healing progresses. During this healing stage it is important to adhere to the aftercare prescribed for the next 2-7 days. It is best to keep the skin moist during this time so apply the prescribed moisturiser as often as required. Makeup should not be worn for the next 24 hours. The use of a daily sunscreen is  recommended.

HOW MANY TREATMENTS WILL I NEED?

Generally a minimum of 4-5 treatments are required to achieve improvements in skin firmness and texture. Scarring may take 6-8 or more treatments. Results accrue gradually because collagen production takes time. Most clients notice an improvement in their skin tone and texture within 4-6 weeks of each treatment. The initially triggered new collagen will eventually be turned into a more permanent type of collagen over time. Substantial results take time and are dependent on home care use and your general health and lifestyle. Treatments are spaced at 4-8 weekly intervals. The frequency of your treatment will be recommended by your practitioner.

 WHAT AREAS CAN BE TREATED?

Most areas are suitable for CIT – with great results for stretch marks achieved all over the body. Face, neck & décolletage are also treatable for firming, tightening & rejuvenating effects.

AM I A SUITABLE CANDIDATE FOR CIT?

CIT  is suitable for fine lines, dull skin, sun damaged and ageing skin,  enlarged pores, acne scars, chicken pox scars and surgical scars (more than 6mths old), as well as for tightening and smoothing of skin on the face, hands, neck and chest. CIT can be performed on all skin types and colours and on all parts of the body.

CIT is NOT suitable for those who have been on Roaccutane in the last 6 months, have active acne, open wounds, infections, psoriasis or dermatitis or permanent fillers in the area to be treated,  have uncontrolled diabetes, are pregnant or breast feeding, or who are prone to keloid scars or other abnormal wound healing.  Precautions must be taken if you are currently using prescription Retinoic Acid or had nurofen/aspirin in the last 48 hours. Smoking reduces the body’s capacity to make collagen therefore healing may be delayed. Please advise your practitioner if you have had any injectable fillers or Botox in that last 2 weeks.

WHAT ARE THE POTENTIAL SIDE EFFECTS/COMPLICATIONS?

You may experience various degrees of redness, swelling, bruising, crusting, flaking, weeping, and oozing during recovery. Depending upon the depth of your treatment, some downtime may need to be allocated away from social and work commitments. As with any treatment that punctures the skin infection, pigment changes and scarring are remote risks.

HOW DOES CIT COMPARE WITH LASER REJUVENATION?

Although CIT and laser rejuvenation ultimately both achieve improved skin firmness and texture with minimisation of scarring, they work in uniquely different ways.  Unlike laser skin rejuvenation, CIT does not involve the removal of any skin tissue. This means that CIT  can be safely performed on all skin types (white to dark skin) and that it may be the treatment of choice for sensitive thin skinned areas such as the neck and chest. CIT is a low downtime, and often a cost effective alternative to fraxel lasering.