Cosmetic procedures have become very popular with Botox and filler injections being two of the most common. Currently, there is also great enthusiasm for newer energy-based procedures such as laser resurfacing, RF microneedling (skin tightening) and RF-based nonsurgical fat reduction as well. What does the data say? Research looking into the most popular cosmetic procedures has confirmed that these they are "exceedingly safe" when performed properly with "essentially no risk of serious adverse events".(1) As a dermatologist and a fellowship trained cosmetic dermasurgeon, however, I am sometime ..read more

What causes melasma? Melasma is a skin condition associated with patchy pigmentation predominantly affecting the face. This hyperpigmentation most often affects middle-aged women and is aggravated by sun exposure. Female hormones are also known to play a key role. Women who are pregnant as well as those taking oral contraceptives or hormone supplements are felt to be at higher risk for developing melasma. Previous treatments have included topical skin-lightening creams, skin peels, intense pulsed light as well as fractional and Q-switched lasers. Unfortunately, for many patients these treatme ..read more

Dermal fillers are clear gel-like injectable cosmetic products that have grown tremendously in popularity due to their ability to rejuvenate the appearance of the face, neck and hands. Young skin is naturally supported by the dermis, a soft deeper layer of skin. It lies just beneath the epithelial surface and contains an abundance of hyaluronic acid (HA). This normal component of the dermis binds significant amounts of water giving youthful skin a smooth, dewy and resilient texture. Unfortunately, as the skin ages, the amount of hyaluronic acid in the skin also fades. What does filler do? As ..read more

Botox is one of a number of different aesthetic injectables more formally known as a neuromodulator. These medications interrupt nerve signals to muscles, allowing them to remain in a more relaxed state. This therapy can produce a calmer, more refreshed appearance with fewer visible lines and wrinkles! There are a number of brands of neuromodulator available in Canada including Botox, Dysport, Xeomin and Nuceiva. Cost may vary depending on the brand, the facility, as well as the professional experience of the provider. In general, a competitive cost for a unit of Botox is $10. The cost of tre ..read more