Enhancing Your Skin

The world of cosmetics has seen a surge in developments in surgical procedures and non-surgical treatments. Dermatology has become an important focus in the domain of cosmetology and has seen significant advancements in skin treatments that may be an effective alternative to cosmetic surgery. Absolute Beirut delves into dermatology with renowned dermatologist, Dr. Nancy Moufarrij to find out more about the latest treatments and procedures available for women and men looking to maintain or enhance the quality of their skin.

Dr. Moufarrij emphasizes that aging is an inevitable process that cannot be avoided but the main objective for any person is to “age in harmony so that the inner self reflects onto a well maintained, beautiful outer self.”

The treatments for the skin are countless and are widely available so that surgery can no longer be considered the first and only option. The techniques used can vary from creams that contain immune modulators to laser treatments that are used to eliminate signs of acne. The latest ‘wonder treatment’ is the new fillers which have also been innovatively combined with an anesthetic so that such treatments are no longer painful. Stem cell products are made from extracts of plants and fish. These organic ingredients are cultured and combined into the cream to create effective results for skin rejuvenation.

The laser treatments available can help to remove scars, acne, diminish paws and pigmentation as well as tighten the skin. Such effective treatments are seeing a shift in the immediate need for surgery as non-surgical treatments are simpler and less costly than going under the knife.

Zerona is the first non-invasive body contouring procedure to effectively remove excess fat. It is applied to the body externally. This revolutionary method which provides results without the dangers associated with surgery. The low-level Zerona laser energy stimulates the fat cells, liquefying the fat within. The liquid fat moves from inside the cell to outside.

Mesotherapy is a non-surgical cosmetic medical treatment. The treatment is administered with multiple injections of pharmaceutical and homeopathic medications, plant extracts, vitamins and other ingredients to the specified area. Mesotherapy is aimed at diminishing problems with your body such as cellulite, excess weight, body contouring and face/neck rejuvenation.

Carboxy therapy is a non-surgical procedure used to infuse CO2 gas below the skin. Treatments are quick, comfortable, and effective. CO2 gas stimulates blood flow with several consequences: skin elasticity improvement, localized fat reduction and collagen production stimulation. Carboxy therapy is a good alternative to liposuction for those who are not willing to go through anesthesia and surgical operations. CO2 is naturally produced by the cells in our bodies everyday and is therefore not a toxic or harmful treatment.

Fractional CO2 Laser is a non-surgical technique for skin rejuvenation. The treatment can achieve very significant facial rejuvenation including wrinkle removal, skin tightening and removal of pigment. The laser beam is broken up or fractioned into many small micro beams which are separated so that when they strike the skin it creates heat that will shrink collagen and stimulate new elastin and collagen production.

Dr. Moufarrij highlights the importance of maintaining a natural look. “There is no reason in this day for one to achieve anything less than natural beauty. The objective of a good dermatologist is to ensure their patient is achieving a very natural look. Our practice is not about making people look extremely younger than their age, we want them to look exceptionally well maintained for their age, so that growing older is done gracefully.”

Summer is the most important time to take care of skin, ensuring the necessary precautions are taken against skin damage. Dermatologists are becoming more aware of the harmful effects of the sun. The hazards are known and products are progressively being improved to enhance the measures taken to ensure exposing your skin is done safely with a diminished risk of damage.

Many people are unaware of the adverse effects of UVA, which causes the deep collagen and elastin damage that contributes to the aging process. Sun can penetrate glass which means that one must not overlook protecting themselves even when driving or exposing the skin to overcast weather, which may seem less harmful. Dr. Moufarrij confirms that awareness should be raised on the damaging effects of the sun. She highlights that not enough people are aware that sun is an induction of aging and cancer. “Excess sun exposure and artificial UV rays contribute significantly to the rise of melanoma.”

One has to revise their entire lifestyle when looking to maintain healthy skin. Dr. Moufarrij further highlights that “there must be a harmony of hygiene and lifestyle to ensure good skin.” Like most facets of one’s lifestyle, taking care of skin has to be an integral part of your everyday routine. One must also take into consideration the factors that contribute to skin which include: sun, smoking, stress, sleep deprivation and a poor diet.

Dr. Moufarrij emphasizes the fundamental importance of daily care for skin as a preventative measure to ensure that no serious procedures are needed later on.

Cosmetics have become one of the biggest markets of this era. Women have become the center of the industry.  Men are also seeking advice and medical treatments to improve the appearance of their skin. The industry does cater for men who have the same treatments available to them but with varied methods. Women may have provided men with the incentive to start seeking medical guidance to skin related issues. “Men are starting to care more,” says Dr. Moufarrij. In this day and age we are beginning to see an increasing number of men who are showing more care and concern for their beauty, health and appearance.