August 18, 2011
Do I need to be optimized? One patient’s journey through hormone therapy.
When I first heard about bio-identical hormones I immediately thought of some science fiction process, that didn’t appeal to me at all. Then I began hearing more and more about hormone optimization and how it could help you have more energy, feel better, sleep better, increase your libido, and the list goes on. I decided I could use all of those things, but is 38 too young? I remembered my grandmother taking her hormones, that’s not what I needed, right? I did some research, and the first thing I realized is that everyone seemed to be able to give me a description, but no one was explaining the process. Was this something I could benefit from? Was I too young? Was it going to require injections or cleanses? I decided I would schedule a consultation with Dr. Allen at Deseret to get a few of my questions answered. After the consultation, I couldn’t wait to get started.
First things first!
The first step was to have blood work done and get a bone density scan, which measures bone strength and can be used to detect osteoporosis. The blood work would tell them exactly if and where I was lacking in nutrients, and if I had any other issues that should be addressed; standard in examining one’s health. A bone density scan might sound strange, but it was easy and completely noninvasive. Not to mention I was able to get it done right next to Dr. Allen’s office so I didn’t have to drive all over Arizona. Same with the blood work. So far this process was a breeze, but I couldn’t wait to get my results back and find out what’s next.
August 17, 2011
Find Hidden Fool Allergies
About 60% of all undiagnosed symptoms are due to food allergies according to James Breneman, MD, former Chairman of the Food Allergy Committee of the American College of Allergy (now the American College of Allergy and Immunology).
When foods become targets of a person’s immune system;
*Delayed symptoms can occur that are nearly impossible
to link with a source and may affect any part of the body.
*They may exacerbate existing conditions.
*They can become repeatedly problematic
The common ailments associated with Food Allergies are:
AD(H)D/Obsessive Compulsive Disorder
Autism Spectrum Disorder
Alcoholism or other Addictions
Anxiety
Arthritis/Rheumatoid Arthritis
Asthma
Candidacies
Chronic Fatigue & Fibromyalgia
Chronic Infections
Colitis or Irritable Bowel/
Constipation/Diarrhea
Cravings/Eating disorders
Depression/Irritability
Mood swings, Tension
Fatigue
Fluid Retention
Foggy brain, Poor Concentration
Gas, Bloating
Gout
Headache or Migraines
Hives
Hyperactivity
Hypoglycemia
Irritable Bowel, Leaky
Gut Syndrome
Leaky Bladder
Multiple Sclerosis
Obsessive Compulsive
Disorders
PMS
Poor Absorption, vitamin/mineral deficiency
Seizures
Skin problems (acne,eczema, rashes)
Tourette’s Syndrome
Weight Gain
You can get tested today for delayed hypersensitivity reactions. Delayed (lgG) responses may cause delayed symptoms, such as joint or muscle pain, chronic headaches, fatigue, eczema, and psoriasis. Since lgG reactions often occur hours of days after particular foods are consumed, correlating symptoms can be difficult. The reactions can be subtle or severe, and may lead to chronic (long –term) symptoms and chronic degenerative conditions. This lab test requires only a small amount of blood taken form a finger-prick and is very easy to do. Something to consider.
July 8, 2011
The Facts About Progesterone!
The basics for optimal health and longevity are proper diet, exercise, nutritional supplementation and hormone replacement therapy. This stops cellular degeneration and allows regeneration of tissue, healing and a slowing down of the aging process. Progesterone is secreted by the ovaries and reduces symptoms of premature menstrual syndrome. It protects against uterine and breast cancers, osteoporosis, fibrocystic disease and ovarian cysts. It dramatically decreases menopausal symptoms. Most U. S. physicians prescribe synthetic progestins which cause such side effects as bloating, headaches, fatigue and weight gain. The natural progesterone must be prescribed in place of the synthetic progestin to avoid the side effects and protect against cancer. We emphasize the use of natural hormones and not synthetic hormones, which have been proven time and time again to cause significant side effects.
Benefits or Progesterone:
Improves mood/decreases depression
Reduces perimenopause symptoms
Decreases miscarriages
Decreases bloating
Decreases headaches
Decreases PMS symptoms
Decreases ovarian cysts
Decreases osteoporosis
Decreases fibrocystic disease
Protects against breast cancer
Decreases heart disease
Decreases vaginal bleeding
June 26, 2011
Testosterone, important for men AND women
Testosterone, a hormone secreted by the adrenal glands, testes and ovaries, is an essential hormone that neither men nor women should be without as they age. At optimal levels, testosterone
- Increases energy
- Increases lean muscle mass
- Contributes to endurance
- Improves skin tone
- Improves healing capacity
- Increases bone density
- Lowers body and belly fat
- Reduces anxiety
- Improves Diabetes
- Improves libido
- Decreases risk of cancer
- Lowers stress
- Lowers blood pressure
- Lowers cholesterol
- Decreases heart disease
- Improves erectile dysfunction
- Decreases wrinkles
- Enhances memory
- Decreases arthritis
May 26, 2011
What is VeinGogh?
VeinGogh is the fast, easy way to reliably treat these and other cosmetically unacceptable conditions, often with less discomfort compared to older therapies.While lasers and other light-based solutions are expensive, skin-type dependent and have an inherent risk of injury, VeinGogh uses a hair-thin, insulated probe to thermocoagulate and instantly eliminate vessels dependably, repeatably, on any skin-type and on any part of the body.
April 14, 2011
What exactly is CO2 Skin Resurfacing?
Using advanced laser technology, a carbon dioxide (CO2) laser for skin resurfacing precisely removes outer layers of damaged skin to reveal the underlying skin which is softer, smoother, and younger looking.
How Does CO2 Laser Resurfacing Work?
A CO2 laser skin resurfacing procedure reduces or eliminate more pronounced lines and wrinkles. This is done by removing deeper layers of damaged skin and stimulating the regeneration of healthy skin underneath. The latest technological advancement in the field of laser resurfacing is the use of light beams that are either pulsed or scattered at a very high rate. This minimizes heat damage that the skin might otherwise be exposed to. It also allows a more powerful CO2 laser to be utilized for deeper tissue removal and for more effective removal of pronounced wrinkles and creases. This technology allows the laser skin resurfacing treatment to provide some of the most dramatic, age-defying results possible. As we age, our skin succumbs to the effects of sun, gravity, and even our unique facial movements, to create lines and wrinkles that make us look older than we feel. A good candidate for carbon dioxide (CO2) laser skin resurfacing is typically an individual who has developed significant facial lines and wrinkling. A candidate may also have facial scars or uneven pigmentation they wish to correct. The best way to find out if you are a candidate for a CO2 laser skin resurfacing treatment is to schedule a free consultation with Dr Allen.
Benefits of CO2 Laser Skin Treatment
By precisely removing damaged skin layer by layer, a CO2 laser skin resurfacing treatment is able to reduce the appearance of lines and wrinkles, “turning back the clock” on your complexion and revealing the more youthful looking skin that lies underneath. The CO2 laser – when used for the skin resurfacing procedure – can also lessen the appearance of scars and many other skin imperfections. Benefits include not only the effective correction of moderate to deep lines and wrinkles, but also treatment for uneven pigmentation, photodamage, precancerous spots, and a host of other skin imperfections and benign lesions. If you believe you may be a candidate for CO2 laser skin resurfacing treatment, Dr. Allen can carefully analyze your skin and determine if the procedure is right for you.
Is CO2 Laser Treatment Safe?
Yes, with the guidance of a skilled doctor, a CO2 laser skin resurfacing treatment is perfectly safe. With the predictability of the CO2 laser, skin can be precisely ablated layer by layer to provide incredibly safe results with minimal side-effects. Dr Allen will discuss possible CO2 laser skin resurfacing complications and how they can be avoided during your recovery.
March 15, 2011
I want laser hair removal for my bikini area! Is it painful? Does it work or is it hype?
The big question on everyone’s mind “Is it painful, and if so, how painful?”, followed by “Does it work or is it hype?” Well…let’s start from the beginning.
I’m an actual client at Deseret Aesthetic and Lifestyle Institute and was aske
d to write a guest blog on my experience with laser hair removal, specifically the bikini area.
I’ve had laser hair removal on my legs and underarms, but for some reason, the thought of laser hair ‘ south of the border’ was freaking me out a bit. My first thought was, what about the pain? I can honestly say that the laser hair removal on my legs and underarms was basically pain free, I barely felt anything. For some reason I didn’t think the same would apply to ‘other’ areas. I distinctly remember being a sophomore in college and my girlfriends talking me into getting a Brazilian wax. To say the experience was embarrassing and painful is an extreme understatement. The woman had me in various compromising positions ripping hair from here and there. As if the experience weren’t bad enough, I couldn’t walk properly for about a week. It was approaching summer in Arizona and I had giant bumps and was missing small pieces of skin from my pubic area, so not fun! That day I vowed I would shave for the rest of my life. Until recently I thought I would keep that vow, but the leg/underarm experience had me curious.
I tried searching the internet for random pieces of information that would give me some sort of insight into the experience, but all I could find was clinical descriptions and generic blogs. I decided that it couldn’t be that bad and booked an appointment.
When I arrived at Deseret the day of my appointment I felt extremely giddy, nervous I suppose. Brittany was the bubbly Laser Technician that had the not so distinct privilege of having me as her third appointment of the day. As soon as I was in the room I began to ask her question after question, trying to phrase them as nonchalant as possible, but not succeeding. She could sense my anxiety and eased my mind by explaining everything, detail by detail. My first thought was that I would have everything exposed for her to see; referencing my previous experience, but this was not at all the case. Everything was completely covered exposing only the small portion that was being lasered at that time, moving the covering to the next area as each portion was lasered.
I decided to go for the Brazilian, meaning you can leave a neat strip/triangle or you can opt for no hair whatsoever. I started by lying on my back and folding one leg up in a ‘4’ position, again, everything was covered except for an extremely small area. She tested an area at the top of my pelvic bone to make sure I was comfortable with the intensity, I was. Just like that, it began!
The first few ‘rows’ – as I like to call it, were a piece of cake. Brittany made sure to count down and keep me breathing, for example, 3 more, 2 more, 1 more. The time elapsed so quickly that before I knew it we were to the ‘sensitive area’. Brittany didn’t hide anything, she let me know that this would be the most tender – she was not at all kidding. Brittany made sure to keep me breathing, talking and kept up with the countdown, which believe it or not, helps tremendously. It put me in the mind set of “I can endure anything, 3 more times, 2 more times” you get the drift. Now comes the part that you may or may not want to hear, what about the pain. Yes, there was pain. Now that’s out of the way, it was completely bearable pain that lasted seconds. The entire process was less than 20 minutes, that’s including prep time, and as soon as the pain was over, it was quickly forgotten. Brittany gave me an ice pack to put on the area in case I experienced any swelling, which I didn’t.
I’m sure you’ve heard, as I have, that the intensity increases with each treatment and I was told I would need approximately 6 treatments. For now, I couldn’t be happier. I’ve posted pictures for everyone to see how well it’s working after ONE treatment. You can see the hair that is growing back and the hair that is gone, yes GONE!
I will make sure I check in after my second treatment to let you know how I handled the intensity, until then, good luck with your hair removal journey and remember a five o’clock shadow belongs on a man’s face and not your bikini line!
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- The day after my first Brazilian laser hair removal treatment.
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- Two weeks after my first Brazilian laser treatment.
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- Close-up on my pelvic area two weeks after the first treatment.
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- Two weeks after.
January 4, 2011
2011 Beauty Resolution Solutions!
After all of the holiday fun, the New Year is finally here! 2011 brings with it many possibilities, but let’s not forget those famous resolutions. Every year we make resolutions that eventually become too much to achieve and maintain. This year keep all your beauty resolutions with our list of treatments that match the most popular resolutions.
Resolution 1 – Get rid of cellulite!
Since this is easily one of the most popular beauty resolutions, we have a combination treatment that will accomplish your goal in no time!
Most people know that body wraps are an extremely effective method for reducing cellulite, not to mention losing actual inches from the problem areas of the buttocks, thighs and stomach. But combining a body wrap with a Lipotron treatment is an amazing way to jump-start cellulite reduction, recontouring your body after a holiday season of splurging on rich deserts and alcoholic beverages.
The Lipotron technology is a non-surgical alternative to weight loss and cellulite reduction that tightens the skin with visible results from the first treatment.
Resolution 2 – Find a better alternative for painful body waxing and daily shaving
Laser hair removal is the most popular method of hair removal worldwide. In response to the ever-increasing demand to remove unwanted hair on virtually any body area, it’s more affordable than ever before! To achieve a satisfactory level of hair removal, 6 treatments are typically required. Compared to a lifetime of disposable razors and painful and embarrassing wax treatments, 6 treatments is a blessing.
The LightSheer XC is the Gold Standard for hair removal. Get a full body laser hair membership today for $99.
Resolution 3 – Rejuvenate my face without painful and expensive surgery
Do we have the perfect treatment for you! Microcurrent facial sculpting is known as the “Lunch Time Facelift”. Lift drooping features; firm and contour; reduce fine lines, creases and wrinkles; reduce blackheads and shrink pores; and hydrate your skin. All of this without the usual risks…no redness, no harmful side-effects, no wounding, no abrasion, no soreness and no pain
Resolution 4 – Reduce wrinkles and improve skin texture
The Jet Peel is an all natural, virtually painless skin treatment procedure that dramatically improves the appearance and texture of your skin in a rapid manner and provides a noticeable enhancement to one’s skin from just the first treatment. This unique procedure works simultaneously on five different levels at once:
* Deep Cleanses
* Exfoliates
* Hydrates
* Oxygenates
* Micro-circulates the treated area
Resolution 5 – Restore my skin’s natural collagen production
LED Light Therapy not only pulls collagen to the surface to fill-in lines and wrinkles, but you wouldn’t believe the long list of other anti-aging effects.
· Minimizes the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles and crow`s feet
· Clears blemishes and minimizes pores
· Improves the appearance of skin tone and texture
· Reduces melanin that causes brown spots
· Reduces the effects of sun-damaged skin
· Increases circulation and moisture
· Reduces skin degradation, redness and flushing
· Decreases scarring, redness, dry patches, itching and sensitivity caused by eczema
· Stimulates and activates naturally occurring metabolic function and nutritional elements
Visit our site at www.DeseretSkin.com to learn more about all of our amazing beauty treatments.
November 19, 2010
What are Bio-Identical Hormones? Would hormone therapy work for you?
What are Bio-Identical Hormones?
Bio-identical hormones have been around for years, but most practitioners are unfamiliar with them.
These drugs are manufactured in a lab to have the same molecular structure as the hormones our bodies make. In contrast, synthetic hormones are intentionally different. Drug companies can’t patent bio-identical structures so they then make the synthetic in order to do the patent; such as drugs like Premarin, Prempro, and Provera.
In our practice, we have an individualized approach, beginning with lab tests of hormone levels (complete hormone panel). When warranted, we then prescribe a precise dosage of bio-identical estrogen, progesterone, testosterone, melatonin, Hgh, and/or DHEA that is prepared at a registered compounding pharmacy. Each patient we see is then carefully monitored throughout the process of hormone therapy. Follow-up hormone panels ensure whether the patient is getting the best possible results and relief of symptoms. Once balance is restored, we’ll do one panel a year at the time of an annual exam.
Is bHRT the first step to hormonal balance?
Bioidentical hormones work wonders but aren’t always the first place to turn when hormones are imbalanced. Some are able to approach it from a different aspect by utilizing a more naturalistic approach in eating better, following an exercise program, combining these things with a medical-grade nutritional supplement, and gentle endocrine support.
Our program does exactly that with the additional bonus of personalized bHRT and assistance in monitoring these changes. Our Essential nutrients and vitamins fill those nutritional gaps so common in our modern lifestyles. Coupled with the use of DHEA and Progesterone, Testosterone, and Melatonin, many patients can find relief from symptoms caused by major sex hormones most prone to disharmony much more simply than before.
Are bio-identical hormones better than synthetic?
We long ago concluded that the answer to this question is yes. But that doesn’t mean bio-identical hormones are perfect. The great appeal of bio-identical hormones is that they are natural, and our bodies can metabolize them as it was designed to do; minimizing side effects, and eliminating the symptoms. Synthetics are quite strong and cause a whole slew of intolerable side effects. Moreover, the compounded bio-identical hormones that we prescribe can be matched individually to each person’s needs… something that’s just impossible with mass-produced products.
Are bio-identical hormones safer?
European medical studies and previous studies done here in the US suggest ‘yes’. That of course makes perfect sense! The WHI studies on effectiveness and health risks of HRT were based on synthetic/equine based hormones, and the average age of the women enrolled was 63. These details did make a difference in their risks. To find out more on these studies and others like them, go to WHI website. Be sure you are reading the fine print and finding whether the studies variables itself was sustainable.
Can bio-identical hormones be used for breast cancer patients?
The pendulum has swung so far that today, very few practitioners will prescribe any type of HRT – synthetic or bio-identical – for women who have had breast cancer or even a family history of breast cancer. In fact, many such women are given anti-estrogen drugs.
Dr. Allen, who has developed a bio-identical hormone replacement therapy program in office, feels that we just don’t have enough data to rule out bHRT in every case, and prefers to look at each individuals particular situation, history, pathology, and blood work.
So – is bHRT right for you?
A person’s hormonal balance is ideally in a dynamic equilibrium that shifts from day-to-day, week to week, and through the years. When you give your body the support it needs, it can effectively reset itself, this is called homeostasis. The body is equipped and programmed for balance and wellness.
At Deseret Aesthetics & Lifestyle Institute our goal is to help inform patients about their options so that they can make the choice that is best for them in all aspects of health & wellness. Our bHRT program promotes natural hormonal balance with nutritional supplements, beginning with an initial consultation and overview of the various concerns a patient may be experiencing.
After the initial consult and overview of the program, a patient will then schedule a hormone blood-panel designed by Dr. Allen to get the complete picture of an individuals needs. A complete body scan will also be scheduled to measure the amount of body fat to muscle, provide a picture of a persons bone-density and assess risk of osteoporosis. This body scan also provides comparison data for program efficacy and helps a patient to understand the importance of muscle mass.
We recommend beginning with the gentlest form of support and therapy to allow the body time to alleviate your discomfort, tweaking it as you go. We’ll support you in any way we can, each step of the way. The good news is that men and women can feel great again… getting their lives back.
For more information on our Bio-Identical Hormone Therapy, call today for a consultation. (480) 832-SKIN (7546).
