Pro Advice
August 16, 2017

Summer Skin Issues & How to Fix Them by Board Certified Dermatologist (LCVIP)

By Board Certified Dermatologist, Dr. Margarita Lolis

As we head into the cooler months the weather change impacts our skin. We may notice changes to texture, tone, perhaps some breakouts and over all ruddiness and damage from being outside enjoying the summer. Here are some of the most common post summer skin issues I see in my practice along with some solutions for them.

  1. Sunspots and wrinkles.

Days at the beach or pool can lead to sunspots even if you apply sunscreen. We cannot reach every spot and sometimes we forget to reapply after swimming. Also, even when wearing polarized sunglasses, we may put them on our heads; temporarily squinting leading to crow’s feet.

If you’re noticing some new spots, freckles and wrinkles reach for a retinoid. Your dermatologist can offer prescription strength creams. Deeper wrinkles like the ones between the eyes usually require something like Botox but, you can minimize the appearance with creams that feature glycolic acid or alpha hydroxy acid. These are wonder vitamins for the skin stimulate skin shedding and cellular turn over. A serum used at night will help; but be patient and use it regularly to see a gradual change. Chemical peels and intense light treatments (IPL) can handle any discoloration.

  1. 2. Clogged pores and dullness.

During the summertime, we perspire plus we are exposed to daily pollution in the air. When you combine these factors plus daily use of make-up, pores get clogged. Beneath the skin are our sebaceous glands which secrete an oil called sebum. Sebum sticks to dead skin cells like glue and funnels these dead skin cells through the pores. This is a process that is supposed to help you maintain healthy skin. The problem is when the weather and elements speed up the process pores become clogged. The dead skin cells get trapped along with bacteria and this leads to dull, ruddy skin with breakouts. An exfoliating face wash with glycolic acid or salicylic acid helps tremendously. Your dermatologist can create a skin care regimen based on your specific skin type and issues so you don’t deregulate pH levels in the skin which will only make things worse leading to…

  1. Acne flare ups.

Consistent heat and humidity combined with cell phone use and touching our faces after touching dirty surfaces, leads to a post-summer breakout. These breakouts can be cystic which means bigger, deeper, more painful pimples. It also can lead to a cycle of breakouts that include, treat, pick, peel, scar, and heal only to see another pimple and another. Over the counter acne treatments such as face washes with sulfur, black charcoal masks and soaps, spot treatments with benzoyl peroxide can certainly help. However, when the breakouts are consistent a dermatologist can assess your skin and present solutions that may even involve nutritional changes, vitamins and light therapy for mild or moderate acne.

  1. Dry lips.

We all know about winter time lip chapping. In the summer lips can get incredibly dry. Using a lip balm with SPF is very helpful but unless we are applying it regularly while at the beach, pool, or working out outdoors, one swipe under lip gloss isn’t enough. Drinking water, and keeping alcohol consumption to a minimum helps keep us hydrated. When we are dehydrated, we see it on our lips. Pay close attention to any freckles or discoloration to the lips after prolonged sun exposure. If you see any odd changes, see your dermatologist.

  1. Ashy, flaky, itchy, skin.

If you are often in chlorine or salt water you’ll find your skin to feel rough and dry almost as if it is shedding. Also, going from extreme heat to cool air conditioning leads to skin going from perspiration to goosebumps. This rapid drop in temperature affects skin. Taking luke-warm showers and using a gentle exfoliating skin wash followed by a hydrating moisturizer keeps skin supple. Add a few drops of vitamin E to your lotion for added nourishment.

When it comes to the face, peeling foreheads and noses points to sun damage. Oftentimes people wait until something is visible to them or when an is followed by a dry patch. Dermatologists can look at things with a more discerning eye plus magnifiers that enable them to flag something that could escalate into something more. If everyone put October on their calendars as the month to see a dermatologist for a skin check we would see many skin conditions be solved quicker. This includes melanomas.

About the expert:

Dr. Margarita Lolis, M.D. is a board-certified cosmetic, medical dermatologist and a fellowship-trained Mohs surgeon with over 20 years of experience. In her practice, she addresses common skin concerns such as acne prevention and treatment in both teens and adults, sun-damage, skin discoloration, wrinkles, changes to skin texture and loss of volume. On the medical side, she is a trusted expert in melanoma and over-all skin health. Dr. Lolis prides herself in honoring facial symmetry to deliver a natural look to her clients. She always recommends a healthy skin care regimen plus lifestyle habits that are aligned with her holistic approach to beauty.

As an anti-aging, functional medicine physician, Dr. Lolis masterfully addresses age management, starting with internal issues, such as hormone and gut health, nutrition, and detoxification leading to a vibrant appearance from the inside out.

A graduate of Yale University and Mount Sinai School of Medicine, Dr. Lolis has authored numerous book chapters and medical articles in leading dermatology journals, and completed a melanoma research fellowship prior to residency.

Dr. Lolis is a member of the American Academy of Dermatology, American College of Mohs Surgery, and the American Society of Anti-aging. Her practice, Skin, Laser, and Surgery Specialists is in New York City and Bergen Country, New Jersey.

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August 15, 2017

OLD WIVES’S TALES ABOUT DIET AND WEIGHT LOSS

www.drcalapai.net

An estimated 45 million Americans go on a diet each year, and Americans spend $33 billion each year on weight loss products. Yet, nearly two-thirds of Americans are overweight or obese. With all of this money expended, why are so many people unable to lose weight?  Dr. Christopher Calapai is, a New York City Osteopathic Physician board certified in family and anti-aging medicine. He says that, “People are dealing with dieting information overload. It is hard to know what is sound weight loss advice and what is a myth.”   He sets the record straight on some of our most commonly held diet and weight loss myths.

You can eat whatever you want if you workout

Unfortunately, a half hour on the treadmill isn’t going to help you lose weight if you reward yourself by downing a few slices of cake and an order of French fries. The treadmill told you that you burned off 500 calories, but those estimated machine readouts are not always accurate.  It’s near impossible to out-exercise a bad diet unless you plan to spend half your day in the gym. You must workout and eat smart to see results.

Organic food is diet food.

The word organic is enticing, but it’s also misleading. Organic means a food is grown without pesticides or other chemicals and is not genetically modified. But it says absolutely nothing about the nutrient value of the food itself, or whether it’s a good dietary choice, or whether it has excessive fat, sugar, or starch. Organic sugar is still sugar. Organic white flour is still white flour. Organic butter is still butter and organic lard is still lard. 

You Can Lose 10 Pounds in 2 Weeks.

You probably can lose 10 pounds in two weeks if you crash-diet, but that pace is rarely sustainable.  Most of the weight will return once you start eating normally. To truly lose 1 pound, you need to “eliminate” 3,500 calories—the amount stored in a pound of fat—by eating less and moving more. If you cut 500 calories (or cut 300 and burn 200 through exercise) every single day of the week, you’ll lose about a pound a week. And that’s real weight loss.

amount stored in a pound of fat—by eating less and moving more. If you cut 500 calories (or cut 300 and burn 200 through exercise) every single day of the week, you’ll lose about a pound a week. And that’s real weight loss.

Cleanses and detoxes are a good way to jump-start a diet.

Nobody needs to detox.

Unless you’ve been poisoned, you have a built-in, super-efficient system for filtering out most of the harmful substances you eat. It’s made up of two toxin-bashing organs: the liver and the kidneys. Our kidneys filter our blood and remove any waste from our diet, and our livers process medications and detoxify any chemicals we ingest. Paired together, these organs make our bodies natural cleansing powerhouses.

You can’t eat after 8pm

It doesn’t matter what time of day you eat. It is what and how much you eat and how much physical activity you do during the whole day that determines whether you gain, lose, or maintain your weight. No matter when you eat, your body will store extra calories as fat. If you want a snack before bedtime, think first about how many calories you’ve eaten that day.

You must keep your blood sugar topped up, and eat little and often to achieve it

This is one of the least accurate bits of advice. Every time you eat a carbohydrate, and your blood glucose levels rise, the body needs to release a substance called insulin (from the pancreas) to return your blood glucose levels to normal. Any “topping up” simply places a demand on the body to get the blood glucose levels back down again. This might be the  reason for the explosion in type 2 diabetes – the body is asked to release insulin too much, too often and has no way of recognizing some of the foreign substances we consume in modern man-made food. 

Wait Until You’re Hungry to Eat.

Myth!: By waiting to eat until you’re very hungry, your hunger simply builds and builds until it’s all consuming, causing your appetite to spiral out of control. In fact, new research reveals that by skipping breakfast, you’ll end up eating more calories in total and making less healthy food choices throughout the day than you would have otherwise. Research also shows that forgoing breakfast activates your body’s insulin response, triggering fat storage and weight gain.

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August 11, 2017

Top 5 Back to School Stressors and How to Bust Them

Mother Helping Stressed Teenage Daughter Looking At Laptop

While the start of a new school year comes with excitement for kids, it also comes with stress. It’s common for kids to feel overwhelmed this time of year especially as they navigate the challenges that crop up with a new school year. This stress can manifest itself in stomach aches, headaches, loss of appetite, even depression. Here are 5 common top back to school stressors and how parents can help their kids to bust them.

  1. Facing the bully.

For kids who are bullied, summer break also means a break from the relentless verbal and at times physical abuse that can be crushing to a kid’s self-worth. Oftentimes kids won’t tell parents that they are being bullied because they are embarrassed or fear telling school administrators will only escalate the bullying. As the school start date approaches, pay attention to your kid’s anxiety level. Communicate and ask them what they are looking forward to this school year. Ask them who are they most excited to see when they return to school. Listen for any negativity and seek to understand where it comes from. Ask if they ever witnessed bullying and what they would do if they did. If your child reveals that they don’t want to see a certain group of kids ask why and get as much information as you can. You want to show your kid that they have your support without judgement.

  1. Extra work!

Kids who once did great may enter the new year and feel overwhelmed with the additional school work. Perhaps they aren’t grasping the material as quickly as they once did. This is common especially in math at the junior high level. Once parents can no longer help kids with homework, they may want to invest in tutoring. Before selecting a tutor it’s wise to have your child be evaluated to get clarity on how they learn best. Some kids are visual learners making a math tutor who helps the student to “see” how the equations play out in visual analogy are tremendously helpful. Another solution that can benefit the whole family is hiring a time management or accountability coach to help the entire family to manage schedules effectively.

  1. Tuition bills.

With the skyrocketing cost of education, many kids listen to parents discussing the stress they feel about college tuition and then take on that stress themselves. Money is a stressful topic because it is usually never spoken about openly and honestly. Some students may wonder if college is even a right option for them but fear voicing this opinion. Many feel that higher education leaves them ill prepared for “the real world.” Many parents and kids question the value of the six-figure tuition price tag. There has been a slow shift away from traditional education in favor of entrepreneurship. Perhaps an internship at a small business a few days per week after school can provide them with more hands-on experience on a path that truly interests them and can be even more lucrative. Showing your kids there are many ways to achieve success, presents options they may not have ever known existed.

  1. The unknown.

Whether your child is starting school for the first time or entering junior high, high school or even college; anxiety is common when we are uncertain. Anxiety doesn’t discriminate and older kids get anxious about the unknown just the same as the younger kids do. It’s common for small children to have separation anxiety at the start of school and for homesickness to strike college freshman living away for the first time. Touring the school, getting to know teachers in advance, and getting as much information beforehand helps kids to mentally prepare for what they can expect.

  1. Social status and drama.

The return to school comes with the return to more kids and more social drama. Usually in the summer, kids stick to their immediate group of best friends. During the school year, they are forced to get along with everyone. The gossip and constant pressure to fit in can cause anxiety. Simple things like choosing clothing, hairstyle and over all appearance can cause a lot of pressure. Teens especially are trying to get a handle on body image and are often feel anxious about being judged by other kids. It’s important to be supportive and understanding while reaffirming your child’s strengths and larger goals. When your kids are busy focused on what they want to achieve and what they enjoy doing, they’re less likely to have time to concern themselves with the opinions of others.

About the expert:

Dr. Sanam Hafeez PsyD is a NYC based licensed clinical psychologist, teaching faculty member at the prestigious Columbia University Teacher’s College and the founder and Clinical Director of Comprehensive Consultation Psychological Services, P.C. a neuropsychological, developmental and educational center in Manhattan and Queens. 

 

Dr. Hafeez masterfully applies her years of experience connecting psychological implications to address some of today’s common issues such as body image, social media addiction, relationships, workplace stress, parenting and psychopathology (bipolar, schizophrenia, depression, anxiety, etc…). In addition, Dr. Hafeez works with individuals who suffer from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), learning disabilities, attention and memory problems, and abuse. Dr. Hafeez often shares her credible expertise to various news outlets in New York City and frequently appears on CNN and Dr.Oz.

 

Connect with her via twitter @comprehendMind or www.comprehendthemind.com

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July 31, 2017

8 TIPS FOR PUMPING TO BUILD OR INCREASE BREAST MILK SUPPly

 

Mother’s milk is a best for a newborn baby because it gives the baby all the nutrients necessary and also build up the baby’s immune system strong. A feeding mother may worry if she is making enough milk to feed her baby. It is very important to understand and follow a few tips by lactating mothers in order to boost her milk supply.

 

  • Feed more

 

The making of milk in the breast is a natural process. The more a little one feeds on mother’s milk the more milk is produced. So we can say that the breasts work on demand. As the baby is growing you may feel that you are not able to feed him enough and the baby keeps hungry. Do not worry. You need to understand that your breasts make enough milk to feed your baby however big he’s growing. It is a very wrong thing to supplement the baby with other formula milk during the first 6 months of his life. Feeding your baby is the best thing a baby could get from a mother. It may be time taking but go ahead and do it.

 

     2) Pump after nursing

If you are a working mum you need to establish a pumping routine early. This will make it easy for the child as well as you. The milk should be pumped out properly and stored safely so that it can be used for the baby when you are not around. Even if you are at home pumping out milk after nursing will increase the production and will be helpful if you want to take a break or a nap.

       

    3) Switch sides

A lactating mother should feed the baby from both the breasts while every nursing session. When the baby loses interest and has a problem sucking are falling asleep change the side. This will help both the breasts to make more milk and as a mum, you can be sure that your baby is not hungry.

 

   4) Pump the right way.

The right kind of breast pumps needs to be used. The electric ones give you better results. Pumps that are operated by hand or battery do not serve your purpose in the long run. Using a double pump can also be a very good option as it will save a lot of time and energy.

It is very important to use the pump correctly. This can be done by following the instructions given in the manual or consulting your lactating doctor.

All the parts of the pump should be kept very clean and sterilized at all times. This would ensure the good health of your baby. While using the pump it is very important to see that the pump shields fully covers your breasts and nipples.

 

   5) Relax and take it easy

You need to make your body relaxed and comfortable before feeding or pumping milk out of your breast. It is very important for a mother to be emotionally and physically relaxed so that it loses her up and calms down her reflexes which help the milk to flow out and increases its quantity. Quite often while breastfeeding you may get hungry or thirsty. Keep a glass of water, juice and some healthy food handy so that it is easy for you to grab a snack and sip a drink without disturbing the nursing child. It is also very important for a lactating mother to have nutritious and healthy food which encourages the production of milk. Spicy and preserved foods have their side effects and harm the child while they are nursing on you.

 

     6) Keep your child in skin contact with you

Researches show that when the baby is in direct contact with your skin it increases the motherly feelings resulting in an increase in the amount of breast milk. This is called Kangaroo care. If for any reason the baby is in the hospital and cannot be breastfed you can consult your lactating physician who could allow you for Kangaroo care.

 

     7) Keep your breasts warm

Before you start feeding your baby or pumping it is advisable to apply warm moist cloth on the breast. This helps you relax the muscles of the area and help a better flow of breast milk. It is also advisable to wear the right size of bra that keeps you comfortable.

 

      8) Take care of yourself 

You are a new mother and you are busy taking care of your little one which is not an easy job but at the same time, it is very important for you to take care of yourself. If you don’t take care of yourself keep stressed and tensed it will affect the amount of milk produced for your baby. A balanced diet with calories and lots of fluids and rest will help you nurse your baby better.

 

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July 25, 2017

3 Surprising Things No One Tells You About Menopause

Hot flashes, night sweats, weight gain, bad mood and fatigue, these are the menopausal symptoms every woman approaching midlife hears about the most. But menopause can cause a whole host of unpleasant effects and many women never make the connection between their symptoms and menopause. Here are three surprisingly common problems that menopause can bring into your life.

Regular Bad Hair Days

Menopause can really do a number on your self-esteem. As if hot flashes, mood swings, and weight gain weren’t enough to contend with, you’ll also have to spend more time taking care of your hair if you don’t want to lose your lustrous locks.

Many women find that their hair becomes dry and brittle once menopause hits, prompting a search for gentle, natural hair care products that can address the damage.

For some women though, menopause delivers an even harsher blow, causing hair to thin and to fall out. A truly devastating development.

Thankfully, there’s no need to accept what nature throws at you and settle for a head of wispy hair because today’s new generation of hair regrowth products can safely restore your hair to its former glory.

New Allergies

Hormonal changes can alter the way that your immune system works, causing your body to react to allergens that haven’t ever troubled you before.

For most women, these allergic reactions are mild, confined to itchy eyes, skin rashes, and bouts of sneezing, but for some women, the allergy triggers more serious effects like wheezing, swelling, and dizziness.

Mild allergies can be managed with over-the-counter allergy medications like Benadryl, but you should seek your doctor’s advice if your allergies are more severe.

A Racing Heartbeat

An irregular heartbeat is another common problem that can flare up unexpectedly, and if you aren’t prepared for it, having your heart suddenly change its rhythm is a very frightening experience.

Your fluctuating hormones can cause your nervous system to send erratic electrical signals to your heart, resulting in a very rapid heartbeat.

At this stage of your life, you could find that alcohol, caffeine, and spicy foods trigger these bouts whereas these things weren’t at all problematic before. Keeping a food and drink diary will enable you to spot any links between your diet and pounding heart, and allow you to make the necessary changes to help prevent future episodes.Deep breathing exercises, It’s a Glam Thing, Pro Avice

Deep breathing exercises and meditation techniques can make it easier to get through episodes of rapid heartbeat and prevent your panic response making things worse.

Schedule an appointment with your doctor to rule out more serious causes. Rapid heartbeat accompanied by pain or shortness of breath should always be treated as an emergency.

Menopause and the peri menopause that precedes it can cause hormonal changes and unwelcome symptoms for a good ten years of a woman’s life.  But menopause doesn’t have to be a long, drawn out nightmare. Knowing what to expect and being able to recognize the symptoms for what they truly are will allow you take prompt action and get your menopause under control.

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July 20, 2017

From the pros: Dr. Christopher Calapai shares seven medicine cabinet must-haves for the summer!

Dr. Christopher Calapai, D.O., a New York City Osteopathic Physician board certified in family and anti-aging medicine has shared seven medicine cabinet must-haves for the summer!

 

  1. Moisturizing Sunscreen – This goes without saying. A moisturizing sunscreen is an absolute must! Sunscreen acts as a basic sun protector, assists with premature aging, helps with evening skin tones, all while making sure you stay moisturized.

 

  1. Aloe Vera Gel – With the sun rays in full force, it can be difficult to protect your skin from the heat. Aloe Vera Gel has great preventative properties also working as a skin rejuvenation, healing and soothing product. Aloe Vera Gel is a summer essential tool in skin-health and can used to relieve burned skin, remove sunspots, and moisturize dry skin

 

  1. Calamine Lotion – The summer brings mosquitos along with other pestering insects, leaving you vulnerable to bug bites and itchy rashes. Calamine Lotion is an oldie but goodie. This soothing cream is great to calm any itching that you may endure.

 

  1. Neosporin – Most people are more active during the summer season, partaking in outdoor activities like hiking, camping and beaching. Neosporin helps in treating and preventing infection due to minor cuts, scrapes, and burns you may get from your summer lifestyle.

 

  1. Band-Aids – Besides the most common use of Band-Aids, such as treating minor cuts and scrapes, Band-Aids can also be a great summer hack and important to prevent blisters, friction and wounds from sandals and other exposed footwear.

 

  1. Benadryl – Summer allergies are no joke! Pollen and insects can do a lot harm. Benadryl treats sneezing, runny nose, watery eyes, hives, skin rash, itching, and other allergy symptoms that summer brings.

       7. Multivitamins – Some people may not know it, but summer is a great time to boost your body’s defense system. Multivitamins are important to provide the nutriment your body will crave in the summer.

About the doctor:

Dr. Christopher Calapai, D.O. is an Osteopathic Physician board certified in family medicine, and anti-aging medicine. Proclaimed the “The Stem Cell Guru” by the New York Daily News, Dr. Calapai is a leader in the field of stem cell therapy in the U.S. His stem cell treatments have achieved remarkable results in clinical trials on patients with conditions as varied as Alzheimer’s, arthritis, erectile dysfunction, frailty syndrome, heart, kidney and liver failure, lupus, MS and Parkinson’s. He has worked with Mike Tyson, Mickey Rourke, Steven Seagal, and Gotham’s, Donal Logue; and as a medical consultant for the New York Rangers. Connect with him via twitter @drcalapai or at www.drcal.net

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July 10, 2017

Tired of Looking Tired

 

Tired of Looking Tired?

A tired face can age a girl beyond her years.  It starts with furrowed brows and eyelids that start to droop.  The reason?  Cynthia Rowland, creator of  the Facial Magic Exercise System (www.facialmagic.com), explains that facial muscles lengthen and atrophy if not exercised, making skin appear soft and saggy.  The solution? Isometric exercises with resistance (not funny contortions or crazy twists) that can tone, tighten and lift facial muscles.

Rowland has 18 exercises that divides the face into 15 regions to correct facial sagging.  Underlying muscles are rejuvenated with specific and targeted exercises so your face looks fresh and lifted with tight, youthful contours and better looking skin.  These exercises increase oxygenated blood to the facial tissue resulting in healthier more vibrant skin. The results are better than a surgical face lift because it leaves the person looking like themselves, only younger.

Here is an example of an exercise:  The Upper Eye exercise lifts the brows and begins to tighten lax forehead muscles. This exercise also provides sinus relief as it “de-puffs” sinus swelling. Here’s how it’s done:  place the three middle fingers of each hand underneath your eyebrows. Drop the palms of your hands to your face. Keep your forehead and face relaxed. Push your eyebrows straight up and anchor (hold). Keep your eyes open, look straight ahead. Now use your forehead muscle to push down into your fingertips. Count to five. Release the contraction, remove your hands, take a deep breath and begin the exercise again. This time we’re counting to 10.  At the seventh second, close your eyes while you keep pushing up with your fingertips and down into your fingertips with your forehead.

Purchase your copy of Facial Magic at Amazon.com

 

 

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July 3, 2017

From the Pros: 5 Foods to Defy the Post-Flight ‘Dehydration Face’

Fourth of July weekend in front of us means it’s officially high summer and most people are gearing up for their vacations. For many, that will include air travel, and possibly a long haul flight.  You know the drill: they give you some peanuts, the drink cart makes a couple of rounds, they bring you your sad little tray of airplane food and then before you know it, it’s wheels down. Your flight attendant hands you a moist towlette and you hope it’ll revive your dried skin and make you look a little less haggard but it does neither, and you chastise yourself for not downing more little cups of water. But drinking water on a plane is a double-edged sword; if you don’t your entire epidermis dries up; if you do, your lower body retains the liquid. So what’s a non-ankle-swell-enthusiast to do?   

Dr. Christopher Calapai DO, an anti-aging and stem cell expert and long time health advisor to the New York Rangers hockey team, tells us how to fight post-flight dehydration with foods!

  1. Watermelon

“Watermelon is one of the most hydrating foods there are,” says Dr. Calapai “I’s a great alternative to plane snacks which have large amounts of sodium, which in turn make you more dehydrated.”  Pack big thick slices in a large plastic baggie and take them in your handbag, they won’t be taken away at TSA and will help you avoid the salty peanuts.

  1. Cucumbers

“Cucumbers are about 96 percent water,” says Calapai “They also contain no saturated fat or cholesterol and are high in Vitamin B6 which helps in the production of serotonin which is the brain chemical that controls mood.” You can slice them or cube them and also bring them along in a baggie or small container. Try making small cucumber-watermelon bites, they are pretty delicious!

  1. Strawberries

When the airplane cookies come around say ‘no thanks’ and reach for some strawberries instead! “Strawberries have the highest water content of any berry, 92 percent to be exact,” shares Calapai “You can enjoy the tart-sweet flavor without consuming too much sugar.”

  1. Soup

If you’re the type of person that needs an actual meal to feel satisfied bring along a Ramen Cup of Noodles in your favorite flavor, it’s not TSA restricted. When you’re over the snacks and are ready to have lunch/dinner ask the flight attendant for hot water and voila! Soup!

  1. Coconut Water

Ok, so you can’t totally avoid drinking liquids! “Coconut water is low in calories and high in naturally occurring hydration replenishing electrolytes, which regular water does not contain. It’s a better option than sports drinks which have artificial flavors and more calories,” advises Dr. Calapai. After you’re past security grab a bottle of coconut water from any of the airport mini-marts.

www.drcalapai.net

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June 21, 2017

Top 5 Celebrities Who Look Great Over 45 / How to Get Their Look

There are celebrities who seem to get better with age and maintain their looks while others seem to be at war with aging. From lip injections and fillers that make faces look oddly distorted; to full face lifts that lead to slanted eyes and an expression-less appearance, we can’t help to notice when celebrities get it so wrong. In a sea of over-the-top plastic surgery, there are many celebrities who may have had a procedure or four, but managed to preserve the integrity of their faces. Dr. Kirk Brandow, founder and director of the Brandow Clinic for Cosmetic Surgery in Philadelphia; who has appeared on national programs such as Good Morning America and 20/20, shared his list of the top 5 celebrities who look great over age 45 and explains why.

The best part, these images are from the Instagram accounts of these gorgeous ladies so the photos are current and in many cases, unretouched. Let’s begin.1.

1. Salma Hayek, age 50. Latin women with olive complexions age very well and Salma certainly fits into this category. She was gorgeous at 30 and she’s stunning still. “She looks incredible. She doesn’t appear to have had anything done. Amazing!” says Dr. Brandow. “For women looking to achieve this look there are simple things such as Botox to the forehead to prevent eyes from falling and to keep eyebrows in their natural position,” he adds. “You want to maintain your natural features and knowing the right moisturizer, make-up, plus sticking to a healthy diet, helps to maintain a youthful glow from the inside out. To achieve a look like Salma’s, most women would have to go the route of a mini face lift in their 40’s which offers a more natural look for 6-10 years without the distortion of excessive fillers,” he adds.2.  Kris Jenner, age 61.

While the Power “Momager” admits to having cosmetic procedures, she’s transformed herself into an elegant, age appropriate grandmother. Kris Jenner is on record saying she’s had a facelift, uses fillers yet, her look is sophisticated and not at all scary. “She looks great at 61. Her skin is radiant, her face has expression, there’s great symmetry and her features are soft.  She is an excellent example of someone who has embraced surgery to improve her eyelids with blephorplasty, her face with a facelift, and fillers in a very conservative fashion to get a nice, natural, ageless look.” explains Dr. Brandow.

3. Cindy Crawford, age 51. Cindy Crawford’s look is iconic. She knows this and makes sure she keeps things as authentic as possible. “With Cindy, it’s all about those classic eyebrows and lips. Both have been beautifully maintained. Her eyebrows aren’t freakishly high. They look the same as they did in the 90’s. Her lips aren’t any different either. A lot of women over inject their lips distorting their shape and lose their uniqueness. The idea is to preserve, not change,” suggests Dr. Brandow. “Again, women often go too far with fillers leading to a puffy look when they can achieve a more natural look with a mini facelift which lessens the need for the fillers making the mini facelift a more cost-effective option over time,” he adds.

4. Jennifer Lopez, age 47. Jennifer Lopez is another Latina who looks at father time and gives him a wink. Her body is amazing and you can tell she has a healthy lifestyle. “I have patients in their 30’s saying they hope they look like J-Lo when they reach their late 40’s which is why they are getting procedures now. Jennifer Lopez is truly the hardest working woman in show biz who looks like she sleeps full 8 hours every night a very important part of the anti-aging regimen,” Dr. Brandow advises. It is possible that she does minimal things such as Botox or fillers, but in a very conservative way.”

  1. Jennifer Anniston, age 48. When you see re-runs of the hit 90’s TV show Friend’s, you can easily compare a 26-year-old Anniston in her role as Rachel Greene, to how she looks two decades later.  You immediately can see how Jennifer Anniston has aged with grace. “She is another laid-back celebrity who ages with elegance. Her body is toned and strong and her face looks fresh and natural. As women age they lose volume in their lips. So, it is important to keep lip injections subtle and factor the overall shape of the mouth,” advises Dr. Brandow.

 

About Dr. Kirk Brandow

Dr. Kirk Brandow, founder and director of the Brandow Clinic for Cosmetic Surgery is a plastic surgeon with 2 locations in the Philadelphia metro area and a 3rd one at the jersey shore. Named a “Top Doc” in Plastic Surgery by Philadelphia Magazine as well as nationally recognized for one of America’s “Best Plastic Surgeons” of this decade, Dr. Brandow is a trusted expert who has developed many innovative, minimally invasive procedures for the face, body and skin. He has been featured on local, national and international television programs including 20/20, CNN’s Headline News, Good Morning America.

 

 

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June 8, 2017

Summertime Beauty Challenge! How to Achieve the Best Bikini Skin Zone.

The quest for a perfect bikini zone is for many women, an epic process of trial and error. The goal of course is to achieve a perfect, bump-free, baby-smooth bikini area. With so many hair removal options available it can take forever to find a routine that works. For many women laser hair removal has become the be all end all option to permanently remove unwanted bikini area hair, however it’s important to get the facts and find someone reputable to do it. Below, Jenya Titova, Instructor to Asthetic Mentors and Physician’s Assistant to Board Certified Plastic Surgeon, Dr. Leonard Hochstein of Hochstein MedSpa in Miami, Florida dishes out the dos and don’ts for perfect bikini zone skin, whether you shave, wax or laser. Choose what’s right for you and stay in the zone!

Shaving

  • Do keep the razor sharp and new! Replace your razor every two to three weeks.
  • Do go slow! Ingrowns and irritation comes with quick motion. You want to go slower around the bikini area given angles and harder to reach areas. Slide the razor slowly and irritation will lessen.
  • “Pay attention to how you skin reacts when shaving. Do you get bumps and redness? If so you need an exfoliating and moisturizing routine,” suggests Jenya Titova.

Laser Hair Removal

  • “You really want to shave the day before,” advises Jenya Titova whose skincare expertise spans over a decade. “The laser can locate the follicles easier when shaved. It’s very important to use a clean, new razor to avoid having any lingering bacteria that could cause contact dermatitis (a delayed allergic reaction) after your laser treatment,” she adds.
  • Avoid coffee. Or anything with caffeine, really, it has been said to increase sensitivity.
  • Be rested and hydrated. Your pain receptors will be higher if you’re fatigued and dehydrated.
  • Ask your technician to try different paces.Each technician has his or her own technique. Some perform in quick bursts, while others use a slow, continuous pace. One technique may feel better on your skin than the next.
  • Avoid tanning.Both tanning beds and the sun can be harmful after exposing your skin to laser, avoid both and put on SPF! “In warm weather climates, this is always a concern because women are always outside at the beach or pool. If you’re getting laser hair removal avoid the sun entirely for at least 3 days before your laser treatment,” cautions Ms. Titova.

Waxing

The key to successful waxing is skin prep a week before the waxing is scheduled. Exfoliation and moisturizing are essential. “You want the skin to be supple and not dry. It’s much less painful to wax skin that is moist as opposed to dry,” explains Ms. Titova.

Find the right wax. Hard wax is usually a honey color and is peeled by the technician using her hand, as opposed to the paper strips used to remove soft wax. It is commonly said that hard wax is less painful and better for skin. There is also sugar wax, and many other varieties that boast different benefits.

Make sure your hair is long enough. “This is often a downside to waxing. Hair should be at least ¼ of an inch long for wax to catch it. Many women never allow hair to grow this long making waxing a more difficult option especially if hair is coarse,” advises Ms. Titova.

Don’t shave in between sessions. Shaved hair grows back harder and coarser, as opposed to waxed hair, which grows back thinner each time. Shaving in between sessions ruins the benefits of waxing.

About the Expert:

 Jenya Titova, MHS, PA-C/ Director of Medspa Operations

Jenya Titova comes to Hochstein Medspa with over 12 years of experience in several high volume, distinguished dermatology and aesthetic practices in New Jersey, Pennsylvania and Florida. She graduated with Alpha Eta and Summa Cum Laude Honors, in the top three percent of her class from Drexel University in Philadelphia. Since that day, helping patients reach their health and beauty goals has been a passion of hers.

Jenya is highly experienced in the fields of laser medicine, cosmetic fillers, neurotoxins and dermatology. She has even mentored many roundtable discussions and presentations for Physicians and Physician Assistants at medical conferences on new and current medical and cosmetic dermatology therapies.

Prior to leading the launch of Hochstein Medspa, Jenya spent over 3 years working side by side with Dr. Hochstein, complementing his surgical practice with variety of aesthetic medicine services.

In the field beauty medicine, Jenya set her skills apart from her peers by becoming an instructor for Aesthetic Mentors, where she trained physicians, new to aesthetic world, on techniques of enhancing patients’ appearance with cosmetic fillers and Botox. She is skilled in the use of Restylane, Juvederm, Voluma, Volbella, Belotero, Botox, Kybella among others. Jenya’s laser experience includes skin resurfacing with Halo and BBL by Sciton, tattoo removal, DiVa vaginal rejuvenation, Thermi RF skin tightening and Coolsculpting, to name a very few. Sclerotherapy and other cosmetic dermatology services are also within her skill set to address nearly any of your skin appearance concerns.
Jenya Titova’s heritage enables her to offer patient care in Russian and Ukrainian languages, as well as her “European touch” and vision of beauty and health. As she states, “Only through good communication top quality results are realistic and easy to accomplish. With that, I know my patient is sure to leave our medspa happy and satisfied.”

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