I believe that this day in age most of us have considered the possibility of having a cosmetic procedure. After all, there are a number of treatments and procedures now available that are non-invasive, and require very little, if any, downtime.

The blind “online” ASDS consumer survey was actually the “first-ever” administrated by the American Society for Dermatologic Surgery (ASDS), with regard to Cosmetic Dermatogic Procedures ! It was carried out earlier this year via the web based Zoom Panel Service.

Consumers were asked to give their views on “cosmetic treatments in general” and then rate “10 particular procedures, from wrinkle-relaxing injections and body sculpting to laser hair removal.”

The results:
Quoting the survey data,“While 6.4 percent of those surveyed previously had a cosmetic treatment, nearly 30 percent said they were considering a procedure. When asked what provider they chose, consumers not only picked dermatologists as the physician of choice for nine of the 10 procedures, but also said dermatologic surgeons are their dermatologist of choice in nine of the 10 categories.”

That’s quite a positive statement that expresses a lot of confidence in the dermatologic surgeons. It comes as no surprise after reading this quote from ASDS President, Timothy C. Flynn, M.D.stating,“Board certification tells potential patients that a doctor is highly trained and most qualified to care for their skin health and beauty needs!” “That training and qualifications are key reasons consumers choose dermatologic surgeons.”

Those who took the survey seemed to agree, and felt that dermatologists had more of an impact on consumers and “their” determination to have a cosmetic procedure than that of their “friends, physician referrals, or 11 other choices!” The area of Board Certification in which a doctor excelled was the most important consideration when considering a cosmetic procedure. It even won out over “the cost, physician referrals, and eight other choices!”

What was the consumer’s objective for looking into a cosmetic treatment?
Here’s the “top” reasons they mentioned :
• “Looking as young as I feel for my age.”
• “Appearing more attractive.”
• “Feeling more confident!”
Those are very realistic and reasonable expectations when seeking procedures such as this.

What were their concerns?
• Over 80 percent expressed that their weight was the cosmetic condition that “bothered” them the most.
Followed by:
• Lines and wrinkles around the eyes (63 percent)
• Skin texture and/or discoloration (62 percent)
• Sagging facial skin (61 percent)
• Excess fat under the chin (60 percent)
• Lines, wrinkles and/or folds in the mid-face around the cheeks and mouth (60 percent)

What procedures were these consumers looking into?
According to the survey:
• Ultrasound
• laser
• Light and radio frequency treatments for wrinkles
• Laser and light treatments to reduce facial redness, improve skin tone or improve scars
• Body sculpting

“Thanks to advances in cosmetic surgery – many spearheaded by dermatologic surgeons, noted Dr.Flynn, dozens of cosmetic treatment options are available to consumers today,”

In conclusion, these consumers gave “highest overall satisfaction rates” to cosmetic procedures performed by dermatologists more often than by other practitioners!”
Examples being:
• Injectable wrinkle treatments (92%)
• Injectable filler treatments (92 percent).

Dr. Flynn remarked that,“Patients rightfully demand satisfaction, and dermatologic surgeons provide that with their training and expertise. With these procedures being performed by so many dermatologic surgeons,it’s no surprise that they have the highest patient satisfaction rates. We are the skin experts.”

After reading the following information below about the ASDS, I recommend that you then take a moment to visit their very informative website at:
www.asds.net

About the ASDS:
“The American Society for Dermatologic Surgery (ASDS) is the largest specialty organization exclusively representing dermatologic surgeons who have unique training and experience to treat the health, function and beauty of your skin. ASDS members are pioneers in the field. Many are involved in the clinical studies that bring popular treatments to revitalize skin and fill and diminish wrinkles to the forefront. Their work has helped create and enhance many of the devices that remove blemishes, hair and fat, and tighten skin. Dermatologic surgeons also are experts in skin cancer prevention, detection and treatment. As the incidence of skin cancer rises, dermatologic surgeons are committed to taking steps to minimize the life-threatening effects of this disease.”

(“Quotes”,”quoted,and paraphrased” information within this article regarding the ASDS survey,and results were obtained by a provided PR-Fact Sheet. Any additional personal commentary was my opinion regarding the topic being presented.)

As we get older, it’s important to keep in mind that our makeup routine should be consonant with celebrating our natural beauty.  Understanding what products work best for our skin may take some trial and error. It is great to experiment with makeup so that we eventually find a routine we have complete mastery over.

To begin with, it is extremely important to start with a good lightweight foundation. When making a selection, look for one that is not too thick because a thick base can emphasize lines. I recommend a tinted moisturizer like NARS Pure Radiant. This moisturizer is great because it also contains an SPF while simultaneously providing a nice coverage.  For those areas that need more coverage use a spot concealer. KEVYN AUCOIN makes a great tried and trusted concealer that is typically a staple in the bags of professional makeup artists. His concealer comes in a small round container and lasts a long time because you only need to use a dab. Apply with a make-up sponge or a Q-tip and spread evenly to create a natural daytime look.  To complete your daytime look, apply a layer of lip gloss that contains a subtle sheen and just one coat of mascara.

NARS PURE RADIANT

At night it is generally more appropriate go heavier on the makeup. Foundations with thicker bases work well underneath night lighting because unlike natural sunlight, indoor lighting creates contours and shades that flatter your facial contours. I recommend ESTÉE LAUDER double wear stay in place makeup for total coverage. If you want to dress up and go for a more glamorous look, use a black liner to draw along your eyelash and embellish with shades of brown or charcoal shadow to create a more defined look.  The dramatic eye draws attention to that area of your face (and as we all know, the eyes are the windows to our soul!). It is usually best to wear a strong eye with a lighter lip color and vice-versa. When creating a stronger eye, opt for shades of lipstick that contain more pearly or pinkish undertones. Sweep a thin layer of powder to hold all your makeup in place and you’re all set to go!