Lifecycle processes such as childbirth; hormonal changes that accompany aging and severe weight fluctuations can overstretch vaginal tissue, damage collagen and alter the muscle tone in the vaginal wall. These anatomical changes often lead to symptoms such as vaginal laxity, vaginal atrophy, and involuntary bladder leakage. These feminine health conditions negatively affect women’s quality of life and often prevent them from carrying out a normal lifestyle.

Skin City offers a quick, safe and highly effective, non-invasive solution that addresses a wide range of feminine health concerns. It is a comprehensive treatment solution that can be performed in an outpatient setting with no need for anaesthesia and no pain, achieving immediate improvement with lasting results.

There is no patient downtime and women can regain their daily routine immediately post procedure. At Skin City, we observe complete confidentiality and sensitivity exercised by towards the patient’s privacy and comfort.

Like every other part of the female body, the vagina and vulva too tend to age and the process often tends to speed up during and immediately after menopause. When the natural levels of oestrogen start to decline in the body, the female genital tract shows effects, first. Studies have shown that almost half the women who are above the age of 40 tend to face such problems, and this tends to affect their sex life too.

Effects of Hypotonic (loose) Vaginal Muscles:

• vaginal dryness
• vaginal burning
• dysuria
• urgency
• Stress incontinence
• Unsatisfactory sexual intercourse for both partners

Fractional CO2 laser vaginal rejuvenation or LVR is a revolutionary new procedure, which is non-surgical in nature and can be used to treat vaginal atrophy and Stress Urinary Incontinence that is often caused due to age. Though this is currently more popular as Vaginal tightening procedure.

Laser Vaginal Rejuvenation Advantages

• The procedure does not take more than 15 minutes
• There is next to no pain or discomfort
• You will be able to return to your normal routine within a day
• The level of risks are really low and there are little to no side effects
• The vaginal tightening procedure results will last a long time
• Improvements are visible immediately after the first session
• The procedure is suitable for almost all women, including those who have breast cancer

The basic concept of laser vaginal rejuvenation is simple – tiny columns of laser energy are used in multiples, and these stimulate the production of collagen and help with the regeneration of vaginal tissue.

How the Procedure is Performed:

After a direct vaginal examination and PAP smear test, the candidate is taken for the procedure and is cleaned. Sterilised laser probe is inserted in vagina and laser light is passed on vaginal tissue. The treatment takes around 10 to 15 minutes. Most women experience that the probe emits a gentle vibration and warmth, but there is no pain. In most cases, the regeneration of vaginal tissue will start in about 30 days, the result of which will be a stronger and tighter vagina, which has better elasticity and hydration. You should be able to return to your normal routine, immediately, but you might be asked to refrain from exercise for at least 24 hours and sexual intercourse for about 5 days.

For most women, the results become obvious right after the first session, but for the best results, you should go for 3 treatments, 1 month apart. The results will last a long time. As the natural process of aging continues, you can always go for top up treatments.

Just as cosmetic procedures have been used for decades to improve facial skin and to restore its youthfulness, non-surgical vaginal tightening with Skin City improves the health and vitality of vaginal tissue. We are focused on a women’s health and have the most up-to-date technology to guarantee patient satisfaction. Our minimally invasive techniques allow women to enjoy the benefits of cosmetic procedures without the inconvenience of downtime and pain.

Scalp coverage is the name of the game in the treatment of baldness. Thicker hair even if less in number have more volume and hence better scalp coverage. The problem arises with thinner hair and a lighter scalp

Micro pigmentation is a technique used to implant small amounts of pigment into the upper layer of the scalp in a dot or line pattern, and this creates an optical illusion of a full scalp even without hair restoration. This is a painless walk in-walk out procedure which takes a few hours and is performed without any anesthesia. Skin City is one of the very few centers to launch this procedure.

In patients with significant hair loss being treated with mesotherapy/ PRP or even hair transplantation, scalp micro pigmentation can be added at the completion of these procedures to give maximum scalp coverage look.

What is Scalp Micropigmentation:

Scalp Micropigmentation (medical hairline tattoo) is the ultimate in non-surgical male and female scalp grooming; an incredible life-changing treatment where natural pigments are applied at the epidermal level of the scalp to replicate the natural appearance of the real hair follicles or strands – depending on your hair loss extent, and desired look.

The human head has on average 2,000 hairs per square inch. When thinning occurs, it can be a depressing time, stigmas attached to balding & premature ageing in both men and women can affect confidence and mood. Scalp Micropigmentation can restore even a completely bald head to look like a full head of well-groomed hair.

The follicle/strand build up of Scalp Micropigmentation normally takes place over 2- 3 sessions, each taking approx 2-3 hours with at least 2 weeks to 1 month between sessions. The process allows for a very gradual and subtle rejuvenation/infill of the hairline, rarely identified even by close friends and family.

During the procedure, topical anaesthetic cream is applied over the area to be treated prior to starting micropigmentation, hence the procedure becomes completely painless. A cartridge containing  few very fine needles working in symphony gently inject natural pigment into the 2nd dermal skin layer and Skin City uses the latest innovative technology and the Pigment spacing is determined by replicating the remaining natural hair follicles.

Benefits of Scalp Micropigmentation :

• Give the look of a full, youthful head of cropped hair
• Restore hairlines on part-bald or fully bald heads
• Camouflage scarring resulting from previous hair transplant surgery
• Hide scars, burns and birthmarks
• Boost the visual effect of a hair transplant

Though there are many types of hair loss treatments available, not all of them work, leaving men suffering hair loss with few options. That’s why scalp micropigmentation is the best course of action for those in this position, because of the numerous benefits this procedure can offer to those suffering from hair loss.

While hair loss may not usually be a threat to your health, it can have devastating effects on your self-image and sense of well-being. Your hair has much more significance than the physiological purpose of regulating your temperature and providing protection for your scalp. For most people, it is a definition of their personality, style, and fashion. When hair loss occurs, it has a damaging effect on our psyche. Your dermatologist is a highly skilled medical professional that diagnoses and treats a wide variety of conditions that can affect the scalp and cause hair loss.

What Causes Hair Loss?

The medical term for hair loss is Alopecia but there are many different types and causes. Both men and women may experience it in varying degrees from a slight thinning of the hair to complete baldness.

Examples of the most common hair loss disorders are:

• Alopecia Areata- an autoimmune condition in which the hair follicles are attacked by the body’s immune cells
• Androgenetic Alopecia- patterned baldness that develops in males and females due to hereditary and hormonal factors
• Telogen Effluvium- a condition associated with excessive hair shedding of hair several months after the body experiences a major stressful event.
• Chemical Hair Damage- hair becomes dry, and brittle and breaks off in pieces after being exposed to a chemical that is too harsh
• Traction Alopecia- hair loss due to pulling on the hair from tight braids or hair pieces

Hair loss may also be the result of underlying health issues such as anemia or thyroid abnormalities.  Changes to your hair and scalp might indicate health problems such as diabetes or lupus or any number of other conditions, therefore, it is important that you take sudden changes in your hair seriously.

So, What Should You Do If You Start Losing Your Hair?

The first step in the treatment of hair loss is to determine the cause. Visit your dermatologist to have them examine your hair and scalp and diagnose your disorder. Many forms of hair fall are temporary or can be reversed with the proper medications or therapies. Other forms may cause scarring which can lead to permanent baldness but can be slowed significantly through regular treatment sessions if the process is started early.

 To properly diagnose your type of hair fall your dermatologist will ask about your medical history, any recent illnesses you may have had and any medications you may be taking including over the counter medicines. Are you experiencing hair loss on your body as well as your scalp? Your hair care routine is also vital information to share with your doctor. Such things as the hair care products you use, how often you shampoo and whether you color your hair or use a hair dryer are valuable bits of information that can help with your diagnoses.  It is useful to bring these products in when you see the dermatologist for a consultation. They will also ask questions about other family members who may also have experienced hair loss to determine your genetic predisposition to baldness. Most diagnoses’ are made through skillful evaluation of your scalp, hair and medical history but occasionally further medical testing is necessary. Again, these tests may include blood work to rule out underlying medical conditions, examination of a hair sample under a microscope or a skin biopsy to evaluate the scalp tissue of the affected area.

Skin City has expertise in using a combination approach to hair fall to minimize the side effects and to improve the safety of the therapies adopted. Skin City is one of the very few centers to give excellent results in hair fall.

• Melasma, solar lentigos or sun spots, birthmarks, port-wine stains and freckles
• Melasma is a patchy brown discoloration of the skin on the face
• Solar lentigines, are small brown pigmented spot on the skin with a clearly defined edge, surrounded by normal-appearing skin. These mainly appear in sun exposed areas like the tops of the hands and face
• Birthmarks are normally flat and are brown or black in color
• Port-wine stains are the kind of pigmentation defects in which some reddish-purple discolorations appear on the skin as a result of some swollen red blood vessels in the body
• Freckles are small, brownish spots on the skin that are caused by deposition of pigment and that increase in number and darken on exposure to sunlight

• Quite effective. When done from a reputed clinic there is a chance that 90% , even 100% of your pigmentation will vanish in a set of sessions provided
• Less painful than other laser treatments
• Improved appearance
• The duration of each laser session is quite short, aprox 30mins
• Require a very short recovery time
• No age limit

• Dangerous if you go to someone inexperienced
• May require several sessions
• Some may feel a slight stinging or burning
• Redness, swelling, bruising, and dry patches can be seen on a person who had undergone layer treatment. Proper aftercare is required

For many people, the world of dermatology is baffling. Most people have an idea of what dermatology is – they know that dermatologists treat skin but that’s about it. Here are some of the common myths and misconceptions about dermatology, and the real truth, too!

Myth #1: Scrubbing Your Face with Soap Will Soften Your Skin

You’ve probably heard it before: Wash your face twice a day for healthy skin. While removing make-up and other grime is important, if you overdo it, you can remove the healthy oils and protective barriers your skin secretes to keep out harmful antigens and dirt. To stay on the safe side, use a mild cleanser in the morning and do the same at night, always remembering to wash gently. Harsh scrubbing will only aggravate sensitive skin cells.

Myth #2: Dermatologists Just Treat Acne

This is a common reason people visit a dermatologist, but dermatologists can do far more than that. Laser and cosmetic dermatology encompass a wide variety of skin care treatments. Scar revision, birthmark removal, and nearly any other condition or issue that affects the skin can be handled using laser and cosmetic dermatology! If you are suffering from acne, of course you should see a dermatologist, but you can visit for many other reasons, too. Skin City is here to help with any and all skin conditions and concerns.

Myth #3: Picking at Blemishes Makes Them Go Away

It may be tempting to scratch at a pussy pimple as soon as it appears, but what you’re actually doing is creating an acne scar which will linger for months while a pimple generally vanishes after 5 – 7 days. Resist the temptation to itch and try one of our soothing facial masks instead to calm irritable skin.

Myth #4: Sunlight Helps Cure Acne

While it’s true that sunlight can help dry out your pimples and reduce inflammation, as with most things, too much can have the opposite effect. A tan may actually make your acne scars more noticeable and the heat can irritate pimples. It’s best to use a combination of natural cleansers, moisturizers and healthy foods to get rid of scarred and pimply skin.

Myth #5: All Moisturizers Are the Same

Many of us just slap on our moisturizing lotion and lip balm without much thought. Actually, there are various moisturizers you can choose from to suit your skin’s needs. Moisturizers come in lotions, creams, emulsions, and serums. They are formulated for the body, or the face, or the eye area.

Are you guilty of any of the above? Hopefully these facts have convinced you to change things around so you can finally have the healthy, glowing skin you’ve always dreamed of.

Vitiligo or the ‘white spot’ is not a medical disorder, yet it has been a cause of depression in 1-3% of the population. Smita Gautam takes you through the white darkness of Vitiligo to the light at the end of the tunnel to Skin City where there is hope.

Vitiligo: Myths busted!

Vitiligo is characterized by areas of hypo or de-pigmentation on the skin surface due to destruction or loss of melanocytes, the cells that give pigmentation to the skin.Thus in these areas, normal pigmentation of the skin is missing or deficient.

This is not a life threatening disease, in fact, according to SkinCity’s philosophy; it is not a disease at all. Vitiligo has been an important agenda for Skin City, in terms of creating public awareness. It does not have to be treated says Dr. Niteen Dhepe, Medical Director Skin City and Founder of the Janaki Medical & Social Charitable trust who has worked very hard to de-stigmatize this condition.

The trust has won the “Pride of India” title by the Maharashtra Journalist foundation for its notable social contribution to the cause.

To bust a few myths about Vitiligo –

• It is not genetic, it is familial.

•  It is not contagious and it is definitely not leprosy.

• It is not incurable.

• It does not affect any internal organs

• It is only skin deep.

Why SkinCity?

Skin City is the largest institution that treats Vitiligo with lasers. The first Excimer lasers, XTRAC & VTRAC were launched by Skin City a decade ago. Skin City has also done research on Cyanoacrylate Lamination technique for skin grafting in Vitiligo.

Several surgical procedures like Miniature punch grafting, or MPG, Suction blister grafting and MCS or Melanocyte cell suspension are successfully carried out at Skin City regularly.

In some cases, Micropigmentation or skin tattooing can be done when other options are contraindicated. If the hair on the eyebrow or scalp and in the case of men, facial hair is affected, then hair transplantation can be considered.

Depending on the areas affected, age and progression of the condition, those affected can enjoy long periods of remission and even permanent cure.

So people with vitiligo can choose to come out of this ‘white darkness’. They can choose the colour of their skin!

• Dermatitis-Atopic
• Dermatitis - Contact
• Diaper Rash
• Dry Skin/Itchy Skin
• Hives
• Rashes/Red Skin
• Scars
• Chicken pox
• AcanthosisNigricans
• Blisters
• Acne
• Birthmarks
• Eczema
• Hair disorders such as Alopecia (hair loss)
• Hemangiomas and vascular malformations
• Hyperhidrosis (excessive sweating)
• Molluscum and warts
• Moles
• Nail disorders
• Psoriasis
• Seborrheic dermatitis (dandruff)
• Skin cancer
• Tinea (ringworm)
• Vitiligo

Skin blemishes that are present at birth or appear soon after are generally referred to as "birthmarks". These may vary in red or brown and represent an overgrowth of superficial blood vessels or pigment cells. The treatment of these birthmarks depends on the type of lesion. Before determining how to remove these birthmarks, here is some information on the more common types and how to identify them:

Pigmentation-Type Birthmarks – These can include various types of birthmarks including moles (congenital nevi), Coffee-cream spots, and Mongolian spots.

Macular Stains (Salmon Patches) – These are very thin, light pink, flat patches of discoloration. These are usually found on babies, either on the back of their neck, or on their upper eyelids.

Vascular Malformations – These are caused by abnormal development of blood vessels and are almost always present from birth. Port-wine stains, a very common birthmark, are a type of vascular malformation and can be found anywhere on the body. These birthmarks may be a concern if located on the face above or around the eye because they may be associated with eye and/or brain problems.

Hemangiomas – These are lesions that develop on infants within a couple of weeks after birth. These are caused by many tiny blood vessels that are bunched together and can grow quite rapidly during the child’s first six to nine months. These are the most common tumors found in babies and usually develop around the head and neck.

How is Birthmark Removal Performed?

There are different ways that a birthmark can be removed, depending upon its type, size, location and other factors. The effective birthmark removal treatments as follows:

1. Laser Therapy: Lasers are used to treat birthmarks that are close to the surface of the skin. This method can be performed at any age. During treatment, short bursts of laser light are aimed at the birthmark in order to shrink it or cause it to stop growing. Multiple visits may be necessary to achieve optimal results. Laser therapy may also be used for hemangioma, however it is not used to treat cases where it is found on an internal organ, or deep within the skin.
2. Surgery: This method is used when other non-surgical treatments have not worked. A hemangioma that is large, or found on an internal organ also requires surgery and general anesthesia.

There are many laser systems used to treat birthmarks - some more appropriate than others. However, as important as the technology is the competence and experience of the medical professional operating the machine. Not one type of laser treatment is the answer for every problem or skin type. Expert dermatological diagnosis and correct assessment is vital. Skin City is able to offer years of laser expertise gleaned from Dr. Niteen Dhepe’s years of heading the Department of Dermatology at Skin City.

1. Include all the 6 food groups comprising of grains, vegetables, fruits, milk, meat and beans and oils.
2. Limit your servings based on your age, body frame and the level of physical activity of each person.
3. Choose whole grains because they are rich in fiber, vitamins, and minerals, (3 servings daily is a must!)
4. Eat lots of fresh vegetables because they are very rich in vitamins, minerals and fibers which will make you feel full.
5. Eat a variety of fruits from each color to get the different vitamins that you need.
6. Consume lean meat (beef or veal, skinless chicken breast, fish filet)
7. Use low-fat milk (1% fat) or skimmed milk. Also, have low fat yogurt and cheese; these contain fewer calories and the same amount of calcium.
8. Include legumes in your diet (lentils, chickpeas, beans) 2 to 3 times per week because they are nutritious and rich in fiber.

1. Bread. Due to the high Glycemic Index, these foods affect your blood sugar levels. Do not get tricked with ‘whole wheat’ or ‘healthy-grain’ labels.
2. Processed Meat. These foods just have excess salt, fat, cholesterol, and very few nutrients, like fiber.
3. Colas. Artificial sweeteners spike the production of insulin and that is not good for the body.
4. Fruits Juices. Many fruit juices are actually little more than fruit-flavored sugar water. In fact, fruit juice contains just as much sugar as a sugary drink like Coke or Pepsi, and sometimes even more.
5. Gluten-Free foods. The problem with many gluten-free diets is that people replace the gluten-containing foods with processed junk foods that happen to be gluten-free. These refined starches lead to rapid spikes in blood sugar and are extremely low in essential nutrients.
6. Coffee drinks. It is loaded with liquid, empty calories, and will be just as unhealthy as any other sugar-sweetened beverage.
7. Junk foods. These are little devils in disguise! The more you consume, the more it will lead to major diseases.

Keloids are scars that grow beyond the original borders of the wound. Like hypertrophic scars they are raised, but they are often dark in colour and hard to the touch. Without treatment, they will often continue to grow. Keloid scars can make you self-conscious, but you don't have to live with them. Treatment can diminish the appearance of keloids or sometimes get rid of them altogether.

1. 10-30 years of age
2. Women
3. Individuals with darker skin
4. People with a family history of keloids
5. Oily and hairy areas
6. Commonest sites: Areas of highest friction and hair growth: elbows, shoulders, lateral thighs, back of the neck, chest
7. Poorly cared and badly healed wounds

1. Recurrent infections, abscesses
2. Additional scarring and hypertrophy

1. Laser hair removal: hair follicle and sebum production act as a trigger, hence laser hair removal can be added
2. Treat infection in time, remove/ drain abscess/sinus, coiled hair inside the keloid
3. Vascularity: to decrease the vascular supply of keloid tissue by IPL or vascular lasers

1. Steroids/ 5FU injections are often used to stop the growth of keloids. They cause the fibroblasts to stop their work, and encourage your body to remodel the scar tissue into normal skin. This will diminish and change the appearance of keloids, but rarely eliminates them entirely.
2. Pressure garments: It suppresses collagen production
3. Silicon

1. Combination of Ultrapulse SCAAR Fx and fractional drug delivery has given wonderful results. This unique protocol developed at Skin city, PG institute of Dermatology & lasers have shown results as effective as complete clearance in most of the cases.
2. Ultrapulse SCAAR FX is known to create deep channels into thick scar tissue with minimal lateral thermal damage. This coupled with fractional drug delivery of collagen remodelling agents can almost flatten the hypertrophic scar and keloids if used for sufficient period of time.
3. A typical treatment protocol for keloid and hypertrophic scar management will extend from 6 months to 18 months involving monthly or bimonthly OPD based treatment sessions.

• Lean and high-quality proteins (skinless chicken, tuna, turkey breast)
• High fiber
• Non-starchy vegetables (cabbage, broccoli, zucchini and all leafy vegetables)

• Cooked starchy vegetables (carrot, beet, potatoes)
• Carbonated drinks
• Foods in high sugar

• Lean and high-quality proteins (skinless chicken, tuna, turkey breast)
• Cooked raw fibers
• Non-starchy vegetables (cabbage, broccoli, zucchini and all leafy vegetables)
• Fruits that are less in sugar content (berries, apples, cherries)

• High sugar content fruits (pear, melon, apricot, grapes, pineapple)
• Cooked starchy vegetables (carrot, beet, potatoes)
• Carbonated drinks

• High-quality proteins (chicken, tuna, turkey, beans, whole wheat)
• Complex carbs (all fruits, vegetables, and brown rice)
• High in Omega 3 (salmon, flax seeds, olive oil, avocados, nuts)

• Simple carbs ( high starches like white rice, wheat products and potatoes)
• Carbonated drinks
• Foods high in sugar

• High-quality proteins (chicken, tuna, turkey, beans, whole wheat)
• All complex carbs (all fruits, non starchy vegetables, and brown rice)
• High in Omega 3 (salmon, flax seeds, olive oil, avocados, nuts)

• Simple carbs ( high starches like white rice, wheat products and potatoes)
• Carbonated drinks
• Foods high in sugar

As discussed earlier, vitiligo is a skin disease of much social concern. If you haven’t read it, head here to gain more information - Vitiligo – What Should Be the Target of Treatment?.

Vitiligo is a condition that has been stigmatized for wrong reasons. Because of lack of awareness about it, vitiligo patients often have to bear the brunt of society’s judgment and ridicule. This disease that manifests onto a person’s appearance often acts as a deal breaker in relationships and matrimonial matters, owing to society’s standards of beauty.

Many believe that vitiligo is a result of an impure body, and suggest that the system needs to be cleansed from the inside, so as to get to the root of the problem and getting rid of it. The act of cleansing the body from the inside is also known as the ‘internal approach’. In this internal approach, we treat the problem using medication that alters the problem inside the body.

The internal approach, however, has its limitations. Most scientists believe that any defect in the body is highly linked to the person’s gene makeup, and vitiligo is one of those defects. A person can either have a defect coded into their genomes, in which case a cure may not be available, or the person can have susceptible genes wherein they have a disease which goes with medication/restrictions. In both these cases, allopathy works differently.

Why does ‘cure’ attract patients so much? The answer is simple: Wishful thinking. Most patients think that these diseases are a result of abnormalities in the body that are caused by external toxins, but this stands true only for infections. But like most other lifestyle diseases, a cure is not possible because there’s nothing external to work on – it’s the internal defect that has to be worked on. So, like any other lifestyle diseases, treatment can merely restore old bodily functions, not cure them. Vitiligo can be treated both externally and internally – externally using creams, focused treatments etc. Some might recommend dietary restrictions, or drinking water in order to help cure the disease. However, these are unbalanced and biased approaches.

The internal treatment for vitiligo has two approaches: 1. controlling the offending RBCs using medication, and 2. Salvaging or supporting the re-function of melanocytes.

Controlling the offending WBCs: the medication given in this approach targets the offending WBCs, and stops them from causing further damage. However, this has its side effects. This is because only a small amount of WBCs are actually causing the discolouration issue, and the medication targets all the healthy WBCs as well. Hence, all the internal treatments for WBCs can have side effects like lowered hemoglobin, reduced RBC count, and reduced function of WBCs.

For external approach: creams, injections in the targeted patches, and phototherapy are common. Some different grades of phototherapy are ultra v A and ultra v B, sunlight, excimer lasers, etc.

Each treatment has a different advocate supporting them.

Dr. Dhepe of Skin City proposes a combination approach. In this, there is a judicious combination of both internal and external approaches pose fewer side effects, and makes for efficient treatment. The safest internal as well as external approaches should be chosen to get the desired effects, as the requirement of possible doses/sessions is less, as are the side effects. A combination of creams, lasers, injectable immune modulators, and miniature punch grafting skin surgeries can be selected from, depending on the choice of the patient.

On a personal note, Dr. Dhepe suggests that the best way to deal with vitiligo is to undergo no treatment at all, but treat it as a natural part of one’s body. This will help disable the stigma around this harmless skin condition.

The face of a person can speak volumes. Facial beauty has been a topic of wonder and importance since time immemorial. For example, ancient Egypt was home to the beautiful Nefertiti, a queen well known for her flawless beauty. Her beauty was so well known in all of Egypt that her sculptures made were the most recognizable everywhere, by everyone. The most striking feature of her beauty was her face – specifically, her clear cut jaw line and high cheekbones. So, it is safe to say that the jaw line is an integral part of the beauty of the face.

Take a look at Indian celebrities, for example. Be it Deepika Padukone, Priyanka Chopra, Anushka Sharma, Tiger Shroff, or Ranveer Singh, their facial features show a distinct jaw line that enhances their beauty and looks, making them doubly photogenic on screen and on cameras. Most of us are blessed with sharp features. However, we often forget to take care of ourselves to let our features shine.

Sharp jaw lines are a sign of less/appropriate amount of fat around your mandible, i.e. the soft area under your chin. How is it that we fail to take care of it? Having excess fat or muscle on the mandible is the reason for losing the sharpness of the jaw. Excess fat on the mandible, right under your chin, is referred to as the ‘double chin’. For some people, a double chin is developed as a result of weight gain that causes excess fat to pile on different areas of the body (including the mandible). However, some people are inherently left with a double chin which has nothing to do with weight. In such cases, heredity is a major factor and one can trace it within the family itself.

There are several ways in which people try to reduce double chins. Some natural methods of reducing them are exercise and proper diet, which helps them lose fat and restore their original jaw structure. However, in some cases like hereditary factors or persistent fat on the mandible despite losing weight, it becomes tough to use natural methods. People often try massage oils, creams, lotions, etc that promise to reduce fat, but more often than not, with no results. These oils and creams are easily available, but the science behind their working is hardly enough support to prove their effectiveness.

Here comes a way when natural methods don’t work – reducing double chins medically.

Doctors first analyze the nature of the double chin. A double chin is a combination of excess fat under the chin, often accompanied by loose skin. It is a hypertrophy of the chewing muscle that gives a thick, tyre-like look. The doctors check whether the fold is persistent only under the chin, or is an extension of fat in the cheeks as well, and decide what needs to be done accordingly.

The medical treatment of a double chin includes the tightening of skin by re-modeling the collagen layer of the skin. The skin of the entire face can also be lifted, and the volume of the masseter muscle is reduced. Skin tightening is achieved by polar radio frequency devices, ultrasound devices, etc that help lift the double chin and provide firmness, provided that there is enough loose skin available. Sometimes there is more fat than there is loose skin, so the treatment might not help.

Another approach hence is reducing the volume of fat in the area. There are several FDA approved scientific methods of reducing fat around the area, like injection lipolysis – injections diluted in saline are placed between the layer of fat, which helps destroy a considerable amount of fat cells in the area. About 8-24 injections are required in various places as a part of the process, but more might be required in the future. This is a great way to give shape to the area below the chin without surgery.

Another method of reducing fat cells is through ultrasound lipolysis. The vibrations of cavitational ultrasound work directly to destroy the fat cells by breaking through the walls of these cells.

The finest way of removing fat through liposuction is the micro-cannula liposuction, also known as Safe Lipo, a protocol developed by Skin City. The fat is sucked in a small quantity from the depths of the fat layer, keeping the contour of the face intact. The fat layer then collapses, paving way for a new collagen layer to be formed. This creates firmness in the skin, thus reducing the double chin and makes the skin tighter.

Yet another method of reducing the double chin is through high intensity focus ultrasound. Very high density of focus ultrasound is delivered that penetrates through the depths of the skin, and specifically targets collagen. The destruction of the walls of the adipose stimulates the formation of new collagen layers, which tighten the septa and hypersepta. Thus, the double chin is compressed and the volume is reduced.

All these services are available at Skin City, so feel free to walk in and get them done. The best part is – these procedures take about 30 minutes, so you don’t have to be pressed for time to get them done and look your best.

Hair loss, also known as alopecia or baldness, refers to a loss of hair from the head or body. Baldness can refer to general hair loss or male pattern hair loss. Alopecia affects hair growth and can lead to permanent hair loss. Hair loss can be difficult to come to terms with, especially when it comes to your self-esteem. When you lose your hair, you are losing your self-esteem as well. This can affect your confidence and sometimes lead to depression. Let’s understand hair loss in a gist.

• Hair loss is a common condition and affects most people at some time in their lives.
• Hair loss from breakage of the hair shaft is different than hair loss from decreased hair growth.
• Androgenetic hair loss is seen in both men and women but is worse in men.
• Thyroid disease, anemia, protein deficiency, and low vitamin levels may cause hair loss.
• Alopecia areata is a relatively common cause of patchy or localized hair loss
• Prevention of hair loss includes good hair hygiene, regular shampooing, and good nutrition.
• Medical health screening for hair loss may include blood tests such as complete blood count (CBC), iron level, vitamin B, and thyroid function tests (TFT).

Some signs and symptoms are such as:

• Gradual thinning on top of the head. This is the most common type of hair loss, affecting both men and women as they age. In men, hair often begins to recede from the forehead in a line that resembles the letter’ M’. Women typically retain the hairline on the forehead but have a broadening of the part in their hair.
• Circular or patchy bald spots. Some people experience smooth, coin-sized bald spots. This type of hair loss usually affects just the scalp, but it sometimes also occurs in beards or eyebrows. In some cases, your skin may become itchy or painful before the hair falls out.
• Sudden loosening of hair. A physical or emotional shock can cause hair to loosen. Handfuls of hair may come out when combing or washing your hair or even after gentle tugging. This type of hair loss usually causes overall hair thinning and not bald patches.
• Full-body hair loss. Some conditions and medical treatments, such as chemotherapy for cancer, can result in the loss of hair all over your body. The hair usually grows back.
• Patches of scaling that spread over the scalp. This is a sign of ringworm. It may be accompanied by the broken hair, redness, swelling and, at times, oozing.

When to see a Dermatologist?

See a dermatologist, when you are distressed by hair loss and want to pursue treatment. Also, talk to us if you notice sudden or patchy hair loss or more than usual hair loss when combing or washing your hair. Sudden hair loss can signal an underlying medical condition that requires treatment.

What you can do?

• List key personal information.
• Make a list of all medications.
• List questions to ask your doctor.

For hair loss, some basic questions to ask your doctor include:

• What is likely causing my symptoms or condition?
• Are there other possible causes for my symptoms or condition?
• What kinds of tests do I need?
• Is my condition likely temporary or chronic?

Before making a diagnosis, your doctor will likely ask you to perform tests, such as the following:

• Blood test. This may help uncover medical conditions related to hair loss, such as thyroid disease.
• Pull test. Your doctor gently pulls several dozen hairs to see how many come out. This helps determine the stage of the shedding process.
• Scalp biopsy. Your doctor scrapes samples from the skin or from a few hairs plucked from the scalp to examine the hair roots. This can help determine whether an infection is causing hair loss.
• Light microscopy. Your doctor uses a special instrument to examine hairs at their bases. Microscopy helps uncover possible disorders of the hair shaft.

Effective treatments for some types of hair loss are available. But some hair loss is permanent. Treatments for hair loss include medications, surgery, laser therapy, and wigs or hairpieces. The goals of treatment are to promote hair growth, slow hair loss or hide hair loss. Contact Skin City for further clarifications.

Look into your closet; if there are no sleeveless & strappy outfits or swimwear, you are hiding something, your dark underarms. Smita Gautam of Skincity gives you the solution to this embarrassing problem.

More often than not, you are not quite sure about how and why it happened, it creeps up on you and before you know it, you feel helpless about how to get rid of it. The hype around quick fixes and ineffective solutions in the form of topical creams, deodorants, and bleaching agents, just delay finding the right and permanent solution.

WHY DOES IT HAPPEN?

It is important for you to understand what causes dark underarms and what you need to do to get rid of it permanently. There are three main causes of dark underarms:

1.  The first is a tendency for hyper pigmentation usually due to hormonal imbalance;
2. The second is thick underarm hair growth, the associated problems and the wrong removal techniques used.
3. The third is excessive sweating, the associated problems and ineffective solutions adopted;

THE LIGHT…

Getting a clear diagnosis is important to finding the right solution to this problem. Dr. Niteen Dhepe, Medical director, Skin City says that hormonal imbalances and infections associated with the above- mentioned problems need to be addressed first following which, the latest available technologies, like Laser Skin lightening, can be done to get rid of the pigmentation. This method shows excellent results, not only in the under arms, but also in other hyper pigmented areas like the inner thighs, buttocks and other intimate areas.

He also wishes to impress upon those affected with this embarrassing condition, that shaving and waxing are redundant methods of hair removal. They cause ingrowths, folliculitis and other infections which further darken the underarms. Laser Hair reduction is the best method of hair removal, which will prevent and resolve these problems.

He further states that deodorants and anti-perspirants do more harm than good to people with Hyperhydrosis or excessive sweating; the chemicals in these products may react with the skin causing darkening. Besides, people with this condition are prone to bacterial infections, which worsen the body odour caused by sweating, hence causing terrible embarrassment and social ostracization of the affected person. There are several medical and minimally invasive surgical treatments available to rid you of this condition.

SkinCity has the largest range of lasers and treatments available to treat the causes of dark underarms thus resolving this problem and restoring your confidence.

Androgenetic alopecia or common male pattern baldness (MPB) accounts for more than 95% of hair loss in men. By the age of 35 two-thirds of men will experience some degree of hair loss, and by the age of 50 approximately 85% of men have significant thinning hair. Approximately 25 % of men suffer MPB process before they reach the age of 21.Hair loss affects every aspect of sufferer's life, it affects interpersonal relationships as well as the professional lives of those suffering.

While there are many possible reasons men lose their hair, like serious disease, reaction to certain medications, and in rare cases extremely stressful events, most hair loss in men can be blamed on heredity. What MPB sufferers are actually inheriting their hair follicles with a genetic sensitivity to Dihydrotestosterone (DHT) Hair follicles that are sensitive to DHT begin to lessen, shortening the lifespan of each hair follicle affected. Eventually, these affected follicles stop producing cosmetically acceptable hair. MPB is generally characterized with the onset of a receding hairline and thinning crown. This pattern eventually progresses into leaving only a rim or "horseshoe" pattern of hair remaining in the more advanced stages of MPB. For some men even this remaining rim of hair can be affected by DHT.

What is DHT?

Dihydrotestosterone (DHT) is a derivative or by-product of testosterone. Testosterone converts to DHT with the aid of the enzyme Type II 5-alpha-reductace, which is held in the hair follicle's oil glands. While the entire genetic process of male pattern baldness is not completely understood, it is known that DHT shrinks hair follicles, and that when DHT is suppressed, hair follicles continue to thrive. Hair follicles that are sensitive to DHT must be exposed to the hormone for a prolonged period of time in order for the affected follicle to complete the miniaturization process. Today, with proper intervention this process can be slowed or even stopped if caught early enough.

What are the signs and symptoms?

Classic male-pattern hair loss begins above the temples and vertex, of the scalp. As it progresses, a rim of the hair at the sides and at the rear of the head remains. This is referred to as 'Hippocratic wreath', and rarely progresses to complete baldness.

Diagnosis

Typical MPB is usually diagnosed based on the appearance and pattern of the hair loss, along with a detailed medical history, including questions about the prevalence of hair loss in your family. An experienced medical hair loss expert will examine the scalp under magnification, in order to assess the degree of miniaturization of the hair follicles. This assessment is very important when recommending the proper course of treatment.

Treatment

In the past few years, medicine has made tremendous strides in the treatment of men's hair loss. With the advent of medicines and the evolution of surgical hair restoration, for many, living with noticeable hair loss is no longer inevitable. For the first time in the history of mankind, it is now possible to stop or slow the progression of hair loss and to replace lost hair through surgery with completely natural results.

Remember, successful treatment of hair loss is greatly dependent on early intervention. It is critical to begin treatment with an effective product as soon as you notice the onset of hair loss.

Femina Special

Skin City India, in keeping with its pioneering image, introduces HIFU, the latest FDA approved, non- invasive technology for a face lift. Dr. Niteen Dhepe, Medical Director Skin City, brings this new Anti-Ageing treatment to Pune informs Smita Gautam.

We all experience this moment at least once in our life when we see an old friend who looks much younger than her age or yours and you feel that little tinge of envy. She is blessed you say. Well, there are those who are blessed and there are the rest of us who could do with some human intervention in the form of this new non- invasive face lift.

RECLAIM YOUR YOUTH

Your skin age is not just defined by your age in years, but by other factors as well like lifestyle, stress, poor sleeping and eating habits and lack of exercise. This causes collagen and elastin depletion, fatty tissue descent and sagging of muscles. Though ageing is inevitable, you can delay the process and actually lose several years from your face with the new HIFU technology.

HIGH FIVE FOR HIFU

HIFU is a highly precise medical procedure that applies high-intensity focused ultrasound energy which delivers heat to the deeper layers of the skin. This triggers collagen remodeling, thus increasing the elasticity of the skin, resulting in tightening. It helps in brow lifting, reducing wrinkles around the eyes & neck, smoothening naso-labial folds and removal of the double chin. It improves skin texture by closing pores and reducing acne scars. It also causes whitening and tightening of the skin. All in all the result is a younger looking you. That, my dear friends, is called a facelift.

TIME MACHINE

Conventional facelifts involve surgery, pain, complications, sub optimum results and long periods of time for recovery. Also there is a limit to what can be achieved with a surgical facelift without the obvious tell tale signs. Redefining Beauty with HIFU takes around 30 minutes. A lunch hour procedure and with no downtime, it is the answer to every one’s dream of looking younger. All you need to do is walk in to Skin City today to turn back the hands of time.

Dr Niteen Dhepe, Medical Director, Skin City

Hair-raising literally means extremely alarming, astonishing or frightening. It aptly describes the emotions we experience when we first notice the receding hairline or visible scalp in the mirror. Thanks to the huge hair restoration market that has emerged, everyone is now aware of how to restore lost hair. It is, in fact, the most accessible, affordable luxury available on the market, in the looking good department, today says Smita Gautam of SkinCity

People are spoilt for choice as far as the availability of places for hair replacement treatments is concerned. However, when shopping for a suitable place, it is important to go with a reliable surgeon rather than the best price offering. There is a price war waging in the market today and everyone is talking about the cost per graft and not quality assurance. Just getting a bunch of grafts transplanted on your head doesn’t assure you of achieving what you need. Hair transplantation has become a commodity. Many places offering the same are thriving on numbers based on rock bottom prices, much to the detriment of gullible people and to the dismay of an ethical surgeon.

NEW THERAPIES

There are several new treatments available for hair restoration and a good doctor will advise you accordingly. It is important to choose a clinic where all these treatments are available. If you choose a place that offers Hair Transplantation exclusively, that is what you will be sold. Once you have done your research and decided on the place you wish to go to for your hair replacement treatment, the difficult part is over. The treatment itself is as simple as ordering a bag of French fries and coke. In the hands of a good surgeon, you get the best quality grafts and a good follow up routine to give you the best results.

EXPERT ADVICE

Dr. Niteen Dhepe, Medical Director Skin City India is of the opinion, every individual should be treated with a customized approach, following a treatment plan. Surgery is not the first line of treatment for any other problem, then why should it be the first approach in this case? For those of you who have not yet seen that moment of truth in the reflection in the mirror, he says, prevention is better than cure. Nourish your hair with lots of care, oil massages, vitamin supplements, iron rich diet, good cleansing and conditioning. Avoiding stress, chemicals and heat treatments will help you defer or completely avoid balding if it is not a hereditary problem. Good luck on raising your hair, either way! Why have hair-raising days?

Spider veins (also called telangiectasias) are clusters of tiny blood vessels that develop close to the surface of the skin. They are often red, blue, or purple; and they have the appearance of a spider web. They are commonly found on the face and legs.

Causes of Spider veins

• Heredity
• Occupations that involve a lot of standing, such as nurses, hairstylists, teachers, and factory workers
• Obesity
• Hormonal influences of pregnancy, puberty, and menopause.
• The use of birth control pills.
• Postmenopausal hormonal replacement
• A history of blood clotting problems
• Conditions that cause increased pressure in the abdomen such as tumors and constipation.
• Other reported causes include trauma or injury to the skin, previous vein surgery, and exposure to ultraviolet rays.

Varicose veins and spider veins develop more often in women than in men. They increase in frequency with age. An estimated 30% to 60% of adults have varicose veins or spider veins.

Symptoms of Spider Veins

The most obvious sign of spider veins is their web-like appearance on the skin. These veins can be red, blue, or purple. Other symptoms include:

• an uncomfortable feeling in the legs
• swelling
• rash
• throbbing, cramping, or aching
• restless legs
• itching around the veins
• skin ulcers

Treating Spider Veins

Unless you are experiencing pain or other symptoms, spider and varicose veins don’t require treatment. If you have symptoms or would like the veins removed for aesthetic reasons, treatment options include:

• Support stockings: Compression stockings put pressure on your veins and relieve discomfort. These can be purchased over-the-counter or by prescription.
• Sclerotherapy: This common treatment is used for spider veins and varicose veins. In this procedure, a doctor injects a chemical into your veins, causing them to seal shut. With blood flow stopped, the vein becomes scar tissue and eventually fades. This treatment must be repeated every four to six weeks.
• Laser treatments: This procedure uses a laser to send bursts of light through your skin and into your vein, making the vein fade.
• Surgery: Various surgical techniques are generally reserved for the largest and most unsightly veins.

The most important factors that decide the quality of your skin and hair are your genes, emotions and your immunity. Copy: Feed your skin well Food you put in your body are as vital as the products you put on it. Diet can play an important role in all skin conditions; to combat wrinkles and lines and other skin problems as well, including acne, eczema, psoriasis, dry or oily skin. Caring for your skin and hair

• Eat a variety of healthy foods rich in vitamins and nutrients

• Keep physically active

• Manage stress

• Practice sun safety

• Limityour alcohol intake

• Don’t use tobacco and/or other recreational drugs

• Drink plenty of water

• Habits like smoking and sunbathing dry out skin and cause wrinkles.

Practice sun safety to prevent skin cancer. Sun exposure puts you at greater risk of skin cancer, whatever your skin color or ethnicity. Dr. NiteenDhepe, Medical Director of Skin City, says, “The Skin is like a mirror reflection of your general health. Most people are particular about keeping tabs on their heart health after a certain age. Whereas they neglect the skin, which actually shows warning signs of all systemic diseases related to the heart, kidneys, lungs, stomach and even nervous system. So visit your dermatologist regularly.” Stay Alert Check your skin for sun damage. Ask your doctor how often you should have a clinical skin exam to check for signs of skin cancer. Check for age spots that appear on your face.They are not harmful, but if the look of age spots bothers you, ask your doctor about skin-lightening creams, laser therapy, and cryotherapy (freezing).

Use sunscreen to prevent more age spots. Ask your doctor if the medicines you are taking can affect your skin. For instance, blood thinners and aspirin can cause you to bruise more easily. Some antibiotics and vitamins make skin sunburn more easily. Knowing how your skin and hair normally look and feel will help you notice changes to ask your doctor about. Acne or Pimples Acne is most common in the teen years, however many women get pimples in their 50s. Acne is also common during pregnancy and menopause, when hormonal changes take place. Medicines, such as birth control pills, can also lead to breakouts. Acne also appears to run in some families. Excessive Hair Loss Some women have hair loss called Alopecia.

It tends to run in families. Hormonal changes occur during and after pregnancy.Underlying health problems, such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS),diabetes and thyroid disease can cause hair loss. Also certain medicines, such as birth control pills or those to treat cancer, arthritis, depression, or heart problems,extreme stress, such as from a major illness. Hairstyles that twist or pull hair too cause hair loss. Whether or not hair will grow back depends on the cause of hair loss. If your hair loss is permanent, talk with your doctor about options, such as a hair transplant. Hirsutism-Excessive Hair Gain When dark, thick hair grows on a woman’s face, chest, belly, or back, the condition is called Hirsutism. Health problems and family genes can cause high levels of male hormones result in Hirsutism. If you are overweight, try losing weight. Women with polycystic ovary syndrome suffer of Hirsutism.Whatever the cause you can consider permanent methods for removal of unwanted hair like Laser Hair Reduction.

In a world that is obsessed with appearance, the standard of beauty is difficult to match. Women are especially hard on themselves when it comes to their appearance. Plastic surgery statistics are at an all-time high, and this beauty obsession is to blame Copy: Women scour the covers of magazines, glorify actresses and models, and wish for a body like their idols. What women may not know is that their skin and emotional health are directly related. When a woman is upset about her appearance or skin, this emotion has the potential to wreak havoc on the mind.Probably one of the most upsetting problems is a scar, be it on a visible or covered part of the body. Scars can cause anxiety, depression, sleep disorders and post-traumatic stress disorder in women, all of which have the potential to severely affect a woman psychologically. Causes of scars Scars can result from accidents, diseases, skin conditions such as acne or from surgeries and are a natural part of the body's healing process. A scar results from the biologic process of wound repair in the skin and other tissues.

Most wounds, except for very minor ones, result in some degree of scarring. Any injury beyond the body’s repair mechanism is filled by raw collagen and is called a scar. While scars cannot be cured, most of them can be made to merge with surrounding skin to an extent of 30 to 100%, thanks to revolutionary technologies. Some scars can have a sunken or pitted appearance. This kind of scarring occurs when underlying structures supporting the skin like fat or muscle are lost. Some surgical scars have this appearance, as do some scars from acne.Scars also can appear as stretched skin. Such scars result when the skin stretches rapidly as in growth spurts or during pregnancy. In addition, this type of scar can occur when the skin is under tension like near a joint, during the healing process.

SkinCity’s scar war Dr. NiteenDhepe, Medical Director, Skin City says “Most scars can be made to merge with the surrounding skin to an extent of 30 to 100%, thanks to technologies like Ultra Pulse Scaar FX, Deep FX, Active FX, Pixel and DYE VL. All scars are now well treated with a holistic combination approach. Lasers like Scaar FX and our signature Derma Transport are Skin City’s unique weapons in the ‘Scar War’.” The scar improvement in burn and hypertrophic scars is measured according to four parameters - thickness, elasticity (flexibility), surface & textural regularity and color – to matchwith the surrounding skin. The ScaarFx – Derma Transport Combination achieves 60 to 100% improvement in all four parameters. Skin City’s revolutionary scar research has been presented in six International conferences through nine research papers and Skin City is now exploring avenues to use this knowhow to treat acid burn victims.

Traditionally word of mouth was the only way to develop medical practice. Networking for referral of a prospective new patient by an old patient or other physician was the only way of marketing. In recent years because of rapid technological advancement and increment in investment of medical practice and non emergency nature of aesthetic procedures, need for marketing has evolved.

Essentials of building of an Aesthetic Practice 1. Marketing Plan 2. Accreditations 3. Develop portfolio 4. Office appearance 5. External marketing 6. Internet marketing 7. Staffing 8. Internal marketing

Develop a marketing plan: What sets your practice apart from others? Consistent message & logo:

How do you want to project yourself? As an individual expert doctor or as an Institute? If you are planning a large investment in multiple location with many doctors involved, brand yourself as Institute rather an individual.A consistent logo and catch line spreading the primary motive of your organization goes a long way.

Understand Your Market

Aesthetic Practice being intensive in investment, it is absolutely essential to survey the market for the services you are providing.

Who is your customer?Whether you are catering to metro or nonmetro clients, young or middle aged, computer literate and netsavy or non -techy, middle class or affluent class

How does your customer think and gather information? Once you know who are your clients, then get to know how they gather their information. It may be television, newspaper, internet, clubs, panel displays of bigger hospitals. Who are their opinion leaders? Politicians, celebrities, religious personalities, beauticians?

Define goals for the practice What do you expect out of your aesthetic practice over time? Set the goals in term of clear and achievable tangential parameters. How many patients per month, how much of revenue per month, how many presentations or publications, how many clinics, in how many years.

Create budget, timeline, and measurement criteria: Accreditation means approval of your quality from any body that is perceived by people as an authority in that field. Some examples include ISO, JACO, NABH for hospitals. MD, DNB degrees itself is an Accreditation perceived rightfully as a benchmark of quality. • It is necessary as it is a visible sign of Public recognition, benchmark of professional achievement, quality of care and demonstrates self confidence and commitment to quality. • It is a useful tool of marketing • Regulatory compliance for these accreditations actually elevates the level of your practice. Consultative guidance from these agencies is a great source of learning and Quality Improvement. • Memberships of professional organizations in related field will indirectly highlight your excellence in the field. Moreover inputs from the memberships in journals, conferences, courses, opportunity for interaction with the Masters is an invaluable source of professional development. Examples include IADVL, ACSI, ASDS, ASLMS, AAD, EADV, etc. • Accreditation need not be academic alone. Association with other bodies publicly perceived as quality makes a useful accreditation. Being appointed as the Official Dermatologist of a opinion leader, beauty contest, column writer in a magazine or news paper, Consultant Post in a reputed hospital help to win confidence of a prospective client.

Develop a Portfolio of your good results The best way of winning confidence of a prospective client is to share good results of your treatment. It is fortunate that in Aesthetic Practice, it is easy to document the outcome of our expertise that can easily be shared with other patients

Accumulate your own Beforeand-After photos: Treat staff members, family and close friends and get them to be a part of the portfolio. Get permission to use treatment photos for patient consultation, presentations and website. Review photos prior to treating. Take good “before” photos Often staff members are unaware the photos are of poor quality and if you don’t check them prior to treating your patient, you’ve lost a great opportunity to show your skills to future patients.There are many opportunities to get good “after” photos but only one chance to get the actual “before” photo.

In Photography Remember the 3D’s. Distance, Detail and Development. Distance should be appropriate to the problem. If the distance is too far - photographs of peri-ocular tretaed by CO2 would not show well in a full face photograph .If too close – A facelift photograph would not show well if you can not see the full lower third of the face and neck. Detail : Show the lumps, bumps, lines, creases, hills, and valleys. This is achieved by adjusting Focus, Change the angle • Development : Look at the photographs in the imaging program.What looks like a good photograph immediately after it’s taken may actually be out of focus when seen on the full screen. Remember only one chance to get “before” photos Factors influencing patients decision to chose YOU for aesthetic procedure

55% Visual 38% Communication with staff 7% Consultation with physician The decision to choose you has almost been made (93%) before you even meet with the client.

Office Appearance In an interesting survey conducted in USA on patients seeking aesthetic procedure, it was highlighted that 55% of their decision was influenced by what the client actually sees in your clinic. Remember, cosmetic surgery is an emotional decision. The patient should feel like they’ve made the right choice as soon as they walk in the door. Everything should be “high-class” and authentic be it the Office décor, Displays, Forms, Warm reception. Displaying your credentials, certificates, trophies, membership will help in winning confidence of the patient. A screen constantly displaying your pre and post result portfolio and credentials at the most visible location is a useful tool.

Print Media Marketing In India, print media is still an influential media. Which media to choose depends upon your market and who your customers are. Media marketing involves two important segments, namely advertisement and media PR (public relation) management. Regular advertisements help registering the brand but authenticity is created when editorial coverage highlights your product. Print advertisements budget should be spared for small sized but repetitive ads instead of bigger sized infrequent ads. Local woman’s magazine or other community papers

Networking Networking with other physicians is traditional but still very effective way getting new patient leads. Keep other doctors aware of what you do. It is surprising to know that very few physicians know of your newly acquired skill or newly owned laser machine than you expected. Periodic newsletters, “email blasts”, practice announcement SMS (texts) will keep them in touch. You may request your friend physician to post information and brochures in their offices. If you are attached as a consultant in any multispecialty hospital, be particular that your name is displayed on wall panel with your correct credentials like Dermatologist and cosmetic laser surgeon, hair transplant surgeon, allergologist etc. Your business card should proudly mention all your credentials and affiliations. Don’t hesitate to introduce yourself to your college or anyone as ‘Myself Dr ABC, Dermatologist and Vitiligo surgeon.’ Take interest in knowing similar skills your other colleague have acquired. Networking through Community involvement Participating in community works like Rotary clubs help networking with opinion leaders in other fields. Participating in interactive shows on channels as an expert, writing a column in a news paper, donating for a community cause opens many channels of networking. Seminars: Organizing seminars for general public, prospective clients or CME activities for other doctors help to spread the awareness of what you are doing.

Internet Marketing Internet marketing is the Best value, High source of new cosmetic patients. Good website, search engine connections and social media marketing is the triad of successful internet marketing. It supplies “Educated” patients those know much of the things already. Your job is then rather easy. You can refer caller to your web site for information and pictures. Some of the features of a good website are right content keys, Easy to read,Easy to navigate,Contact information on every page. Updating the contents regularly is essential. Design of website should classy and user friendly

Search Engine Optimization with leading search engines like Google, Yahoo, Bing with appropriate keywords is must to make your website available in first few results for a specific keywords. Keywords should be derived by putting yourself in the shoes of the client and imagining how a new client will seek information

Social Media Marketing In current days, social media marketing has become more important than website and search engine optimization. People allover world are now more on Facebook and twitter than Google. Few important tips for social media marketing are as follows: create your practice’s profile and pages on Facebook, twitter and other social networking sites. Give link to these pages on your every stationary like business card, prescription, email signatures. Request every patient to FOLLOW or LIKE your pages. Offer updates and discount announcements of facebook pages. Request your happy patients to write favorable reviews about your services on blogs. Make your happy patients your brand ambassadors.

Staffing Your Practice Marketing Plans, Accreditation, and Beautiful Office settings make no difference in building your practice if you don’t have the right staff. Hire the right people to make the perfect team. Maximize employees skills, strengths, and weakness Encourage employee education and advancement.All employees contribute to patient relationships and comfort. They should be cross-trained. They should be given motivation to take initiative in patient comfort. Build A Team Along with Your Practice. Most important employee in your practice should be front desk staff. Whenever you plan to hire a new employee, don’t take a decision on your own. Other staff working directly with the new hire should be consulted. This help build a team spirit. If you want your employee to handle your patient well, you handle the employee well. Treat the employee as if they are your clients. These quotations from management textbooks underline the importance of staff management. 75% to 90%times, Patient’s first contact to the practice is by telephone. Staff answering phone must be friendly, knowledgeable and not rushed. Ultimate aim should be smooth patient flow. It is observed that 68% times, patient’s that decide to seek treatment elsewhere did so because of staff discourtesy.

Typical Staff designations Front Receptionist Patient Coordinator Internal Marketing Director Business Manager Houseman or assistant doctors Aestheticians Nurses Positive Telephone Image Answer phone on the first or second ring Listen Acknowledge a request Show interest and care Be considerate Follow through on all promises Apologize for errors or delays Don’t leave people on hold Internal marketing: Retaining your clients It costs much more to attract a new patient than to retain an existing one. Best and cheapest way to get a new patient is a Happy patient referring his friend to you. How much percentage of patients comes for second and third treatments in multiple session treatments must be tracked. Any patient not continuing treatment must be assessed for the reason of discontinuation. Appropriate measures to be taken to make the old patient a happy and regular one. • Keep them informed: patients must be made aware of what services your catering to. o Display of pre and post treatment photographs in waiting hall o Posters of practice announcements and special discount offers o Periodic news letters o SMS alerts of new announcements o Brochures and leaflets – easily accessible • Cross selling: Patients consulting for one indication are softly and indirectly promoted with other service or treatment. In author’s experience, patients coming for body shaping are easily converted to neurotoxin injections and laser hair removal. Doctor, nurse executing treatment are to be trained in cross selling. • Loyalty appreciation: old patients of one treatment seeking second treatment must be discounted. Offer launches of new treatments at concessional charges. • Cross referrals: patients referring his or her friend as a new patient must be appreciated and given discounts if possible. Ethical and legal issues in marketing While open advertising is legally allowed in some western countries, there are some restrictions on advertisements in India. Remember the following principles A doctor can not advertise himself but a clinic or hospital or a business can Advertisement highlighting credentials of a doctors to sell a service is not allowed Doctors can write in editorials to answer the queries Sponsored editorial intended to inform the public are allowed and are called Advertorials Any claim made in black and whiteis subject to verification in future also. So be cautious about the claims made in advertisment

According to an international research firm that reviews industry trends and creates forecasts, demand for cosmetic and plastic surgery procedures is expected to grow at a rate of nearly 8.5% annually through 2013. Demand for minimally-invasive procedures is expected to grow at an even faster rate, as more people reorganize their budgets and look for Aesthetic Procedures to achieve their ideal look. Usual surgical procedures consist of three steps: cutting the patient open; removing or repairing an organ or tissue; and closing the patient up again. In minimal access surgery, the impact of the first and last of these is reduced as far as possible, either by gaining access to the body through natural orifices or by operating through very small holes (typically 5-15 mm across) cut into the body.

The development of fibre optic light sources, miniature video cameras and specially designed tools has allowed increasingly complex surgery to be performed, with the surgeon being guided by high resolution, magnified video images. This issue talks about obesity in India. India is one of the top 5 countries that has a high demand for liposuction services. The reason for India to embrace liposuction and other minimally invasive procedures for weight loss is due to our tendency to put weight coupled with bad eating habits and a total lack of exercise. This explains the rapid growth of cosmetic offering this service. Moreover today people have more disposable income than before, which they invest in looking good. -

The fact is that having or developing any trait that makes an individual not conform to norms detaches him from normal life and makes him self-conscious. Excessive hairiness in men is one such trait that makes them feel self-conscious. Thick coarse hair on face – beard and mustaches – and on arms and legs add […]

How to Be Assertive (Without Losing Yourself) Conventional wisdom says that assertive people go ahead. They tell people what they think, request the resources they need, and don't take no for an answer. So what are non-assertive people supposed to do, if their company's culture rewards these actions? If you're shy or reserved, don't fret. You can ask for what you need and get what you want, while still being yourself. What the Experts Say Managers need some degree of selfconfidence to be effective. "The right amount of assertiveness, respect for others, and intelligence is what makes a great leader there needs to be a balance.”There's a sweet spot for assertiveness. If you're below the range, you're not going to get your way.

If you're above it, you're not getting along with others. The good news is being shy is not a permanent condition. Assertiveness can be learned. The key is to understand the context, assess your behavior, and then make the appropriate adjustments. Understand the context Assertiveness is not universally understood to be a positive trait. Before you make changes to your behavior, know the context you are working in. Does the culture national, regional, or organizational truly value forcefulness? Or do you work in a situation where a persuasive, quiet approach is sometimes more esteemed? Consider the implications of your behavior before you alter it. Evaluate your level of assertiveness You can do this by either assessing your own behavior or asking others for input. Are you willing to talk to anyone about what you want? Objectively rating your own behavior can be difficult. "The connection between what we think we're doing and what others see is very weak. Often it's not greater than chance," Therefore, it might help to get feedback from trusted colleagues or to conduct a 360-degree review Set goals and stick to them If you find in your assessment that you are holding back in situations where you shouldn't, ask yourself what you aren't saying and why you're keeping quiet.

Next time you enter a similar situation, rehearse what you are going to say and how you will say it beforehand, challenge yourself with a specific timebounded behavioral goal. For example, give yourself a week to initiate three difficult conversations with colleagues. Or tell yourself that for the next two weeks, whenever you're in a group discussion, you'll speak up within the first two minutes. "Focused incremental changes add up to real change," If you're successful, set another goal and stick to it. If it doesn't work, don't beat yourself up. Try a different one. "Approach it with an attitude of playfulness," Build relationships Often time’s people hold back because they are uncomfortable in a situation, either because they don't know people or they're afraid of what others might think. Therefore, it can help to get to know people outside of work. Connect with work colleagues who are only casual acquaintances. Socialize with colleagues in a way that breaks down barriers.

You may be less cautious about speaking up if you're at ease socially. Stay true to yourself Altering your style to be more assertive can feel inauthentic, but it doesn't have to be. You're not changing your character; you are making deliberate choices about how you behave. Don't feel you have to muster interpersonal coldness to accompany your assertion. Feel free to be friendly and empathic while asking for your needs to be met. Find your own style instead of trying to imitate others. Nor do you need to be more assertive in every context every day. You can bring out your competitive side when it's useful and you can dial back and be accommodating when it's helpful. There's a line — know when you've crossed it Be careful that in your quest, you don't become a bully or a nuisance. being overly assertive is often interpreted as self-promotional or arrogant. Monitor the impact you have on others. The costs of being overly assertive are not immediately apparent to us.

If you yell at a subordinate, she may do what you asked but she may also go home and update her resume. Be sure your efforts to push more are well intended. Assertiveness is most appreciated when it's in the service of the team. Principles to Remember Do: Assess your own degree of assertiveness and ask others for feedback. Set realistic goals to make small changes in your behavior and stick to them. Forge relationships with colleagues outside of work so that you feel more comfortable speaking up. Don't: Assume that assertiveness is always a good thing — the context you work in and your gender both matter. Try to imitate someone else's behavior — you can change while still being true to who you are Overcompensate and become aggressive — balance assertiveness with consideration of others. 2) Why Aren't You Delegating? You have way too much to do, you're buried in work, and it seems there's no way out from under it all. But there is: delegation. Yes, yes, you know it's important to do and you know it will save you time and help others develop new skills.

So why aren't you doing it? What the Experts Say Delegation is a critical skill. Your most important task as a leader is to teach people how to think and ask the right questions so that the world doesn't go to hell if you take a day off. Delegation benefits managers, direct reports, and organizations. Yet it remains one of the most underutilized and underdeveloped management capabilities. Most people will tell you they are too busy to delegate — that it's more efficient for them to just do it But it's time to drop the excuses. Here's how. Watch for warning signs You may not realize that you're unnecessarily hoarding work. There are warning signs, however. A classic sign of insufficient delegation is that you are working long hours and feel totally indispensable, while your staff isn't terribly energized and keeps strangely regular hours. You may also feel that your team doesn't take ownership over projects and that you're the only one that cares.

If they use phrases like, "I'm happy to help you with this," it may be an indication that you're doling out tasks, not handing over responsibility. Understand why you're not delegating There are plenty of reasons why managers don't delegate. Some are perfectionists who feel it's easier to do everything themselves, or that their work is better than others this is "selfenhancement bias." Some believe that passing on work will detract from their own importance, while others lack self-confidence and don't want to be upstaged by their subordinates. No matter how self-aware you are, don't assume that you're immune to these biases. Instead, you need to proactively ask yourself what you're going to do to counterbalance them.

Letting go of these misconceptions can be extremely difficult and often organizational culture doesn't help. Giving up being 'the go-to expert' takes tremendous confidence and perspective even in the healthiest environments. "It's even more challenging in the average company, where being a good manager is seen as a 'nice to have,' but where producing the core deliverable is what is truly esteemed." But accepting that you can't do everything yourself is a critical first step to delegating. Measure how you're doing Once you've recognized what's standing in your way, the next logical step is to adjust your behavior. In reality, however, very few people know what to change or how to change it. "If you asked most managers how they spent their day, they are not going to be able to recall it accurately. He advises keeping a daily diary of how you spend your time. After a week, you'll start to see patterns. You're likely to find that a lot of time is spent on low-leverage activities that can be delegated. Choose the right people Some managers fear delegation because they've been burned in the past. It's important that you pass on work to people who have the necessary skills and are motivated to get the job done right. Ideally, you should be able to delegate some form of work to everyone on your team.

If you push work as far down the hierarchy as possible, you will free up time and help all your staff members grow. Integrate delegation into what you already do Delegation shouldn't be yet another task. Make it part of your process for creating staff development plans. Discuss which types of projects and tasks you will passon to them so that they can build the skills they need. Make sure it's written down as part of their performance goals and discuss how you will be mutually accountable for making it happen. Then create a cheat sheet that lists each person's development plan and put it somewhere visible. This should help to spur your thinking about opportunities to delegate as they arise normally in your work. And the assignment will be welcomed because the employee understands clearly how it fits into the development plan.

Ask others to hold you accountable Give your direct reports permission to call you out when you haven't delegated something you should. Remember that it's never easy to give your boss feedback, so be crystal clear that you are open to and expect this kind of input. Also, let them know that they're responsible for their own growth and if they see a project they want to take on, they should ask for it. Really let go After you delegate, your job as a manager is to observe and support your direct reports, not dictate what they do. It's not about making the decisions for them. Develop their critical thinking skills so they become better at intervening in their own situations. Give your employees space. If you want people to learn, you have to permit them to make mistakes and figure out how to correct them. Micromanaging defeats the whole purpose.

Be careful though. It's possible to be too hands off. While you don't want to tell people how to do the job, you must be in a position to evaluate their performance and development. Don't walk away from a task you've delegated. Stay involved but let your employee lead the way. Learn from experience Once you've started delegating more, pay attention to the results, and learn from your mistakes. Ask yourself how you can tweak your approach. Can you delegate more involved tasks? Should you give your direct reports more freedom? Do you need to monitor progress more closely? Be patient with yourself while you practice. You're going from an 'I'm going to do everything because I know better than everyone' mindset to 'I'm going to let people learn' mindset". It may take time, but the payoff is great. Principles to Remember Do: Take note if you're overwhelmed and your team members don't seem to have enough to do — it's a warning sign Keep a visual reminder of your team's development goals so you can easily identify opportunities to delegate Ask your direct reports to call you out when you haven't delegated enough. Don't: Assume that you aren't biased about other people's performance Give someone else responsibility for something and then micromanage the task to death Be impatient — practice and learn from your mistakes.

Laser scar removal comprises one of the most popular and most demanded scar removing techniques nowadays, reason being its non-invasive nature and instant results. But like any other procedure, laser scar removal also has some side effects associated with it that every potential candidate should be aware of before committing to the procedure. Luckily laser

Baldness, especially in males, has been a topic of discussion and research for years. The degree and pattern of baldness varies, but it’s most common cause is androgenic alopecia, alopecia androgenetica.

• • Hair Transplantation (FUT / FUE)
• • Mesotherapy
• • Medical treatment
• • Scalp Reduction / Expansion surgeries
• • Flap surgeries

• a) To recreate hairline
• b) More extensive hair replacement
• c) To add density to existing hair
• d) To correct transplanted hair line if you are not happy with previous surgery

The fight against an out of shape body is always on the cards. People want to get back in shape though it is not always easy. Even if a good diet control and exercise regime is maintained, it is entirely possible that some fat may remain on certain parts of the body. Laser liposuction is […]

Dermatology as a specialty choice in India was not very popular. Up until a decade ago many seats in this specialty would go unused due to it being an unglamorous and mundane subject. Mainstream Dermatology was always associated with Skin diseases, leprosy and Venereal Diseases. Though the Global scenario in Cosmetic Dermatology started changing a while ago, in India it started getting recognized as a lucrative and glamorous option about a decade ago. Cosmetic Dermatology has become a very aspirational branch of dermatology which is being practiced in all sectors of the Industry, organized and unorganized, Government and private. With Global trends and awareness on the possibilities for solutions to various skin and beauty concerns being available, the demand for such services has gone through a huge growth curve in this decade.

With Aesthetics, cosmetology and Plastic surgery coming together to offer people solutions to every possible beauty concern, the need for practitioners in this area of expertise is also witnessing a huge growth trend. The Cosmetic Dermatology Society of India is a body that brings together experts in the beauty, dermatology and plastic surgery arenas to share trends and updates in this dynamic industry. Though India has seen the demand in this industry grow, this growth curve has only just started here. The demand for qualified experts in this domain is going to grow by leaps and bounds in the years to come. There are no conventional Government run training Institutes for dermatologists in the revolutionary and ever changing industry of cosmetic dermatology.

Some industry leaders and key opinion leaders run institutes with structured courses and fellowships in these technologies. Skin City which is the biggest Skin and Hair Restoration Center in India offers several short and long term courses in Cosmetic Dermatology. Besides the DDV for MBBS students, we have fellowships and short and long term observation courses for, MD, MBBS BAMS and BHMS doctors respectively. Which include, the study of Lasers, Chemical Peels, Mesotherapy, M i c r o d e r m a b r a s i o n , H a i r transplantation, Safe Tumescent liposuction, Botox and fillers etc. Because of the number of patients seen and the size of the Institute and operations the hands on experience that an aspiring aesthetician can get at Skin City is unmatched anywhere else in the country.

Skin City has the largest number of  lasers in India available under one roof, some of which are:

1.Micro Derma Abrasion + Jet Peel

2.Q-Switch ND YAG - for skin

rejuvination, Tanning and for Tattoo

removal.

3.Fractional CO2 Laser

4. Ultra pulse (Fractional CO2 laser)

5. Micro Needle RF

6. Erybium YAG

7. Q-Swtich ND YAG for tattoo removal,

Brightening of skin (with carbon peel)

8. Ultra Liposys.

Cosmetic practice has remained no more a practice but become the backbone of a Dermatologist’s practice today. It not only involves your professional expertise but also a huge investment. Once you invest your money into your practice, your money handling skills become equally important as your patient handling skills. Everybody wants not only to recover their investment, but also earn a decent profit, which they definitely deserve. Laser application in Cosmetic Dermatology has grown by leaps and bounds and is now a necessity in any Dermatologist’s clinic. This was evident during the ongoing “Cosmetology Update” lecture series as well as the upcoming “Cosmo Laser Con” where a bulk of topics are centred around Lasers. Your Journal is a Media Partner of both these events. From the most widely used application of laser assisted hair removal, Laser applications in Aesthetic Dermatology have come a long way from its inception.

Over the last decade, there have been tremendous advances in Laser technology for hair removal. Light based system evolved from the earlier version of IPL (Intense Pulsed Light) based technology to AFT (Advanced Fluorescent Technology) with contact cooling. Lasers have moved from the days of Ruby laser 694-nm and Alexandrite Laser 755-nm to Long pulsed Nd:YAG laser 1064-nm and Diode laser of 810-nm in-motion technology. This issue continues with our focus to offer a wide range of clinical and scientific studies which gauging from your feedback we are happy to note serves as reference material enabling you to enhance your Aesthetic Practise. As in any business, Dermatologists now need to appreciate that Cosmetology Dermatology is like any other and hence use pro-active Marketing concepts and strategies to boost their business.

Cryolipolysis is a non surgical method used to destroy fat cells. It works on the principle of cooling the localized fat to a temperature of almost- 4 degrees Celsius thus reducing the fat in treated areas, which results in figure correction and body contouring. Cryolipolysis is used for removing fat bulges that are just under the skin. The effectiveness of the treatment can be completely appreciated in 3 to 4 months. Many of us have stubborn fat we can’t seem to lose despite diet and exercise. Cryolipolysis targets and destroys only these fat cells through targeted cooling. In the next 9 to 12 weeks after the procedure these cells are eliminated from the body. Fat cells once eliminated are gone forever. Cool cryo The coolest thing about Cryolipolysis is that there are no contraindications for taking the procedure. Other methods of fat removal like conventional liposuction, which is done under general anaesthesia is not only risky but is also subject to your overall fitness and absence of any systemic diseases.

Even Safe Liposuction which is done exclusively in Skin City under Tumescent anaesthesia requires you to be free from underlying medical conditions like diabetes, hypertension or any other existing heart condition, whereas Cryolipolysis can be performed on anyone suffering from any of the above mentioned medical conditions.

Dr. Niteen Dhepe, Medical Director, Skin City says, “The consumer today is very well read and informed about the latest cosmetic trends available abroad and they are knowledgeable about what clinches it for them.” The clinchers The three most important confidence building criteria of Cryolipolysis are: 1. It is an FDA approved treatment 2. It is non surgical 3. It is safe and effective This procedure takes just one hour and therefore qualifies as a lunchtime procedure. So with all these benefits associated with it, Cryolipolysis is literally the coolest choice for anyone looking to have that perfect body.

The practice of Cosmetic Dermatology now is not just restricted to Dermatologists and Plastic Surgeons but is a part of the other medical faculties as well. You have gynecologists who are referring patients to dermatologists and dermatologists who are referring patients to endocrinologists and vice versa. This is a sign of advancement in the medical domain where, advanced diagnostic tools are available to diagnose problems which were not easily identified. Today the role played by dermatopathologists has become very critical in the diagnosis of skin problems and has become an important tool in practitioners of cosmetic dermatology to serve their patients better. We also have many instances where doctors with an M.D. in medicine are specializing in anti ageing and are working in collaboration with dermatologists and plastic surgeons. This only goes to prove that the future in this field is very bright. This conversion of cross functionalities is healthy and augers well for the industry.

With soaring temperatures and the sun beating down on you relentlessly how can you escape a Suntan. sun protection and ultimately when all else fails, to Skin City where you can reverse your Tan and how….. Sunscreen or sun cream or sun block, is a lotion, spray, gel or other topical product that absorbs or reflects some of the sun's ultraviolet radiation and thus helps protect against sunburn, especially for fair-skinned individuals There are two types of ultraviolet rays that cause damage to the skin, UVA & UVB rays. UVA rays cause skin ageing or photo ageing and UVB rays cause sunburn and with excessive exposure, skin cancer. SPF measures sunscreen protection from UVB rays, the kind that cause sunburn and contribute to skin cancer.

A broad spectrum sunscreen offers protection from both UVA & UVB rays. Now to untangle the mystery of SPF the simplest way to calculate it is the time taken for the skin to turn red on sun exposure without sunscreen, if that is 15 minutes then an SPF 15 protects the skin from sunburn for 15 times that time, which is 180 minutes or three hours. Sunscreen with SPF 15 has to be reapplied every 2-3 hours, taken into consideration sweating and dampness which reduces the effectiveness. For Indian Skin it is recommended that an SPF 15-30 is good enough. A higher SPF offers higher protection by absorbing a higher percentage of UV rays.  SPF 15 blocks about 93% of all UVB rays  SPF 30 filters out 97%  SPF 50 is an almost complete UVB block, at 98%. People with lighter/fairer skin, infants and ageing skin require a higher SPF.

Having said all of that it is still difficult to protect your skin from sun exposure and therefore sunburn. Reapplication is sometimes not possible, sweating and getting wet on the beach compromises the protection as sunscreens are not water proof, they may be water resistant to some extent. SkinCity takes care of your concerns like skin tan, uneven Skin tone and Pigmentation. Skin assessment is done and a customized protocol is advised to best suit your needs. Various chemical peels are available at Skin city to lighten the skin and reduce suntan. However Dr. Niteen Dhepe, Medical Director, Skin City advocates the use of the Helios – Fractional Q Switched NdYAG laser which can lighten your skin to its original shade in a single session. The Helios Laser works on all pigmented & hyperpigmented skin problems. If you have dark inner thighs or buttocks, back, under arms, elbows or knees and this makes you too self conscious to wear the cool summer shorts, sleeveless top or bikini you’ve been dying to buy, walk into SkinCity today.

Aging is an inevitable process that cannot be avoided; however you can delay it by eating healthy and following an extensive skincare regimen. But now with a number of really effective anti-aging treatments available, you can effectively reverse the aging process and look young forever. This article discusses some of the really effective anti aging

Is acne scarring causing emotional pain and shattering your confidence? Are you seeking an affordable yet effective treatment for unsightly acne scars? Laser acne scar treatment may be an option worth considering. Acne is a common skin condition that affects both men and women. The probability of developing acne is greatest during adolescence

As we age our skin starts to lose it natural fresh, smooth and supple texture, courtesy internal changes, hormonal changes being at the top of the list, and external factors, such hot and cold weather, sun exposure, humidity and dryness etc. All these factors, together with aging, take a toll on your skin, making it

• caused by another medical condition
• or is a side effect of a medication.
• sweating symptoms while sleeping
• usually starts in adulthood,
• treatunderlying medical condition or medication condition.

• Excessive sweating affects my emotions (90%)
• Sweating makes me less confident (50%)
• I gel frustrated by daily activities (38%)
• I feel unhappy (34%)
• I'm depressed (20%)

•  FUT is done under local anaesthesia and tumescent fluid infiltration.
•  Tumescent is prepared by adding little Triamcinolone and 1:1000 cc of adrenaline (1 ml) in 100 ml of normal saline.
•  For the frontal recipient area, Nerve blocks are preferred (supraorbital and supratrochlear).

• the small slits, or the more anterior, receive one-hair grafts ;
• the medium-sized slits receive two hair grafts ;
• The larger slits receive the three or four-hair grafts.

• Breasts: an autologous fat transfer breast or fat grafting breast augmentation to give fuller and uplifted looking breasts;
• Buttocks: an autologous fat transfer for buttock augmentation to achieve the Brazilian butt lift;
• Face: to fill in the hollowness of the temples, cheeks, brows, and folds to create a more youthful appearance;
• Hands: to restore subcutaneous fat loss on the back of the hands; and
• Scars: an autologous fat is injected beneath the skin surface to elevate depressed surgical and acne scars.

Vaginal muscles must be able to contract to maintain continence, and to relax allowing for urination and bowel movements, and for sexual intercourse as well as for giving birth. They also support and protect the organs of the abdomen and hold the bladder in its proper place.

The pelvic muscles can become stretched or weakened due to ageing and more specifically due to pregnancy. This often happens after a difficult childbirth which overstretches or tears the pelvic muscles and can also be the result of giving birth to several babies within a very short time span. Their under use can also cause pelvic floor weakness.

This set of muscles, also known as the muscles of the perineum, forms the floor of the pelvic cavity and supports the pelvic organs such as the bladder, uterus and colon and intestine.

These muscles act like a rubber band, they need to be tense but neither too tight to avoid pelvic floor muscle disorder nor too loose, because in both cases they will lose the right degree of elasticity and therefore their main function and could potentially create a pelvic floor dysfunction.

Symptoms of Hypotonic Pelvic Muscles: •    Stress incontinence •    Urge incontinence •    Pelvic organ prolapse •    Unsatisfactory sexual intercourse for both partners

Vaginal tightening is the tightening of the pelvic muscles to achieve or maintain the right degree of elasticity of the pelvic floor muscles.

Vaginal tightening can be achieved in different ways, all effective in their own way and can be complementary. Vaginoplasty is a reconstructive plastic surgery and cosmetic procedure for the vaginal canal and its mucous membrane, and of vulvovaginal structures that might be absent or damaged because of congenital disease (e.g. vaginal hypoplasia) or because of an acquired cause (e.g. childbirth physical trauma, cancer)

Skin City’s cutting edge treatment tightens the vaginal walls which restores tone to tissue, and increases blood flow—that increases lubrication and strengthens the supporting ligaments surrounding the bladder and urethra to reduce the symptoms of stress urinary incontinence.

There are multiple options available for body shaping and surgical liposuction, laser liposuction, injection lipolysis are some of them. Patients, who are unwilling for surgical options or are unfit for any invasive procedure because of uncontrolled diabetes, heart disease or any other serious health condition, can opt for medical body shaping options.

This treatment involves non-invasive Lipolysis with HIFU Ultra sound and Accent non-ablative radio frequency. These high intensity ultrasound and radio-frequency waves mobilize fat cells, destroy them and facilitate their expulsion from the body through lymphatic drainage.

These techniques especially give good results for facial fat reduction and contouring the face.

What is Hifu/Ultherapy?

It is a highly precise medical procedure that applies high-intensity focused ultrasound energy which delivers heat to the deeper layers of the skin. This triggers collagen remodeling thus increasing the elasticity of the skin resulting in tightening. It also destroys excess fat cells in the face, neck by heat energy. These dead fat cells undergo a process of cellular death called apoptosis and then expelled through body’s lymphatic drainage.

Accent Non-Ablative Radio Frequency Ttherapy:

Unipolar (or 3rd generation Monopolar) one is for a deep controlled penetration depth of the RF energy for fat reduction and cellulite treatment.

1. Tightening of the underlying tissues, which in turn causes a production of new collagen and collagen remodelling;
2. Increased blood circulation to the area being treated and drainage of the fatty deposits to the lymphatic system; and
3. Fatty acid decomposition and heat-induced fat cell death.

What is It Used to Treat?

 Treatment applications (using either the Unipolar (3rd generation Monopolar) or Bipolar head) include:

• Cellulite treatment
• Fat reduction on the arms, abdomen, buttocks and legs
• Skin tightening on the face, arms, abdomen, buttocks and legs
• Complete body contouring
• Pre liposuction skin tightening
• Post liposuction smoothing
• Lipoma (benign tumour composed of fat tissue) treatment

How Long Does It Last?

Results may last up to 2-3 years. However, ongoing maintenance will be required more frequently for older people and for those with poor skin quality to begin with, as a result of smoking, sun exposure, alcohol consumption etc.

For body contouring applications, the improvement in the skin quality is said to be long lasting, similar to the facial tightening results; however keeping the body contours in check is also subject to a person’s diet, calorie intake, exercise and lifestyle. Fat cells have the capability of expanding to 500 times their size, thus an unbalanced diet and unhealthy lifestyle plays a center roll in keeping body contours in good shape more than any treatment can, effective as it is.

Body contouring is an area of medical aesthetics that is developing rapidly, with many new devices coming to market every year, using multiple different technologies. For these treatments, patient selection is probably the most challenging. The choice of equipment for an individual practice will depend on a variety of factors, including cost, patient demographics, space available and staffing levels.

With wrinkles, fine lines, brown spots and a sallow blotchy skin creeping in, anybody can tell you are almost hitting the dreaded aging phase. Skin aging is a natural process that presents itself relatively early in life, sometimes as early as the late 20s. But, thanks to various anti-aging non-surgical treatments, women can now hop back in time. A few years ago, the most popular anti-aging remedies were plastic surgery procedures like brow lifts and facelifts. However, the trend has drastically changed over time with the development of non-invasive anti-aging treatments. Often referred to as minimally invasive methods, the skin treatments improve skin texture, rid of lines and maintain a youthful look.

BOTOX is a toxin produced by a strain of bacteria, Clostridium botulinum. In case you're wondering, this is the same bacteria that can cause botulism, which is a type of food poisoning. Botox is used for the treatment of moderate to severe frown lines between the eyebrows. Today, it is used to treat other areas of the face, including the forehead and the crow's feet at the corners of the eye.

Most commonly used to treat those with sun-damaged or unevenly pigmented skin, chemical peels have become one of the most popular non-invasive cosmetic plastic surgery procedures. Chemical peels are one form of anti-aging treatment. Although chemical peels are not able to prevent or slow down the aging process they are certainly able to improve facial blemishes, acne, wrinkles and uneven skin pigmentation.

One non-surgical method that has become extremely popular is the use of dermal fillers. Dermal fillers such as hyaluronic acid should not be confused with Botox. Botox may be used for anti-aging skin care but works through a completely different process. Plastic surgeons refer to the use of dermal fillers as soft tissue augmentation. Soft tissue augmentation is a cosmetic plastic surgery procedure performed to correct eye wrinkles, other facial wrinkles, and depressions in the skin and/or scarring.

As you get older, a number of factors contribute to the aging of your face. Stress, sun and wind exposure, and even gravity conspire to leave you older-looking. A facelift can help address some of the effects of aging. During a facelift, your plastic surgeon removes excess fatty deposits, tightens the muscles that support your face, removes excess skin and rewraps the skin of your face. Quite often, the facelift surgery is performed along with other facial surgeries such as blepharoplasty (eyelid surgery) or a browlift (forehead lift surgery).

Laser skin resurfacing is one of the fastest growing and most effective skin rejuvenation procedures performed by plastic surgeons. Laser skin resurfacing can be used to treat a wide variety of skin conditions that result from or relate to the effects of aging. Acne Scars, Age Spots, Brown Spots, Fine Lines, Large Pore Size, Stretch Marks, Sun Spots, and Wrinkles can be treated with laser skin rejuvenation.

Like dermabrasion, microdermabrasion involves removing some of the upper skin layers. Microdermabrasion, however, doesn't go as deep. Microdermabrasion is ideally suited for a person who has aged skin or skin that has been damaged by overexposure to the sun.  Microdermabrasion treatments polish and soften the skin, reducing fine lines on the face.

While the best non-surgical anti-aging face treatments are affordable and effective compared to plastic surgery treatments, patients ought to be cautious when picking their health providers.

• Use a creamy cleanser that is Soap-free before going to bed; wash your face with the cleanser thoroughly as part of your daily routine. Make sure you rinse it with cool water.
• Use a moisturizer on your face at least thrice a day to keep the skin hydrated and to avoid tightness and roughness of the facial skin.
• Applying a facial mask is also another great additional benefit to your routine, in which it helps rejuvenate the skin and makes it smooth.
• Exfoliate your dry skin using a slightly abrasive cleaner like a loofah or sponge. You may also use an exfoliating product that is suitable for your skin! However always remember to use natural products! Do not over exfoliate.

• Wash your face at least two times each day with a regular skin care face wash having pH similar to your skin pH.
• Always apply sunscreen with a large SPF every day.
• Apply a light lotion in the evening to keep your skin hydrated.
• To remove makeup use the same cleansing milk and a face wash.
• Use an exfoliating scrub once in 2 weeks; thereafter use a non-drying face mask.

• Cleanse it! Find a cleanser marked specifically for oily skin. It will prevent your skin from looking like an oil slick without stripping it of necessary oils.
• Use a foaming face wash which contains alpha hydroxy acids, salicylic acid etc. This should be used 3-4 times in a day and followed up with an alcohol-free toner.
• Use non-comedogenic wide spectrum large SPF sunscreen for oily skin.
• Use only water based makeup.
• Use of an exfoliating scrub weekly and anti-acne mask if you have an acne problem.

• It helps the intestine to absorb nutrients, calcium and phosphorus. This ensures strong bones and a healthy immune system.
• Vitamin D provides calcium balance in the body and prevents arthritis.
• Vitamin D regulates blood pressure and reduces stress and tension. It also relieves body aches and pains by reducing muscle spasms. It also reduces respiratory infection.
• Vitamin D is recommended in the treatment of several diseases. It may prevent preeclampsia by improving kidney functions.
• Vitamin D optimizes our body’s ability to absorb other important weight loss nutrients, especially calcium.
• It is an important way to arm the immune system against disorders like cold and flu.
• It also reduces the risk of developing sclerosis.
• Vitamin D keeps the brain active even at later stages of life. It also helps to maintain body weight.
• Vitamin D also helps to improve mental sharpness.

• Vitamin D2 and Vitamin D3 are most beneficial for skin health.
• Vitamin D Cream or supplements can be effective for treatment of psoriasis.
• Vitamin D also repairs skin damage prevents infections that might be caused due to skin injuries and rejuvenates the skin.
• Vitamin D can treat psoriasis.
• Vitamin D3 contains strong anti-inflammatory properties which make it effective for treating burns, skin injuries, skin damage and stretch marks.
• The anti-oxidant present in Vitamin D prevents skin damage and premature ageing of skin when taken via supplements or included in diet.
• Vitamin D absorbed through limited exposure to the sun might prevent skin damage and sunburns by strengthening the skin.
• Vitamin D also helps to treat eczema and is a potential savior of rosacea sufferers.

• Vitamin D reduces stress, and depression, and has often been linked to hair loss and various other problems.
• Vitamin D is also a precursor to the hair growth cycle. Vitamin D acts on the keratinocytes to initiate hair follicle cycling and stimulate hair growth.

It's the little things that you do each day that adds up to being healthy and fit. While we do what we can to be as health-conscious as we can, it is always a work in progress since there are many elements to a healthy lifestyle. Use these tips as a guide on your journey on the path to good health.

1. Eating Breakfast Daily

A healthy breakfast starts your day off right. It sets you up so that you have energy and fuel for optimal mental and physical performance. Eating breakfast helps to maintain stable blood sugar levels and a healthy weight because you are less likely to overindulge later in the day.

2. Eat Small Portions at Regular Intervals

Most people know that small, frequent meals are absolutely the only way to go. Why? Because when we go longer than 3 hours without eating, our levels of the stress hormone cortisol rise. When you eat small, frequent meals long term, the body becomes efficient at keeping cortisol levels low, which helps both men and women reduce belly fat.

3. Make Fitness a Lifestyle

Even if you just get out for a walk a few times a week, exercise is important for being fit and healthy. Cardiovascular exercise helps to strengthen the heart and lungs; strength training helps to strengthen the muscles and stretching helps to reduce the risk of injury by increasing flexibility. Exercise also improves circulation and body awareness, and regular exercise can help combat depression.

4. Eating Whole Foods

Successful fit people tend to eat mainly whole, unprocessed foods, including fruits, veggies, and whole grains. Whole, natural foods—apples, steel-cut oatmeal, broccoli, salads, brown rice—are low-density foods. That is, they take up a lot of room in your stomach because they contain lots of fiber, which satisfies hunger with few calories. Eating mostly low-density foods is the easiest way to keep your weight in check without feeling hungry or like you’re depriving yourself.

5. Expressing Yourself

Keeping emotions bottled up inside can cause mental and emotional stress as well as physical symptoms. Unexpressed feelings can lead to depression, sleep problems, eating disorders, and even physical pain. Learn to talk about your feelings and you’ll soon notice the positive changes in your mind and body.

6.Relax Your Body & Mind

A lot of us have forgotten how to relax. We often find ourselves carrying stress and tensions in our muscles, when sometimes all we need to do is lie down and allow ourselves to relax, clear our minds of all thoughts and just listen to your body. When the body is relaxing it is able to repair your muscles and it will also relax the mind enabling you to mentally focus. Being mentally focused is almost as important as the exercise itself. To achieve any life goals you must believe in yourself.

Often, the biggest hurdle is sluggishness. It's true that it isn't easy to change ingrained habits, however gradually working toward change improves your odds of success. So follow the above-said strategies that will help you enact a healthy change in your life, no matter what change you'd like to make.

In today’s world which is full of stress and contaminations, skin and other allergies have evolved as lifestyle disorders. One can be allergic to certain substances by birth or develop them over a period of years. Some common allergens include foods, cosmetics, fragrances, plantations, sunlight and dust.

Allergies are common in all age groups. It is a response of one’s own body immune system to agents like dust, metal, fibre, chemical, pollen grains. These agents are also known as allergens are not harmful, occur freely in the environment and do not bother most people they come in contact with. People who have allergies often are sensitive to more than one allergen. When an allergen comes in contact with an individual with allergy, it triggers an allergic or hypersensitive reaction. Heredity and environmental exposures contribute to susceptibility of an individual to allergies.

At Skin City, we offer a thorough consultation and allergy testing for patients suffering from skin allergies to known and unknown allergens and a treatment protocol suitable for patient’s needs.

What Is An Allergy?

The human immune system is programmed to combat any foreign substance (allergen, infectious agents) entering our body. In this process of dealing with allergens, the immune system produces a number of antibodies and activates blood called eosinophils. Together they attack the allergen with chemical substances. Sometimes the same chemicals can result in symptoms of allergy.

Symptoms of allergies may be obvious such as hay fever or not so obvious such as breathlessness after taking certain medicines. An allergic reaction can occur anywhere in the body (e.g. sneezing and stuffy nose, itching rash of urticaria and asthma). However other symptoms like severe urticaria, migraine, and even life- threatening symptoms (reactions to drugs, foods and cosmetics) can occur.

•    Specific allergic disease

•    Allergic rhinitis / sinusitis

•    Allergic conjunctivitis

•    Allergic bronchitis

•    Eczema, Atopic dermatitis

•    Urticaria, Angioedema

•    Contact Dermatitis

It is important to detect what is causing the allergy in an individual. After detecting the allergens, the best way is to avoid them (drug allergy), use control measures (house dust mites), create tolerance to them (food allergies), skin protection (urticaria) or treat them with oral vaccines (allergic colds or asthma). We detect allergies by the skin Prick tests which in the hand of an allergy specialist are 90-100% sensitive.

At Skin City we manage skin, respiratory and food allergies by careful consultation, ‘In vitro’ allergy testing and treatment as per international guidelines and advanced Desensitization for those who require it.

Aesthetic Dermatology is a new and uniquely different dermatology practice, setting a standard for cosmetic dermatology in India. It is a group of treatments that are used to improve personal appearance rather than address an underlying disease. Some might argue that a few treatments that are classified as "cosmetic" are actually medical in nature, such as procedures for acne. The different types of treatments covered under aesthetic dermatology are chemical peels, wrinkle fillers, microdermabrasion, liposuction, enhancements, and laser resurfacing. Aesthetic dermatology's primary purpose is to improve a person's looks by reducing or eliminating imperfections. The majority of these imperfections are related to the skin, in particular the face, while a few treatments address the nails, scalp and hair.

Most aesthetic dermatology treatments are focused on improving the appearance and texture of the skin, especially on the face. The medical professionals at Skin City offer a wide range of cosmetic procedures that keep your skin looking and feeling fantastic. Whether you’re concerned about the early signs of aging or varicose veins, Aesthetic Dermatology offers the cosmetic procedure you’re looking for.

• Botox

• Fillers

• Facials

• Chemical Peels

• Liposuction

Those who wish to look younger may undergo treatment to fill in wrinkles or remove age spots. Fillers and injections of patented substances are used to improve the condition of facial muscles and plump up depressions in the skin. Several periodic treatments may be needed since the results are usually temporary.

Skin City offers advanced expertise in cosmetic procedures like no other in Pune, India. And we believe in the procedures and products we offer. We won’t leave you confused with a large and overwhelming portfolio of lasers, treatments and skin care products because we don’t believe everything out there is worth your time and money. What we offer, we believe in. What we do, works!

Schedule a cosmetic consultation today and look forward to a better tomorrow!

1. First, it is very important to get rid of your dead skin from time to time so that new skin tissues get space to grow. To do so, you should weekly exfoliate your lips using lip scrubs. For the homemade scrub, mix one spoon of sugar with half spoon of honey, scrub the mixture on your lips for 1 minute and rinse thoroughly, followed by moisturizer.
2. During the winter season, cold conditions contribute to lip chapping and dryness so after bathing or face wash, gently rub towel on your lips to avoid chapping and dead skin accumulation. You can do this activity every alternate day.
3. Moisturizing is the most important factor in winters. You should keep a lip balm handy, carry it in your handbag and keep reapplying it after every few hours. Ideally, beeswax lip balms and petroleum jelly work best in healing dry chapped lips. At night you should apply ghee or honey to recuperate lips from the damage of harsh cold weather.
4. Drink plenty of fluids to keep your skin well-hydrated. It does more good to your skin than the creams do.
5. Most of us have a habit of licking or chewing our lips. Irrespective of how itchy your lips feel do not bite, lick or chew them. If you keep on licking your lips again and again this will aggravate their condition and can even cause bleeding. Plus, frequently touching your lips with hands may generate bacteria, which then could worsen lips’ problem.
6. If you have a habit of wearing lipstick or lip gloss regularly, then use lip balm underneath or use lipstick/lip gloss with a moisturizing ingredient. And never ever forget to apply a moisturizer after removing your lipstick/lip gloss.

It’s not a secret that your entire body can benefit from the effects of exercise. Your skin is the largest organ you have, so cleansing it from the inside out with a good workout is the key to looking your best. Working out isn’t all about dropping pounds or prepping for your next triathlon. Regular exercise also gives you a healthy, glowing look that you just can’t get any other way. With so many exercise options available, it’s important to know how each type of workouts can affect your skin.

• Chemical peeling is a application of a solution/gel on the treatment area for a particular time period. It is an office procedure. It does not require any hospitalization. After properly studying the skin type and its sensitivity, the dermatologist decides on the type of peeling agent and their concentration. The skin is first cleansed. The peeling agent is then applied gently onto the lesion or on the full face till the ‘end point’ is achieved. During or shortly after the procedure, the patient might experience warmth or stinging sensation for a few minutes. the procedure can be repeated after 2- 3 weeks.
• Glycolic acid peel : it is an Alpha hydroxy peel .it is derived from sugarcane extract. It is done to remove blemishes and superficial acne scars.also to give an even skin tone. it is also used as an anti aging peel since it stimulates collagen thus reduces and prevents fine lines & wrinkles.
• Lactic acid peel -AHA from fermented milk: Helps maintain skin pH and also useful in adjusting the pH of formulations.Moisturizes skin as is the skin’s own natural moisturizer done in those people who have acne or pigmentation but have a sensitive skin.
• Arginine peel derived from Brown sugar used to treat dark circles
• Kojic Acid peel produced by mushrooms of family Aspergillus and Penicillium
• Glow peel - Reduces blemishes & pigmentation
• Beta hydroxy peel – salicylic acid peel done for acne ( whiteheads& blackheads).
• Obagi blue peel – Trichloroacetic acid peel : should be done with extreme caution by a dermatologist.done to reduce pigmentation & fine lines.
• Cosmelan peel – is a whitening peel. To be done by a professional
• Yellow peel : vitamin A peel done for skin lightening and brightening.
• Black peel : excellent for acne which doesn’t respond to conventional medical treatments.
• Nomelanpeel : done to treat increased pigmentation.

• Safe office procedure
• Easy availability
• Easy to use
• Affordable
• Compliments the drug therapy & brings about faster
• Therapeutic effect, reducing the downtime to treatment
• Excellent cosmetic results

• Medifacials include various modalities such as microdermabrasion, cavitation, RF skin tightening, water jet, oxygen therapy with misoporation. These techniques cause mild exfoliation of the superficial dead skin layer, collagen stimulation, deliver concentrated oxygen, stimulation of metabolic process of the skin. The cells remove metabolic products more efficiently with the dead and dull cells from the surface of the skin and hence the skin seems fresher and glowing.This is followed by application of skin brightening solution on the face and helping its movement through the skin to its deeper layers with a misoporation device. This device helps open channels in the skin through which the absorption of the skin brightening solutions would be enhanced. These solutions, a cocktail of vitamins, micronutrients, amino acids and antioxidants, then work where they are most effective and the end result is a rejuvenated and a smoother looking skin with a reduction in the fine lines and open pores. This procedure can be repeated every 15days to maintain the effect.
• Restylane vital/mesolis :procedures with longer lasting results are the newer injections that have been introduced. these are the skin booster injections. Here, the skin is injected with hyaluronic acid, a natural constituent of the skin lost with aging. Hyaluronic acid has the property of binding and holding water in the skin, hence it improves skin hydration giving it a glowing complexion by naturally smoothening the skin from within. Multiple tiny injections are given in the skin after numbing the skin for 45mins to an hour, reducing the discomfort to a maximum. Injections are spaced at 3-4 weeks for three sessions and repeat sessions are needed no earlier than 6 months. so with just 3 sessions brides can sit back and relax, without having to worry about their skin and further visits to the clinic.
• PRP (platelet rich plasma) or the vampire face lift is called so because your own blood is taken and after separation of different constituents, red cells from the plasma, it is reinjected into the skin. This plasma is rich in platelets and it contains growth factors which stimulate skin regeneration. As a result skin regains vitality and becomes more smooth and elastic. there is improvement in skin colour and best of all its all natural without any risk of allergic reactions. Sessions are repeated at an interval of 4-8 weeks as per the requirement and existing damage of the skin.

1. Bromhidrosis which means a foul odour due to a water-rich environment that supports bacteria growth, caused by an abnormal increase in perspiration especially in the axillary area
2. Chromhydrosis: secretion of coloured sweat may be yellow, green, blue, brown or black

1. Antiperspirants: Aluminium chloride is used in higher concentration in antiperspirants required to control hyperhidrosis. They become effective after 3-5 days but daily and multiple applications is needed and recurrence is common.
2. Autosuggestion: Meditation , psychotherapy may help to some extent in stress induced hyperhidrosis.
3. Medicines: Prescription medications called anticholinergics, taken by mouth, are sometimes used in the treatment of both generalized and focal hyperhidrosis eg: propantheline, glycopyrronium bromide or glycopyrrolate, oxybutynin, methantheline, and benzatropine. But they have side-effects, including dry mouth, urinary retention, constipation, and visual disturbances such as mydriasis (dilation of the pupils) and cycloplegia hence can’t be used long term.
4. Botox:can be used to block neural control of sweat glands. The effect can last from 3–9 months depending on the site of injections. The duration of the beneficial effect in primary palmar hyperhidrosis has been found to increase with repetition of the injections.

‘Hair loss’ the most dreaded words today. Not only because of systemic or physiological reasons like aging, family history or poor diet, but normal life variations such as stress, restlessness, and tension also result in subsequent hair fall; horrifically leading to baldness. Cutting to the chase, let’s talk about overcoming hair fall naturally.

• Deep laugh lines
• Nasolabial folds
• Sunken or hollow cheeks
• Mental crease
• Chin augmentation
• Nose shaping without surgery
• Lip plumping, lip defining
• Prominent marionette lines
• Non surgical face lift
• Filling shallow hands

In this age of crazy schedules, impossible deadlines and demanding lifestyles, people look for ways to distress and unwind by indulging in various spa treatments and therapies.

Skin lightening, skin whitening, and skin bleaching is a process that lightens your skin tone using chemical substances.

One of the most annoying beauty problems is a dark circle. Fighting it can take its due course of time, so what are the quick ways to fix it?     

• Creams for Dark Circles:

Various topical creams, ointments, and gels are available to minimize the appearance of dark circles. You have to ensure that the creams contain active ingredients such as vitamin K that helps to reduce dilated blood vessels, and vitamin C and alpha hydroxyl acids that aid the stimulation of collagen production of the skin. These nutrients also help lessen the appearance of dark circles caused by aging and genetics.

•  Chemical Peeling:

Chemical peeling involves a number of chemical agents to treat various skin conditions like hyper-pigmentation on the face or body, scars due to acne or wounds, and fine wrinkles. It is a non-invasive treatment for dark circles. A chemical peel is generally performed by a dermatologist. Chemical peels help in rejuvenating the skin around the eyes by exfoliating the damaged upper layer of the skin to reveal a new and healthier skin layer. The current most effective peel for dark circles is the Argi peel, which contains arginine, lactic acid, allantois, and aloe vera. Arginine is an amino acid derived from brown sugar that boosts collagen, increases elasticity, and moisturizes the skin. Lactic acid exfoliates and lightens the skin, and also fades hyper-pigmentation. Allantoin and aloe vera help to moisturize and soften the skin. This is used in conjunction with vitamin C and matrixyl that provide firmness and resistance to the skin around the eye. The effect of the treatment depends on the duration and the type of treatment.

• Intense Pulsed Light Treatment:

IPL treatment reduces dark circles by destroying the pigment cells that cause discoloration. It also smoothens the skin under the eye due to its high energy light waves that penetrate the skin under the eye. The light waves constrict blood vessels, which results in less prominent discoloration. IPL treatment is one of the most effective treatments for dark circles, but is an expensive one. A person will be required to sit for several sessions (each about an hour long) to achieve the desired results. The frequency of the treatment depends on the magnitude of the circles and overall health and lifestyle of the patient.

• Laser treatment:

Laser treatment is another effective way to remove dark circles. Here, the fat deposited under the eye is targeted. Post the treatment, the skin under the eye becomes smooth and less discolored. Ultraviolet or infrared invisible light is used in the treatment to create a wavelength that releases energy as the light moves across the skin. The energy is absorbed through the skin layers and gives a soothing effect while correcting the dark and irregular skin pigments causing dark circles. The treatment is basically an outpatient procedure that can be performed within an hour. However, one can’t note improvement right away – the best results take about three to six sessions.

• Surgery:

Eye surgery for dark circles is known as blepharoplasty that is performed by plastic surgeons. The under eye fat deposits are removed, resulting in less puffiness, less discoloration, and more lively eyes. The procedure can take anywhere between one to three hours. Recovery from the surgery can take up to several weeks.

The skin is the most sensitive part of the body, but it is often the most ignored. Not taking proper care of the skin can end up in minor or major problems. However, some skin troubles are unprecedented and out of one’s control. One such condition that is not talked about often is vitiligo. And it is essential to educate ourselves about it.

Vitiligo is a skin pigmentation disorder where a person gets white or discolored patches on the skin. The reason behind this pigmentation is the permanent destruction of colour producing cells of the skin, namely melanocytes.

There are many accepted theories for the development of vitiligo, but the most plausible one among all is the auto-immune theory. White blood cells in the body are essential as they provide us with immunity by attacking viruses. However, in the case of vitiligo, the WBCs end up attacking and killing their own cells. These damaged cells fail to produce pigment, which leads to the discolouration of skin. In some cases, vitiligo develops on the lips and fingertips, and in some cases, it ends up on other parts of the body.

An important thing to note about vitiligo, though, is that it is a harmless skin condition that has no repercussions or harmful effects on the body.

Vitiligo has been a social stigma for a very long time. The stigma around this skin condition goes back to Ayurvedic ages. It was misclassified as leprosy, a disease that was dreaded heavily by mankind. Laprosy patients often developed red spots on their body, and were isolated from society because there was no cure. This isolation was practical in medieval times, but the scenario is different now. In fact, scientific studies have shown that leprosy and vitiligo have no connection to each other, and vitiligo is a harmless condition wherein spots are developed. It is important to note the irony that in today’s world, people with leprosy are treated easily and they can live happy, healthy lives, but the stigma around vitiligo still persists.

Vitiligo is a harmless condition, but most often, patients are thrust with societal pressure to go under procedures to reduce or delete the discolouration. Due to this, patients that refuse treatment live lives of embarrassment and shame, which leads to strains in their relationships and overall well-being.

Many treatments for vitiligo are available - medical ones, phototherapy, surgical treatments, etc. These treatments can clear vitiligo from 10% to 100%. It was impossible to treat vitiligo in the past, but medicine has progressed over the years.

What is the target of the treatment of vitiligo?

Researchers suggest two approaches to treating it - targeting and controlling the offending WBCs that kill their own cells: abnormal WBCs that are called T - lymphocytes. Another approach is to support the surviving melanocytes with oral medication or phototherapy. A truly successful treatment is a combination of both approaches.

Dr. Dhepe of Skin City put forth a third aspect - Vitiligo patients don’t need to be treated at all.

The condition is not contagious, serious or bothersome, so why do people still opt for surgeries? The treatments patients needlessly go through can have undesirable side-effects, and can prove to be a financial burden as well. The fact of matter is simple: Vitiligo is not a disease, and it shouldn’t be stigmatized.

There’s no harm in not treating vitiligo. It does not affect any part of the body, and if the patient chooses to opt for treatment, they should without any external pressure to do so. It is neither the WBC nor the melanocytes that need treatment - it is the mind of society that needs it. We need to spread social awareness about vitiligo.

Dr. Dhepe, in collaboration with Janki Medical Foundation are working towards creating awareness about vitiligo and its implications in society. For this work, Dr. Dhepe received an award from the chief minister of Goa.

Vitiligo is a condition less for the patient, and less for the society. We must stop the stigmatization of the same.

Hair loss can be temporary or long lasting, based on its identification, cause and treatment. However, when the cause isn’t clear, hair loss that was first temporary may become permanent as a result of incorrect diagnosis.

Alopecia is the medical term for excessive or abnormal hair loss. There are different kinds of alopecia. As hair loss is fairly common with both the sexes, symptoms show that there’s something that is going wrong in the body. Hormonal imbalance, stress, pregnancy, medications , diseases or something as fairly simple as genes can be the cause of baldness, also known as Areata. In this situation, hairs often, but not always grow back when the event has passed. There are many types of hair loss, also called alopecia.

Involutional alopecia

The rate of hair growth slows as you age, causing the thickness as well as volume to reduce. In this type of hair loss, the hair follicles gradually go into the telogen (resting) phase and the remaining hair become shorter and less in number, sometimes even brittle.

Telogen effluvium

You may experience temporary hair loss after a stressed episode like childbirth, fever, severe illness, stress or sudden weight loss, which decreases gradually. This happens due to changes in the growth cycle of hair, when a large number of hair go into the resting phase (telogen) at the same time.

Anagen effluvium

Hair shedding and thinning usually occur as the result of exposure to chemicals or toxins (such as cancer treatments) during anagen, the growth phase of the hair lifecycle.

Traction alopecia

Pressure on hair because of particular hairstyles causing small, localized areas a type of hair loss called traction alopecia.

Trichotillomania

Some people have the habit of twisting or pulling their own hair from the scalp and eyelashes. This is referred to as trichotillomania or hair pulling disorder.

Trichorrhexis Nodosa

A defect in hair fibers characterized by fraying and swelling nodes along the hair shaft is the cause of hair to break off easily.

Let us now see the difference in male, female & children baldness pattern is:

For male:

If you experience a receding hairline and gradual disappearance of hair from the crown, you may be suffering from androgenic alopecia (also known as male pattern baldness). In this condition, you may experience hair loss in your teens or early 20s. Men may notice hair loss at the top of the scalp and a receding hairline particularly along the temples. The typical pattern forms an ‘M’ shape. Lastly, the hair becomes finer, shorter and thinner creating a U-shaped pattern around the sides of the head. It is a genetically predisposed condition that can affect both men and women.

For female:

If you experience a general thinning of the hair over the entire scalp, extensive hair loss at the crown with your hairline at the front intact, you may be suffering from female pattern baldness. Your hair parting may become wider with time due to hair thinning. You may notice hair thinning in your 20s but you are not very likely to experience noticeable thinning until your 40s or later because the pace of hair loss tends to be gradual.

For children:

When a child or a young adult experiences one - two totally smooth, round patches of hair loss mostly on the scalp, they may be suffering from alopecia areata. The hair loss may also be seen in the eyebrows, arms, legs or facial hair. It is often sudden in onset and the hair usually grows back in six months to a year. However, when the hair grows back in one area, it may fall out in another. In some cases, the hair becomes thinner, while in others, it may grow and break off, leaving short stubs. Alopecia areata is generally considered an autoimmune condition, while alopecia totalis, an extensive form, the entire scalp goes bald.

Scalp conditions and its causes:

Scarring alopecia

It is a permanent loss of hair. Inflammatory skin conditions and other skin disorders often result in scars that destroy the ability to regenerate hair. Hot combs and hair too tightly woven or pulled can also result in permanent hair loss.

Lichen Planopilaris

It is a type of scarring in the scalp that occurs from a skin disease known as lichen planus, which affects areas of the skin with hair. It can cause redness, irritation, and in some cases, permanent hair loss.

 Tinea Capitis

In simple words, it’s the ringworm of the scalp, a fungal infection. Hair usually breaks off at areas that are infected causing bald scalp with small black dots. The skin is inflamed, round, scaly areas with pus-filled sores called kerions. It is contagious and can spread from sharing combs and hats. Once the infection is cured, the hair grows back.

If you happen to experience any of the above symptoms, our expert dermatologists at Skin City will aid to your concerns and implement effective treatments.

Hair grows everywhere on the human skin except on the palms of our hands and the soles of our feet, but many hairs are so fine, that they're virtually invisible. Hair is made up of a protein called keratin, which is produced from the hair follicles in the outer layer of skin. As follicles produce new hair cells, old cells are being pushed out through the surface of the skin at the rate of about six inches a year. The hair you can see is actually a string of dead keratin cells.

The average adult head has about 100,000 to 150,000 hair and it loses up to 100 of them a day; finding few stray hair on your hairbrush is not necessarily a cause for alarm. That's normal, and in most people, those hair grow back. But many men and some women lose hair as they grow older. While daily shedding is normal, people who notice their hair shedding in large amounts after combing or brushing and those whose hair becomes thinner , should consult a dermatologist for proper diagnosis and treatment.

At any one time, about 90% of the hair on a person's scalp is growing; each follicle has its own life cycle that can be influenced by age, disease, and a wide variety of other factors. This life cycle is divided into three phases:

• Anagen – is active hair growth that lasts between two to six years
• Catagen – is transitional hair growth that lasts two to three weeks
• Telogen – is a resting phase that lasts about two to three months; and at the end of the resting phase the hair is shed and a new hair replaces it and the growing cycle starts again.

As people age, their rate of hair growth slows.

Causes of hair loss

Causes of hair loss, some of which are temporary, include:

• Excessive or improper use of styling products which cause weathering or hair breakage.
• Hairstyles that pull the hair, like ponytails and braids.
• Frequent shampooing, pulling, combing or brushing of hair too hard.
• A variety of diseases, including thyroid.
• Childbirth, major surgery, a high fever or severe infection, stress, or even the flu.
• Inadequate protein or iron in the diet, or eating disorders such as anorexia and bulimia.
• Certain prescription drugs, including blood thinners, high-dose vitamin A, and medicines for arthritis, depression, gout, heart problems and high blood pressure.
• Use of birth control pills (usually in women with an inherited tendency for hair thinning).
• Hormonal imbalances, especially in women.
• Ringworm of the scalp, a contagious fungal infection which is most common in children.
• Some cancer treatments, such as radiation therapy and chemotherapy.
• Alopecia areata, a type of hair loss that affects all ages, which causes hair to fall out in round patches.

 Psychosocial impact of hair loss

• While the physical symptoms of hair loss can be traumatic for patients, the psychosocial impact of hair loss can be just as severe.
• Hair loss can cause dramatic and devastating emotions in patients that can negatively impact their quality of life. Psychosocial studies have found patients’ self-esteem, body image and self-confidence to be negatively affected.
• Known psychosocial complications include depression, low self-esteem, altered self-image, and less frequent and enjoyable social engagement.
• The negative quality of life may be worse in women due to societal pressure to be attractive. Treatment from a dermatologist may be sought in order to improve the quality of life.

Treatment of hair loss

• Medical management: It includes topical and systemic medicines
• Modern Drug Delivery System: It includes Mesotherapy and PRP therapy
• Hair transplantation is a permanent form of hair replacement utilizing dermatological surgery that involves moving some existing scalp hair to bald or thinning parts. It may benefit men, with male pattern baldness, some women with thinning hair, and people who have lost some but not all hair from burns or other scarring injuries to the scalp, eyebrows or eyelashes.
• Restoration surgery is another treatment option. In scalp reduction surgery, the bald scalp is removed and hair-bearing scalp is brought closer together to reduce balding. In scalp expansion surgery, a physician temporarily inserts devices under the scalp to stretch hair-bearing areas, which also reduces balding. In scalp flap surgery, a hair-bearing piece of scalp is surgically moved and placed where hair is needed.

When you experience acute hair loss and want to pursue a treatment, talk to us and at Skin City, we can help you in regaining lost hair with our wide range of advance services in hair diagnostics, treatments and surgeries.

Mistakenly thought to be a strictly male disease, women actually make up 40% of hair loss sufferers. Hair loss in women can be devastating for the sufferer's self-image and emotional well being.

Unfortunately, it is considered far more acceptable for men to go through the same hair loss process. Since hair loss doesn't appear to be life threatening, most physicians pay little heed to women's complaints .Of course what these physicians don't seem to realize is that it can be just as devastating as any serious disease, and in fact, can take an emotional toll on physical health. Female pattern baldness is the most common type of hair loss in women.

Causes

Each strand of hair sits in a tiny bulb in the skin called a follicle. In general, baldness occurs when the hair follicle shrinks over time, resulting in shorter and finer hair. Eventually, the follicle does not grow new hair. The follicles remain alive, which suggests that it is still possible to grow new hair.

The reason in female pattern baldness may be related to:

• Aging
• Changes in the levels of androgens (male hormones). In simpler terms, when you reach menopause phase.
• Family history of male or female pattern baldness.

Natural history

Without treatment, Female Pattern Hair Loss is a progressive condition; however, it is highly variable. Hair shedding is often episodic. The condition’s unpredictability and relentless progression contributes greatly to the distress of affected women.

Symptoms

Hair thinning is different from that of male pattern baldness. In female pattern baldness:

• Hair thins mainly on the top and crown of the scalp. It usually starts with a widening through the center hair part.
• The front hairline remains unaffected except for normal recession, which happens to everyone as time passes.
• The hair loss rarely progresses to total or near total baldness, as it may in men. Itching or skin sores on the scalp are generally not seen.

Diagnosis

Female pattern baldness is usually diagnosed based on:

• Ruling out other causes of hair loss.
• The appearance and pattern of hair loss.
• Your medical history.

The doctor will examine you for other signs of too much male hormone (androgen), such as:

• Abnormal new hair growth at other body parts (e.g. face)
• Changes in menstrual periods
• New acne

A skin biopsy or other procedures or blood tests may be used to diagnose skin disorders that cause hair loss in some cases. Looking at the hair under a microscope may be done to check for problems with the structure of the hair shaft itself.

Treatment

Hair loss in female pattern baldness is permanent, if not treated. In most cases, hair loss is mild to moderate. You do not need treatment if you are comfortable with your appearance. Treatment for hair loss includes medical management, advanced treatments like mesotherapy, platelet rich plasma (PRP) therapy and laser stimulation of hair roots. Hair transplant can be done in select patients, though it is more uncommon than in men.

To summarize, Female Pattern Baldness is an under-recognized entity. Significant hair loss is seen in over ¼ of females over the age of 50. Satisfactory cure of this condition requires knowledge of underlying causes, physical co-morbidities, psychological effects, possible differential diagnoses, and the various therapeutic modalities available.

The condition is progressive without treatment, regardless of medication, the response is slow, and requires patience and persistence in both patient and clinician.

Femina Special

Wedding-day beauty shouldn’t begin on the day while sitting in the stylist’s chair. Whether it’s three or thirty weeks to the big day; start now to ensure that you look your bridal best advises Smita Gautam of SkinCity.

HAIR CARE

Dr. Niteen Dhepe, Director Skin City, says that a diet enriched with Vitamin B helps bring out your hair’s natural shine, as dull hair is actually a symptom of Vitamin B deficiency. An invigorating scalp massage and deep conditioning treatment about four weeks prior to the event, not only feels good, but stimulates the hair follicles and adds body. For more serious problems like hair-loss and early balding, Skin City’s Trichology Clinic offers a wide array of services in hair diagnostics & treatments for both the bride and the groom.

FACE PAMPERING

Start visiting a dermatologist six months before the wedding for an effective treatment for acne and best results. If you’re looking to bring a dull complexion to life, Skin City offers a range of Bridal services for both the bride and the groom and the mothers as well. You should avoid any service for at least 10 days before your wedding, so start now. Drink tons of water before and on your wedding day to make your face look dewy and radiant.

EYE CARE

A nightly application of eye cream, in combination with adequate sleep, will improve the appearance of dark circles. Skin City’s Dark circle clinic has a range of services for stubborn dark circles, puffiness and bags under your eyes. Skin City possesses a unique expertise and experience of treatments around the eyes. Dr. Dhepe has been the first and only dermatologist in India who has worked as an expert faculty consultant for 3 years in India’s largest Ophthalmology research Institute L P Prasad Eye Institute, Hyderabad.

BEAUTIFUL BACK

Since Bridal Couture no doubt shows off a lot of your back, start taking care of this overlooked region as soon as you can. Beautiful Back Services at Skin City are specifically designed to take care of the often-neglected part of the body - the back. Both - Microdermabrasion and Peels help in exfoliation and removes discoloration and pigmentation, thus making your back beautiful again. The Helios Laser gives complete clarity to dull pigmented skin, with an immediate brightening and whitening of the affected part.

BODY - FIGURE CORRECTION

Weight management needs to address diet planning, activity planning, lifestyle modification and stress management. For that stubborn fat for an otherwise healthy person, Skin City’s Figure correction Clinic offers you Cryo Liposuction and Safe Liposuction. Both are daytime procedures. Cryo Liposuction takes an hour to get rid of fat from the abdomen or arms or thighs, so you fit perfectly into your lehenga choli or Sherwani. For Safe liposuction, you walk in at 10am and walk out at 4pm in beautiful shape.

ARMS & LEGS

Skin City’s Laser Super Hair Removal Clinic’s Soprano ICE laser offers you the most pain-free, hair free experience in the quickest possible time for small and large body parts. The Soprano ICE laser works painlessly and effectively for the removal of excessive body hair for males as well. So men dealing with unwanted hair on their neck, back, arms or even chest, underarms and feet as is the fashion norm these days, we have the most suitable technology to take care of your needs. Start your Beauty Regime today and look Haute on your special day!!

Dr Niteen Dhepe, Medical Director, Skin City

The bold, beautiful and successful couples take their common interests and healthy competition from the professional world to the grooming world discovers Smita Gautam, the Business Strategy Consultant.

Skin City has a range of ‘skintillating’ services for men and women. Narcissism was essentially considered a feminine trait which has now caught the fancy of men of all ages. This led to the coining of the term Metrosexual , for men who not only like to take care of their personal grooming but also go a mile further to actually getting professional help to look better. The beauty and wellness industry has progressed leaps and bounds to cater to the demands of men who are now conscious of their appearance and like to indulge themselves and their partners in the best beauty and cosmetic services available.

FOR HIM:

Common problems faced by men are oily skin, acne break outs, excessive underarm sweating and tanning of the face, neck and hands. Skin City has a range of services which address all of the above problems. With new age technology and quick in and out time, it is very convenient to take care of all minor and major concerns. Men are now increasingly conscious of problems ranging from balding to excessive body hair. Skin City has a team of hair experts who perform the latest technique in hair transplantation called FUE. So go ahead and show your woman how you can beat her at her own game. In fact, women, gift your men a pampering session at Skin City and maybe he will return the favor.

FOR HER:

From time immemorial, women have been pampering themselves to look and feel beautiful. Skin City understands the unique need of every woman and has services that range from fairness treatments to removal of unwanted hair, anti-ageing services and body shaping. Skin City has the latest technology in laser hair removal which is quick and painless and has patented the Safelipo service which allows you to enter at 10 AM and exit at 4 PM with the ideal body shape. One of Skin City’s taglines, ‘Creating Timeless Beauty’ appeals to the innate desire of every woman.

So take your relationship to the next level by encouraging each other to look and feel good! Spice it up with a visit to Skin City.

So what’s the quick fix to this? The real revolution in hair removal came with the advent of lasers and light technology. The initial enthusiasm was to be believed that hair removal with laser and light is permanent; however, the first company who got a patent for IPL hair removal marketed it as a complete hair removal within three sessions, though they believed it to be one session. Soon their claims of getting hair removed in 3 sessions fizzled, hundreds of lawsuits were filed and eventually the company got bankrupt. Since this fiasco, the term ‘hair removal’ was replaced with ‘hair reduction’ and it’s no more permanent. It is now known as ‘long term hair reduction’.

What are the scientific facts here? First, Laser can treat thick and black hair shafts and NOT thin and pale hair. Second, there is no need of removal of fine less visible hair. Most of laser physicians now believe that the laser should be used only on thick hair and complete removal of all the hair shafts is not desired.

In today’s world full of stress and contaminations, skin and other allergies have evolved as lifestyle disorders. One can be allergic to certain substances by birth or develop them over the years. Some common allergens include foods, cosmetics, fragrances, plantations, sun light, dust. Allergies are common in all age groups. It is a response of one’s own body immune system to agents like dust, metal, fibre, chemical, pollen grains. These agents also known as allergen are not harmful, occur freely in environment and do not bother most people they come in contact with. People who have allergies often are sensitive to more than one allergen. When an allergen comes in contact with an individual with allergy, it triggers an allergic or hypersensitive reaction. Heredity and environmental exposures contribute to susceptibility of an individual to allergies.

At SkinCity , we offer a thorough consultation and allergy testing for patients suffering from skin allergies to known and unknown allergens and a treatment protocol suitable for patient’s needs. What is allergy? The human immune system is programmed to combat any foreign substance (allergen, infectious agents) entering our body. In this process of dealing with allergens, the immune system produces a number of antibodies and activates blood called eosinophils. Together they attack the allergen with chemical substances. Sometimes the same chemicals can result in symptoms of allergy.

Symptoms of allergies may be obvious such as hay fever or not so obvious such as breathlessness after taking certain medicines. An allergic reaction can occur anywhere in the body (e.g. sneezing and stuffy nose, itching rash of urticaria and asthma). However other symptoms like severe urticaria, migraine and even life- threatening symptoms (reactions to drugs, foods and cosmetics) can occur.

• Specific allergic disease

• Allergic rhinitis / sinusitis

• Allergic conjunctivitis

• Allergic bronchitis

• Eczema, Atopic dermatitis

• Urticaria, Angioedema

• Contact Dermatitis

It is important to detect what is causing the allergy in an individual. After detecting the allergens , the best way is to avoid them (drug allergy), use control measures (house dust mites), create tolerance to them (food allergies), skin protection (urticaria) or treat them with oral vaccines (allergic colds or asthma). We detect allergies by the skin Prick tests which in the hand of an allergy specialist are 90-100% sensitive. At Skin City we manage skin, respiratory and food allergies by careful consultation, ‘In vitro’ allergy testing and treatment as per international guidelines and advanced Desensitization for those who require it.

Hundreds and thousands of searches are made on internet daily to find an effective way to get rid of lose, wrinkled skin. If you are also one of those who have been searching for an effective skin tightening procedure of late, stop your search right here. You have finally landed in the right place. Laser

Microdermabrasion comprises one of the most popular non-invasive cosmetic procedures used for effective and dramatic facial skin rejuvenation. It is a relatively easy, simple and pain free technique that is being advanced as an effective alternative to surgical facelift. It works by gently peeling off the damaged top layer of skin to reveal clear, smooth

• Family history of hirsutism

• MC irregularity

• Documented PCOD

• Patient is on hormonal treatment

• Obesity

• Other endocrine disorders

Laser tattoo removal is the finest treatment in its category. Many people regret their tattoos and want to get rid of them. Traditional methods like salabrasion and dermabrasion are highly invasive and cost a lot of pain. Laser treatment does not cause such issues. After 1st session A marked decrease in the appearance of the […]

Appearance of stretch marks on various parts of body is a normal part of puberty for most girls and boys. Sudden changes in body size, such as pregnancy or rapid weight loss or weight gain can also lead to stretch marks. These indentions mostly appear on thighs, buttocks and arms, near the armpits.

Dark circles around the eyes is quite a common problem that really has an ill effect on the overall persona. People want to get rid of them which can be done with the help of certain treatments. However, as the ages old cliché goes that prevention is better than cure, it is ideal that you […]

Clear spotless skin is something we all want. Having that perfect skin adds a lot to our confidence. But not everyone is blessed with glowing skin. That though is no longer a cause of worry as Auyon Acharya tells you how Dr. Niteen Dhepe, Leading Dermatologist in India as well as the Medical Director, Skin City PG Institute of Dermatology has just the right tips when it comes to acquiring that perfect blemish free skin. Copy: A person's skin color is, after all, perhaps the very first thing you notice about him, since skin is our largest and most visible organ. And though the days when a particular complexion was the ultimate sign of beauty may be behind us, your skin tone can still say a lot about you.

Discovering the Problem Pigmentation means coloring. Skin pigmentation disorders affect the color of your skin. Your skin gets its color from a pigment called melanin produced by melanocyte cells in the skin. The darker the skin, the more melanin it contains. Freckles and beauty marks likewise indicate a higher concentration of the pigment in certain areas. Special cells in the skin make melanin. When these cells become damaged or unhealthy, it affects melanin production. Some pigmentation disorders affect just patches of skin. Others affect your entire body. Melanin also performs another vital function: It protects the skin against harmful UV rays. For something that only reaches the thin upper layers of our skin, pigmentation can have a huge impact on the way others see us and the way we see ourselves.

A person's skin color is, after all, perhaps the very first thing you notice about him, since skin is our largest and most visible organ. And though the days when a particular complexion was the ultimate sign of beauty may be behind us, your skin tone can still say a lot about you. Skin City has state of the art technology in the form of the Helios Laser which addresses various pigmentation disorders like simple tanning to deeper melasma and dark circles. Besides the darkening of face and arms due to exposure to sunlight, many of us are unhappy with dark skin in places like the elbows, knees, underarms, back of the neck, buttocks and inner thighs.

The Skin City Advantage Helios Laser Toning is the latest trend in the world for pigmentation & tanning. The Helios laser successfully removes dark patches from all the areas mentioned above, giving you a skin you will be proud to flaunt. No more fear of wearing sleeveless dresses, low back saree blouses or shorts. There is no downtime and immediate brightening is visible within a single session. However for deeply pigmented areas, several sittings will give you the desired results. So brighten your skin with and your outlook by calling Skin City today.

Vaginal muscles must be able to contract to maintain continence, and to relax allowing for urination and bowel movements, and for sexual intercourse as well as for giving birth. They also support and protect the organs of the abdomen and hold the bladder in its proper place. The pelvic muscles can become stretched or weakened due to ageing and more specifically due to pregnancy. This often happens after a difficult childbirth which overstretches or tears the pelvic muscles and can also be the result of giving birth to several babies within a very short time span. Their under use can also cause pelvic floor weakness.

This set of muscles, also known as the muscles of the perineum, forms the floor of the pelvic cavity and supports the pelvic organs such as the bladder, uterus and colon and intestine. These muscles act like a rubber band, they need to be tense but neither too tight to avoid pelvic floor muscle disorder nor too loose, because in both cases they will lose the right degree of elasticity and therefore their main function and could potentially create a pelvic floor dysfunction. Symptoms of hypotonic pelvic muscles:

• Stress incontinence

• Urge incontinence

• Pelvic organ prolapse

Unsatisfactory sexual intercourse for both partners Vaginal tightening is the tightening of the pelvic musclesto achieve or maintain the right degree of elasticity of the pelvic floor muscles. Vaginal tightening can be achieved in different ways, all effective in their own way and can be complementary. Vaginoplasty is a reconstructive plastic surgery[and cosmetic procedure for the vaginal canal and its mucous membrane, and of vulvovaginal structures that might be absent or damaged because of congenital disease (e.g. vaginal hypoplasia) or because of an acquired cause (e.g. childbirth physical trauma, cancer)

It is important for any business to have systems and processes. This applies to a business in the Medical and Aesthetic Business as well. Systems and processes help to:

• ensure that staff understand how things work.

• eliminate duplication.

• reduce the learning process for new staff.

• increase efficiency and eliminate wastage.

• make information readily accessible.

• add value to your business.

• engender an open and transparent workplace.

While policies, procedures and processes may have been established, as the business grows and competes at a different level, its complexity will demand more control mechanisms, better communication and systems to drive efficiency. Stepping up to the next level will also bring new and sophisticated competition. This may mean looking at new ways of doing things and employing new thinking to make sure that your business is as efficient and streamlined as possible, while still delivering a high level of satisfaction to the customer. Policies, procedures and processes:

All businesses benefit from policies, procedures and processes combined into a documented system under which the business operates. A policy is a written or verbal statement of a firm’s stance on a topic. It defines how things are done in the business and what rules apply. Policies can include HR policies like:

• Attendance

• Leave entitlement

• Communication

• Travel • Dress code

• Appraisals and increment

• Recruitment and training

• Employee welfare

• Separation Based on the size and the structure of your set up, the list can be added on to.

A procedure is usually a step-by-step instruction to achieve a certain outcome. Some procedures can be quitedetailed. Others can be more general in nature. Specialist procedures, such as surgeries and handling equipment, should be written by someone with experience in the field. Standard operating procedures for any treatment or service should define the following:

• Principle

• Objective

• Scope

• Steps

Benefit In a benefit driven procedure which is of paramount importance in an aesthetic set up, it is important to align expectations and outline clearly the number of sessions required and the expected outcome. Non technical SOP’s which will define the experience you wish to offer at your setup will afford a professional impression to your customer. Some of which are as follows:

• Soft skill

• Telephone skills

Grooming A process is a method or system for achieving a certain outcome. Companies can put in place a manufacturing process or there can be a process for obtaining sales. In the aesthetic business, the treatment process and the experience from entry to exit is what defines the USP of the business. Therefore having a front office reception process for greeting and meeting the customer, the flow to complete the treatment and complete the billing, next appointment and exit completes the feel good experience for the client:

• Customer handling

• Form filling

• Scheduling

• Follow up

• Reconfirmation

• Billing

• Incident handling

• Enquiry handling

  Loyalty programmes The back office and support systems and process also ensure that the business is productive and growing. Some of them are:

• Sales reporting

• Customer tracking

• Database capturing

• Inventory management

It is important that company policies, procedures and processes are properly documented and can be easily obtained by each member of staff. Electronic systems can be useful to ensure that staff members have the information readily available when they need it. It is also important that when policies, procedures or processes form part of an employee’s conditions of employment that they are either attached to the employment contract or given directly to an employee for consideration. Benefits of a documented system are: • better succession options for the business, including saleability.

• ensuring that record keeping, compliance and reporting obligations are met.

• smooth running of the business.

• effective training of new staff.

• reduction of administrative time.

• assists in reducing risk.

• clear direction for employees on how to operate within the business.

• consistency in product or service delivered.

• the business not totally dependent on the owners.

Policies, procedures and processes should be reviewed and updated regularly – at least annually. Updates should also be made when legislation or compliance changes impact on the business. Any changes to policies, procedures or processes should be communicated to staff

Both men and women have always struggled to get rid of unwanted body hair. Skin City, India's largest skin and hair restoration centre, offers the solution for complete, permanent body hair removal. This technique is apparently so efficient, that the process is called Super Hair Removal. Today people are very aware and particular about their looks; they take every possible step to look presentable. You can get clean and smooth skin, which includes face, under arms, legs, arms, chest and back and bikini area. With the festive season fast approaching, the season for backless cholis, sleeveless gowns and the little black dress is around the corner. The conventional and temporary methods of grooming like waxing and shaving regularly are time consuming and unreliable. People want a permanent solution to unwanted hair problems.

Laser technology is the answer to your need. The latest, state of the art technology for painless, swift and permanent hair removal is called Super Hair Removal. This technology takes a fraction of the time as compared to other laser technologies to treat a given area. This is because of the speed of the machine and the fact that the treatment is painless, so large body parts can be covered quickly with no discomfort to the client. Because of the speed and comfort experienced with this technology, clients are able to take treatments on large body parts comfortably. This is especially beneficial for clients who opt for full body hair removal. This is also a special boon for male clients who wish to remove excess body hair which is the trend now. With older technologies local anesthesia was required due to the density and thickness of hair in males which made it a very painful experience.

However with Super Hair Removal the process has become quick and painless. Skin City has attractive laser packages for both male and female clients. A single sitting of Super Hair Removal for the full body requires 3-4 hours; as against other lasers which require the treatment to be done in stages which can take upto 3 days due to the pain and the time it consumes. The technology is quick and efficient and Skin City has highly trained practitioners to carry out the treatments. Super Hair Removal is a safe method of permanent hair removal. It targets the hair follicles in the superficial layer of the skin without any side effects to the skin or body.

Skin City has a team of highly trained professionals who impart customized treatment based on individual requirement for safe and efficacious results. The treatment cost for Super Hair Removal is on par with other laser hair removal treatments, but is more quick and efficient. However it works out more economical to have Super Hair Removal done for permanent freedom from unwanted hair than to adopt the lifelong conventional temporary methods like threading and waxing. For permanent hair removal a client may require up to 8 to 12 sittings, depending on the hair growth. Skin City advocates a clear expectation alignment with the client to ensure client satisfaction with excellent results.

The unique Caslite microscopic hair analysis offers a detailed investigation of hair thickness miniaturization and hair length at various scalp areas it is an excellent tool for hair research and diagnosis. Caslite microscopic hair analysis offers a detailed investigation of hair thickness miniaturization and hair length at various scalp areas it is an excellent tool for hair research and diagnosis.

Dark circle refers to conditions that present with relative darkness of the periorbital skin or eyelids. It can affect individuals with a wide range of age, both sexes and all races. It worsens with the aging process of skin sagging and altered subcutaneous fat distribution. It has significant cosmetic concern for female patients and males as well now days.

Excessive Pigmentation

Excessive pigmentation is due to dermal melanocytosis or post inflammatory hyper-pigmentation secondary to some disease like atopic dermatitis. It is seen as slightly brownish curved band along inferior orbital rim. Dermal melanocytosis is due to congenital causes like Nevus of Ota or environmental causes like excessive sun exposure and drug ingestion. Histologicaly characterized by the presence of melanocytes in the dermis.

Post inflammatory hyper pigmentation is due to rubbing or scratching the periorbital area. The causes are air born contact dermatitis, fragrance allergy, atopic dermatitis etc.

Other causes of periorbital hyper pigmentation include Erythema dyschromicum perstans, fixed drug eruption Familial conditions - genetically determined form of hyper-pigmentation involving the periorbital area.

Thin, Translucent Lower Eyelid Skin Overlying The Orbicularis Oculi Muscle Because of thin, translucent lower eyelid the subcutaneous vascular plexus or vasculature contained within the muscle become prominent. The violaceous appearance is more prominent in the inner aspect of the lower eyelids and is usually accentuated during menstruation in females.

Shadowing Due To Skin Laxity And Tear Trough

Another cause of infraorbital dark circles is shadowing due to skin laxity and tear trough associated with aging. Collagen and elastin present in the eyelids and periorbital skin undergo ultraviolet induced and age related degeneration. In addition the damaged epidermis releases collagenases, which further contributes to collagen degeneration resulting in dermatochalasia and periocular rhytides which are common manifestations of aging. Skin laxity due to photo ageing imparts a shadowing appearance on the lower eyelids that results in infraorbital dark circles.

The tear trough is a depression centered over the medial side of the inferior orbital rim. It is also an age-related change due to the loss of subcutaneous fat with thinning of the skin over the orbital rimligament that confers hollowness to the orbital rim area. Combination of the hollowness and the overlying pseudoherniation of the infraorbital fat accentuate the shadow in the tear trough depending on the lighting conditions.

Treatment Options for Dark Circles

• Topical Agents
• Chemical Peeling
• Lasers
• Autologous Fat Transplantation and fillers
• Surgery – Laser Blepharoplasty The therapeutic modalities must differ depending on the cause because Periorbital dark circles are due to multiple factors.

Topical Agents:

• Hydroquinone
• Topical retinoic acid (RA), 0.01% to 1
• The Kligman formulation
• Other compounds used as depigmenting agents include azelaic acid, steroids, kojic acid, and pidobezone etc.
• Vit-C: in serum form is less irritating and has better penetration into the skin. Daily application or massaging Vit-C (VC-15) after microdermabrasion, chemical peel or Laser treatment gives better lightning of periorbital area.

Chemical Peeling

Chemical peeling is defined as the application of one or more chemical agents that lead to controlled destruction of the skin, resulting in the removal of lesions localized in the epidermis or in the upper dermis.

Peels can be superficial, medium, or deep.

Different peels use around eye for periorbital pigmentation are:

Refinity Peel (Glycolic acid 70%) and Cosmederm Peel (Glycolic acid 50%)

Biphasic Peel: it is composed of two phase in one peeling session. The first phase active ingredients contain a mixture of alpha-hydroxy & beta- hydroxyl acids that help in removing facial blemishes, leaving fresh skin, improving surface and skin tone. The second phase helps in absorption of specific active ingredients effective against pigmentation or controls the progression of premature ageing.

Lasers

Safety should be emphasized when treating dark circles with lasers, because the eye is particularly vulnerable to laser injury. Therefore, use of proper eyewear (goggles, wrap-around glasses, or preferably internal metallic eye shields) is crucial. The retina and the choroid contain the highest concentration of melanin in the body, and eye damage is possible even through closed eyelids. When treatment is necessary near the eyes, a large metal eye shield should be inserted over the Autologous Fat Transplantation And Fillers This modality of treatment is useful when the cause for periorbital darkness is thin and translucent lower eyelid skin overlying the orbicularis oculi muscle. It hides the vascular areas and reduced the transparency of the skin. Use of hyaluronic acid gel to fill the periorbital hollows and restores volume has emerged as a less invasive procedure with good results.

Surgery – Laser Blepharoplasty Trans-conjunctival blepharoplasty is done to remove pseudoherniation of the orbital fat as well as lax skin which reduces the shadowing effects. Removal of excess skin of upper eye lid improves dark circle considerably. Blepharoplasty assisted with Ultra Pulse CO2 Laser is the latest trend in this surgery.

Summary:

1. Multi-factorial in etiology hence find out the cause before you treat.

2. The brown and blue-grey color caused by dermal melanin deposition.

3. Bluish color secondary to the visible dermal capillary network, and shadowing secondary to skin laxity and bulging.

4. When excessive pigmentation is cause, treat with topical bleaching agent, chemical peels and lasers.

5. Dark circles mainly due to the eyelid bulging caused by orbital fat pseudoherniation should be corrected primarily using transconjunctival blepharoplasty.

6. If dark circles are combined with prominent skin laxity, skin tightening or excision is recommended.

7. Autologous fat transplantation may be a treatment option for patients with infraorbital darkening due to prominent vascularity and thin skin.

Children’s skin is very tender. The dermatosis of young, immature and tender skin often requires a specialized expertise to treat. Many genetic diseases present first with skin manifestations, hence it’s very important that they are diagnosed correctly at the right age. This helps parents and later the child for managing the disease well. Our pediatric dermatologists specialize in common skin, hair and nail disorders, as well as complex genetic and infectious dermatologic complications.

We provide clinical evaluation, diagnostic biopsies and advanced therapies when needed. Children with vascular or pigmented lesions may also be offered treatment with the latest laser technology, either in our department or in a specially designated operating room.

We provide diagnostic and therapeutic services for infants, children and adolescents with skin disorders.

This includes the evaluation and treatment of disorders of the skin such as:

• Dermatitis-Atopic

• Dermatitis - Contact

• Diaper Rash

• Dry Skin/Itchy Skin

• Hives

• Rashes/Red Skin

 • Scars

• Chicken pox

• birthmarks

• eczema

• hair disorders such as Alopecia (hair loss)

 • hemangiomas and vascular malformations

• hyperhidrosis (excessive sweating)

• molluscum and warts

 • Moles

 • nail disorders

• psoriasis

• seborrheic dermatitis (dandruff)

• skin cancer

• tinea (ringworm)

• vitiligo

• AcanthosisNigricans

• Blisters

• Acne

Dr Niteen Dhepe—leading dermatologist in India as well as the Medical Director, SkinCity PG Institute of Dermatology—about how to get rid of body hair at SkinCity with the Super Hair Removal process. “Oh, God! I need to wax…” is something we women keep saying at regular intervals. Well, not anymore—courtesy Suprano Laser installed at SkinCity, you will be hair-free and carefree permanently. This technique is apparently so efficient that the process is called Super Hair Removal. Out of sight We all want a body that is hairless and smooth as silk. However, we are all lazy as hell to go and get ourselves waxed. Besides waxing, threading and shaving are painful and have to be done time and again. Well, shaking hands with technology, SkinCity’s Suprano Laser is painless, quick—and yes, it’s permanent too! Your body hair is absolutely not visible and you could put on that sexy, backless dress whenever you feel like. Nothing like it It’s a rare facility available in the city and we all know how rare is precious. Suprano Laser barely takes time, maybe a fraction of the time as compared to other laser technologies to treat a given area because of the speed of the machine.

Since the fact that the treatment is painless, large body parts can be covered quickly with no discomfort to the client. Super benefits Dr Dhepe says, “It’s the speed and comfort experienced with this technology, which allows our clients to treat large body parts.” This makes full body hair removal a cakewalk. It’s happy time for the men as there is no local anesthesia required to due to the thickness and density of hair. It’s no more painful. That’s how it works It’s just as easy as it sounds. A single sitting of Super Hair Removal for the full body takes about three-four hours with highly trained practitioners to carry out the treatments. About eight to twelve sittings does it all. Be assured that this super treatment has no side-effects of any kind. Don’t be pricey Super Hair Removal costs are at par with other laser hair removal treatments, and the speed is another feather added to the hat. “However it works out more economical to have Super Hair Removal done for permanent freedom from unwanted hair than to adopt the lifelong conventional temporary methods like threading and waxing,” adds Dr Dhepe. So now we exactly know where to go head when we are absolutely fed up of hitting the parlor.

The methodology and the systems used in Dermatology treatments in the past were entirely different when compared to those used in the present times. The technological advancements made in the field of Dermatology paved the way for innumerable kinds of methods and procedures which have reduced the risk of side effects. In the early days, lasers were used to treat benign vascular birthmarks and haemangioma. The one disadvantage of the laser treatment then was the occurrence of scars as side effects. The medical field of laser treatment has made such a great advancement in the recent years that the patient is no longer worried about the side effects. With the advancement in medicine, the field of Dermatology and Aesthetic practices is thriving. The future in this domain is bright, and the better is yet to come!

In most parts of the world fair complexion symbolizes beauty and elegance. Women, in particular, wish to have a celebrity white, glowing skin and are always willing to spend thousands of dollars to get their desired skin tone. Since ancient times women have been trying different home remedies to improve their complexion and skin texture.

Dr Niteen Dhepe talks of how culture has evolved from women wearing ghagra cholis to finally evolving and to a modern woman, who is a bread winner. We look at how beauty is being perceived today and the culture that has changed our definition of beauty for us. He stresses on the fact that a skin can be a combination of oily to dry and it is bound to change with age and climate. The right to treat your skin is to get it analysed by a dermatologist and get it treated accordingly. You should be judicious in applying moisturizer to your skin and do it within three minutes of a bath for good care of the skin.

•  Medical treatment
•  Mesotherapy
•  Surgical treatments
•  Follicular unit transplant
•  Scalp Reduction /
• Expansion surgeries
•  Flap surgeries

•  Punch grafts (10-20 Hair / Graft)-outdated)
•  Mini grafts (3 to 5 Hairs / Graft)
•  Micro grafts (1 to 2 Hairs / Graft)
•  Single hair graft (1 hair)
• Follicular unit transplant (FUT)
•  Follicular unit extraction (FUE)

1.  Harvesting the donor hair graft from back of the scalp.
2.  Separation of the follicular units containing 1, 2 or 3 hair.
3.  Recipient sites is created in bald area by slits by a needle.
4.  Placement of the grafts in the recipient area.
5. Closure of the donor site on back of the scalp by suture that is not at all visible in hair.

•   Any male/female in good health.
•  Adult above 18 years.
•  Stabilized hair loss.
•  Medical treatment tried without success.
•  No active scalp infection.
•  Adequate hair available on back & side of scalp.
•  No smoking, no alcohol two weeks before surgery.
•  No diabetes/hypertension.
•  Reasonable expectation.

•   Maintain an adequate length of hair on the back of your head as grafts will be removed from here.
• Two weeks before surgery No finestride, minoxidil, aspirin or anti-inflammatory medications containing aspirin, vitamin E.
• One day before surgery No alcohol / tobacco.

• Wash your hair in the morning using your regular shampoo. Have a light breakfast two hour prior to your procedure. Wear loose & comfortable Cloths, no gold ornaments, no deodorant & Perfume. You should also bring a scarf along with you. Have someone to take you home after surgery. You should not drive any vehicle after Surgery.

The term tattoo describes the deliberate placement of permanent colors into the skin or the accidental entry of pigmented material. The word tattoo is derived from the Polynesian (Marquesan) word tattoo, and refers to the accidental or volitional acquisition of pigmented particles of the skin.

•   Q- switched Ruby Laser (694 nm)
•   Q-switched Alexandrite laser (755 nm)
•   Q-switched Neodymium- YAG laser (Nd:YAG laser) ( 532 and 1064nm)

Primarily epidermal

adverse events

Primarily dermal

adverse events

Other complications

Postoperative blistering Wound infection

Purpura

Wound infection

Postoperative crusting

Pinpoint bleeding

Oxidative darkening of pigment

Hyperpigmentation

Scarring/textural change

Allergic reactions after laser treatment

Hypopigmentation

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Chrysiasis after laser treatment

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Scarring after Q-switched laser treatment of traumatic gunpowder tattoos

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Transient immunoreactivity

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Carcinogenic potent

•   Skin Renewal System – for nourishment & glow
•   Skin Lightening System – for fairness
•   Skin Restoral System – for skin damage
•   Skin Revival System – for mature skin
•   Back to Beautiful – for a beautiful back
•   Skin Perfection System – for acne & scars
•   Under-eye Revitalize System
•   Youth Restoration System – for ageing skin
•   15 days Beautiful Bride Package
•  30 days Beautiful Bride Package
•  60 days Beautiful Bride Package
•  15 days Package for the Groom
•  30 days package for the Groom
•  Special Package for the Mother of the Bride / Groom
•  Laser Hair Reduction of unwanted hair
•  Safe Liposuction for unwanted fat – per body part, day time procedure

Lifecycle processes such as childbirth; hormonal changes that accompany aging and severe weight fluctuations can overstretch vaginal tissue, damage collagen and alter the muscle tone in the vaginal wall. These anatomical changes often lead to symptoms such as vaginal laxity, vaginal atrophy, and involuntary bladder leakage. These feminine health conditions negatively affect women’s quality of life and often prevent them from carrying out a normal lifestyle.

Skin City offers a quick, safe and highly effective, non-invasive solution that addresses a wide range of feminine health concerns. It is a comprehensive treatment solution that can be performed in an outpatient setting with no need for anaesthesia and no pain, achieving immediate improvement with lasting results.

There is no patient downtime and women can regain their daily routine immediately post procedure. At Skin City, we observe complete confidentiality and sensitivity exercised by towards the patient’s privacy and comfort.

Like every other part of the female body, the vagina and vulva too tend to age and the process often tends to speed up during and immediately after menopause. When the natural levels of oestrogen start to decline in the body, the female genital tract shows effects, first. Studies have shown that almost half the women who are above the age of 40 tend to face such problems, and this tends to affect their sex life too.

Effects of Hypotonic (loose) Vaginal Muscles:

• vaginal dryness
• vaginal burning
• dysuria
• urgency
• Stress incontinence
• Unsatisfactory sexual intercourse for both partners

Fractional CO2 laser vaginal rejuvenation or LVR is a revolutionary new procedure, which is non-surgical in nature and can be used to treat vaginal atrophy and Stress Urinary Incontinence that is often caused due to age. Though this is currently more popular as Vaginal tightening procedure.

Laser Vaginal Rejuvenation Advantages

• The procedure does not take more than 15 minutes
• There is next to no pain or discomfort
• You will be able to return to your normal routine within a day
• The level of risks are really low and there are little to no side effects
• The vaginal tightening procedure results will last a long time
• Improvements are visible immediately after the first session
• The procedure is suitable for almost all women, including those who have breast cancer

The basic concept of laser vaginal rejuvenation is simple – tiny columns of laser energy are used in multiples, and these stimulate the production of collagen and help with the regeneration of vaginal tissue.

How the Procedure is Performed:

After a direct vaginal examination and PAP smear test, the candidate is taken for the procedure and is cleaned. Sterilised laser probe is inserted in vagina and laser light is passed on vaginal tissue. The treatment takes around 10 to 15 minutes. Most women experience that the probe emits a gentle vibration and warmth, but there is no pain. In most cases, the regeneration of vaginal tissue will start in about 30 days, the result of which will be a stronger and tighter vagina, which has better elasticity and hydration. You should be able to return to your normal routine, immediately, but you might be asked to refrain from exercise for at least 24 hours and sexual intercourse for about 5 days.

For most women, the results become obvious right after the first session, but for the best results, you should go for 3 treatments, 1 month apart. The results will last a long time. As the natural process of aging continues, you can always go for top up treatments.

Just as cosmetic procedures have been used for decades to improve facial skin and to restore its youthfulness, non-surgical vaginal tightening with Skin City improves the health and vitality of vaginal tissue. We are focused on a women’s health and have the most up-to-date technology to guarantee patient satisfaction. Our minimally invasive techniques allow women to enjoy the benefits of cosmetic procedures without the inconvenience of downtime and pain.

Scalp coverage is the name of the game in the treatment of baldness. Thicker hair even if less in number have more volume and hence better scalp coverage. The problem arises with thinner hair and a lighter scalp

Micro pigmentation is a technique used to implant small amounts of pigment into the upper layer of the scalp in a dot or line pattern, and this creates an optical illusion of a full scalp even without hair restoration. This is a painless walk in-walk out procedure which takes a few hours and is performed without any anesthesia. Skin City is one of the very few centers to launch this procedure.

In patients with significant hair loss being treated with mesotherapy/ PRP or even hair transplantation, scalp micro pigmentation can be added at the completion of these procedures to give maximum scalp coverage look.

What is Scalp Micropigmentation:

Scalp Micropigmentation (medical hairline tattoo) is the ultimate in non-surgical male and female scalp grooming; an incredible life-changing treatment where natural pigments are applied at the epidermal level of the scalp to replicate the natural appearance of the real hair follicles or strands – depending on your hair loss extent, and desired look.

The human head has on average 2,000 hairs per square inch. When thinning occurs, it can be a depressing time, stigmas attached to balding & premature ageing in both men and women can affect confidence and mood. Scalp Micropigmentation can restore even a completely bald head to look like a full head of well-groomed hair.

The follicle/strand build up of Scalp Micropigmentation normally takes place over 2- 3 sessions, each taking approx 2-3 hours with at least 2 weeks to 1 month between sessions. The process allows for a very gradual and subtle rejuvenation/infill of the hairline, rarely identified even by close friends and family.

During the procedure, topical anaesthetic cream is applied over the area to be treated prior to starting micropigmentation, hence the procedure becomes completely painless. A cartridge containing  few very fine needles working in symphony gently inject natural pigment into the 2nd dermal skin layer and Skin City uses the latest innovative technology and the Pigment spacing is determined by replicating the remaining natural hair follicles.

Benefits of Scalp Micropigmentation :

• Give the look of a full, youthful head of cropped hair
• Restore hairlines on part-bald or fully bald heads
• Camouflage scarring resulting from previous hair transplant surgery
• Hide scars, burns and birthmarks
• Boost the visual effect of a hair transplant

Though there are many types of hair loss treatments available, not all of them work, leaving men suffering hair loss with few options. That’s why scalp micropigmentation is the best course of action for those in this position, because of the numerous benefits this procedure can offer to those suffering from hair loss.

While hair loss may not usually be a threat to your health, it can have devastating effects on your self-image and sense of well-being. Your hair has much more significance than the physiological purpose of regulating your temperature and providing protection for your scalp. For most people, it is a definition of their personality, style, and fashion. When hair loss occurs, it has a damaging effect on our psyche. Your dermatologist is a highly skilled medical professional that diagnoses and treats a wide variety of conditions that can affect the scalp and cause hair loss.

What Causes Hair Loss?

The medical term for hair loss is Alopecia but there are many different types and causes. Both men and women may experience it in varying degrees from a slight thinning of the hair to complete baldness.

Examples of the most common hair loss disorders are:

• Alopecia Areata- an autoimmune condition in which the hair follicles are attacked by the body’s immune cells
• Androgenetic Alopecia- patterned baldness that develops in males and females due to hereditary and hormonal factors
• Telogen Effluvium- a condition associated with excessive hair shedding of hair several months after the body experiences a major stressful event.
• Chemical Hair Damage- hair becomes dry, and brittle and breaks off in pieces after being exposed to a chemical that is too harsh
• Traction Alopecia- hair loss due to pulling on the hair from tight braids or hair pieces

Hair loss may also be the result of underlying health issues such as anemia or thyroid abnormalities.  Changes to your hair and scalp might indicate health problems such as diabetes or lupus or any number of other conditions, therefore, it is important that you take sudden changes in your hair seriously.

So, What Should You Do If You Start Losing Your Hair?

The first step in the treatment of hair loss is to determine the cause. Visit your dermatologist to have them examine your hair and scalp and diagnose your disorder. Many forms of hair fall are temporary or can be reversed with the proper medications or therapies. Other forms may cause scarring which can lead to permanent baldness but can be slowed significantly through regular treatment sessions if the process is started early.

 To properly diagnose your type of hair fall your dermatologist will ask about your medical history, any recent illnesses you may have had and any medications you may be taking including over the counter medicines. Are you experiencing hair loss on your body as well as your scalp? Your hair care routine is also vital information to share with your doctor. Such things as the hair care products you use, how often you shampoo and whether you color your hair or use a hair dryer are valuable bits of information that can help with your diagnoses.  It is useful to bring these products in when you see the dermatologist for a consultation. They will also ask questions about other family members who may also have experienced hair loss to determine your genetic predisposition to baldness. Most diagnoses’ are made through skillful evaluation of your scalp, hair and medical history but occasionally further medical testing is necessary. Again, these tests may include blood work to rule out underlying medical conditions, examination of a hair sample under a microscope or a skin biopsy to evaluate the scalp tissue of the affected area.

Skin City has expertise in using a combination approach to hair fall to minimize the side effects and to improve the safety of the therapies adopted. Skin City is one of the very few centers to give excellent results in hair fall.

• Melasma, solar lentigos or sun spots, birthmarks, port-wine stains and freckles
• Melasma is a patchy brown discoloration of the skin on the face
• Solar lentigines, are small brown pigmented spot on the skin with a clearly defined edge, surrounded by normal-appearing skin. These mainly appear in sun exposed areas like the tops of the hands and face
• Birthmarks are normally flat and are brown or black in color
• Port-wine stains are the kind of pigmentation defects in which some reddish-purple discolorations appear on the skin as a result of some swollen red blood vessels in the body
• Freckles are small, brownish spots on the skin that are caused by deposition of pigment and that increase in number and darken on exposure to sunlight

• Quite effective. When done from a reputed clinic there is a chance that 90% , even 100% of your pigmentation will vanish in a set of sessions provided
• Less painful than other laser treatments
• Improved appearance
• The duration of each laser session is quite short, aprox 30mins
• Require a very short recovery time
• No age limit

• Dangerous if you go to someone inexperienced
• May require several sessions
• Some may feel a slight stinging or burning
• Redness, swelling, bruising, and dry patches can be seen on a person who had undergone layer treatment. Proper aftercare is required

For many people, the world of dermatology is baffling. Most people have an idea of what dermatology is – they know that dermatologists treat skin but that’s about it. Here are some of the common myths and misconceptions about dermatology, and the real truth, too!

Myth #1: Scrubbing Your Face with Soap Will Soften Your Skin

You’ve probably heard it before: Wash your face twice a day for healthy skin. While removing make-up and other grime is important, if you overdo it, you can remove the healthy oils and protective barriers your skin secretes to keep out harmful antigens and dirt. To stay on the safe side, use a mild cleanser in the morning and do the same at night, always remembering to wash gently. Harsh scrubbing will only aggravate sensitive skin cells.

Myth #2: Dermatologists Just Treat Acne

This is a common reason people visit a dermatologist, but dermato