Advances in Cosmetic Dermatology Address Skin Rejuvenation, Stretch Marks, and Excessive Perspiration

By Jim Baral, MD

Cosmetic dermatology is an ever-evolving science, and safe new treatments are developed regularly. This article will update you on some of the most revolutionary treatments for skin rejuvenation, stretch marks, and hyperhidrosis (excessive perspiration).

THE NEXT FRONTIER IN SKIN REJUVENATION

TNS Recovery Complex is the next frontier in skin rejuvenation: It contains NouriCel™, developed by Advanced Tissue Sciences, a tissue engineering company that develops and manufactures human-based tissue products for tissue repair and transplantation.
NouriCel contains human growth factors derived from the nutrient solutions used to nourish human tissues. Early studies show that the growth factors regenerate collagen five times faster than Retin-A, without irritation or redness.
In one NouriCel study, presented by Advanced Tissue Sciences at the Society of Investigative Dermatology meeting in Washington, DC on May 12, 2001, nine out of 14 patients with moderately wrinkled skin showed visible improvement in at least one of four areas, with an average decrease in wrinkle depth of approximately 27% after 60 days of treatment.
TNS Recovery Complex is highly effective when applied in conjunction with CoolTouch Laser treatments or when used at home.

SAY GOODBYE TO STRETCH MARKS

Stretch marks are a common side effect of excessive weight gain, genetics, adolescent growth spurts, and pregnancy (occurring in 85-90% of all pregnancies according to eBody.com). But did you know they don’t have to be permanent?
There are now two innovative treatments that significantly reduce the appearance of stretch marks – easily and effectively.
DermaPhoresis is a new treatment that reduces the appearance of stretch marks by 60%. Using a combination of microdermabrasion, ultrasound technology and a high potency AHA/antioxidant cream, DermaPhoresis removes the thickened outer layer of the skin while allowing the proprietary cream to travel further into the lower layers of the skin. Sessions take about 30-45 minutes, and patients report immediate and continuous tightening and softer, smoother skin.
I frequently combine DermaPhoresis with the CoolTouch Laser, which uses a protective cryogen spray that cools the skin and allows the laser light to penetrate deeper into the dermis (the inner layer of the skin). The CoolTouch Laser cools and protects skin layers and nerve endings, while the laser light stimulates the fibroblasts deep in the dermis where new collagen generates. After three treatments, patients note smoother skin. Sessions last between 20-30 minutes and patients can resume normal activities immediately. Stretch marks are further reduced when the Cool Touch Laser is used with DermaPhoresis in alternating treatments.

NEW USE FOR BOTOX

Plagued by excess perspiration? While excess perspiration doesn’t pose any health threats, it can wreak havoc on one’s social life. Who wants to shake hands with wet and clammy palms? Who isn’t repulsed when noticing sweat rings under another’s armpits? Relief may only be an injection away…
Botox is an excellent treatment for hyperhidrosis, the medical term for excess perspiration.
Perspiration is a natural body function necessary to keep our body-temperature at 98.6 degrees. Some people’s sweat glands work at higher activity levels, far higher than needed to maintain a normal 98.6 temperature, thus producing an excess of perspiration otherwise known as hyperhidrosis. Stressful situations can also induce excess sweating.
Botox may help individuals suffering from hyperhidrosis, and I recommend treatment prior to any stressful, sweat-inducing circumstances such as interviewing for a new job, getting married, or starting college, to name a few. Recently, I provided this treatment for many of the models who worked during the New York runway fashion shows.
Commonly used to treat wrinkles, Botox – a therapeutic muscle-relaxing agent derived from Botulinum toxin – has been documented to effectively treat excess perspiration. It works by blocking nerve stimulation of the sweat glands in the areas to be treated. The patient’s underarms and palms can be safely treated without affecting the body’s ability to regulate its internal temperature.
Treatment consists of applying a topical or local anesthetic to the area to be treated, followed by giving an injection of Botox. Underarm treatments take approximately half an hour; hand treatments one hour. Effects last six to 12 months for underarm treatments and three to 12 months for hand treatments.

Dr. Baral is affiliated with Mount Sinai Medical Center in New York City. He is a diplomate of the American Board of Dermatology and Pediatrics and is a member of several medical societies, including the American Society of Laser Medicine and Surgery.