One of our favorite products from BioTE that we recommend to everyone simply because it's amazing: DIM SGS+. The versatile compound is packed with tons of essential nutrients your body needs to maintain it's hormonal balance. In this blog we talk DIM: what it is, the health benefits of taking the supplement, and if it might be right for you. What is DIM SGS+? DIM, or diindolylmethane, is a hormone balancer. The hormone therapy supplement is derived from broccoli and pomegranate, two foods that are classified as cruciferous vegetables. These types of vegetables are rich in essential nutrients and are packed with things like fiber, protein, vitamins, and minerals. Cruciferous vegetables like broccoli, cauliflower, kale, brussel sprouts, spinach, and cabbage, contain glucosinolates. Research shows glucosinolates have strong anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, helping to protect our cells from disease-causing damage. (1) They are also so beneficial to women's health in particular because they help prevent estrogen dominance (more on that later). DIM is packed with loads of cruciferous vegetables, aiding in a multitude of bodily functions. DIM and Estrogen You may think that estrogen is purely a female hormone, but it's not. In males, some of their testosterone is converted to estrogen and metabolized in the liver, and levels of a certain kind of estrogen may lead to higher risks of cancer in both men and women. (2) When we age, our testosterone levels drop, naturally increasing our estrogen levels. Too much estrogen can cause significant damage to our bodies. Studies have shown that people with high levels of estrogen have a higher risk of increased weight gain, bloating, water retention, and other complications. But let's be clear, DIM is not a plant estrogen or an estrogen mimic, like soy isoflavones. DIM may help to stimulate a more efficient metabolism for estrogen, meaning it aims to regulate the ratio of healthy to less healthy estrogen. (3) Estrogen Dominance in Women It is estimated that 75% of women are estrogen dominant, but the vast majority (90%) don't know they are. (4) Estrogen dominance is the condition of increased estrogen levels relative to progesterone levels in the body, and can be the result of stress, poor gut health, medications, body fat (which produces estrogen), alcohol consumption, liver problems, and more. Common side effects of estrogen dominance include: mood swings and irritability anxiety and depression low sex drive worsening PMS symptoms heavy and painful periods bloating and weight gain hair loss trouble sleeping and fatigue fertility issues mental fog hot flashes and night sweats DIM may help to stimulate a more efficient metabolism for estrogen, meaning it aims to regulate the ratio of healthy to less healthy estrogen, preventing estrogen dominance. Health Benefits of DIM Research show that 1 in 3 cancer deaths is related to poor nutrition and could be prevented. Scientists see lower cancer risks in people who eat more vegetables - which is why DIM is so important for your diet. DIM is a compound that boasts anti-inflammatory and cancer-fighting properties thanks to its ability to help promote a healthy estrogen balance in the body. (5) In addition to this, the versatile compound has a long list of health benefits including: (5) Prevention of estrogen’s adverse effects on cells Decreases toxins produced by the body’s natural metabolism (detox) Promotes weight loss Enhances memory Reduces symptoms of PMS Supports cardiovascular health Improves mood Reduces hair loss Promotes good muscle development Improves prostate health Boosts antioxidants Improves Hormonal Acne How Long Does it Take for DIM to Work? As with anything new, we recommend trying a supplement/product/service for at least 3 months before warding it off. Everyone's body is different, just as your concerns are, and DIM can take different amounts of time to work for weight loss vs hormonal acne, and so on. Some concerns may take 6 months to notice a difference. The times listed below are estimates only, and will vary from person to person. Weight Loss: DIM doesn’t burn fat. Instead, it boosts your body’s capacity to metabolize estrogen, so your lifestyle choices (diet, exercise, etc.) will strongly determine the effectiveness of DIM for weight loss. People who use DIM supplement as a part of their weight loss program can realistically expect to see results within six weeks to six months. (6) Hormonal Acne: DIM can effectively decrease acne because it blocks androgen receptors, which means that no testosterone can get into the receptor. So when you take DIM for hormonal acne, you can expect your skin to start clearing up anywhere from 3 days to 30 days depending on your unique situation. For some women, it may take six months to see optimal results. (6) Estrogen Balancing: It usually takes about 30 days for DIM supplements to start balancing estrogen. And it may take a few tries to get you on the best possible dosage. (7) Adding DIM to Your Diet Even if you are a vegetable connoisseur, eating enough DIM from your diet alone can be difficult. In fact, you'd have to eat eight cups of raw brussel sprouts every single day to reap the full benefits of DIM. (5) DIM supplements are a quick and easy way to start adding the compound to your diet - and it may be the best way. One study found that DIM supplements are more effective than DIM that comes from food. (2) Supplements may be boosted for better absorption and contain a high, isolated dose of the miracle compound. We do not recommend persons who are pregnant, trying to get pregnant, or who are breast feeding to take this supplement. At The Lotus, we carry BioTe's DIM SGS+ for $, If you would like to schedule a complimentary consultation to talk about weight loss or nutrition, give us a call or schedule online by pressing the button below. If you would like to purchase DIM, give us a call or stop by the clinic. 210-774-2850 14743 Old Bandera Rd, Bldg 7 Helotes, TX 78023 Sources (1) Health Benefits of Cruciferous Vegetables. (2020, November 12). WebMD. Retrieved August 7, 2022, from https://www.webmd.com/diet/health-benefits-cruciferous-vegetables (2) Health Benefits of DIM. (2021, April 8). WebMD. Retrieved August 7, 2022, from https://www.webmd.com/vitamins-and-supplements/health-benefits-dim (3) Biote DIM SGS+ Supplement | Biote Nutraceuticals. (2022, April 14). Biote. Retrieved August 7, 2022, from https://biote.com/nutraceuticals/biote-dim (4) Wszelaki, M. (2022, February 28). Estrogen Dominance in Peri- and Menopause. Hormones & Balance. Retrieved August 7, 2022, from https://hormonesbalance.com/articles/estrogen-dominance-in-peri-and-menopause/ (5) Thermography, I. (2021, June 16). The Biggest Health Benefits of DIM (for Men and Women). Insight Thermography of Oklahoma. Retrieved August 7, 2022, from https://insightthermographyok.com/blog/the-biggest-health-benefits-of-dim-for-men-and-women/ (6) Vein, D. (2022, January 19). DIM Supplement: How Long Does it Take to Work? Denver Vein Center. Retrieved August 7, 2022, from https://denvervein.com/dim-supplement-how-long-does-it-take-to-work/ (7) Vein, D. (2021, May 14). Is DIM Safe? Your Questions Answered and More! Denver Vein Center. Retrieved August 7, 2022, from https://denvervein.com/is-dim-safe-your-questions-answered/

Radio Frequency Microneedling is a non-invasive procedure that can almost reverse the process of aging through collagen production. It can help correct scaring, discoloration, stretch marks, fine lines and wrinkles, skin firmness and texture concerns. Collagen is one of the most abundant proteins in your body, it's what helps keep the skin firm and is depleted by age, sun damage, and smoking. Production of collagen slows around your 20s and 30s, but lucky for you we have a number of procedures that can help your body produce more collagen! How it Works: The Secret RF Microneedling machine, created by Cutera, combines original microneedling with energy (that's what the Radio Frequency RF refers to). Basic microneedling is a cosmetic procedure that involves puncturing your skin with tiny sterile needles. This stimulates your body to send healing agents such as collagen and metalloproteinases to repair the cells. These healing agents are responsible for the removal of old tissue and deposition of new dermal tissue. The new collagen provides the skin with strength and structure, thus tightening the skin and reversing fine lines and wrinkles. Keeping that in mind, the radio frequency that is emitted at various levels of your skin and results in microscopic wounds in the dermis. As we learned, this stimulates the body to send healing agents to the tiny wounds - triggering collagen production and revitalizing your skin from the inside out. This is a picture of RF Microneedling in action: * Customizable Treatment This procedure is completely customizable. Your injector will go over your areas of concern and what you'd like to focus on during your treatments. At The Lotus, we usually do the entire face or the entire face and neck. Adjustable Depth: Shorter needles can target superficial concerns like shallow acne scars, fine lines, stretch marks. The longer needles can emit the frequency at a deeper level to stimulate skin-tightening collagen production. Semi-insulated vs Non-insulated needles: Non-insulated needles deliver heat throughout the needle, at all levels of the skin. For darker skin, or those that are prone to hypo or hyper-pigmentation, it's safer to use semi-insulated needles. These only emit the frequency at the tip and are embedded deep in the skin. At our Medspa, we usually only use semi-insulated needles. Number of Treatments: This completely depends on what you're treating. For shallow acne scars, for example, you would probably be advised to have at least two treatments. For deep stretch marks, you will probably need 3-4 treatments, it really just depends on you. Treatments are generally spread out from 4-6 weeks and age plays a factor as well. The more severe the wrinkles, the more treatments you will need. What You Can Expect During a Procedure A treatment typically lasts an hour. When you first get to your appointment, your injector will apply numbing cream to the entirety of the desired location. You have to then wait 30 minutes (bring a book or binge our tik toks!) until the microneedling starts. After you're done, the area will be red for about 3-4 hours and then your skin will go back to original pigment. If you're advised for multiple treatments, they will be spaced about 6 weeks apart. Results are gradual, improvements can be seen 3-4 weeks in and continue for about 6 months. These before and after pictures of one of our clients is honestly mind-blowing. She received 3 total treatments, each spaced 6 weeks apart. I don't know about you, but its looks like RF Microneedling knocked off at least ten years! Here are more before and after photos, you can find them on the Cutera website: ** *** Sources *Secret RF - the advantages of fractional vs. traditional microneedling. Cutera Aesthetic Solutions. (2021, August 24). Retrieved March 1, 2022, from https://www.cutera.com/secret-rf-the-advantages-of-fractional-vs-traditional-microneedling/ **Secret RF microneedling™. RF Skin Rejuvenation & Tightening Westchester County | CSNY. (n.d.). Retrieved March 1, 2022, from https://www.nycosmeticmd.com/non-surgical/secret-rf-microneedling/ ***The secret rf microneedling. Renew Esthetics. (n.d.). Retrieved March 1, 2022, from https://renewed-you.com/the-secret-rf-microneedling/

POV: you want to get in shape and get the body you've always wanted but you don't know where to start; you don't like to exercise; you hate vegetables & eating healthy; you don't have time, or one/all of the above. If you're experiencing any of these common variables that make losing weight difficult, read along friend. This post is all about changing that mindset, starting with daily behaviors, to help you not only start your health journey, but stay on it. Overview of Blog: Common Limiting Beliefs to Exercise Mindset in Exercise Conquering your limiting belief Weight-loss solutions offered by The Lotus Common Limiting Beliefs to Exercise Before starting my health journey (notice how we're calling it health journey instead of weight-loss journey), I was constantly being torn down by my own mind. No one was telling me I needed to lose weight or get healthy, I was telling myself I wasn't worthy of anything because I was overweight. This grew into having a negative connotation about exercising. I thought about how long it would take for me to get the body I wanted, or how much work it'd be, or how there are so many pretty women with pretty bodies, why should I bother? These negative thoughts you endure from your own head are 1. false, and 2. they are holding you back from your best self. Other limiting beliefs: My body hurts, therefor I can't work out I don't have time to go to the gym Eating healthy is expensive I don't enjoy exercise Your Perspective is Your Reality Have you ever heard the phrase "your perspective is your reality"? Well if not you've heard it now. Let me explain, the way you think about things is the way you feel. An example that we've all been through is sitting in traffic. Most people get so frustrated, some to the point where it ruins their day. These people look at traffic as a waste of time, gas, and energy, thus having a negative outlook on something you will most likely experience every day. So say you chose to look at traffic in a positive light instead. Stay with me here, say you look at traffic as a way to listen to your favorite podcast, or have a therapeutic jam session with yourself. Traffic then becomes looked at as an opportunity rather than a waste of time. When this happens, that negative mood you used to experience evaporates and a positive mood takes it's place. Changing your outlook on something can be done for just about anything in your life, you are the creator of your reality. You can make it anything you want, so why don't you? Mindset in Exercise Take a limiting belief, for example. One of the most common things people struggle with is the enjoyment of exercise. You might hate running and cardio, but there are so many other ways to exercise. Take a moment to think about your body, your temple, that allows you to do the things you love. Now think about how you're treating it. Eating highly processed foods every day, laying on the couch watching TV, smoking, drinking every weekend, staying up until 4am somedays. When I took a moment to really think about this, I started to feel bad for my body. I needed a change so that I can live longer, experience more, be less tired, be able to keep up with the younger people in my family. When you have this change of perspective, that, my friends, is how you start and keep up with your health journey. Instead of not wanting to go to the gym, choose to invest in your body. Instead of being "too tired", choose to hype yourself up and drink an energy drink, maybe go to bed an hour earlier when you can. Instead of hating your body, choose to think of it as a work in progress. Instead of not having enough time, choose to make time for this. Choose to think of it as important, a priority. And finally, do not be too hard on yourself. Growth is not linear. Just by changing the way we think about things, our mind will be more open to doing them. Conquering Your Limiting Belief We're going to take the limiting beliefs from above and put a positive spin on it. It will take so long to get the body I want: The future will come no matter what, why not be farther along in your health journey when it does? It's going to take so much work: Find something you LIKE to do as exercise. For me, it was weight lifting. For others it might be swimming, or running, or walking your dogs, or a Body Combat class at Gold's Gym. Then, it will feel less daunting and a little more like fun. So many people have already done it, why bother?: Because this isn't about anyone else. This is about what you want for you and your life. Think of them as inspiration and flip the negative into a positive. Be proud of them, so you can be proud of you. My body hurts: Most of the time, this is because of a sedentary lifestyle. Other than medical problems, your body can hurt because you don't move it. Hip pain? Stretch and squat. Knee pain? Strengthen the muscles around it to help with mobility. Back pain? Stretch it, buy a foam roller and roll it out every day. The more we move, the easier it is to move. Eating healthy is expensive: Go download Tik Tok right now and search for cheap and yummy meal preps. Or just search online for healthy recipes that don't make you miss Whataburger. If you're struggling, change your perspective on what's making life hard. If you're angry all the time, find out whats bothering you and change your perspective. If you're tearing yourself down, change your perspective on what you don't like. You got this, we believe in you. <3 Weight loss solutions offered by The Lotus: B12/LipoBC injections, helps kick start your metabolism. Purium products sold through The Lotus. Raw, organic greens, protein, fiber, fruits, and other superfoods. These products are a clean, safe and effective way to transform your habits as well as your body. Having the correct serving of protein and vegetables is a GAME CHANGER. Do it. Do it now. We can reduce areas of stubborn fat with procedures like RF Microneedling and medications like Kybella. To book: Go to "Procedures & Pricing" and click "Schedule your Visit" or Call or text 210-774-2850 Please leave a comment if you'd like more information, leave a heart if you enjoyed this blog!

Stretch Marks: Why are they caused and what options do you have to minimize their appearance? Stretch marks are a normal and extremely common part of being human. Unfortunately, women are more likely to experience stretch marks than any other gender. It also doesn't help that society has deemed stretch marks "ugly". Oh the joys of being a woman! This blog will be your guide to understanding what stretchmarks are, what causes them, how to prevent them, and how to minimize the appearance of this type of scar. What exactly are stretch marks? A stretch mark is a type of scar that exists when the body stretches or shrinks too quickly. They look like white or purple streaks in the skin and can be found on the butt, inside the thighs, around breasts, arms, and the stomach. Stretch marks can appear during pregnancy, especially if you're young; loss or gain of body weight too quickly; during a growth spurt; rapid gain of muscle while heavy weight lifting; medication side effects, and more. Even if you don't partake in any of these, you can still get stretch marks. Yay! Bottom line, stretch marks are common and can creep up on your body without you even noticing. Even if you're in the best shape and health, you can still be prone to stretch marks, so how do we prevent them? Can anything prevent stretch marks? Researchers have discovered that treatments like cocoa butter, oil, vitamin E, and other stretch mark creams claiming to prevent or reverse stretch marks don't actually work. But, there are still some things you can do to help prevent further stretch marks. The skin holds elements like collagen (helps keep the skin firm) and elastin fibers that are able to stretch many times their own length, and snap back to their original length when relaxed. The stronger these elements are, the less likely they are to break and cause stretch marks. Skin Food Per the American Pregnancy Association, eating foods high in zinc, silica, and Vitamin C help your body form collagen. Vitamin C is an antioxidant that helps protect tissue from damage. B2 (Riboflavin) and B3 (Niacin) are said to be great for promoting and maintaining healthy skin. Hydration Did you know that about 75% of Americans are chronically dehydrated? Water helps the skin by a number of things, including improvement of skin tone, premature aging, faster healing, reduction of puffiness, prevention of acne, tighter skin, gut health, and a ton more. Being dehydrated can lead to Transepidermal water loss (TEWL), which damages the skin barrier. Barrier damage causes premature ageing and other skin issues like frequent acne breakout, extreme dryness, etc. AKA dehydration is the root of all evil. Being hydrated can help prevent deep stretch marks. Exercise Exercise helps with body circulation, which keeps the skin elastic and helps with stretching as your skin grows. In addition to increasing circulation, exercise can improve sleep patterns, limit mood swings, boost energy levels, and can help with self-image. Hyaluronic acid The most amazing skin treatment for locking in hydration on your skin! Hyaluronic acid helps retain moisture in your skin and can reduce fine lines and wrinkles. Research has shown that using hyaluronic acid on fresh stretch marks over about 8 weeks can visibly reduce the scar. Okay, but what gets rid of stretch marks? Sorry to say, but nothing can really get rid of stretch marks. There are a few things that can minimize the appearance of them, but these scars are something you will have to accept. I like to think of mine as proof that I live and grow, I like to think they give my body character, that they're beautiful. But sometimes I wish they weren't there...which brings me to some procedures that the very capable PA's at our amazing Medspa can do to minimize your stretch marks! RF Microneedling I'm sure you've already heard of this, but if not allow me to explain. Radio-Frequency Microneedling is a non-invasive procedure that stimulates your body to produce collagen. The procedure punctures your skin with tiny needles, triggering a healing response to the area. When this happens, your body sends healing agents, like collagen and metalloproteinases to repair the cells, which are responsible for the removal of old tissue and deposition of new dermal tissue. The radio frequency emitted is energy that stimulates collagen production and revitalizes your skin from the inside out. Results are gradual, but skin tightening doesn't happen overnight. To read more about RF Microneedling, click here. Here is a before (top) and after (bottom) of only one treatment of RF Microneedling. Chemical Peels Although chemical peels are not our first choice to minimizing visibility of stretch marks, they can aid in the process. Chemical peels are a type of skin treatment where an acidic solution is applied directly to the skin to burn off the first few layers of skin. The process removes dead and damaged skin cells and triggers the body's skin regeneration process. Peels are beneficial for acne and acne scars, sun damage, age spots, freckles, and stretch marks. Retinol Tretinoin, a retinol, is commonly prescribed and used on stretch marks for reduction of appearance. In one study, people who applied this prescription cream on their stretch marks every night for 24 weeks had less noticeable stretch marks. The group that didn't saw an increase in the scars. Stratamark The one and only gel with proven clinical efficacy to work on stretch marks - and we sell it! In a study done on 303 patients, 88% reported improvement of color, 86% reported reduction in visibility, and 83% reported reduction in itchiness. Furthermore, in the control group (not using the product), 61% of patients developed stretchmarks, while only 18% of patients in the test group (using Stratamark) developed stretch marks. To read more about the product, click here. Stretch marks are normal and common to have. Let's change the narrative and see them as proof of life, something beautiful, natural, and indifferent. If you would like a complimentary consultation to speak with one of our amazing providers, please schedule an appointment or call/text 210-774-2850. Don't forget to follow us on social media for before & after pictures, new services, and updates! Sources Stretch Marks: Why they appear and how to get rid of them. American Academy of Dermatology. (n.d.). Retrieved March 22, 2022, from https://www.aad.org/public/cosmetic/scars-stretch-marks/stretch-marks-why-appear What can be done to prevent stretch marks? American Pregnancy Association. (2021, December 9). Retrieved March 22, 2022, from https://americanpregnancy.org/healthy-pregnancy/pregnancy-concerns/prevent-pregnancy-stretchmarks/ Khona, M. (2022, January 21). 10 benefits of water for great skin + how much should you drink per day? SkinKraft. Retrieved March 22, 2022, from https://skinkraft.com/blogs/articles/benefits-of-drinking-water-for-skin Chemical Peels: Effectiveness with Marks. StretchMarks.org. (n.d.). Retrieved March 22, 2022, from https://www.stretchmarks.org/chemical-peels/

Let's face it. No one wants to get old...nope no one. But unfortunately (may be fortunately, depending on how you see it) all that lives, ages. Although you can't totally skip the whole aging thing, there are a few ways to slow it down. Let's get into it! 1. Medical-Grade Skincare One of the most influential reasons to use medical-grade skincare is because OTC skincare products are not regulated by the FDA, meaning thorough product or ingredient testing is not required. That means that over the counter products that claim to get rid of acne may not do so at all - it could even make it worse! In medical-grade, the products must have clinical research to back up their claims of positive effects on the skin. They might be pricier, but they will be the most beneficial element to help whatever your skin concerns are. You can usually get medical-grade skincare from your dermatologist, however, the skincare products we at The Lotus sell, (that we LOVE) are: - Revision Skincare Line - iS CLINICAL Skincare Line - ISDIN Skincare Line In addition to these lines, using serums like Hyaluronic acid and Vitamin C help keep your skin hydrated and aid in the healing process of acne and scarring. They can also help prevent lines and wrinkles. My favorite mixture of this serum is Mad Hippie Vitamin C Serum that has hyaluronic acid in it and is free from nasty chemicals that you may find elsewhere. This is a great choice for acne-prone skin. 2. Sunscreen, Sunscreen, Sunscreen You can do all the skincare in the world, but without SPF, it's pointless. The sun's UV rays penetrate the top layer of the skin at first, but after continual exposure, the middle layer of your skin (called the dermis) is penetrated. This kills skin cells and damages the fibers in your skin called elastin, which causes skin to sag, stretch, and be unable to bounce back after stretching. The damage won't be obvious when you're young because youngins have an abundance of collagen, but it definitely will when you get older. There are also a few chemicals to look out for when purchasing a sunscreen. These include: Oxybenzone, Octinoxate (Octyl methoxycinnamate), Octocrylene, Octisalate, Avobenzone, Retinyl Palmitate, Homosalate, and Benzene. Most of these chemicals are hormone disrupters, and are very toxic to ocean life. Your best bet is to look for pure mineral sunscreen and stay away from the chemicals. Our picks are: - ISDIN 100% Mineral Sunscreen - REN Clean Screen Mineral SPF - Biossance. Squalane + Zinc Sheer Mineral Sunscreen SPF If these don't work out, here are a couple chemical sunscreens that don't have those nasty chemicals: - Sun Bum - Blue Lizard Sensitive Sunscreen People are filing lawsuits against Johnson & Johnson, Aveeno, and Nutrogena because their sunscreen products have contained the chemical Benzene, which is known to cause cancer. Be cautious when buying these products! This looks fun. I bet she's wearing sunscreen. 3. Healthy Habits Eating healthy portions of fruits and vegetables have many, many benefits. One study found that people who ate plant-based diets are 50% less likely to develop cancer, type two diabetes, and heart disease. In addition to that, there are areas of the world called "Blue Zones", where people regularly live to be over 100 with no health issues. These people eat primarily plant-based diets... But come on, we live in Texas. Majority of residents center their meals around meat, and that's completely okay. Instead of just cutting off meat altogether, try to fill 50% of your meal with vegetables and stick to lean meat and clean grains. This looks really delicious...and its just veggies. 4. Hydration Consuming enough water every day helps keep your body hydrated, refreshed, and helps maintain skin elasticity. Individuals that keep hydrated have a better chance at preventing wrinkles, fine lines, and scars, than someone who drinks little water. In addition to drinking enough water, find a good gel-based moisturizer that will hydrate your skin and not clog your pores. Drink ya water, reader!!! Take a gulp right now. Do it. 5. Remove Your Makeup at Night! I'm really not sure why we have to say this, but take your makeup off before you go to bed! It doesn't matter if you're too tired, feeling a little lazy, or are sleeping over at your partner's house and want to look pretty in the morning. They will like you either way, and if not, sayonara! They lost a good one. Anyways, keeping your makeup on overnight can prematurely age your skin by causing dryness, wrinkles, and enlarged pores. If you're not cleansing your face, chances are you're not moisturizing either, and you need to moisturize. You accumulate dirt and smog from air pollutants throughout the day, and adding foundation and other makeup products makes it so your skin can't breath. By not removing your makeup and cleaning your face, you're trapping the grime on your skin, which can harbor bacteria and lead to infections and pimples. Girl, wash your face. (That is also the title of a great book). See, she's having a great time washing her face, you can too! 6. Preventative Neurotoxins (Botox®, Jeuveau®, etc.) Many people develop signs of aging early, but that can be prevented. Regular tox (after you've already developed wrinkles and lines), can reduce the visibility of aging, while preventative tox can reverse mild lines and truly prevent wrinkles and fine lines from developing. Experts say to use preventative tox as soon as you see mild lines appearing. 7. Get Enough Sleep Sleep is when the body repairs itself. When you sleep, there is increased blood flow and circulation that brings collagen to repair damaged cells on the skin. That being said, when you don't get enough sleep, your body has less time to repair these damages. Sleep deprivation is associated with signs of aging, including skin that ages faster, skin that doesn't recover well from things like sun exposure and outside contaminants, and less satisfaction with the quality of your skin. So, reader, get enough sleep. Researchers say that getting 7-9 hours is recommended. There is no substitute for skin care. Your skin will eventually show how you treat it, whether you take care of it or not is up to you. The good news is, is that taking time out of your day to maintain self-care can lead to increased emotional health, physical health, and can take the pressure off of daily stressors. Take some time for you, friend. To Book a Complimentary Consultation with our amazing Aesthetician or Injectors: Click here or Text or call: 210-774-2850 Sources 06-2-20 - Blog, S. T. (2020, June 15). Benefits of Medical Grade Skincare. APDerm. Retrieved March 29, 2022, from https://www.apderm.com/benefits-of-using-medical-grade-skin-care-products/ No excuses: Why you need to wear sunscreen every day. basq by LARQ. (2020, October 22). Retrieved March 29, 2022, from https://basq.livelarq.com/wellness/importance-of-wearing-sunscreen-every-day/ Dr. Aliabadi Education TeamDr. Aliabadi and her medical practice associates work hard to empower their patients and website visitors with the most up-to-date information about pregnancy and gynecological care.Our goal is to pass on truly useful informatio. (2022, March 10). FDA names potentially bad ingredients in sunscreen: What ... Dr. Aliabadi, Best Los Angeles OBGYN, Surgeon. Retrieved March 29, 2022, from https://www.draliabadi.com/womens-health-blog/potentially-bad-ingredients-in-sunscreen/ Sunscreen lawsuits: Neutrogena, Aveeno recalled for benzene cancer risk. ConsumerNotice.org. (n.d.). Retrieved March 29, 2022, from https://www.consumernotice.org/legal/sunscreen-lawsuits/ Emily Laurence. (2021, December 14). More research suggests a plant-based diet is best for healthy aging-but the blue zones have known that for years. Well+Good. Retrieved March 29, 2022, from https://www.wellandgood.com/best-diet-for-healthy-aging/ Aswell, S. (2020, August 28). Science shows you can sleep your skin younger - here's how. Healthline. Retrieved March 29, 2022, from https://www.healthline.com/health/beauty-skin-care/beauty-sleep#How-sleep-affects-your-skin Oyetakin-White P;Suggs A;Koo B;Matsui MS;Yarosh D;Cooper KD;Baron ED; (n.d.). Does poor sleep quality affect skin ageing? Clinical and experimental dermatology. Retrieved March 29, 2022, from https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25266053/

Both shaving and dermaplaning are used for different things, and therefor have different results. Let's dive into what dermaplaning is and if it might be right for you. What is Dermaplaning? Put simply, dermaplaning is the use of an exfoliating blade to remove dead skin cells, oil, bacteria, and hair from your face. It's different from dermabrasion, where an Aesthetician will use a high-speed, rotating brush to exfoliate the skin. Dermplaning involves a painless scalpel-like tool and is angled on your skin to gently remove debris. What are the benefits of Dermaplaning? One of the most common benefits that patients seek out for dermaplaning is the way the skin looks and feels after. The gentle exfoliation creates a rejuvenated appearance where the skin looks more youthful and smooth. But there are also other benefits of the scalpel facial that intrigues patients. Cleaner, Smaller Pores This treatment removes dead skin cells, oils, and dirt from the pores. Once you clean out your pores, they look smaller - contributing to the rejuvenation of the skin. Less Dry Skin Dermaplaning removes tons of dead skin cells from your face. Its actually pretty cool (or gross) to see the pile your face creates after the facial! No More Peach Fuzz My favorite part! No little hairs are left on your face after a treatment. Keep in mind that the hair will not come back "thicker and darker", as this doesn't actually happen. The hair on your face is different from the hair on your extremities and pubic areas. Facial hair is also different for a woman than it is for a man (in most cases). During dermaplaning, the hair on your face is shaved off above the root, nothing happens to the actual hair follicle so your hair will grow back at the same rate and thickness as before. Makeup Goes on Smoother The scalpel facial removes debris like dirt, oil, dead skin cells, etc., making cosmetics easier to apply because of your super smooth skin. Have you ever had dry skin that you didn't know was there until you applied liquid foundation? And then the game begins of seeing if you can kind of brush it off but then it just creates more dead skin? Yeah, annoying I know. After your dermaplaning procedure, you won't have to worry about that! Good for Acne-Prone Skin When dirt, dead skin cells, bacteria, and/or sweat combine with the oil secreted from the sebaceous glands in your skin, you get blackheads, whiteheads, and pimples. By removing these acne-causing elements, there is less of a chance of breakouts. It's Pretty Relaxing I don't know about you, but to me dermaplaning feels...nice. Contrary to the scary image you get when you think of a scalpel gliding across your skin, it's not at all that. The scalpel is angled and will not cut you! And it feels a whole lot better than waxing, threading, and getting laser treatments the skin. In addition, more benefits from dermaplaning include: Reduces the Appearance of Fine Lines and Wrinkles Improved Hyperpigmentation As well as removing peach fuzz from your face, take a look at the difference in the fine lines and wrinkles this client had. Skin rejuvenation, how amazing!! This picture was used from the amazing people @DermaplanePro on Instagram. Go check it out! What is the difference between shaving and dermaplaning? The two are similar, but only one has multiple benefits. Shaving with a razor only trims your hair, while dermaplaning involves exfoliating your epidermis as well as all of the listed above. With a surgical scalpel, you can get much closer to the skin for a deeper "shave" that also picks up the top layer of dead skin cells. Is Dermaplaning Right for You? The exfoliating procedure can be used for many, many things on every skin type. Those with extremely sensitive skin or a lot of present acne breakouts should use more caution. You should avoid exfoliating a couple days before and after as you don't want to over-exfoliate your skin. Dermaplaning should be done at least once a month. For more information or advice, or to book with our amazing team, please click here, call or text 210-774-2850, or go to our Instagram: @thelotusmedspa. To book a dermaplaning session, click here or find "@browsandaesthetics.byerica" on Instagram. Sources What are the benefits of dermaplaning? Perfect Skin Center. (2020, March 20). Retrieved April 5, 2022, from https://perfectskincenter.com/what-are-the-benefits-of-dermaplaning/ Crowther, T. (2017, November 16). 10 things you need to know if you're considering getting your face shaved. POPSUGAR Beauty. Retrieved April 5, 2022, from https://www.popsugar.com/beauty/Does-Dermaplaning-Make-Hair-Grow-Back-Thicker-44240956 Acne as a teen? try dermaplaning. Vanguard Dermatology. (n.d.). Retrieved April 5, 2022, from https://www.vanguarddermatology.com/blog/acne-as-a-teen-try-dermaplaning The Skin & Wellbeing Clinic Preston. (2019, August 17). How does dermaplaning reduce the appearance of wrinkles? The Skin and Wellbeing Clinic. Retrieved April 5, 2022, from https://www.skinandwellbeingclinic.com/how-does-dermaplaning-reduce-the-appearance-of-wrinkles/ Picture of before & after dermaplaning DermaplanePro. (2022, March 21). DermaplanePro's (@dermaplanepro) instagram profile • 973 ... Instagram. Retrieved April 5, 2022, from https://www.instagram.com/dermaplanepro/

Ah, sunscreen. The unique smell as a kid that told you something fun was going to happen. Now, it's a daily step in our skin care routines - if it's not, this is your sign! This blog will tell you all about SPF, how much is enough, and which sunscreen might be right for you. SPF Explained SPF stands for Sun Protection Factor. This is a measurement that tells you how well the sunscreen will protect you from UVB rays. It indicates about how long it will take for your skin to develop a sunburn versus the the time it would take without using sunscreen. For example, with SPF 30, it would take about 30 times longer to develop a sunburn when using sunscreen correctly than if you didn't use any at all. Most sunscreens protect only against UVB rays, but if you purchase a "broad spectrum" SPF, this means it will protect your skin from both UVB rays and UVA rays. What's the difference? While they both contribute to sunburn and skin cancers, they are each mainly responsible for: UVB Rays, UVB(urning): These are the rays that cause sunburn and play a key role in developing skin cancer. Most sunscreens protect against these rays. UVA Rays, UVA(ging): These rays cause skin damage that leads to tanning, wrinkles, fine lines and age spots. Having a sunscreen that proclaims "broad spectrum" can protect you against these rays as well as UVB rays. High SPF vs Low SPF There are so many SPF numbers, how do you know which one to go with? To put the SPF ratio into perspective: an SPF 15 allows for about 7% of the UVB rays to hit your skin, 3% for an SPF 30, and 2% for an SPF 50. In other words, SPF 15 will protect you from 93% of these rays, SPF 30 will protect you from 97% of UVB rays, and SPF 50 will protect you from 98% of the rays. Experts suggest staying in between SPF 30 and 50, which grants sufficient protection without getting a false sense of security. Anything over SPF 50 may offer marginally better protection, but no sunscreen can protect you against 100% of the sun's rays. Two Types of Sunscreen The two types of sunscreen are physical (mineral) and chemical. The main differences between the two are the active ingredients in each and the way in which they block the sun's rays. There are pros and cons to both, but SPF is a non-negotiable, and the info below will help you in figuring out which kind works better for your skin. Mineral sunscreen sits on top of your skin and acts as a shield. The active ingredients in physical sunscreens often include zinc oxide and/or titanium dioxide. These sunscreens deliver broad spectrum protection since the ingredients reflect the rays off your skin. Mineral sunscreens are a great choice to ward off UVA damage including wrinkles, age spots, and photoaging - which is another word for sun damage. Zinc oxide sunscreens are often recommended for those with acne-prone skin or children. The only really downside of physical sunscreens are that they can be chalky, hard to spread, and can often even leave a white film since it doesn't absorb in the skin. They can also be less water resistant than chemical sunscreens, so apply diligently. Pro tip: opt in for a tinted zinc oxide to avoid the white film. Chemical sunscreens do not sit on top of your skin like mineral sunscreens do, these ingredients absorb into your skin and act more like a sponge for the UV rays - absorbing them before your skin has a chance to. Some common ingredients in chemical sunscreens include: oxybenzone, avobenzone, octisalate, octocrylene, homosalate, and octinoxate. There is much debate on the safety of some of these chemicals. One study done in 2020 suggests that 6/12 of ingredients currently under study of the FDA enter the bloodstream after just one application, and can stay there for 3 weeks. The level these chemicals were found were said to pass the threshold where the FDA considered waiving additional safety trials. Another downside to chemical sunscreens is that people with sensitive or acne-prone skin may experience inflammation or redness. Some ingredients could make skin conditions like rosacea and melasma worse. Is Sunscreen Bad for the Environment? Some of the active ingredients in sunscreen like xybenzone, octocrylene, and octinoxate have been found in correlation with dying coral reefs. Our coral reefs absorb nanoparticals, or very tiny partials, that can cause them to die. Look out for sunscreens that have no nanoparticals if you're planning on swimming in the ocean. Eco-friendly sunscreens may not be a requirement for you, but we need coral reefs in order to survive. Try to purchase mineral sunscreens that explicitly state no nanoparticals, and leave the spray bottles at home. The Ocean thanks you! The Best Sunscreen is the one You Want to Wear Everyday. Here are our top picks: ISDIN Eryfotona Actinica Eryfotona Actinica is a fast-absorbing, ultralight emulsion providing an all-mineral broad spectrum sun protection. Its innovative formula contains DNA Repairsomes®, naturally occurring enzymes which are clinically proven to repair existing sun damage. Active Ingredients: Zinc oxide: A 100% mineral sunscreen which effectively blocks the sun’s harmful UVA and UVB rays. DNA Repairsomes® Photolyase: is a repair enzyme, derived from plankton, which has been shown to help repair damage caused by the sun. Vitamin E: An antioxidant which helps to boost skin’s natural defenses, protect against environmental damage and fight the early signs of skin aging. ISDIN Eryfotona Ageless Protect, repair, and correct with Eryfotona Ageless, an ultralight tinted sunscreen with zinc oxide which helps fight the signs of photoaging. Its innovative formula uses 100% mineral SPF 50 sunscreen, an innovative blend of peptides, antioxidants, and DNA Repairsomes® to repair existing sun damage and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Active Ingredients: Zinc oxide DNA Repairsomes® Peptide Q10: Helps to keep skin cells healthy and fights the early signs of photoaging. Peptide complex: Supports collagen and improves elasticity to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Vitamin E ISDIN Mineral Brush Isdinceutics Mineral Brush provides on-the-go protection against the visible signs of photoaging: the ideal complement to your daily sun protection and skincare routine. A silky, smooth, fine powder containing titanium dioxide, zinc oxide, mica and iron oxides provides protection against free radical pollution damage, blue light and infrared radiation (IR). Take it with you for photoaging defense and matte, natural coverage wherever you go! Revision SkinCare Intelleshade A 5-in-1 daily anti-aging tinted moisturizer with broad-spectrum SPF 45 that is formulated to correct, protect, conceal, brighten and hydrate skin. Prevents visible signs of aging and enhances skin’s natural moisture barrier, improves the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles and brightens and evens skin tone while reducing the appearance of redness. Also protects skin from UVA/UVB radiation. The sheer mineral tint conceals and restores skin’s youthful appearance. Active Ingredients: Blend of Three Peptides: Improves the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. THD Ascorbate: Vitamin C Blend of White Birch Extract, Yeast Extract, Plankton Extract and Coenzyme Q10: Enhance the skin and encourage overall skin health. Octinoxate & Octisalate: Sunscreen Zinc Oxide & Titanium Dioxide: Provide UVA & UVB protection. You can purchase all of these products through our clinic, The Lotus Aesthetics and Wellness. To book with our amazing team, click here! Or call 210-774-2850. Sources Ask the expert: Does a high SPF protect my skin better? The Skin Cancer Foundation. (2022, March 26). Retrieved April 19, 2022, from https://www.skincancer.org/blog/ask-the-expert-does-a-high-spf-protect-my-skin-better/ Timmons, J. (2022, February 3). Should you use physical or chemical sunscreen? Healthline. Retrieved April 19, 2022, from https://www.healthline.com/health/physical-vs-chemical-sunscreen#which-to-choose Yowell, H. (2020, July 15). Sunscreen 101: Everything you need to know about SPF. Heyday. Retrieved April 19, 2022, from https://www.heydayskincare.com/blogs/skin-deep/the-core-four-sunscreen

As we age, our face naturally loses subcutaneous fat. This can look like under-eye hollows, hollow cheeks, and more pronounced fine lines and wrinkles. Dermal fillers can be a fast and pretty painless procedure to restore volume, but is it the best option for these concerns? This blog will touch on the cons of dermal filler and introduce alternatives that may be more beneficial to your and your body. Dermal Fillers What are they and what are they used for? Dermal fillers are often made up of hyaluronic acid, which is a clear, gooey substance that is naturally occurring in the body. Dermal fillers are used to restore volume to the face and reduce the signs of aging by filling in deep lines, wrinkles, and hollows. They can also be used to shape the face by injecting filler into the cheek bone area, along the jaw line, in the lips and in the chin. The Pros the process is fast and pretty painless correction of dark circles volume is completely up to the patient can precisely fill out your area of concern treatment can be gradual helps to stimulate collagen The Cons can last in your face for more than 5 years can easily migrate from the under eye lips can be overfilled by an inexperienced injector absorbs 10x its weight in water swelling and bruising is possible injection into a blood vessel is possible with an inexperienced injector or bad technique Why The Lotus Doesn't Use Dermal Filler for the Under-Eye Hollows Including all of the cons above, filler placed under the eyes is pretty unpredictable. Dermal filler can absorb 10x its weight in water, which means that in places that experience high allergens (Texas), the filler can cause accentuation of the under-eye bags. Absorbing 10x its weight in water might be okay for lip filler, but getting swollen eyes every time pollen drops is not worth it. We generally recommend dissolving dermal filler before engaging in collagen induction therapy. Here is an example of filler migration from the under eyes and cheeks. Taken from Scientific Research: An Academic Publisher Collagen Induction Therapy What is collagen? Collagen is the most abundant protein in the human body and is found in your bones, muscles, skin, and tendons. It's what helps keep the skin firm and is depleted by age, sun damage, and smoking. What is collagen induction therapy? Collagen induction therapy is a group of procedures used to trigger the body's response of creating new tissue that is heavy in collagen. These procedures are used to reduce the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and scarring, while tightening and enhancing skin quality. The four collagen induction procedures we offer at The Lotus are RF Microneedling, Medical-Grade Chemical Peels, Sculptra, and PRF. RF Microneedling RF Microneedling is a cosmetic procedure that involves puncturing your skin with tiny sterile needles that emit a frequency when the needles reach a certain depth. With microneedling, you're causing tiny injuries to your skin which stimulates your body to send healing agents such as collagen and metalloproteinases to repair the cells. These healing agents are responsible for the removal of old tissue and deposition of new dermal tissue. The new collagen provides the skin with strength and structure, thus tightening the skin and reversing fine lines and wrinkles. To read more about RF Microneedling, click here. Here is a before and after of one of our clients during her RF Microneedling and Jeuveau journey! Client before and after of RF Microneedling and Jeuveau treatments. Medical-Grade Chemical Peels Chemical peels are used to create an injury at a specific skin depth to stimulate new skin growth and enhance skin quality by improving skin texture and appearance. A chemical peel deeply exfoliates your skin and triggers the body's healing system to produce epidermal growth and dermal collagen. Chemical peels can be used to enhance treatment for conditions including acne, melasma, photodamage, superficial scars, hyperpigmentation, etc. Here is a before and after of a client using THE PERFECT DERMA™ PEEL! Taken from @theperfectdermapeel on Instagram. Sculptra Sculptra is a new cosmetic injectable used to fight wrinkles, sagging skin, and hollowness by stimulating the skin's collagen production to help restore fullness in the face. Originally approved by the FDA for HIV-positive individuals suffering from lipoatrophy, or 'facial wasting, a sinking of the cheek, eye and temple areas of the face caused by the loss of fat tissue under the skin', Sculptra has now been used as an alternative to dermal fillers. This cosmetic injectable contains a biocompatible chemical compound called poly-L-lactic acid (PLLA), which is a synthetic substance that stimulates the production of collagen. Collagen production will increase in the weeks following the procedure, restoring volume, brightening your skin, and reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Taken from ScluptraUSA.com | After picture is 27 weeks after 6 vials of Sculptra. PRF or Platelet-Rich Fibrin PRF is a second-generation PRP procedure used for under-eye hollows, thin cheeks/skin, and hair restoration. PRF is used by drawing your blood, spinning it down, and extracting a high amount of platelets, fibrin scaffolding, white blood cells and a small number of stem cells, to then inject into your areas of concern. Both platelets and fibrin are involved in the body's healing process. Fibrin forms in a biological response to an injury anywhere on the body. The platelets circling the blood will bind to a scaffold of fibrin, become "activated", and release growth factors. This triggers the wound healing process by producing collagen, new skin cells, and blood vessels. To read more about PRF, click here. Client before and after PRF for under-eye hollows. Dermal fillers are a quick and easy solution to facial hollowness, but they are also unpredictable in some areas. If you would like a complimentary consultation with our amazing team of injectors to decide which treatment is right for you, click here to book or call/text 210-774-2850. Sources Hamzawi, Nabeel K. Al, and Salih M. Al Baaj. “The Abuse of Dermal Fillers: A Clinico-Epidemiological Study of 35 Cases.” Journal of Cosmetics, Dermatological Sciences and Applications, Scientific Research Publishing Inc., 4 Apr. 2019, https://www.scirp.org/journal/paperinformation.aspx?paperid=91671. “See before and after Sculptra® Aesthetic Results.” Sculptra Aesthetic, www.sculptrausa.com/before-after. Accessed 10 May 2022. “How Soon Do You See Results from Sculptra?” Dermatology and Aesthetic Institute, 9 Dec. 2021, nunnallyderm.com/how-soon-do-you-see-results-from-sculptra/. Accessed 10 May 2022. ‌ Rendon, Marta I, et al. “Evidence and Considerations in the Application of Chemical Peels in Skin Disorders and Aesthetic Resurfacing.” The Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology, vol. 3, no. 7, 2010, pp. 32–43, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2921757/. ‌ “Health Benefits of Collagen: Pros, Cons, and More.” Healthline, 21 Dec. 2021, www.healthline.com/nutrition/collagen-benefits#basics. Accessed 10 May 2022. ‌ “Dermal Fillers.” American Society of Plastic Surgeons, www.plasticsurgery.org/cosmetic-procedures/dermal-fillers. ‌

If you've ever had milia, you know how hard it is to get rid of. In this blog we talk why we get milia, how to get rid of it, and how to prevent it from ever happening. Milia: What is it? A milium is a small, white or yellow cyst that typically appears on the cheeks, nose, eyelids, and lips. A group of milium is called milia. Milia are common in newborns, but people of all ages and ethnicities can be susceptible. Milia are not painful, itchy, or do not cause inflammation like normal cysts. These tiny, hard cysts form when dead skin cells don't get exfoliated properly and get trapped under new skin. They sometimes occur spontaneously (Primary Milia), and other times result from skin damage (Secondary Milia). Primary Milia: Result from no apparent reason, and usually clear up on their own within a few months or less. Primary milia is usually found on the: (1) eyelids forehead cheeks genitals Some ingredients in skin care and makeup products can cause milia in some people. If you have milia-prone skin, avoid the following ingredients: (2) liquid paraffin liquid petroleum paraffin oil paraffinum liquidum petrolatum liquid petroleum oil Secondary Milia: Occur from some sort of skin damage and are located in the area that's been damaged. These milia can sometimes be permanent. Causes of Secondary Milia include: (1) Injury or irritation Rashes Burns Abrasive skin treatments Inflammatory skin conditions Too much sun exposure Heavy skincare products How to Get Rid of Milia Unlike pimples or pustules, the contents of milia are not fluid. Pimples and pustules are filled with sebum (oil), dead skin cells, and pus. When you pop a pimple, fluid spills. Milia have a tiny white lump inside of them, which is very hard, almost like a grain of sand. (1) It's made of keratinized (hardened) dead skin cells that have become trapped below a thin layer of the skin. This layer does not have a pore like a pimple does, therefore there is no opening in the skin to squeeze it out. Do not attempt to physically remove milia yourself, it won't work and you can damage your skin. Below are some alternatives to treating milia: OTC Exfoliating Products: Salicylic acid and Glycolic acid products may help to remove dead skin cells. If you have a few milia, this may be the solution you need, but be ready to use an exfoliant for a few months before noticing any results. Milia are incredibly stubborn, and if your milia have been sitting for ages, it may be a good idea to see a dermatologist or come in to see our team. A GREAT OTC chemical exfoliant is The Ordinary AHA 30% + BHA 2% Exfoliating Peeling Solution, which is only $8 at Ulta, and is safe to use on skin (including the lips). Use it 2-3 times a week. Topical Retinoid Prescriptions: These are super helpful for milia-prone skin or milia that is extremely stubborn. Prescription retinoids not only exfoliate more effectively than OTC products, but they help loosen the keratin plugs in exiting milia and help them come to the surface so they can go away. Our team of PA's can prescribe these for you if your skin needs it. Manual Extractions: Milia should ONLY be extracted by a professional, as doing it yourself can cause damage and scarring. The procedure goes as follows: a tiny hole is created on the surface of the skin above the milia with either a comedone extractor, lancing tool, or needle. The hard plug of material is then gently pushed out through the opening. (1) ...sounds satisfying to me... This procedure is usually pretty pain-free, and results are immediate! Our Aesthetician is certified to perform milia extractions. See the before and after of an extraction procedure done by our Aesthetician, Erica Cordoba: How To Prevent Milia The first best tool prior to a cure: prevention. Try these prevention suggestions to avoid stubborn milia: Thorough Cleansing: Removing your makeup before bed is vital to clean, clear skin. Double cleaning at night is highly recommended if you use thick makeup products or live in an area with high pollution. (3) Avoid Irritating Products: Some oils are not meant for milia-prone skin. As stated above, avoid certain ingredients that sit on top of your skin instead of being absorbed. Exfoliate, Exfoliate, Exfoliate: Milia occurs when new skin forms over dead skin cells that were not removed. Exfoliating also lowers your chance of developing acne and makes your skin look pretty, win win. Incorporate Retinol: Consistent retinol use can brighten and tighten skin, shrink pores, decrease the chance of breaks out, and can help prevent and cure milia. Um, yes please? (3) Limit Sun Exposure: Haven't we all learned by now that excess sun exposure is devastating to your skin? Use SPF (on your lips and neck too) and wear a hat when outside for long periods of time to prevent milia formation. (3) If you notice milia on your skin, you're not alone and it's not irreversible. Milia is a cosmetic issue with usually no health concerns attached. Should you decide to get rid of them, we're here for you. To book with our team of injectors: Click Here, DM us on Instagram, or Call/Text 210-774-2850. To book your milia extractions, Click Here. Sources (1) Palmer, A. (2021, December 9). Getting rid of whiteheads (milia). Verywell Health. Retrieved May 31, 2022, from https://www.verywellhealth.com/how-to-treat-milia-15668 (2) Kinman, T. (2018, June 1). Milia: Definition, causes, and removal. Healthline. Retrieved June 1, 2022, from https://www.healthline.com/health/milia#outlook (3) March, B. (2021, October 14). How to get rid of Milia spots. Harper's BAZAAR. Retrieved June 1, 2022, from https://www.harpersbazaar.com/uk/beauty/skincare/a18542004/milia-causes-and-treatments/

Loosing fat without doing any excercise? Whattttt? Yep, Liprotropic injections help your body boost it's metabolism along with a whole bunch of other benefits. In this blog post, we will go through what Lipotropic and B12 injections are, what's in them, and what they do for the body. B12 Injections: What Are They? The Vitamin B12 is only found in animal foods and is needed by your body to form red blood cells and DNA, and plays an extensive role in the development in brain and nerve cells. It is estimated that up to 15% of the population(1), and 90% of of vegetarians and vegans (2) are deficient in this vitamin. An untreated Vitamin B12 deficiency can lead to neurological problems and/or pernicious anemia, which is when your body doesn't have enough of the vitamin to produce the amount of red blood cells it needs. Symptoms of deficiency include(1): Megaloblastic anemia—a condition of larger than normal sized red blood cells and a smaller than normal amount; this occurs because there is not enough vitamin B12 in the diet or poor absorption; fatigue and weakness; nerve damage with numbness, tingling in the hands and legs Memory loss, confusion; Dementia; Depression; Seizures. B12 injections are the most common way way to treat and prevent this deficiency. Potential health benefits include: Brain Function: Low levels of B12 have been linked to a decline in brain function, and may be linked to the development of dementia. (3) However, studies have found that B12 injections do not increase the brain function of those with normal brain function. Depression: It's been suggested that low levels of B12 may be linked with depression and that taking the vitamin long-term may help prevent a relapse in depression. (2) Osteoporosis: Low levels of B12 have been linked with osteoporosis, which is the loss of bone mass resulting in weaker bones and an increased risk of bone fractures. It's been suggested that taking vitamin B12 may lower your risk of osteoporosis. (2) Age-Related Macular Degeneration: Or the condition that gradually causes you to lose central vision, usually in both eyes. In people aged 50 and over, taking adequate amounts of B12 is though to be important to eye health. (2) Lipotropic Injections: What Are They? Lipo BC is a dietary supplement injection that assists in increasing energy and supporting liver function. Along with improving energy, the supplement contains nutritional elements that help with the proper use of dietary fats. These nutrients help keep your liver healthy and enhance the body’s metabolism, which then gradually reduces body fat. The injection contains the following fat burning compounds: Choline: an essential nutrient needed for proper liver function. Choline plays an important role in many processes in your body, including: exports fat and bile from the liver and helps burn the fat into energy; DNA synthesis; liver detox; cell structure; and is involved in the production of neurotransmitters that are responsible for muscle movement, memory, regulating heartbeat, and other functions. (7), (8) AKA very important! Inositol: Often referred to as vitamin B8, inositol is not a vitamin but rather a sugar and plays a structural role in your body as a major component of cell membranes. It also influences insulin and may help balance important chemicals in your brain like dopamine and serotonin. (6) Methionine: is an essential amino acid, meaning it cannot be made in the body and must be obtained from your diet. Benefits of this supplement include: Nourishing the hair, skin, and nails; protecting the cells from pollutants; facilitating the detoxifying process; slowing down the aging process; helping with the absorption of other nutrients (such as selenium and zinc); aiding in the excretion of heavy metals (such as lead and mercury) helping the body’s excretion process; preventing excess fat buildup in the liver (by acting as a lipotropic agent—one that facilitates the breakdown of fats); lowering cholesterol levels by increasing lecithin production in the liver. (5) Also very important! Vitamin B12: Serves many biological purposes including normal blood, brain, heart, and nervous system functions; most importantly, it’s essential for fat metabolism. (4) B Complex Vitamins: Helps you feel more energetic and also promote the metabolism of fats. When these compounds are put together into the form of a solution to be injected into the bloodstream, they’re entering the body without any possibility of facing dilution or being inefficiently absorbed by the gut. (4) Each of these components play a key role in utilizing and burning fat, distributing energy, and removing toxins from the body. The overall effect of lipotropic injections is enhanced weight loss, particularly when they are combined with a healthy diet and exercise program. Side Effects of Lipo Injections There is no procedure (aesthetic or wellness) that is without risks and potential side effects. Because everyone is different, it’s advised that you seek the advice of your physician before introducing any tool to aid in weight loss. Although side effects of of Lipotropic injections are relatively rare occurrences, anyone taking vitamin injections should be aware of the possibility of side effects. Potential side effects include: redness, swelling, and infection at the injection site; rapid heartbeat and/or chest pain; flushed face; muscle cramps and weakness; allergic reactions including: difficulty breathing and swallowing, hives and/or skin rashes, shortness of breath or usual wheezing, and coughing**; dizziness and confusion; tight feelings in the chest; **It is highly unusual to experience an allergic reaction from vitamins and minerals. The onset of allergy symptoms may reveal an underlying issue and you should seek immediate medical attention. Even if you aren't trying to lose weight or treat a vitamin deficiency, Vitamin B12 and Lipotropic Injections can be incredibly beneficial to your mental and physical health. When coupled with a healthy eating and exercise program, these injections can boost energy levels, your metabolism, and the best benefit: aid in weight loss. The Lotus is now accepting walk-ins for B12 and Lipotropic Injections, we just ask that you call ahead and let us know when you'd like to come in. The cost of these injections is $20, and we recommend receiving them once a week. To schedule an appointment with our amazing team, or set up your walk-in, text or call 210-774-2850; DM us on Instagram; or click the button below. Sources (1) “Vitamin B12.” The Nutrition Source, 4 June 2019, https://www.hsph.harvard.edu/nutritionsource/vitamin-b12/. (2) West, Helen. “Vitamin B12 Injections: Good or Bad?” Healthline, Healthline Media, 23 Apr. 2016, https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/vitamin-b12-injections#TOC_TITLE_HDR_5. (3) Moore E;Mander A;Ames D;Carne R;Sanders K;Watters D; “Cognitive Impairment and Vitamin B12: A Review.” International Psychogeriatrics, U.S. National Library of Medicine, https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22221769/. (4) “Lipotropic Injections.” Millennium Physicians, 13 May 2021, https://millenniumphysicians.com/lipotropic-injections/. (5) Christiansen, Sherry. “What Is Methionine?” Verywell Health, Verywell Health, 24 Aug. 2020, https://www.verywellhealth.com/methionine-4771763. (6) MS, Makayla Meixner. “Inositol: Benefits, Side Effects and Dosage.” Healthline, Healthline Media, 15 Aug. 2018, https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/inositol#mental-health. (7) Brown, Mary Jane. “What Is Choline? an Essential Nutrient with Many Benefits.” Healthline, Healthline Media, 7 Dec. 2018, https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/what-is-choline. (8) “Choline Supplement: Overview & Benefits.” Cleveland Clinic, https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/drugs/22202-choline-supplement. Cherney, Kristeen. “Lipotropic Injections Benefits, Side Effects, Dosage, and Cost.” Healthline, Healthline Media, 14 Mar. 2019, https://www.healthline.com/health/lipotropic-injections#frequency.

What if I told you that your menstrual cycle has four different phases and that each one brings out different physical and emotional strengths in you? What if you could learn how to harness this knowledge to improve your life? This blog goes over the four phases of the Menstrual Cycle, the symptoms of each, and actions to take to prepare for and overcome them. The Menstrual Cycle is more than just a period. Your period is only one phase of the cycle - there's three more! The Menstrual Cycle starts on the first day of your period and ends the day before your next period. The average cycle length is 26-30 days, but the length may vary period to period, and it may also change over the years. The brain, ovaries, and uterus work together and communicate through hormones to keep the cycle going. Some people notice changes in their hair, skin, poop, mental health, etc., and changes in how they experience sex, during different parts of their cycle. Your body, through hormonal changes and fluctuations, is getting you ready for pregnancy over and over and over...and over again. Hormonal contraceptives can prevent pregnancy and mask some of the symptoms of your period - but for some people, the symptoms of birth control can outweigh the benefits of it. Knowing your cycle and when you may be fertile can help prevent pregnancy and help you prepare for the different symptoms you may experience throughout it. The Menstrual Cycle has 4 phases: The Menstrual Phase, The Follicular Phase, The Ovulation Phase, and The Luteal Phase. Each brings different levels of hormones and can effect your strength, mental health, fatigue levels, bloating, acne and more. These phases interact and overlap with each other, which can be confusing, so allow me to break it down for you. The Four Phases of the Menstrual Cycle Phase 1 - The Menstrual Phase Your Menstrual Cycle and Phase 1 begin the first day you start bleeding, and ends the last day of your period. This phase begins when the egg from the previous cycle isn't fertilized. Because pregnancy hasn't taken place, levels of the hormones estrogen and progesterone drop. The drop in progesterone tells your uterus to shed, AKA, your "period" happens. This phase lasts anywhere from 3-8 days, with the average being 4-6. Symptoms Drop in Estrogen: during this week, your energy is the lowest and you may feel tired and withdrawn. You might have a lower sex drive and an increase in acne. Drop in Progesterone: tells your body to shed the uterine lining. Progesterone is called the "anti-anxiety" hormone and low levels can cause anxiety, irritability, and anger. Uterine contractions cause cramps. Actions to Help Symptoms Limit exercise to walking or yoga If you experience cramps, taking ibuprofen consistently the day before and during your period can help. Try to clear your calendar of major social gatherings Phase 2: The Follicular Phase There are two parts of The Follicular Phase: The Menstrual Phase and the Proliferative Phase. The Follicular Phase begins at the start of your period (it overlaps with the Menstrual Phase), and ends at ovulation. The Proliferative Phase begins right after your period and this is when the hypothalamus sends a signal to the pituitary gland to release the Follicle-Stimulating Hormone (FSH). (This is why this phase is called the Follicular Phase). The ovaries then produce sacs called follicles, each containing an egg, and only the healthiest egg is released when you ovulate. The maturing follicle releases a surge of estrogen - a hormone that thickens the lining of your uterus and is associated with boosted energy, increased motivation, and increased serotonin. Your testosterone levels also gradually increase after your period. Symptoms Rise in Estrogen: Increase in energy, motivation, serotonin. Your skin glows, you may feel more extroverted and assertive, you build more muscle and you build it faster Rise in Testosterone: Increase in libido, orgasms are most intense and attainable, higher pain tolerance Discharge: Amount of discharge increases. At first, it may look thick and sticky but become more wet and creamy, like lotion. In the days before ovulation, it may become stretchier and clear. Actions Your thinking and decision-making ability will be major strengths during the last half of the Follicular Phase, so initiate new projects and make big decisions. This is when to make use of your social superpower. Speak up in meetings, join a social group, and make plans with friends! Channel your increased energy and motivation into strenuous activity like weight lifting and HIIT workouts. Your energy levels are rising during this phase, so there isn't really a limit on exercise! Phase 3: The Ovulatory Phase Ovulation occurs about 13-15 days into your cycle, only lasts about a day, and is triggered when your estrogen levels are high enough. The high estrogen levels send a signal to your brain to release the luteinizing hormone, which starts the process of ovulation. Ovulation is when your ovary releases a mature egg. The egg travels down the Fallopian tube toward the uterus to be fertilized by sperm. The mature egg will survive 24-48 hours and sperm can live in a woman's body up to 5 days, so you're most fertile during this window. Use contraception during this time period if you're not wanting to get pregnant. Symptoms Estrogen and Testosterone: are at their peak levels, so you may feel that you look better, have more confidence, and your sex drive will be at its highest. (This is because your body wants to get you pregnant). Slight rise in basal body temperature Discharge: 1-2 days before ovulation, your discharge will be thick, stretchy, and egg-white Actions This is the time for networking, public speaking, and job interviews as your estrogen and testosterone are peaking. Go on a date! Energy levels are still high, so continue to get that work out in. Phase 4: The Luteal Phase This is the second half of your cycle and begins after ovulation and ends the day before you start your next period (or the beginning of your next Menstrual Cycle!). After the follicle releases the egg, it changes into the corpus luteum and releases progesterone and estrogen. Progesterone peaks about halfway through this phase. If you do not get pregnant, the corpus luteum will start to break down and be reabsorbed about 9-10 days after ovulation. This leads to decreased levels of progesterone and estrogen, thus causing the the onset of your period. We will break this phase down into two weeks as hormones act differently in the first half of this phase from the second half. Week 3 of your cycle (first half of Luteal Phase): Begins right after ovulation and lasts for about 8 days. Progesterone rises, estrogen and testosterone drop the first half of this week, then estrogen rises again. This is the time frame in which you may experience the most PMS symptoms. Drop in Estrogen and Testosterone: You may feel more fatigued and down. This is when most women break out due to the drop in estrogen. Rise in Progesterone: This slows you down, makes you quieter, a bit "foggy", more cautious and physically fatigued. Your appetite is greater and you may experience cravings because your body thinks you could be pregnant, so it wants you to eat for two. If you don't eat enough, you run the risk of a dramatic shift in mood that can leave you feeling sad or angry. Progesterone also causes water-retention and a drop in libido. On the upside, you burn 30% more fat when you exercise thanks to the combination of estrogen and progesterone. Rise in Estrogen: In the second part of this week, your estrogen rises again putting a stop to the fatigue and pre-menstrual symptoms. Week 4 of your cycle (second half of Luteal Phase) In the final 6 days of your cycle, estrogen drops making you feel more sad, anxious, and irritable. Not all women experience this, so if this doesn't resonate, that's okay! Drop in Estrogen (again): You may feel more critical, pessimistic, and more cynical. It's harder to make decisions, and your cravings go towards carbs and pasta. (Fun fact: this is because as estrogen drops so does serotonin, and carbs help replenish the latter hormone). You also may break out around this time due to excess oil production. Libido Returns: Not due to hormones, surprisingly, but researchers believe it's from nerve endings being stimulated in preparation for menstruation. Progesterone Descends: Progesterone is still relatively high, adding to the food cravings but levels descend toward the end of the week, leaving you feeling more energized. Actions Practice a bit of self care these two weeks, eat healthy foods, get enough sleep, and exercise. This may help some of the PMS symptoms. Taking magnesium supplements can help reduce headaches and muscle tension. Use a chemical exfoliate to help prevent breakouts. Periods can be dreadful, but they don't have to be. When you work with the phases of your cycle, you feel more in alignment with your body. Keep these things in mind as you move through your next cycle, it might just make your life better. If you would like to book an appointment with our amazing team, click here, call/text 210-774-2850, or message us on Instagram. Sources Laurie Ray, D. N. P. (2022, April 26). The menstrual cycle, explained. The Menstrual Cycle: Phases of Your Cycle. Retrieved May 17, 2022, from https://helloclue.com/articles/cycle-a-z/the-menstrual-cycle-more-than-just-the-period Jardim, N. (2021, August 10). Get to know the 4 phases of your menstrual cycle. mindbodygreen. Retrieved May 17, 2022, from https://www.mindbodygreen.com/0-16167/get-to-know-the-4-phases-of-your-menstrual-cycle.html Powell, B. (2021, March 9). What is the follicular phase? Casco Cup. Retrieved May 17, 2022, from https://www.cascocup.com/blogs/health/follicular-phase Watson, Stephanie. “Stages of Menstrual Cycle: Menstruation, Ovulation, Hormones, Mor.” Healthline, Healthline Media, 29 Mar. 2019, https://www.healthline.com/health/womens-health/stages-of-menstrual-cycle#luteal. Female hormone cycle: What goes on during your monthly cycle? Hormonology. (2021, April 7). Retrieved May 17, 2022, from https://www.myhormonology.com/learn/female-hormone-cycle/ Cornforth, Tracee. “How the Luteal Phase Helps Conception to Occur.” Verywell Health, Verywell Health, 23 July 2021, https://www.verywellhealth.com/luteal-phase-of-the-menstrual-cycle-3522712.