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Bio-Identical Hormones

FAQ’s

Conventional hormone therapy vs. bioidentical hormone therapy

Compounded bioidentical hormones are advertised as being a safer, more effective, natural and individualized alternative to conventional hormone therapy. However, these claims remain unsupported. Also, the lack of FDA oversight for compounded hormones generates additional risks regarding the purity and safety of compounded bioidentical hormones. Although custom hormone combinations often include blends of the same ingredients found in FDA-approved bioidentical hormones, some include additional hormones. These additional hormones have not had adequate testing and are not included in any FDA-approved products.

What are bioidentical hormones?
Bioidentical hormones are processed hormones designed to mimic the hormones made by your body’s glands. Taking bioidentical hormones can help people who experience symptoms of low or unbalanced hormones. This is often the case for people experiencing symptoms of perimenopause or menopause. Hormones are chemicals made by your endocrine glands. They are messengers that tell other parts of your body how and when to work. Hormones affect many systems and functions in your body. Even the slightest imbalance can cause symptoms that interfere with your day. Healthcare providers may recommend hormone replacement therapy as a treatment for these symptoms. Bioidentical hormone therapy (BHRT) uses processed hormones that come from plants. Estrogen, progesterone and testosterone are the most commonly used bioidentical hormones. Some prescription forms of bioidentical hormones are premade by drug companies. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved certain types of bioidentical hormones. Other forms of bioidentical hormones are custom-made by a pharmacist based on a healthcare provider's prescription. These are compounded (or mixed) bioidentical hormones. The compounded forms have not been tested and approved by the FDA. Though it is often advertised that products that are made from plants are "natural" choices, they are altered in a lab so are no longer natural when done with processing. Both the FDA-approved and compounded hormones come in various doses and forms (pills, creams, gels, sprays and vaginal inserts). Be sure to talk to your healthcare provider to find out which type of BHRT is right for you.
Who shouldn't take bioidentical hormones?
Using any type of hormone therapy is a decision made between you and your healthcare provider after carefully weighing the risks and benefits. Bioidentical hormones have been controversial, and many are not FDA-approved, but that doesn't mean your healthcare provider will rule them out as a treatment option. If you've had or are at high risk for the following conditions, hormone therapy may not be safe: Blood clotting disorders. Heart or cardiovascular disease. Breast cancer. Stroke.
Why are bioidentical hormones used?
The levels of certain hormones in your body go down with age. These hormones include estrogen, progesterone and testosterone. Some common effects of low hormones include: Hot flashes. Night sweats. Vaginal dryness. Loss of interest in sex or painful intercourse. Problems sleeping. Loss of energy or fatigue. Weight gain. Mood changes. Memory loss or confusion. Replacing these lost or low hormones is the goal of bioidentical hormone therapy or conventional hormone therapy. Once hormone levels are increased, most people see their symptoms improve. However, there is not much evidence to support that bioidentical hormones are equal to conventional hormone therapy. Your healthcare provider can discuss your options for hormone replacement with you based on your symptoms and health history.
How common are bioidentical hormones?
One study suggests that approximately 1 to 2.5 million women in the U.S. over age 40 are using compounded bioidentical hormones.
How are bioidentical hormones given?
Bioidentical hormones come in many forms. These include: Pills. Patches. Creams. Gels. Shots. Implanted pellets. Your healthcare provider will decide which method is best for you. You may try more than one way before you find one that works well for you.
How does my healthcare provider select my dose?
People on hormone treatment are watched very closely by their healthcare providers. The goal is to relieve symptoms with the lowest dose possible for the shortest amount of time. Depending on your healthcare provider, you might have routine blood, urine or saliva tests to check your hormone levels. Your healthcare provider may adjust your dose based on your changing hormone needs. The FDA recommends against using hormone levels to guide the dosing of hormone therapy in women, as normal levels fluctuate day to day. In particular, salivary hormone levels are known to fluctuate and have not been shown to be related to menopausal symptoms.
How long does it take for bioidentical hormones to start working?
The amount of time it takes for bioidentical hormones to work varies. Some people may feel mild relief within a few weeks. Most of the time, it takes about three months to feel the full effect of any type of hormone therapy.
What are the risks of bioidentical hormones?
It has been shown in research studies that there are risks to taking hormones. It can increase the risk of blood clots, stroke, and gallbladder disease. Your risk of heart disease and breast cancer may also increase if you are older or use hormonal therapy for an extended period. Many healthcare providers who use bioidentical hormones claim they are safer than traditional hormone therapy treatments. But there have been no large research studies of bioidentical hormones to show evidence of this.
Are bioidentical hormones safe?
The bioidentical hormones that are approved by the FDA have been tested for safety. They have passed the FDA's strict standards and are safe for people to use. Like all hormone treatments, there are risks involved. You should weigh the pros and cons of even the FDA-approved bioidentical hormones with your healthcare provider.
Are compounded bioidentical hormones bad?
There are risks to taking compounded bioidentical hormones, but in some cases, they may be a better choice. Compounded bioidentical hormones are not FDA-approved. They are not tested for safety or effectiveness. Many major medical groups do not support using them because not enough is known about their safety and long-term side effects.
What are the side effects of bioidentical hormones?
When the FDA approves a drug, the drug company must report any side effects they are told about. These side effects are included in the paperwork you get when you pick your medication up at the pharmacy. Pharmacies that compound hormones do not have to report drug side effects to the FDA or provide paperwork. This contributes to the myth that compounded hormones are safer when healthcare providers don't know all of the possible side effects of these hormones. Side effects can occur, especially after the first dose. Your body is not used to the new level of hormones. Many side effects get better as the body adjusts to the new level of hormones. In some cases, the dose may need to be changed. Some common side effects of bioidentical hormones include: Weight gain. Blurred vision. Tiredness. Acne. Increased facial hair. Headaches. Breast tenderness. Spotting. Cramping. Bloating. Mood swings. You may itch or get red around the area where you apply your hormones if you use a patch, cream or gel.
Do bioidentical hormones really work?
Yes, they work for some people. You will have different results depending on your symptoms and health history. Talk with your healthcare provider about bioidentical hormones and what form may work best for you. In some cases, your healthcare provider may recommend against using bioidentical hormones in favor of a more traditional hormone replacement therapy option.
When should I see my healthcare provider?
Call your healthcare provider if you have any negative side effects after getting a dose of hormones. If you have a side effect that you cannot manage or does not go away in a short time, your hormone level might be too high. Talk to your healthcare provider before hormone treatment so you know what to expect.

*https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/17675-blood-clots

Botox

FAQ’s

What is Botox?
Botox is a prescription medication injected into muscles and used to temporarily improve the appearance of moderate to severe frown lines between the eyebrows (glabellar lines) in adults. At Kintsugi Beauty, we use Xeomin® (incobotulinumtoxinA) which contains botulinum toxin type A, a protein purified from the bacterium Clostridium botulinum.
How does Botox work?
When you squint or frown, the muscles between your eyebrows contract, causing the skin to furrow and fold. ➢ Over time, as your skin ages and loses some of its elasticity, these repeated contractions can cause persistent frown lines. ➢ Botulinum toxin type A – the active ingredient in Xeomin®– acts on nerve endings in muscles to prevent muscle fibers from contracting. By reducing these contractions, Xeomin® can temporarily reduce the lines between your eyebrows.
Is Botox and fillers safe?
When administered by a qualified healthcare professional, Botox and fillers are generally considered safe. However, like any medical procedure, there are potential risks and side effects, such as bruising, swelling, or infection. It's important to choose a reputable provider and discuss any concerns with them.
What are fillers and how do they work?
Fillers are injectable substances, such as hyaluronic acid or collagen, that are used to add volume and fill in wrinkles or hollow areas of the face. They work by plumping up the skin and restoring lost volume.
How long do the effects of Botox last?
The effects of Botox typically last around 3-4 months. Individual results may vary.
Can Botox and fillers be used together?
Yes, Botox and fillers can be used together to achieve optimal results. Botox is typically used to target dynamic wrinkles, such as crow's feet or forehead lines, while fillers are used to add volume and fill in static wrinkles or hollow areas.
How long does the effects of fillers last?
The effects of fillers can last anywhere from six months to two years, depending on the type of filler used and individual factors.
Are Botox and fillers painful?
The injections themselves may cause some discomfort, but most providers use a topical numbing cream or ice to minimize any pain. Some fillers also contain lidocaine, a local anesthetic, to further reduce discomfort.
Are there any side effects or risks associated with Botox and fillers?
Common side effects of Botox and fillers include bruising, swelling, redness, or tenderness at the injection site. In rare cases, more serious side effects such as infection or allergic reactions may occur. It's important to discuss any concerns or medical conditions with your provider before undergoing treatment.

Skin Pen

FAQ’s

What is SkinPen?
SkinPen is the only FDA approved microneedling device clinically proven to safely and effectively reduce the appearance of wrinkles and scars ages 22 and up.
How does SkinPen work?
SkinPen creates many micro skin punctures to stimulate the skin’s natural wound healing process to prompt tissue remodeling. It stimulates collagen and elastin production and fibroblasts by platelet origin growth factors, thereby improving skin density and elasticity.
What does SkinPen micro-needling treatment involve?
During the SkinPen treatment, active substances are inserted into the skin to stimulate its remodeling and create new networks of collagen. The preparations delivered into the skin are a mix of vitamins, amino acids, micronutrients, hyaluronic acid, and plant extracts. PRP (Platelet Rich Plasma) at additional cost can also be delivered into the skin.
Will SkinPen work for me?
The treatment is preceded by a consultation by a licensed professional to determine treatment plan. SkinPen has been clinically proven to be effective for men and women with all Fitzpatrick Skin Types I-VI.
Is it painful?
Before treatment, topical anesthetic is applied to numb the area. During the procedure, you may experience slight to minimal discomfort. Immediately after treatment, you can feel mild itching or short-term burning sensation. Reddening and swelling of treated area may be visible several days after treatment. This is a normal reaction of the body and will resolve on its own. There may be slight bruising as well.
What effects can be expected after treatment?
After a series of treatments, skin can appear tighter and more youthful. Skin will also have reduced appearance of scars, fine lines, pores, stretch marks, and alopecia.
When does the effect appear and how long does it last?
Effects usually become visible after the second or third treatment in a series, although some patients already have visible results after the first treatment. Patient’s reaction to treatment is varied and individual, but optimal results are usually after a series of treatments.
How many treatments are required?
Again, this depends on the patient’s individual skin type and skin concerns. The best effects are after a series of 4-6 treatments spaced 2-4 weeks apart.
What aftercare is needed?
Eight hours after treatment, the skin should be washed with a delicate cleaning agent for sensitive skin. (Illari skin care?). Patient should also apply high SPF sunscreen for at least two weeks post treatment.

Mesotherapy

FAQ’s

What is Mesotherapy?
Mesotherapy is a treatment stimulating natural regenerative processes. It is a method of treating various skin disorders by inserting small doses of medicinal substances directly into the target area. Long-term exposure to harmful environmental factors, stress, smoking, drugs, and solar radiation causes adverse skin changes. Mesotherapy makes it possible to reverse or stop many adverse changes, and is a valuable component of anti-ageing medicine. The preparations delivered into the skin are a cocktail of vitamins, amino acids, microelements, hyaluronic acid and plant extracts. Hyaluronic acid fills the space between collagen fibres and imbibes water, making the skin optimally moisturised. Thanks to improved vascularization, the skin is better oxygenated, fairer, healthier. We use SkinPen® Microneedling for inserting anti-aging mesotherapy cocktails into the skin.
What does mesotherapy treatment involve?
Using SkinPen® treatment, we insert active substances into the skin, stimulating the skin to remodel and create networks of new collagen fibres. The micro-injuries intentionally caused during the treatment initiate natural mechanisms of skin regeneration and renewal and speed up its cell divisions. Also PRP
How is the treatment performed?
Mesotherapy starts with cleaning the skin and numbing cream is applied to the treatment area for about 20-30 minutes. Then the chosen solution is inserted into the microchannel device or applied topically on the treatment area for the needles to work their magic: penetrating the skin and painlessly delivering the beneficial ingredients, vitamins (also possibility together with Botox) directly below the epidermis of the skin without any bleeding. The entire procedure takes less than 30 minutes and involves no downtime or recovery (although some patients may experience some redness and slight swelling at the treatment site for a few days). Massage is performed after the treatment, which allows even distribution of the ingredients injected into the skin. The medicines remain active for even a month after the treatment. Mesotherapy can be performed with Hydrafacial™ or Medical Peels as an exfoliation before or Cryofacial and LED Therapy as a following treatment.
What effects can be expected after mesotherapy treatment?
➢ Improves skin quality (“glow”) ➢ Decrease pore size ➢ Diminish wrinkles and fine lines ➢ Improves hyperpigmentation ➢ Improves scars ➢ Stimulates production of collagen and elastin
When does the effect appear and how long does it last?
Instant results – increased elasticity, firmness and brightening of the skin. ➢ Long-term results – restored smoothness and density of the skin.
How many treatments are required?
➢ For optimal effect, 6-8 treatments are recommended. The first 4 treatments are performed every two weeks, and the subsequent ones every 3-4 weeks. To sustain the effects of the treatments, it is recommended to have repeat treatments every 3-6 months. Mesotherapy may be performed at any time of the year, but sunscreen has to be applied for a couple of days because sunlight may cause discolouration at the place of injections.
What aftercare is needed?
➢ After the treatment, the skin may be slightly red, but after a few days it will regain its natural tone. Continue basic skin care, moisturize skin, avoid the sun, and apply sunscreen.
What are possible side effects?
➢ Very rare allergic reactions which manifest by erythema and disappear spontaneously after a few minutes or hours ➢ Bruising, haematomas – the risk of abnormalities increases in case of use of anticoagulants (e.g. aspirin) right before the treatment. ➢ In case of a tendency to develop haematomas, you should reserve 2-3 days (e.g. weekend) to let your skin recover – sometimes this requires absence from work or performance of the treatment just before the weekend

PRP

FAQ’s

What is PRP or Platelet Rich Plasma treatment?
➢ PRP is an autologous preparation of platelet-rich plasma derived from own blood. Active blood cells contained in plasma release growth factors, which are important for regeneration of skin cells. Growth factors stimulate the growth and maturation of epidermal cells, stimulate synthesis of extracellular matrix.
What does PRP treatment involve?
➢ The treatment is relatively quick and easy. Phase one involves drawing a small quantity of blood using the vacuum method. After whirling, platelet containing plasma is obtained. Around 4 ml of platelet rich plasma is produced. SkinPen® can be used to deliver PRP into the skin.
Will PRP work for me?
➢ PRP is a treatment addressed to those who value natural products, and those suffering from various allergies.
When does the effect appear and how long does it last?
➢ The first effects of treatment are visible after two weeks. Tissue reconstruction begins already 48 hours after the first treatment. The biggest stimulation of collagen production occurs one month after the treatment. The improvement of the tightness, flexibility and density of the skin, collagen fibres remodelling, and smoothing of fine lines is achieved after three treatments spaced 4-6 weeks apart. For hair loss: as soon as after two treatments, considerable thickening of hair and improved hair condition is visible.
What aftercare is needed?
➢ Moisturize skin, avoid the sun, and applying sunscreen.
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