Spring-cleaning doesn’t have to be confined to household chores.  This is the perfect opportunity to go through your makeup drawer and do away with old products in order to make room for new trends. 

Dare To Go Bare:  The majority of models throughout the spring runways opted for an au naturale look.  Makeup artists utilized primer and moisturizer with minimal concealer and capped off the look with a swoop of neutral blush among the apples of the cheeks. 

Cat Eyes:  Keep practicing this look because it is here to stay!  If you want to try something new, black inky eyeliner was spotted on numerous runways.  In order to achieve this look, put on a glossy black eye pencil around your whole eye and gently smear it out to achieve a sensual look. 

Bold Lipstick Hues: Vivid orange seems to be the “it” shade of the season with other bold shades incorporated as well.  If you are looking for a more subtle tone, pale berry lips were spotted along the runways as well.  If you decide to go for a bold lip, keep the rest of your makeup minimal.

Pastel Eye Palette: Forgo mixing several shades on your lids.  Try just one basic pastel tone over your eyes! The most popular pastel has been chartreuse. 

Shining Skin:  Give your skin a healthy glow by applying a tinted moisturizer mixed with a liquid illuminator.  If you would like a dewy finish, work a moisture gel into your skin.  The Shaw Center Spa offers a variety of skin products and facials that will help you achieve this look as well!

Penciled Shapes:  Although all of the other trends are suitable for everyday wear, if you are seeking something a little more daring, this is the perfect look.  Drawn on graphic triangles above the eyes and winged shapes on the inner and outer corner of the eyes were seen on various runways.  “At Roksanda Illincic and Missoni, keeping a steady hand with rich black pencil took simple liner to new heights,” according to www.harpersbazaar.com. 
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            It’s beginning to heat up in Arizona and you will start showing more skin before you know it!  Use these last couple of winter weeks to fully prepare your skin for the sun.  We have a few ways that will guarantee sexy, smooth legs and have everyone asking what your secret is.
            The Spa at the Shaw Center offers a few methods of laser hair removal such as the LightSheer Duet, Alma Laser hair removal and Syneron Elos.  These treatments do not require any downtime, can be used anywhere on the body and do not use any messy gels.  Regardless of which laser hair removal you opt to use, we suggest a few sessions depending on your hair so it is best to begin your treatment now to prepare for the summer. 
            If you decide to stick with traditional shaving, we have a few tips to receive optimal results.  Prior to shaving, exfoliate and then apply baby oil to your legs to soften your skin and the hair.  Utilize a men’s razor and men’s moisturizing shaving cream because they are extra gentle on your skin since they are meant for faces.  Apply rubbing alcohol on your legs after shaving to close your pores and kill bacteria.  Then put on an unscented deodorant in order to avoid razor bumps and chafing.    
When you have razor burn, dab apple cider vinegar straight on your skin allowing it to absorb.  Wash the area after 10 minutes.  Apple cider vinegar is utilized to terminate skin bacteria and yeast infections. 
If you are interested in laser hair removal, contact the Shaw Center at (480) 767-1900 for more information!

             
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            Once your appointment is booked for your procedure, it is important to properly prepare not only for your actual surgery but for your recovery time as well.  Before booking your surgery it is crucial that you are fully satisfied with your decision in order to avoid apprehension and nervousness.  We have a few suggestions to make sure you are organized for a speedy recovery!
            Prior to your procedure, Dr. Shaw will give you brochures and information regarding your procedure and what to expect.  Read up on as much as you can and don’t be afraid to ask him any questions you may have to better prepare yourself.  It is best to have someone close to you be there for support once you initially come out of surgery and plan on taking you home.  If they can be around you for a few days following the procedure in order to help take care of you, even better!
            Properly prepare your home for your return from surgery.  Make sure you stock up on healthy food, plenty of pillows, magazines, movies and essential ice packs.  You can fill your prescription for any medication you may need beforehand so it is readily available once you are back at home.  
            It is very common to feel some doubts the night before surgery, which is normal.  Lack of sleep and high blood pressure may come as a result; try some deep breathing or meditation techniques in order to calm yourself down or watch a funny movie to help relax.  Once you are back at home, take it easy, soon enough you will be able to enjoy the benefits of your procedure!   
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            Generally speaking, the majority of woman are dissatisfied with their breast size and are typically opting to have a breast augmentation to increase their proportion, however, there are women that wish to do just the opposite.  Overly large breasts can cause a lot of pain and discomfort for women, among other issues.  If you are considering having a breast reduction, we have multiple reasons why you should follow through!
            Breast reductions are performed in order to alter the size, firmness, weight and shape of breasts.  Sizable breasts can cause discomfort to women due to their weight, creating back and neck pain, issues with posture and skin irritation.  Since large breasts are so heavy, bra straps can cause uncomfortable indentations in patient’s shoulders because of their weight.  Women with large breasts can have restrictions when it comes to sports, activities and certain exercises because it is painful and unpleasant. 
            Aside from physical discomfort, women who have large breasts may feel embarrassed when their breasts are disproportionate to the rest of their body and lack confidence.  It may be difficult to find clothing that fits their breasts along with the rest of their body and feel unnecessary exposure when in a bathing suit.       
            Opting for a breast reduction can make breasts appear smaller, more proportioned, and lighter, relieving physical discomfort and pain.  The outcome of a breast reduction is permanent but the breasts have potential to become larger due to pregnancy, weight loss and weight gain.  Generally, insurance companies will cover the cost of the procedure if it is due to medical reasons such as relief of back pain and skin issues. 
            If these symptoms and issues sound like your situation, contact the Shaw Center at (480) 767-1900 for a consultation to see if the procedure is right for you!
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            Fuller, thicker eyelashes can help enhance a woman’s appearance and is becoming a sought after look.  Although there are positive beauty benefits to popular products on the market such as eyelash extensions and false eyelashes, these types of cosmetics can have harmful affects on your eyes.  Latisse is a great alternative to the common products and is the first and only eyelash treatment that has been approved and proven effective by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). 
            Utilizing products such as false eyelashes and eyelashes extensions can cause various issues such as allergic reactions and ailments.  “False eyelashes can trap dirt and bacteria, creating irritation and infection.  And they can be difficult to remove.  The risks of eyelash extensions are not only an allergic reaction to the glue but erosion of the inner surface of the eyelids.  And they can cause permanent damage to your natural lashes,” according to Consumer Reports’ medical adviser Dr. Orly Avitzur.
            Having eyelash extensions for a long period of time can eventually harm your natural eyelashes, potentially developing traction alopecia, a kind of hair loss if there is too much follicle pressure on your actual eyelash.  In cases where a woman already has weak hair follicles prior to eyelash extensions, the damage could be permanent and cause irreparable hair loss.
            Latisse is applied to your actual lashes to help produce longer, fuller, darker lashes.  The growth process of Latisse is gradual and the majority of patients see notable enhancements within 2 months of use.  Once you stop using the product, your eyelashes will return to their normal appearance over several weeks to months.  The Shaw Center carries Latisse, however, it is only available by prescription.  Call us today for any questions and information regarding the product at (480) 767-1900.
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            Regardless of how much makeup you wear during the day, it is imperative to remove it every night.  Sleeping in your makeup can cause your pores to clog and can eventually draw acne-causing bacteria to your pores.  Overtime, sleeping in your makeup can lead to undesired subjection to free radicals in the air that makeup clasps to.  Fine lines are then developed on the skin because free radicals breakdown healthy collagen. 
            Even though it is essential to take off your makeup every night, using the wrong makeup remover for your skin type can have the same affect as not taking off your makeup.  No matter your skin type, it is best to go with a remover that does not contain preservatives, fragrances or alcohol.  “If you have rosacea or eczema, use a hypoallergenic fragrance-free makeup remover.  Cream or liquid cleansers work well for individuals with sensitive skin.  And if your skin is more tolerant, you will be better able to handle makeup remover cleansing cloths,” according to the Huffington Post.    
            Using alternative products such as baby oil as a makeup remover can lead to clogged pores, eventually causing breakouts in patients susceptible to acne.  An array of makeup removers incorporate active cleansing ingredients that can stay on the skin until it is washed off.  “If they remain, the residue from them may expose the skin to excess amounts of various chemicals including emulsifiers and surfactants,” according to Dr. Susan Stuart, founder and medical director of La Jolla Dermatology.    
            Once your makeup is fully removed, always wash your face afterwards.  Washing your face once all of your makeup is off helps avoid clogged pores, pimples and breakouts.  The Shaw Center carries the ZO Skin Health line that contains ideal products for any skin type ranging from cleansers to exfoliating polishes.  Contact the Shaw Center at (480) 767-1900 to develop a skincare program tailored to your skin needs! 

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            Now that the holidays are officially over and the New Year has just begun, we’re sure your skin has taken a toll from a neglected skincare routine and excess intake of food and alcohol.  Here are some tips to get your skin back to where it should be and glowing again for the New Year!
            Significantly enhancing the amount of water you consume will help aid in noticeably decreasing puffiness.  “Staying hydrated helps to prevent excess fluids from building up around the eyes as well as de-puffing the face from over-imbibing at the holiday parties,” according to www.refinery29.com. 
An excess amount of alcohol intake can seriously dehydrate skin, making your skin feel dry and tight the morning after drinking.  Add a couple of drops of a serum that contains hyaluronic acid, such as the Retexturing Activator by SkinCeuticals to your usual skincare routine.  After, utilize a moisturizer containing vitamins A and E to help restore collagen such as the Hydrafirm Eye Brightening Repaire Crème by Zo Meidcal. 
            Make sure that you are getting enough sleep and always washing your face prior to going to bed.  Lack of sleep can cause several issues such as breakouts and dark circles under your eyes.  Going to bed with make-up and/or or not washing your face can cause clogged pores and your skin to become irritated as well.
            If you feel as though your skin needs a little extra TLC, the Spa at the Shaw Center offers chemical peels in various strengths and combinations of chemical agents based on your condition.  Chemical peels aid in repairing skin damage caused by years of sun exposure, minimize fine facial lines on your face and improve skin tone and texture among many other benefits.  If you are interested in a chemical peel or other spa services available at the Shaw Center, call (480) 767-1900 for more information!

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            With the New Year right around the corner, it’s time to start thinking of your resolutions and ways you wish to improve.  Have you always considered plastic surgery?  You’re not the only one!  According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, 14.6 million cosmetic plastic surgery procedures were performed in the U.S. last year.  We have compiled a list of great reason on why you should contemplate going under the knife or having cosmetic procedures. 
            Reconstructive surgery is a great option for those that have insecurities due to scarring or defects.  Accidents can cause disfiguration or scarring that reconstructive surgery can help reduce and eliminate.  Birth defects like cleft lips and ear deformities can be repaired to a standard image through a sequence of surgeries as the person grows.  The majority of women who have undergone a mastectomy turn to reconstructive surgery in order to relieve psychological pain.  
            For those that have undergone a major weight loss, plastic surgery is a great alternative to remove excess skin that you are unable to lose.  One of the most common reasons to get plastic surgery is for your own self-esteem and image.  If you have certain insecurities, plastic surgery will help boost your self-confidence and make you feel better about yourself!
            If you are not ready to commit to plastic surgery, there are many non-invasive treatments, procedures and products that The Shaw Center offers that still produce noticeable results.  Products like Botox can be used to enhance your appearance and can also be used for medical reasons such as reducing migraines and sweating. 
According to Before After Surgery Toolbox, the top ten reasons people give for having plastic surgery are to turn back the hands of time, look like a beauty, not a beast, look smokin’ hot (sometimes like a person one admires), erase mistakes (like scars due to an overzealous sense of immortality), get rid of too much “me,” make more of “me” in the right places, to make my partner happy (wrong reason), to fix what’s broken (reconstructive surgery), to make sex better (because I’ll look and feel sexier), and to be happy with my looks (comfortable in my own skin.) 
            Whatever your reasoning may be for plastic surgery, schedule a consultation with Dr. Shaw at (480) 767-1900 in order to discuss your options and improve yourself for the New Year.  We wish everyone a very happy New Year! 

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Still searching for last minute gifts?  Christmas is just around the corner; give the gift of beauty this year!  The Shaw Center carries an array of products fit for anyone’s skincare and beauty needs.  Below are our top 5 best selling products that we’re sure everyone will enjoy!
1.    Latisse
Achieve full, flirty lashes with Latisse.  It is the first and only eyelash treatment that has been approved and proven effective by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and is only available by prescription.
2.    Obagi Products
The Shaw Center carries ZO Skin Health and ZO Medical product lines by Obagi.  These products provide a range of skincare solutions from sunscreen to cleansers to repair crèmes.  Some of the more popular products are the Offects Exfoliating Polish, Oclipse Sunscreen + Primer SPF 30, and Hydrafirm.   
3.    Clarisonic
The Clarisonic has become a popular skincare product due to its effectiveness and skin benefits.  The Sonic Cleansing System uses a patented sonic frequency of more than 300 movements per second to clean, soften and smooth your skin.  When used for 60 seconds a day, the micro-massage action cleans twice as effectively than manual cleaning.
4.    Nectifirm
Nectifirm has been created to tackle the changes that take place throughout the aging process on your neck.  This product rejuvenates your neck area by treating it differently than the skin on your face and utilizing powerful ingredients.  Ninety-six percent of users have reported a firmer neck while using Nectifirm.
5.    SkinCeuticals Hydrating B5 Gel
This serum is designed to aid in tissue repair and replenish nutrients that are essential for a smooth, youthful appearance.  This product also maximizes the benefits of a daily moisturizer and is suitable for all skin types.  *When you purchase a SkinCeuticals Daily Moisture and Hydrating B5 Gel at the Shaw Center, you will receive a FREE SkinCeuticals Antioxidant Lip Repair.  Act now because limited quantities are available!

For any questions regarding these products, call the Shaw Center at (480) 767-1900.  We wish everyone a very happy and beautiful holiday!      
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            CoolSculpting is a non-invasive, innovative procedure that uses cooling technology to visibly remove fat without surgery.  The procedure targets fat cells alone, removing them in an effortless process that diet and exercise cannot attain as rapidly or as successfully.  If you have stubborn fat such as muffin tops, love handles or belly pooch that you can’t get rid of, CoolSculpting could be for you! 

            CoolSculpting is not a weight loss alternative for people who are excessively overweight and the procedure does not replace surgical methods such as liposuction.  Ideal candidates have distinct bulges in particular areas that they wish to remove.  A proper treatment plan will be discussed with your doctor during a consultation.  Although the amount and length of CoolSculpting treatments varies from patient to patient, an average treatment can last between one and three hours. 
            According to www.coolsculpting.com, the top 10 reasons to have CoolSculpting are: “1. I don’t love my handles, 2. Two words: summer vacation, 3. Make my time at the gym look like I’ve been to the gym, 4.  Show up at the reunion in the same jeans I wore then, 5. Move on to the resolutions #2 and #3, 6.  Put my bag in overhead without hesitation, 7. Wear spandex without embarrassment, 8. I eat right, so I deserve to look right, 9.  Make my birthday suit my best outfit, and 10.  I want my body back.” 
            After the treatment patients can expect little to no downtime, although some patients can potentially encounter minimal pain or discomfort.  Since the procedure is non-invasive, patients can usually get back to normal activities following the treatment.  Your doctor can explain more about what to anticipate during and after the procedure at your consultation. 
            Contact the Shaw Center today at (480) 767-1900 for more information and to schedule a consultation!
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