Spring is quickly approaching but for those who have not seen the sun, may not be ready to put their best bronze forward. It may seem logical to resort to tanning beds as a means of instant gratification, but it’s essential to stop and think before exposing yourself to those unhealthy and unnatural rays.
Sure it’s easy, convenient, and for the most part actually works. However, the long-term damage caused from “fake baking” is just not worth it. There are quite a few alternative options that are far better for your health and won’t make you look like you just got done rolling in a pile of Doritos.
Bronzing Sprays
This bronzing process is both effortless and effective! There are quite a few different bronzing sprays out there, but QuickTan spray, available at The SHAW Center, is foolproof. It encompasses agents like flower extract and Aloe Barbandensis Leaf Juice and when applied will build a subtle, believable color.
You Are What You Eat
You can also achieve a sun kissed complexion by eating your way there. Obviously we don’t suggest using this as your only means to mahogany, but it will definitely aid in the process. Vegetables such as carrots, apricots and sweet potatoes all contain beta-carotene, which produce a ton of vitamin A. This will help increase the production of melanin, which is responsible for changing the color of your skin.
Carrot cake anyone?
Highlighting Other Features
When all else fails, focus on other features that when contrasted against your fair skin makes you appear bronzed. This can be as simple as whitening your grin. Crest’s 3D whitening strips will make your mouth sparkle within just a matter of days.
You can also always utilize a good matte bronzer for a quick fix. You don’t have to limit your makeup application to just your cheek bones either. Give your collar bone and shoulders a good dusting as well. We recommend utilizing a setting spray in case you’re planning on giving any hugs to men in white button downs later. 
Always wear light colors. The only need to wear black now is if we’re mourning the death of our tragic winter skin. Otherwise, donning muted tones, pastels and creams are a surefire way to deliver the perfect contrast.
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Coconut oil has countless health benefits and can be used as a remedy for even some of the trickiest fixes. The Shaw Center is a huge advocate of maintaining a healthy image, and this supplemental method will only help to ensure that your complexion keeps its pristine glow.
More than 99% of coconut oil is made up of fats…don’t freak out yet. They’re the good kind of fat and work as agents to fight off potential attacks on your body.
One way to take advantage of some of the benefits of coconut oil is to use it on your locks. Being that coconut oil is one of the best natural nutrients for hair follicles, it aids in nourishment through shine and revival through growth. It also helps with protein loss, which would otherwise contribute to some other unwanted qualities for your mane.
You can apply coconut oil to your damp hair after you shower and let it act as a leave-in conditioner for an ample amount of time until you wash it out. This will help to heal damaged hair and moisturize your scalp.
Another beneficial use of coconut oil is on your skin. It acts as a powerful moisturizer without clogging your pores. It can also be used as a preventative measure in avoiding aging and wrinkling of the skin. Although the Shaw Center offers many different options for skin rejuvenation, adding coconut oil into your daily regimen can only help to amplify your skincare method.
Additionally, coconut oil can help with digestion, improve bone health, treat damaged skin, lower cholesterol and improve your overall immune system!
Coconut oil has become the holy grail of all-natural products and might need to be considered the next time you’re wondering what more you can do to enhance both your health and beauty routine.
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From demis to push-ups, finding the right bra for you can be a tedious process.  Having the proper knowledge of exactly what to look for in an undergarment can make a worlds difference and feel less overwhelming.  Knowing your bra size is critical, but there’s more to it than just numbers and letters.  Wearing a bra shouldn’t be like donning some dated, Victorian contraption. It should be effortless!
Not only is it important to determine which type of underwear you feel best in, it’s also instrumental in guaranteeing a flattering figure. Whether it’s the constant struggle of trying to reduce your bustiness or attempting to make your girls look even, there’s a solution for even the most frustrating fixes. Plus, at times wearing the right bra can even make you look as though you’ve dropped 10 lbs!
HerRoom has comprised a chart that both simplifies and personalizes your bust and its corresponding bra style. Obviously, you can’t define your breasts based entirely off of a structured list of categories, but it will aid in helping to give you that extra needed support and shape. 
For example, a demi cup will allow for you to showcase some cleavage due to its shorter underwire and wide-set straps. If you’ve recently come to terms with the fact that no matter how much you try your top is a stage one clinger and won’t settle without first exposing your bra’s silhouette, then the t-shirt bra might be the best bet. Lift your spirits and your bust with these considerations next time you’re in the market for some new lingerie. Do not forget to embrace your shape!
            Contact The SHAW Center at (480) 767-1900 for more information about a breast reduction or augmentation procedure or to schedule a consultation! 

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            Instead of fighting your fat, learn to love it with a fat transfer.  A fat transfer procedure is exactly what it sounds like; moving excess fat from an area of the body like the outer thighs to areas that are deficient in mass such as parts of the face, breasts, hands and buttocks.  Fat transferring techniques continue to become more innovative, creating consistent, reliable results.
            As people begin to age, particular areas of our body start to lose fat and/or sag.  A fat transfer is an ideal procedure to enhance these areas that lack from aging.  Speaking of aging, the collection of stem cells and growth factors from the fat cells will also find its place in the rejuvenation process.
            Some reasons to consider a fat transfer is if you have areas on your face that are visibly creased or sunken, if you’re seeking a more permanent situation opposed to fillers and to replenish contour asymmetry of the breasts or mask clear indications of breast implants, among other motives.
            For the procedure, fat is initially harvested in one area of your body and sterilized, then reinserted with particular needles into the area(s) that need enhancement.  The only risk for scarring is from liposuction, which is performed when removing excess fat from the contributing area.  Scarring, if any, would be small and in a hidden area.             
            If you’re interested in more information or would like to schedule a consultation for a fat transfer, contact The SHAW Center at (480) 767-1900.

                    

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            Cheers to a new year and a beautiful you.  Whether you’ve set resolutions to hit the gym or eat healthier in the past, take a different approach this year by learning to embrace yourself with some of our tips.
            Make an effort to give more thought to self-care, whether it is through methods such as mediation, contemplation, reflection or more.  Set aside a few moments for yourself each day in order to check in and connect with yourself.
            Begin each day by uplifting yourself and reading at least one or a couple of personal development articles to help inspire your day.  Find a variety of personal productivity websites and articles to choose from here.   
            If you’re the type that bites off more than you can chew or fully immerses themselves in their work, take a break this year.  Set aside some time off here and there for self-improvement and to relax and rejuvenate.  It’s essential to take care of yourself now for the long run. 
            Surround yourself with friends and family that will not only support but also encourage the path and goals you’re determined to achieve.  Take your journey with those that cast back the love that you have found within yourself. 
            We’re sure you’ve heard that you can’t love someone else until you begin to love yourself; well it’s true!  Whether you’re already in a relationship, married, or single, setting aside time to love yourself and exert confidence this year may help draw someone to you or help strengthen a relationship you’re already in.  
            Wishing everyone a very fabulous and Happy New Year! 
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            Although the majority of treatments provided in The SHAW Center Spa demand little to no downtime, more invasive procedures such as breast augmentations and face lifts require more rest and relaxation.  It’s essential to understand and be prepared for recovery post procedure in order to remain comfortable and obtain optimal results. 
            Requirements for recovery vary from each procedure, considering each part of your body heals at different rates among other factors.  Recovery is one of the most important periods throughout a plastic surgery procedure since there are a few risks for complications such as infection, incision splitting and escalated swelling.  Patients have a tendency to overlook their recovery period and focus on their results, which can leave them unprepared for how they will look and feel during their recovery process. 
            Ensuring that you’re healthy prior to your procedure will help you in the long run and aid in speeding up your recovery.  Eating properly and getting plenty of rest for the weeks leading up to your appointment is key.  Follow guidelines that Dr. Shaw has instructed and remember to stop using any medications or supplements indicated to prevent unwarranted bleeding and/or swelling. 
            During your consultation feel free to consult Dr. Shaw with any questions or hesitations you have about your recovery such as how much pain to expect and how long it will take to fully recover and to refrain from certain activities. 
            Once you have a full understanding of what to expect from your procedure and how much down time is required, plan your procedure at a convenient time for friends, family and work in order to properly recover.  Confirm that someone will be accessible to help you go to the bathroom, take your medications, prepare ice compresses and other daily needs for the first 24 to 48 hours after your procedure.  It’s crucial to stick to a balanced diet and drink an abundance of fluids post procedure in order to receive nutrients and help your body heal properly. 
            Keep in mind that every procedure has different requirements during their recovery period.  Contact The SHAW Center at (480) 767-1900 for any questions and concerns about a procedure or to schedule a consultation. 
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            According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, The U.S. has seen a 310% rise in male patients receiving Botox since 2000.  Due to the competitive job market, among other reasons, men are beginning to take a dip into the fountain of youth.  Some are beginning to refer to the trend as “BroTox.” 
Alternative procedures such as fillers and lasers have been immensely popular among men.  Men are beginning to realize that laser hair removal works in their favor to cut down time on trimming and grooming.  CoolSculpting helps keep a fit physique that doesn’t require any time off from work or downtime in general.  CoolSculpting helps combat stubborn fat that diet and exercise have a tough time getting rid of. 
More and more men are turning to treatments due to their innovation.  The majority of men don’t want to look as if they’ve had any work done.  Most noninvasive procedures at The SHAW Center Spa deliver results that patients are striving for yet don’t make them look “plastic.”
Another sought-after procedure among men is chemical peels due to the numerous results they deliver.  They help repair skin damage caused by years or sun exposure, minimize fine facial lines on your face, remove or decrease lip creases, crows feet and forehead lines, and minimize the appearance of pores among many other benefits. 
Whether your favorite beau is seeking CoolSculpting or a chemical peel, help them along and schedule their first appointment or consultation.  Contact The SHAW Center at (480) 767-1900.
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            From lashes to skin treatments, The SHAW Center carries a wide variety of powerful, pharmaceutical strength products that can promote healthy skin and enhance your appearance.  Although we love all of the products we carry, like Oprah, we have compiled a list of our top five favorite products of 2014. 
Be on the lookout starting Monday, December 15 for each of our favorite products to be featured on our Facebook (The SHAW Center – Plastic Surgery – Skin – Laser) and Instagram (@TheSHAWCenter).  One product will be featured each day next week and when it makes the list, you will have the opportunity to take 10% off that product.  We will also be featuring a giveaway of 2 Latisse and 2 Nectifirm.  The following are our favorite products and why we love them!
Clarisonic Brush: Smooth, clean skin creates the perfect canvas and that’s why we love the numerous benefits of the Clarisonic.  This product helps remove 6x more makeup than manual cleansing, leaves skin feeling and looking smoother, cleanses so well that products absorb better, helps reduce oily areas, dry skin patches and blemishes, and also helps reduce the appearance of visible pores.
GlamGlow Glamtastick Masks: Since hitting the market in 2011, GlamGlow has been one of the most sought after beauty brands.  Their products help combat common skin concerns and are targeted for men and women of all ages and skin types.    
Latisse: Forgo the falsies and get the real thing with Latisse.  Latisse is the first eyelash treatment that has been approved and proven effective by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). 
Nectifirm made by Revision Skincare: Take charge and transform a turkey neck with Nectifirm.  This amazing product helps tone and enhances the firmness and texture of your neck.
ZO Daily Power Defense: This powerful product contains time-released retinol, antioxidants and specialized DNA-repairing enzymes to consistently aid in reducing UV oxidative damage and uneven pigmentation while simultaneously repairing skin function and elasticity. 
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            The latest technology for breast lifts, Seri Surgical Scaffold, helps maintain your results better than before.  Seri Surgical Scaffold is a new, innovative surgical mesh derived from natural silk.  The mesh aids in preserving the breast lift by resisting the stretching or “bottoming out” of the lower portion of the breast that may occur post mastopexy (breast lift) regardless if you have implants or not.
            Dr. Shaw, a nationally recognized plastic surgeon, had the pleasure of being among the first group of US surgeons hand selected to be trained in the use of Seri back in September, 2013.  Seri Surgical Scaffold has been approved to be utilized in procedures that demand soft tissue support and repair, like breast lifts.
            Seri Surgical Scaffold is the premier and exclusive Silk-based Biological Scaffold, not originating from human cadavers or animal tissue.  More particularly, Seri is a “knitted, multifilament, bioengineered, long-term bioresorbable scaffold.”  Studies have shown that after 2 years Seri tissue indicated about twice the standard strength of ovine fascia. 
            Silk was one of the first and finest supported surgical substances and was only accessible as a quality suture, until Seri Surgical Scaffold.  Seri aids in strengthening and supporting tissues that have been stretched due to large breasts, implants or aging.    
            If you’re intrigued by Seri Surgical Scaffold and would like to find out if it’s fit for you, call The SHAW Center at (480) 767-1900 to schedule a Breast Lift Consultation with Dr. Shaw. 
  
           
           
        
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            When the word injectable is mentioned, the first thought that typically comes to the majority of people is Botox.  Although the FDA approved Botox in 2002, there have been alternative injectables introduced to the market since then.  Dysport was approved by the FDA in 2009 and then Xeomin in 2011.
            Like Botox, Xeomin is a “prescription medication used to temporarily improve the appearance of moderate to severe frown lines between the eyebrows (glabellar lines) in adults and contains botulinum toxin type A, a protein purified from the bacterium Clostridium botulinum,” according to www.origin.library.constantcontact.com.  
              Xeomin provides the latest and most innovative research and results accessible in neutrotoxin (Botox).  Initial results from the injectable can be expected within 7 days after treatment.  Full results will typically be noticeable around the first 30 days.  Results from Xeomin can last up to 3 full months, however, they may be remarkably longer or slightly shorter depending on the patient. 
            Standard facial expressions throughout the day such as squinting or frowning requires the muscles between your eyebrows to contract, resulting in the skin to groove and crease.  As you begin to age, your skin slowly loses its elasticity, which then usually creates frequent frown lines.  Botulinum toxin type A, the main component in Xeomin, work on nerve endings in muscles to combat muscle fibers from shrinking.  This process briefly minimizes the wrinkles on your forehead and other problem areas on your face.
            If you’d like to receive additional information about Xeomin or would like to schedule an appointment, contact The SHAW Center at (480) 767-1900. 
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