Research indicates that there are two specific kinds of aging: aging created by genes we inherit (intrinsic) and aging caused due to environmental factors, such as exposure to the sun’s rays (extrinsic).  Our patients as well as our staff have been raving about EltaMD Sun Care in order to protect their skin from the brutal sun, especially in Arizona.
            Ultraviolet (UV) rays are components of the invisible energy that comes from the sun.  UVA (aging) rays account for 95% of our sun exposure.  These rays create skin aging and contribute to skin cancer.  UVA rays sneak into the skin layers, harming collagen and cells, which leads to wrinkling, hyperpigmentation and loss of elasticity.  UVB (burning) rays typically affect the outer layer of the skin. 
            EltaMD Sun Care products provide a variety of sunscreens that prevent sun damage safely and supply true broad-spectrum UVA and UVB protection.  All of the products are composed of microfine transparent zinc oxide and are noncomedogenic, sensitivity-free, fragrance-free and paraben-free.  The products range from facial and body sunscreens from SPF 30 to 50 and each product is tailored to certain skin types such as those prone to acne, rosacea and hyperpigmentation.
            Dermatologists have discovered that the most powerful cosmeceutical that can prevent and reverse the signs of aging is sunscreen.  All of the EltaMD Sun Care products can help put a stop to signs of premature aging and protect against sun-related skin diseases when used daily.
            Contact the SHAW Center at (480) 767-1900 to find out more about the EltaMD Sun Care products that we carry!   
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         Now that summer’s here we’re sure you’ll find yourself exposing more skin than usual and if you can’t tone it, tan it!  There are so many bronzing products available now that are much safer than traditional tanning or going to a tanning salon.  One of our favorite sunless products is Quick Tan self tanner by Body Drench. 
            Quick Tan helps give you a desired instant summer glow with salon quality sunless tanning at home.  The Bronzing Spray has a 360-degree nozzle to ensure simple application and the tinted formulas make it easy to see where to put the product on.  Once applied, a natural tan will progress within 3-5 hours.  The SHAW Center carries Quick Tan bronzing spray in medium/dark.  For the best results, consider the following:
·      Use on clean, exfoliated skin
·      Shake well before use
·      Spray evenly over body holding the spray 10” away
·      Wash hands after application
·      Let your skin dry before putting on clothes
·      For a darker tan, use once a day until you attain desired color
·      To maintain your tan, apply once or twice a week
Another sunless tanning alternative are spray tans.  The FDA has backed DHA, the principal component in sunless tanning products, for over 40 years.  Although DHA is considered safe, if you are receiving a spray tan avoid spraying your face for various reasons.  Since the skin on your face is more sensitive than the rest of your body, spraying your face can clog your pores, which will most likely lead to blemishes and breakouts. DHA is recommended for external use only so you should avoid inhaling the product.  If you already have dark spots on your face, spraying your face will make them appear darker.  Once your spray tan begins to fade, it may fade unevenly on your face.  The best option to make your face tanner is to utilize bronzer.  Some of our favorite bronzers are Laguna by NARS and Smashbox Bronze Lights.
          If you have additional questions about Quick Tan or would like to purchase, contact the SHAW Center at (480) 767-1900.   
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            Now that summer is in swing, are your legs prepared for their debut?  From bathing suits to dresses and shorts, we’re sure you’re legs will have their fair share of exposure during the hot months.  Forget the hassle of shaving and opt for LightSheerâ DUET, permanent hair reduction.
            In order to temporarily eliminate unwanted hair people used to turn to messy, painful solutions such as waxing, shaving, plucking, electrolysis or chemical depilatories.  Laser hair removal is more beneficial than these alternative treatments and provides permanent results.  The High Speed LightSheer DUET uses state-of-the-art diode lasers with vacuum-assist technology to remove unwanted hair.  The method is more efficient than other treatments due to greater speed and comfort.  
            The High Speed LightSheer DUET is a laser that creates a bigger beam of extremely concentrated light.  The light released is well absorbed by the pigment within the hair follicles.  Throughout the procedure, the laser pulses for a fraction of a second, enabling the hair to absorb the light and warm up.  As the light warms up, the hair shaft and bulb are damaged which remarkably hinders the hairs potential to re-grow.  Since the light has a large beam, the treatment tackles a copious amount of hair follicles concurrently, creating a much faster alternative to other traditional laser hair removal options.
            The LightSheer DUET provides two handpiece options, depending on your needs.  The innovative vacuum assisted technology within the handpiece combined with diode laser light enables quick and comfortable treatment to large areas.  A back or legs can be treated within 15 to 20 minutes sans numbing cream.  It is necessary to have multiple laser hair removal treatments because the laser is ideal when hairs are in an early growth stage and all of the hairs are not in this phase at the same time. 
            If you are interested in the High Speed LightSheer Duet for permanent hair reduction, contact the Shaw Center at (480) 767-1900 for additional information or to schedule an appointment.      
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            Tired of being told you look tired?  Dark circles are very common and have a number of causes such as allergies, lack of sleep, stress, and genetics to name a few.  Teamine Eye Complex is the number one eye cream recommended for dark circles by physicians. 
            Teamine is constructed to be effective through several pathways.  The cream provides three main benefits such as visibly diminishing the look of dark under eye circles, reducing the appearance of puffiness and smoothing the look of fine lines and wrinkles. 
Teamine is formulated from several key ingredients: Teamine Complex, Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate (Vitamin C), Phytonadione (Vitamin K), Mica, Silica & Titanium Dioxide, 1 and 3 Beta-Glucan, and Peptide Complex.  These ingredients work together in order to remove dark circles, puffiness, fine lines and wrinkles, brighten, calm and soothe the skin.  The powerful antioxidants in the cream help create optimal anti-aging benefits as well. 
Once you begin to use Teamine, you will be able to see and feel long-term results within four to eight weeks.   Teamine’s formula has been constructed from years of rigorous research and is considered to be the most complete topical cream offered to tackle dark circles, puffiness, lack of elasticity and fine lines and wrinkles in the fragile eye area. 
Contact the Shaw Center today at (480) 767-1900 for additional information or to begin your Teamine treatment!

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            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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            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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 I’m sure we’ve all tried at least one fad diet before, it seems as if the latest trend are juice cleanses.  Juice cleanses can range anywhere from a day to detox or up to a week, sometimes longer.  The main issue with juice cleanses is that they lack necessary nutrients your body needs and do not consist of any protein or fat that are essential to keep your body going.

            “Cleanses purport benefits such as improvements with immune system function, fatigue and depression, weight loss, and an overall detoxification of your system.  In reality, however, there is no scientific evidence in support that cleansing does any of these.  In fact, such diets may not actually remove toxins from your body,” according to Fox News.

            Regardless if you are doing a pure fruit juice cleanse or veggie cleanse, both have very similar affects on your body.  “After two days, with each shot of juice, your insulin levels skyrocket, then crash.  Your glycogen stores are pretty much gone, leaving your tank on empty-and you feeling weak and listless.  Since you’re getting only about half the calories you need, your body draws on two long-term power sources: triglycerides, a type of energy stored in fat cells and protein, taken straight from your muscles.  You begin to lose muscle mass, even if you’re still exercising every day,” according to Women’s Health Mag.

            Generally you do lose weight throughout the duration of a cleanse because of the dramatic reduction in your daily caloric intake.  By the time you end your cleanse and begin to eat solid food, you have lost muscle.  Once you begin eating normal, the calories you consume are likely to turn into fat since you have less muscle mass to burn the calories you are consuming, resulting in weight gain.

            Cleanses and detoxes can fall into the category of fad diets, which in the long run are not a feasible solution for a healthy lifestyle.  Remember to eat everything in moderation and try to focus on having a balanced diet consisting of fruits, vegetables, protein and whole grains! 

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