One of the best things about Botox is the fact that no true preparation is needed for your appointment.  However, there are some things that you can do to improve your results and minimize any risk of bruising that can occasionally occur from getting injections.

  • Avoid taking aspirin or using any products that contain Aspirin such as Ibuprofen, Aleve, Motrin, and most over the counter pain medication other than acetaminophen (Tylenol) two weeks prior to your treatment.
  • Avoid drinking alcohol two days before the treatment.
  • Be patient. Remember that it takes three or more days to see an effect from Botox. Don’t expect the injection to last forever, the effects of Botox last about three to four months before it’s time for another appointment.
  • Be honest with your provider- If you are taking any medication that thins your blood, including (but not limited to) Coumadin and Plavix, or if you smoke- your likelihood of bruising is increased. Your SHAW Center provider will apply Arnica Montanna to the treatment areas to reduce the incidence of bruising, and will suggest further treatment of Arnica Montanna at home to assist in the decrease of bruising.
  • Think long term. With repeated treatment, wrinkles often appear less severe over time because the muscles are trained to be less active. In younger patients, Botox may even prevent minor wrinkles from forming.

After your Botox appointment, you are free to go back to your daily activities (go back to work, go out to dinner/lunch, parties etc). However, The SHAW Center does not recommend exercising or lying down (flat on a bed) for four hours after your Botox treatment. If you have Botox injected around the eyes, you should avoid rigorously rubbing towards your eyes for a few days after your treatment.

Call The SHAW Center today to schedule your consultation! (480)767-1900

About Dr. Shaw

Dr. Lawrence Shaw is a double board certified plastic surgeon in Scottsdale, Arizona with over 30 years of aesthetic surgical experience. Dr. Shaw’s excellent reputation is attributed to his uncompromising commitment to the highest standards of patient care, rational decision making and meticulous surgical technique. He has thousands of satisfied patients throughout Arizona, the United States and beyond.

Dr. Shaw is the founder and medical director of The Spa at The SHAW Center which has grown into a Premier Medical Spa offering non-invasive, anti-aging services ranging from advanced skin care, neurotoxins, injectable facial fillers, non-invasive fat reduction, cryotherapy, IV infusion therapy, to lasers for vaginal rejuvenation, hair removal and skin rejuvenation.

About The SHAW Center

At The SHAW Center, over the last 30 years, Dr. Shaw has created an environment to attract the best team possible to promote innovation and exchange ideas to fulfill our mission.

Dr. Shaw’s vision is to deliver the utmost in surgical and nonsurgical cosmetic care and patient experience. We strive to be the plastic surgery and medical aesthetic spa of choice where we consistently meet or exceed our patient’s expectations. Caring for our patients, assessing and realizing aesthetic goals in a safe, comfortable environment is always our top priority.

We provide compassionate personalized care that extends well beyond the treatment and recovery period leaving our patients with a positive lifelong lasting impression. It is personally gratifying to see how many patients from the 80’s and 90’s are still our patients and now referring their children to Dr. Shaw and our office. Our patients truly become “patients for life” and part of The SHAW Center family.

We invite you to come meet our incredible team to explore and realize your aesthetic dreams.

 

November 18, 2016

 

 

Sometimes, less is more.  This mantra might seem to go against the recent contouring makeup trend takeover.  However, you can still achieve the polished look that all of your favorite beauty bloggers are advocating, all the while putting less effort forth in doing so. Our SPA offers a variety of services that can help to fully enhance the natural look that you’re already rocking.
Latisse
One of the most feminine qualities a woman can have is her lashes. While there are many temporary solutions for creating longer-looking lashes, Latisse is a product that will actually grow your natural lashes longer and fuller than ever before.
Laser Resurfacing
Refreshed, glowing skin is always desired, but not always the easiest to achieve. There are a variety of outside contributing factors that can work against you, such as sun exposure and dry atmospheres, which can speed up the aging process. Fight for your glow with laser resurfacing, offered at our SPA, for skin rejuvenation. This service will leave your skin smoother and your complexion flawless.
Permanent Cosmetics
What if we told you that you could save time getting ready and still feel as beautiful as ever without even having to pull out your cosmetics bag?  Permanent make-up, also known as micropigmentation, is another service we offer at our SPA that will help to not only define your eyes, pronounce your eyebrows more but also help to pucker your lips through shading.
Nouveau Contour, which is the device we use for micropigmentation at our SPA, is a leader in the development of new techniques and ensures superior outcomes and results. Not only is this “lunch time” procedure virtually painless and requires no down time, but you can anticipate your make-up to last anywhere from 5 to 7 years before even needing to have it touched up again.
Our very own Brandi Padilla is a licensed aesthetician, a medical laser technician and also a permanent make-up artist who understands the importance of fulfilling the needs of her clients in wanting to achieve effortless beauty.
“People want to ideally wake up looking and feeling good, and now you can with a little help from permanent cosmetics, “ says Brandi.
Call to schedule your complimentary SPA consultation today! (480)767-1900

October is National Breast Cancer Awareness Month, and here at The SHAW Center we take the importance of breast cancer awareness and educating our patients on its impact very seriously. Nearly 12 percent of women in the U.S. will be affected by breast cancer at some point in their lives, and because it’s so common it’s extremely vital to know even the basics of this reality. Below we have some true or false statements to shed some light and clear up some common misconceptions once and for all.

True OR False? Breast Cancer Only Affects Women
False.  Each year there are over 2,000 men who become diagnosed with breast cancer, and the cancer can lead to death in 1 out of 5 of those men.  So while breast cancer is more common in women, it can still affect men in a drastic way.
True OR False? Breast Cancer is the Second Leading Cause of Death for Women
True.  It is estimated that 1 in 8 women in the United States will be diagnosed with cancer in their lifetime. Annually, over 40,000 women in the United States pass due to breast cancer.
True OR False? There are Almost 3 Million Breast Cancer Survivors in the U.S. Today
True. Each year over 240,000 women are diagnosed with breast cancer, and while breast cancer is a leading cause of death for women, there are still many that defeat the cancer.
True OR False: Breast Cancer is Contagious
False. While a percentage of breast cancer is thought to be hereditary, breast cancer is not an airborne disease that you can catch from someone or something else. That being said, practicing a healthy lifestyle can help to reduce the risk of getting breast cancer.
True OR False? A Lump on the Breast Means Breast Cancer
False.  Not all lumps found on a breast are linked to breast cancer, and only small amounts actually are.  While it is still important to have any unusual or concerning lumps checked out by a doctor, thankfully it may not always result in breast cancer. 
For more information, please visit: www.nationalbreastcancer.org

The team of aesthetic experts at Skinbetter Science has been developing comprehensive formulas that work against the effects of time.  They have perfected products that help keep skin looking young without surgery or needles through cutting edge science and innovation. 
Partnership with SHAW
We are excited to announce that our SPA has paired up with Skinbetter Science in order to provide you with the most advanced and effective in skincare anti-aging treatments. Through offering this line at our SPA, we hope to share the brilliant benefits of Skinbetter’s products in conjunction with our own skincare services.
Smoothing Intensive Treatment: LINES
The Intensive Treatment for Lines formula is designed to quickly minimize the manifestation of deep wrinkles and expression lines.  This revolutionary product, which is rich in hyaluronic acid, binds skin and water to create a strong resistance to wrinkles and lines.  This miracle worker should be applied to clean, dry skin in the morning and at night in order to completely and effectively rejuvenate the skin.

 

Smoothing Daily Treatment Cream: FACE
The Daily Treatment Face Cream formula was created to restore five different types of collagen in the skin.  This lightweight formula works to keep skin soothed, hydrated and glowing.  Apply to clean, dry skin in both the morning and the night.  To reap the full benefits of this product, use it with the Intensive Treatment for Lines for a complete approach to collagen conservation.
From October 14th thru October 24th, we’re giving you the opportunity to share your skin secrets with us for your chance to win both the Smoothing Intensive Treatment for lines and the Soothing Daily Treatment Cream for face by SkinBetter Science, which is retailed at a value of $220! Share a photo to either Facebook or Instagram, and caption it with your go-to skin tip, being sure to use the hashtag #SHAWSkinSecrets. Ready, Set, Win For Your Skin!

Arizona’s dry heat is no friend to the health of our hair.  Not to mention, the idea of continuously spending time and money at the hair salon for chemically made conditioning masks isn’t ultra appealing either. Luckily, there are a few at home remedies that can help with naturally conditioning dry hair. 
Coconut Oil
What doesn’t coconut oil help with?  From being a healthier oil to cook with to an excellent skin moisturizer, coconut oil does it all! In addition to all of its other miracle purposes, it’s even used to help strengthen and condition hair. Apply the oil in its liquid form to damp hair, and leave in for approximately an hour.  Wash the oil out while still in the shower, and appreciate your healthy, renewed locks once dried.
 
Egg Yolk and Avocado
Both eggs and avocado are considered to be superfoods. However, not only are they filled with a multitude of health benefits, they are also great for moisturizing hair.  All you’ll need is half of an avocado and two egg yolks.  Mix the two ingredients together well and then apply to wet or damp hair.  Let it sit for about 20 minutes, and then wash out for silky smooth results.
Yogurt, Honey and Olive Oil
Honey in your hair? Who would have thought! Mix one-teaspoon olive oil with one-tablespoon honey and a fourth of a cup of plain yogurt until all of the ingredients are blended together well.  Apply the mixture to damp hair, and leave it in for about 15 minutes before you wash it out completely.
Banana and Almond Oil
These two ingredients are the couple of the year for your hair.  Mash up half of a banana and mix with one teaspoon almond oil.  Apply this mixture to the bottom half of your damp hair, and let sit for about half an hour, then wash.  The proteins and thickness of the banana will help to protect your hair, while the oil works to add moisture and soften your mane, rendering it far healthier than before.

No one wants to deal with mortifying waxing experiences, messy at-home creams or last minute bikini season shaving. When it comes to removing unwanted body hair, laser hair removal is both an effective and long-lasting solution. The SPA at The SHAW Center offers the Lumenis LightSheer Infinity for 75% faster treatments than the average hair reduction session, and it can be used on all skin types. There are a few things you should know before setting on your way to a silky smooth lifestyle.
Avoid the Sun Before Your Treatments
Laser hair removal works best on dark hair and pale skin, so if you’re tan the effectiveness of treatments can be hindered. When your skin is tanned, the laser has to be reduced, which can render it less effective as well. Additionally, you’ll need to keep your recently treated areas out of  sunlight, so it’s best to begin these treatments during autumn or winter.
Don’t Expect Instant Results
We wish it only took the one treatment, but good things take time. While our SPA offers the gold standard in laser hair removal with the LightSheer Infinity, we still recommend anywhere from five to six sessions to see drastic results.
You Can’t Target the Whole Body at Once
If someone tells you that you can, you’ve been seriously misinformed. While our SPA is all about helping you to achieve your aesthetic goals, we’re big on safety too. There’s only a certain amount of cosmetic laser light and heat your body can safely absorb each session.
Consistency is Key
Your hair follicles are on their own growth cycle, so those who see the best results will typically go in for treatment every four to six weeks in order to maximize eliminating the most follicles. This time frame also allows the dead hair shafts to fall out on their own.
Our SPA is offering a free laser hair removal package when you buy the first one now through the end of September. Call our SPA at (480)767-1900 to learn more about this special.
 
It’s unlikely that you’ll go through life having absolutely no regrets, but if there’s some you’re able to erase, then we’re all for it.  Not all tattoos are timeless, and that’s why we have a solution. The PicoSure Tattoo Removal laser is the gold standard in tattoo removal, and our SPA not only offers this service but also highly experienced and well-trained laser technicians to help you achieve your desired results.
Be Realistic About Your Expectations
Your tattoo may take more than one session to fade away and can take between 4-8 months of treatments to achieve the desired results.  Also, the outcome of the treatments may vary depending on the depth of needle penetration used by the artist, as well as the color of the ink.  While it is normal to experience a little pain, the PicoSure Tattoo Laser at the SPA at the SHAW Center is far more comfortable than other tattoo removal technologies.
Excellent Aftercare is a Must
You may experience some side effects after the procedure that your technician can discuss in depth with you.  It’s very important to ice the treated area when needed and to not pick at any blisters if they should arise.  Be very delicate with the area after the procedure in order to ensure you won’t scar or get an infection.
Ask as Many Questions as You Need
As with most procedures, it’s vital to feel completely comfortable in the hands of your technician.  Don’t hesitate to ask any and all questions about post care and pre-treatment, and feel free to reach out to your technician after the procedure for additional follow-up questions. Whether you’re wondering how easily a certain color will be to remove or the time in which it will take to erase your particular tattoo, we have an answer.  Never be afraid to ask the questions that are important to you, so that your technician can provide you with the best overall experience.

What you put in your body is just as much of a concern as what you put on it. Your skin can easily absorb most products, and that’s why when it comes to cosmetics it’s essential to know exactly the types of ingredients that go into your makeup. We’ve rounded up five potentially harmful ingredients that could be living in your cosmetic bag this very minute.
Polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE, AKA Teflon®)
PTFE can be found in some foundations, pressed or loose powder, bronzer, blush and many other makeup products.  PTFE provides a smooth and sleek finish, which is why it’s desirable among makeup lines. PTFE can also be disguised as other ingredients such as DEA-C8-18 or Perfluoroalkylethyl Phospate.
Lead, arsenic, mercury, etc.
These ingredients can be found in lip products, eyeliner, as well as foundation. Heavy metals can be added intentionally or found as contaminants. However, their presence in cosmetics is only restricted in the United States, while they are completely banned in Canada, Japan, and the EU.
Talc
Talc is an ingredient found within some foundations, eye shadows and even baby powder.  The primary uses of Talc are to make products appear opaque on the skin, as well as to prevent caking.  Talc can pose health risks when it contains asbestos, so always search for companies that certify that their talc is free of asbestos on their websites and products.
Butylated Compounds
Butylated Compounds (BHA, BHT) are present in some lip products, sunscreen and face makeup. BHT typically serves as an antioxidant and preservative within makeup, food and animal feed.  The American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists (ACGIH) claims that there is a fair amount of evidence to conclude that BHT is a human irritant.
Carbon Black
Carbon Black can be found in eyeliner, mascaras, eye shadows and other face makeup.  Carbon black that is available for commercial use contains polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), which are possible human carcinogens.  Carbon Black can also be identified as D & C Black No. 2, Acetylene Black, or Thermal Black and is restricted, but no banned, by the United States and the Europe Union.

 

Aging is inevitable, so it’s important to at least be cautious of the factors that can exacerbate this process in order to stall the hands of time when we can. While some causes seem more obvious than other, such as sun exposure and smoking, there are a multitude of other under-the-radar variables that can also lead to a weathered complexion.
Spraying Perfume/Cologne On Your Neck
Did you know that one of the main ingredients in perfume and cologne is alcohol? Alcohol increases your photosensitivity, which means you’re more likely to sunburn in the areas where you’ve applied the fragrance. Our necks and chests are the areas on our bodies that are most susceptible to signs of aging, so it’s best to spray your clothes with the scent in order to minimize your chances of premature aging.
Fad Diets
Juicing, the “Raw Food Diet” and the “Master Cleanse” are all examples of fad diets.   Fad diets can eliminate a beneficial food group out of the mix, which means your body isn’t getting what it entirely needs.  Your skin requires lots of nutrients, antioxidants and protein in order to age well.  Next to water, protein is the most plentiful substance in your body.
Your Pillow
Most of us have a favorite side of our body that we like to sleep on, whether it’s on the left, right, or even your stomach.  When you sleep on a particular side,  your face is continuously smashed into the pillow night after night, which can weaken the connective tissue and collagen on that certain favored side.  When it comes to combatting premature aging, it’s best to at least attempt to sleep on your back in order to keep skin smooth and symmetrical.
Gel Manicures
Gel manicures look incredible, but the process of drying the gel polish under the UV or LED nail lamps puts your hands at risk for premature aging. Both UV and LED nail lamps produce UVA rays, so the Skin Cancer Foundation recommends applying a broad-spectrum sunscreen 20 minutes prior to UV light exposure.
Eye Makeup
It’s incredibly important to remove makeup before falling asleep each night, but it’s equally as important to be as gentle as possible when removing makeup.  Particularly when it comes removing eye makeup, the constant rubbing and scrubbing can cause the delicate skin on and around the eye to wrinkle and age.  Always use gentle rubbing motions when removing eye makeup, and stick to an oil-based eye makeup remover that will help to breakdown the product.

When you’re focused on skin health and aesthetics, it’s inevitable to run into your fair share of myths and assumptions. There are plenty of skin-related myths out there, and we feel that it’s time to shed some light on a few of those tall tales. We’ve rounded up some of the most common ones in order to debunk them once and for all.
Cellulite is directly correlated to a poor diet.
Cellulite is caused by a variety of different factors including, genetics, lifestyle, hormones and diet.  Cellulite is also more prevalent in women than men; in fact, at least 90% of all women will experience cellulite during their lifetime.  The appearance of cellulite can be reduced by regular exercise and a diet low in fat. However, even individuals that are lean and eat healthy can still experience this issue.
What you eat has no effect on your skin.
A few studies were conducted in the 70’s claiming that diet and acne have no direct correlation.  Since then, these findings have been falsified, and it’s now been determined that diets with a high-glycemic index can in fact lead to breakouts.  Acne flare-ups along the jawline can also indicate an allergy or sensitivity to dairy products.
Sunscreen/sunblock is the same thing.
Sunblock offers physical protection by sitting atop of the skin in order to provide a barrier between the skin and UVB light.  Sunscreen offers chemical protection by absorbing into the skin, providing a barrier between the skin and UVA light.  UVA and UVB light are completely different light spectrums, and the Skin Cancer Foundation recommends protection from both, which is available in sunscreens labeled as “broad-spectrum.”
                   
You will age just like your Mom.
Genetics play an obvious and vital role within our bodies.  However, when it comes to aging, genes only a small part since so many other factors can affect our aging processes.  Smoking, sun exposure, diet and skin care regimes can all transform the composition of our skin and how well we age.  If mom looks great, be sure to follow her footsteps and limit sun exposure, wear a broad-spectrum sunscreen that you can reapply throughout the day, adopt a nutritious diet, acquire a simple yet effective skin care regime and don’t smoke.