Blank 6 x 4 in1

You’re Invited: Let’s Talk Cosmetics with Debbie A. Wallace PA-C

The Woodruff Institute invites you to learn about our favorite cosmetic treatments!

Debbie A. Wallace, PA-C will be discussing Botox, Dysport, Fillers, Lasers, Skincare… and more!

DATE: October 11th
TIME: 4 – 6 pm
LOCATION: South Fort Myers location
RSVP: 239-590-8894

Participation giveaway! And guests will receive 10% off a procedure if booked at the event. Light refreshments will be served. Limited seating.

disco

Skinceuticals Discoloration Defense

Skinceuticals Discoloration Defense is a daily-use dark spot corrector clinically proven to reduce the appearance of skin discoloration, including hard-to-treat stubborn brown patches (hyperpigmentation) and post-acne marks.

Formulated with the latest-generation blend of ingredients to:
-improve the appearance of skin discoloration
-brighten skin
-even skin tone in as early as 2 weeks
-will minimize the reoccurrence of discoloration with continued use
-clinical studies have shown 60% average improvement in the appearance of stubborn brown patches
-Paraben-, fragrance-, silicone-, gluten-, and most important hydroquinone-free!

The ideal at-home complement to professional skin discoloration treatments, such as chemical peels, micro needling or non-ablative laser. Gentle enough to use twice daily.

We recommend using Skinceuticals Discoloration Defense all over and not just spot treat as it will inhibit further discoloration from occurring.


To find out more…

Please call our toll free number at 844.485.0104 for a consultation at one of our offices in Naples, Bonita Springs, or Estero or…

click here to request an appointment online

healthy skin care ingredients

The Most Essential Ingredients To Look For In Your Skin Care

Written by: Sharon Panella, licensed aesthetician

Zinc Oxide

It’s a natural mineral which provides the safest and most effective protection against both UVA and UVB rays. Unlike chemical sunscreens, zinc forms a physical barrier on the skin, reflecting the sun’s rays rather than absorbing them. Because of this, it is particularly good for heat-activated skin (like those with redness or rosacea). Zinc oxide is also nontoxic and less irritating to skin than chemical sunscreens, this is a beneficial ingredient for easily-irritated skin.

Suggested products: ELTA MD Sun protection (Full line of sunscreens)

Hyaluronic Acid

Water is essential for feeding the cells of our skin and keeping them looking plump, radiant, and youthful. Found naturally in your skin’s dermis, hyaluronic acid holds onto water and provides contour to the skin. When used in skincare products, it helps retain the skin’s natural moisture balance. Amazingly, it can hold up to 1000 times its weight in water, resulting in enhanced elasticity, lubrication, plumpness, and moisture in the skin. With continued use, the skin’s water content improves daily and fine lines and wrinkles become plumper and therefore less visible. It focuses mainly on delivering water to thirsty skin types, so it’s well tolerated by even the most oily, acne-prone skin type.

Suggested product: Skinceuticals H.A. Intensifier, Skinceuticals Hydrating B5 Gel

Retinol, Tretinoin

A form of vitamin A, retinol and Rx Retina contain a cell-communicating ingredient and antioxidant that stimulates collagen, activates cellular metabolism to encourage faster skin cell turnover, and improve skin firmness. Other than sunscreen, it’s one of the most tried-and-true proven topical anti-aging ingredients. With consistent use the cream and/or gels available give remarkable results for resurfacing the skin’s texture. It is one of the most studied and proven ingredients in skin care and truly has the ability to create permanent change for improving skin.

Suggested product Obagi Tretinoin Creams and Gels, Skinceuticals Retinol 1.0 and .05, Skin Authority Vit D Topical Elixir

L-Ascorbic Acid

A stable, no-sting form of vitamin C, it helps to lighten brown sun spots, even out skin tone, lift discoloration from breakout scars and reduce the appearance of wrinkles while encouraging collagen production. It also prevents environmental damage while giving the skin a brighter and fresher look additionally using a serum with both vitamins C and E under sunscreen actually provides more protection. It’s found to be extremely effective in interfering with many aging free radicals found in the environment (such as sunlight, stress, and pollutants).

Suggested product: Skinceuticals C&E Ferulic, Phloretin CF, Serum 20

AHA (Glycolic, lactic, fruit acids)

Exfoliation is imperative to maintain the look and feel of younger skin. The quickest, easiest way to improve the skin is to use an exfoliating product. By dissolving and removing dry surface cells, you instantly reveal fresher, polished, plumper cells that reflect light to reveal smoother, brighter, healthier skin.

Suggested products: Skinceuticals C+AHA, Skinceuticals LHA Cleanser, Skin Authority Perfection Peel Pads, Skin Authority Night Revitalizer, Skin Authority Exfoliating Cleanser

BHA (Salicylic Acid)

A keratolytic beta hydroxy acid noted for its ability to reduce acne-causing bacteria and oil to prevent blemishes, and promote more even-toned skin. Of all the exfoliating acids, salicylic penetrates the pore lining to help clear out impurities for the reduction and prevention of blackheads and clogged pores. Excellent choice for problematic skin and also acne spot treatments. It has proven results in reducing blemishes to clear the skin.

Suggested products: Skinceuticals Blemish and AGE Defense, Obagi Clenziderm Pore Therapy and Obagi Clenziderm Facial Cleanser

Sharon Panella, licensed aesthetician

Sharon is a licensed aesthetician at The Woodruff Institute. She has over twenty years of experience in the field of medical grade aesthetic treatments and over ten years teaching experience. Sharon is accepting new patients in our North Naples office. Email Sharon spanaples@thewoodruffinstitute.com

testimonial e1530122467363

FemiLift Treatment Testimonials

The best way to understand something is to hear it from someone who has experienced it. Here are some words as written by one of our patients who has already benefited from FemiLift and is happy to share her story…

“I am a 23 year old, female with year old twins. My children were on the larger side at birth and carried almost full term. Together they weighed a total of 14.7 pounds! After they were born I experienced some unpleasant changes to my body that I wasn’t prepared for; such as mild incontinence and urgency that was quite disruptive and at times impossible caring for twins. I never imagined that I would actually come across something that would be a solution to these problems then I tried FEMILIFT! I had one treatment performed and in just that single treatment I noticed such a tremendous difference. I was able to take a 4 hour road trip without fearing the closest restroom wasn’t close enough!

The procedure itself I would describe to be as uncomfortable as a pelvic exam but in my experience completely painless. Debbie Wallace made me feel completely comfortable and explained the procedure thoroughly before we began. She frequently checked in on me to ensure my comfort and satisfaction. Overall it was a stress free and extremely positive experience. I have also interacted with and received information on the procedure from Dr. Sarah Churton. She is extremely knowledgeable and open to questions. I would be just as comfortable receiving the treatments from her as I was with Debbie.

I was extremely stressed out leading up to the exam and fearful of what all it would entail. After this experience, I am completely at ease with the process and look forward to my next session!”

-M.Y.

I am a 45 year old mother of four. As most of us know, that after children and stress on our bladders, we sometimes have “accidents” with sneezing, coughing or laughing. This was one of the things that I disliked the most about my post babies, older body. When I found out about femilift I was very skeptical but was willing to give anything a try. I have to say after two of my three treatments I haven’t had any accidents! The procedure was painless and I am now its biggest advocate!

-J.C.

Click here to learn more about FemiLift treatments. 

Juvashape Summer Special 3

Slim & Trim: JuVaShape Aftercare

JuVaShape is GREAT for anyone looking to tone, tighten and smooth stubborn areas of the skin.

It also helps with destroying fat cells! If you are already participating in JuVashape, you will find this article beneficial to your lifestyle. Continue reading for aftercare tips!

Hydration is very important. Hydrate hydrate hydrate. We ask that you try to drink at least a gallon of water daily (or as much water as you can). Increasing your water intake will help to flush out all of the toxins after your JuVashape treatment. The more water you drink, the better your results. Coffee, alcohol and soft drinks will dehydrate you and prevent you from seeing results, so please keep that in mind.
Exercise. JuVashape is wonderful in conjunction with working out. Walking while hydrating is popular amongst our patients. 100% of our participants noticed results by following this simple plan.
Diet. It’s always important that you maintain a healthy diet while partaking in JuVashape treatments. Try to avoid fatty and greasy foods as much as possible. You want to make sure you are feeding your body the proper nutrition it needs.

In conclusion, the more you take care of your body, the more your body will take care of you. It’s always exciting to see end results from JuVashape treatments. Here at The Woodruff Institute, our main goal is to help you look and feel good. We strive for nothing but the best with our patient satisfaction. So, if you are not currently a JuVashape patient, stop in and see us for a complimentary consultation!

Laser Treatment To Treat Large Pores

Healing After Laser Treatment

For those of you who have taken steps to rejuvenate your skin with a laser treatment at The Woodruff Institute, here are some things to keep in mind while your skin heals.

Your skin will most likely feel sunburned and/or tight. Do not let your skin dry out. For the first several days, keep the area moisturized several times a day with an ointment such as EltaMD Moisturizer, Aquaphor Ointment, plain Vaseline Ointment, or Vaniply Ointment.
Soak your skin in cooled vinegar solution daily. Mix 1 teaspoon of plain white vinegar in 2 cups of distilled water. Dip a 4×4 gauze into this solution and apply to the area for 10-15 minutes at a time. Store the misture in the refrigerator to keep cool. Plan to do this several times a day for the first few days to reduce redness and speed up the healing process. The more frequent you do it, the better!
Avoid picking, rubbing, or scrubbing the skin. Let the skin flake off on its own.
Avoid sunlight. If you have to go outside, use physical blockers such as wide-brimmed hat, large sunglasses, or scarf. When your provider says your skin is ready, use broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least a SPF of 30. Sunscreen should be applied even on cloudy days becasue the ultraviolet A (UVA) rays pass through car or house windows and can cause darkening or discoloration of the skin.
Do not apply any other creams, ointments, or products until your provider tells you it is ok to do so.
You may have swelling of the affected areas in the first few days. Sleeping elevated using 2-3 pillows may help. You may also use ice packs wrapped in clean gauze/cloth.
You may experience itching during the healing process. You may take over-the-counter Benadryl (diphenhydramine) as needed by mouth. It is an antihistamine which may make you drowsy. Do not use the topical/cream formulation of Benadryl (or other antihistamines).

Please call the office if you experience intense pain not relieved with ice packs or Tylenol, fever, severe redness, blistering or tingling sensation, appearance of cold sores, pus formation, white or yellowish film, odd or unpleasant smell to the treated area, or any concern that you may have.

For more detailed, step-by-step instructions on skin care after laser:
https://www.thewoodruffinstitute.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/Post-treatment-Instructions-Laser-Pixel.pdf

For more detailed instructions on skin care after Intense Pulse Light (IPL):
https://www.thewoodruffinstitute.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/Post-treatment-Instructions-Laser-IPL.pdf

Facts about sunscreen e1522085948411

Facts About Sunscreen

While sun protection can certainly be a hassle, it’s a must to protect you from the damaging effects of the sun!

Sunlight exposure increases your risk of skin cancer, significantly speeds up the skin aging process, and results in brown spots and blemishes. Use of a broad-spectrum, SPF 30 or above sunscreen is part of your arsenal of sun protection, in addition to wide-brimmed hats, large sunglasses, and protective clothing. Do not forget to reapply your sunscreen every two hours.

Important facts about sunscreen…

How would I get adequate Vitamin D wihtout exposing myself to the sun?
Vitamin D is best acquired through diet and supplementation. Vitamin D formation from sunlight exposure on the skin is limited and is reached within minutes. Afterwards, longer exposure actually breaks down the Vitamin D into inactive compounds. Get this– A study of Hawaiian surfers who had numerous hours of daily sun exposure, half of them were found to be insufficient in Vitamin D!

The Institute of Medicine (IOM) recommends daily intake of 600 IU (International Units) Vitamin D for adults less than age 70, and 800 IU for adults older than age 70. Obtain Vitamin D from fish, such as salmon, mackerel and tuna, or fortified milk, yogurt or orange juice, and/or supplementation. Obtaining Vitamin D through diet will not increase your risk of skin cancers. If you are concerned that you may not be getting enough vitamin D, you should discuss it with your primary care physician.

What about the “scary chemicals” I’ve heard about in sunscreen?
Recently, there have been reports from special interest groups questioning a few ingredients in some sunscreens that were highlighted in popular media. It is best instead to base the answers on a review of the latest information that is “peer-reviewed” (meaning evaluated by experts in the field) and published in respected scientific journals.

For example, oxybenzone has been reported in rodents to penetrate the skin and produce free radicals, which may be harmful to health. However, oxybenzone has been approved by the FDA and available and widely used by humans in the US for about 30 years now. There is no evidence so far of serious side effects, or hormonal side effects, in humans. Often what applies to rat studies does not apply to humans.

Another example: An old, unpublished study of retinyl palmitate on mice suggested that it may accelerate tumor growth. Retinyl palmitate is a form of vitamin A stored by the skin. There is no evidence that vitamin A causes cancers in humans. In fact, vitamin A compounds (retinoids) have been shown to prevent skin cancers, treat skin precancers, and help restore skin damage from sun exposure.

In the following article, reputable photobiologists — experts on the interaction of ultraviolet (UV) radiation and the skin, further addressed the sunscreen ingredients that have been falsely incriminated in popular media, in more details: https://www.skincancer.org/prevention/sun-protection/sunscreen/sunscreens-safe-and-effective

Even if you do not feel comfortable using chemical sunscreens that contain oxybenzone or retinyl palmitate, that is not a problem! There are plenty of great sunscreens that are physical-blockers only. We recommend the EltaMD sunscreen line (available in our offices), or over-the-counter Blue Lizard’s Sensitive or Baby line of sunscreens, or Neutrogena Sheer Zinc line of sunscreens.

Where should you go to get credible information on sunscreen?
Make sure you get your sunscreen facts from accurate, non-biased, scientific evidence-based sources such as the Skin Cancer Foundation (www.skincancer.org), the American Academy of Dermatology (www.aad.org), or American Cancer Society (www.cancer.org). Our dermatology providers at The Woodruff Institute would be happy to address your skin concerns. We offer same-day appointments.

fingernails

How to Achieve Healthy, Strong Fingernails

Many patients notice that their fingernails become thinner, more brittle and fragile with age.

As the years go by, our nails can become thinner, more brittle, and take longer to grow. This is common because the nail plate hardness and well-being is dependent on its state of hydration. Brittle nails usually result from repeated cycles of hydration and dehydration, often caused by washing dishes without using gloves, frequent hand washing, or overuse of dehydrating agents such as nail enamels or nail enamel removers.

Nail care products contain, in varying amounts, many toxic and potentially hazardous ingredients that may damage nails. Nail polish can cause yellow-orange staining and brittle nails, and sometimes may cause an allergic skin rash. Acetone-containing nail removers lead to excessive nail dryness and inflammation of nail folds, which are the areas of the finger around the nails. Artificial nails (which may contain methyl methacrylate) may cause thinning, splitting and discoloration of the nail, loss of cuticle, or allergic skin rash. Nail hardeners (which may contain formaldehyde) may cause bluish discoloration of the nail.

Also keep in mind that cuticles play an important role in sealing the area between the nail fold and the nails. It is recommended not to manipulate or cut away the cuticles, as doing so compromises the natural barrier and may result in infection or chronic inflammation.

Here are some things you can do to keep your nails healthy:

  • Always wear gloves when working in water, like washing dishes
  • Always moisturize your hands after washing and drying them
  • Apply moisturizers that contain lactic acid, urea, phospholipids or mineral oils
  • Soak hands it in lukewarm water for 10 minutes at bedtime to help rehydrate
  • Wear cotton gloves to protect nails from damage or possible injury when working
  • Wear cotton gloves over moisturizing cream at night for deep moisturizing
  • Take a daily multivitamin that contains iron, thiamine (vitamin B5), cysteine, and/or pantothenic acid (vitamin B5)
  • Don’t bite your nails or the protective cuticles around them
  • Use a nail hardener or clear polish to strengthen the nails
  • Go polish-free in between maincures to give nails a break
  • Limit the use of nail polish removers to 1-2 times per month
  • Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water
  • Ask your dermatologist about topical prescription medications for brittle nails. Make sure to check with your insurance company to see if the medications are covered.

For our patients who suffer from nail fungus, brittle or discolored nails, or those who are allergic to chemicals in commercial nail polish, we offer a line of nail polishes by Dr.’s REMEDY. Dr.’s REMEDY offers over 40 different shades of nail color along with nail care products such as base coat, top coat, cuticle care and a nail hydration. Each product is infused with a special blend of ingredients including: wheat protein, tea tree oil, garlic bulb extract and lavender. Dr.’s REMEDY products do not contain formaldehyde, formaldehyde resin, toluene, camphor or pthalates or DBP. Dr.’s REMEDY is a great alternative to traditional nail polish.

Biotin is a popular over-the-counter supplement that has been shown to strengthen nails. It’s important to note that the FDA recently issued a warning that Biotin may seriously interfere with different types of bloodwork, including thyroid studies and troponin- a biomarker that is used in diagnosing heart attacks. According to the FDA, the daily recommended allowance for Biotin (0.03 mg) does not typically cause significant interference in blood studies. However, supplements containing biotin usually contain much higher levels of it — often hundreds of times above the recommended daily allowance. At this time, the FDA is currently working to better understand biotin interference and to develop recommendations regarding biotin. Therefore, in the meantime it would be prudent to limit Biotin use to 0.03 mg per day.

If you have abnormal nail symptoms, or any changes on your nails or fingers, make sure to see your dermatology provider for evaluation as some types of nail abnormalities may be signs of concern.