When most people think of Botox the first thing that usually comes to mind is wrinkle reduction. Indeed, Botox is the world’s most popular treatment for eradicating wrinkles and fine lines. The toxin is specifically FDA approved for treating frown lines between the eyebrows (glabellar lines) and lines around the eyes (crow’s feet). In addition to being the gold standard for wrinkle reduction, Botox can also be used to treat a variety of issues, both cosmetic and non-cosmetic. Dr. John Zannis is a New Bern, North Carolina board certified plastic surgeon. He provides a list of conditions that Botox has been used to treat.
Acne
Botox can curb oil production, reducing breakouts. "To totally treat acne, you'd need to use doses of Botox so large they'd prevent you from constricting your facial muscles," says Dr. Zannis. "But tiny amounts of Botox injected very superficially help reduce oil production, and you can still have facial expressions." Though he'd recommend it for almost any patient struggling with acne, Zannis would likely advise trying another dermatologist-prescribed treatment, like spironolactone or birth control pills, first. And though it can technically be used to quell oil production anywhere on the face, he cautions against using it all over because of potential effects on muscular activity (a.k.a. frozen face). The most effective and common area for using Botox to curb oil production, he says, is the forehead.
Gummy smile (not FDA approved)
A "gummy" smile, one that's characterized by a smile that shows too much of the gums, usually results from "excessive lip elevation" when the upper lip rises too far above the upper teeth when smiling. Injecting Botox into the upper lip weakens the upper lip's retractor muscles so that it won't raise as high and your smile will seem better-balanced. It can be done in about five minutes. Usually lasts for four to six months. Costs range from $200-$300. Dr. Zannis says, "This technique is not for the novice Botox injector. Too much, and your lip won’t raise enough, too little and you will need more, or if injected asymmetrically, you might have a funny asymmetrical smile."
Urinary incontinence.
Overactive bladder problems affect up to 20% of women over 40. For severe cases where medications do not provide complete relief, Botox injections into the bladder wall may provide relief lasting about 6 months.
Psoriasis
Psoriasis is uncomfortable, itchy, and not exactly easy on the eyes. Luckily, this flaky skin condition could be a thing of the past thanks to Botox. Though psoriasis is technically incurable, Botox minimizes the activity of inflammatory cells that bring on outbreaks.
Excessive Sweating
For those who suffer from excessive sweating, however, summer isn’t always the sunniest time of the year. Thankfully, Botox could be a saving grace for those attempting to manage this condition, which is officially known as axillary hyperhidrosis. Studies show that just a handful of injections can reduce underarm sweat for up to TWO years. Um, where do we sign up?
Breast Lift
Are your breasts in need of a pick-me-up? Instead of going under the knife and getting permanent augmentation, some experts have suggested a quick and easy Botox lift. Dr. Zannis says that, “Those looking for a modest improvement are said to be able to temporarily plump their assets thanks to injections into the pectoralis minor chest muscle.”
Depression
The benefits of Botox® may be more than skin deep; two recent studies suggest that it may help alleviate the symptoms of depression. In a study published in the May 2014 issue of the Journal of Psychiatric Research, more than half of participants who had moderate-to-severe depression showed a substantial improvement in depressive symptoms following one injection of Botox® between the brows. This improvement lasts longer than the cosmetic effects, suggesting that the effect may be more than just feeling better about your appearance. Botox® is not approved to treat depression.
Teeth Grinding
Injections of Botox® were used to control involuntary muscle tension and spasms long before it became the go-to wrinkle buster. Dr. Zannis says that, “these neurotoxin injections may weaken the chewing muscles enough to reduce bruxism (teeth grinding) without affecting your ability to chew, talk and smile. Results last about four months. Botox® is not yet approved to treat bruxism.”
Migraine Headache
Botox® is approved by the FDA to treat chronic migraine headaches in adults who have 15 or more headache-days a month, each lasting four hours or more. Studies that led to this indication show that BOTOX®® prevents up to nine headache-days a month (vs seven for dummy injections). Other research hints that the neurotoxin may also help with low cerebrospinal fluid headaches and cluster or "suicide" headaches.
Brow Boost
Much like lines form over time, your brow may also drop or droop. Botox cosmetic treatments can also be used to improve the appearance of the brow. Dr. Zannis explains that, “the treatment essentially freezes the sagging muscles in place and gives the brow more stability. Lifting the brows in this way leaves you with a less tired and younger, fresher appearance.”
Jaw Reduction (off label use)
Botox can be used to perform jaw reduction (commonly called jaw line softening). Injecting Botox into the masseter muscle (the primary muscle used in chewing actions) reduces its overall size; transforming an overly square and masculine appearing jawline into a more feminine oval or heart shape.
Dr. John Zannis is a New Bern, North Carolina board-certified plastic surgeon and best selling author. A graduate of Stanford University and The University of Cincinnati Medical College, he received his formal training in General Surgery and Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery at Wake Forest University in Winston-Salem, North Carolina under the guidance of world-renowned plastic surgeon Dr. Louis Argenta. During this time, he performed over 5,000 surgical procedures and covered all aspects of plastic surgery including cosmetic surgery of the face and body, complex reconstructive procedures of face and body, cleft lip and palate surgery, hand surgery, facial and jaw fracture repair, and reconstruction following massive weight loss. He blends his interests and studies of classical art and symmetry to his surgery practices. Connect with him via twitter@JohnZannisMDor his website www.zannisplasticsurgery.com
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Road trips, gas stops, no time for lunch; we’ve all found ourselves at the convenience store for a fast bite on the go. While a bag of chips or chocolate bar may be an option we later regret; there are fast bites that can actually offer some health benefits. Dr. Christopher Calapai a board certified expert in osteopathic medicine specializing in longevity offers some junk food options to consider the next time there’s no time for an actual meal.
Blue M&M’s and Blue Gatorade
Don’t get the blues about all food dyes.From candy to sports drinks, the unnatural colors of foods today can make you cringe at the thought of what’s making them colored. But, not all colored dyes are as bad as you may think. Research done by scientists at the University of Rochester found that Brilliant Blue G (BBG), found in blueM & M’s and blue Gatorade, could help reduce damage from spine injuries. When BBG was injected into lab rats with spinal cord injuries, it sped up their recovery time and ability to walk.
Cheeze Whiz?? No way!!
Fat isn’t always a bad word.The FDA has stated that not only are all trans fats not bad, some are actually good for you. Conjugated Linoleic Acids (CLAs), although high in calories can help fight cancer, weight gain, diabetes and arthritis. It’s hard to believe, but CLAs are found in Cheese Whiz.
Pork Rinds
Just the words pork rinds sound like instant heart attack. However did you know they are a fantastic source of protein? A one-ounce serving of this fried snack has seventeen grams of protein, seven times the amount of found in a serving of potato chips. Plus, 43% of the fat found in pork rinds come from oleic acid, the same healthy fat found in olive oil.
Beer
Some studies have found that beer can actually help increase bone mineral density because it contains silicon, making bones stronger and less likely to fracture. A Harvard University study found that beer could prevent blood clots and reduce the risk of stroke. Italian researchers found that beer can raise HDL, the good cholesterol in your body. Opt for a light beer with fewer calories to avoid that full feeling.
Graham Crackers
They are the next best things to cookies if you’re trying to keep your health in mind. Graham crackers contain much less sugar than regular cookies and are still sweet enough to satisfy a craving. Plus, they are made with flour that undergoes a special milling process, preserving more of the whole wheat than in usual milling.
Popcorn
This is a snack that gets two thumbs up. Popcorn is packed with fiber and polyphenols, which are antioxidants that help to protect us from heart disease and certain cancers. Surprisingly, popcorn has more iron than eggs and spinach! It is also gluten-free, which makes it an option for those with Celiac Disease and other gluten allergies. Lastly, popcorn is mostly air. This means it fills you up, helping to stave off hunger cravings.
Beef Jerky
Forget about the leather-tasting jerky of years past, today’s gourmet jerky is delicious and can be healthy. Beef Jerky, just like its non-dried version of meat, is high in protein, iron and zinc. It, also, contains heart-healthy monounsaturated fats. Be sure to look for natural beef jerky as the newer gourmet styles that are packed with flavor and free of nitrates.
About the Doctor:
Dr. Christopher Calapai, D.O. is an Osteopathic Physician board certified in family medicine, and anti-aging medicine. Proclaimed the "The Stem Cell Guru" by the New York Daily News, Dr. Calapai is a leader in the field of stem cell therapy in the U.S. His stem cell treatments have achieved remarkable results in clinical trials on patients with conditions as varied as Alzheimer's, arthritis, erectile dysfunction, frailty syndrome, heart, kidney and liver failure, lupus, MS and Parkinson's. He has worked with Mike Tyson, Mickey Rourke, Steven Seagal, and Gotham's, Donal Logue; and as a medical consultant for the New York Rangers. Connect with him via twitter @drcalapai or at www.drcal.net
Eyesight and Memory Loss are Leading Concerns Around Aging
Internationally, the top five physical conditions that people worry most about having, either now or as they age, are eyesight getting poorer, not being as mentally alert, lacking energy, having trouble taking care of themselves physically, and being unable to walk or drive.
These are the findings from a GfK survey of the online population across 17 countries, which asked people which physical conditions they worry most about having, either now or as they age, from a list of 19 different conditions:
Eyesight getting poorer 38%
Not being as mentally alert / memory
loss 38%
Lack of energy 36%
Having trouble taking care of
yourself physically 34%
Losing mobility / unable to walk or
drive 33%
Experiencing body aches 30%
Gaining weight 27%
Being more at risk for serious
diseases 26%
Losing your hearing 24%
Having digestive problems /
irregularity 21%
Getting wrinkles, sagging / loose
skin 21%
Losing your hair or having your hair
get thin 20%
Incontinence 19%
Losing muscle tone 19%
Losing your sexual drive 17%
Hair turning gray or white 16%
Developing age marks, scars or
noticeable veins 15%
Menopause 10%
None of these 10%
The study reveals how widespread certain concerns are within different countries and between genders - information that manufacturers and retailers can use to better target their product placement and advertising.
For example, 38 percent of the international online population says "eyesight getting poorer" is a worry. But this rises to over half in Spain (53 percent), Mexico and Argentina (both 52 percent). Similarly, "not being as mentally alert" is a concern for 38 percent of people internationally, but is much wider concern in Spain (66 percent), Argentina (58 percent), Germany (52 percent), Mexico (51 percent) and Italy (50 percent).
Some countries also stand out as being more concerned about specific physical conditions compared to others. Russia is the only country surveyed where "losing your teeth" is a top five most popular concern, while in Japan and Korea "getting wrinkles or sagging skin" is in their top five. Japan also has "losing muscle tone" in their top five, which again does not feature in other countries' top five.
Differences between men and women are also seen. Both genders have the same top five physical concerns around aging - although in slightly different order. However, looking further down the list, far more men than women worry about "losing sexual drive" (22 percent men; 11 percent women) - and far more women than men are worried about "getting wrinkles or sagging skin" (32 percent women; 11 percent men).
GfK's online survey interviewed over 22,000 consumers aged 15+ across 17 countries. Fieldwork was completed in summer 2016 with data weighted to reflect the demographic composition of the online population aged 15+ in each market: Argentina, Australia, Belgium, Brazil, Canada, China, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, Mexico, Netherlands, Russia, South Korea, Spain, UK and USA.
HAVE TROUBLE COPING WHEN THE CLOCKS “FALL BACK?”
YOU MAY HAVE SEASONAL AFFECTIVE DISORDER AKA.. SAD
The clocks “fall back” November 6, 2016 which means that there will be less day light. Many people chalk up feeling blue in winter as simply a fact of cold weather and lack of sunshine. But 4 to 6 percent of people may have a winter depression which is clinically referred to as Seasonal Affective Disorder. Another 10 to 20 percent may have mild SAD. SAD is four times more common in women than in men. Although some children and teenagers get SAD, it usually doesn't start in people younger than age 20. Your chance of getting SAD goes down as you get older.SAD is also more common the farther north you go. For example, it's seven times more common in Washington State than in Florida. Dr. Sanam Hafeez is a neuro-Psychologist in NYC (Manhattan and Forest Hills, Queens), and treats patients in her practice who display and express mood changes once October rolls around.
Dr. Hafeez explains that, “In most cases, seasonal affective disorder symptoms appear during late fall or early winter and go away during the sunnier days of spring and summer. However, some people with the opposite pattern have symptoms that begin in spring or summer. In either case, symptoms may start out mild and become more severe as the season progresses.”
The following are symptoms to look for to see if you are suffering from SAD
Depression
Hopelessness
Anxiety
Loss of energy
Heavy, "leaden" feeling in the arms or legs
Social withdrawal
Oversleeping
Loss of interest in activities you once enjoyed
Appetite changes, especially a craving for foods high in carbohydrates
Weight gain
Difficulty concentrating
How is SAD treated?
Many people with SAD will find that their symptoms respond to a very specific treatment called bright light therapy. For people who are not severely depressed and are unable—or unwilling—to use antidepressant medications, light therapy may be the best initial treatment option says Dr. Hafeez.
Light therapy consists of regular, daily exposure to a “light box,” which artificially simulates high-intensity sunlight. Practically, this means that a person will spend approximately 30 minutes sitting in front of this device shortly after they awaken in the morning. If patients do not improve, a second exposure of 20-30 minutes may be added in the early afternoon. Treatment usually continues from the time of year that a person’s symptoms begin, such as in fall, on a daily basis throughout the winter months. Because light boxes are created to provide a specific type of light, they are expensive and may not be covered by insurance. Unfortunately, having lots of lamps in one’s house and spending extra time outside is not as effective as this more expensive treatment.
Dr. Hafeez states that, “Side effects of light therapy are uncommon and usually reversible when the intensity of light therapy is decreased. The most commonly experienced side effects include irritability, eyestrain, headaches, nausea and fatigue.”
Scientific studies have shown light therapy to be very effective when compared to placebo and as effective as antidepressants in many cases of non-severe SAD. Light therapy may also work faster than antidepressants for some people with notable effects beginning with in a few days of starting treatment. Other people may find that it takes a few weeks for light therapy to work, which can also be the case for most people who take antidepressant medications. Although not explicitly recommended, some people may elect for treatment with both light therapy and antidepressant medications. The combination of these treatments may be synergistic and a more robust way to address the symptoms of SAD.
In her practice Dr. Hafeez has found that antidepressant medications have been useful in treating people with SAD. Of the antidepressants, fluoxetine (Prozac) and bupropion (Wellbutrin) have been studied in the treatment of SAD and shown to be effective. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved these medications for treatment of major depressive disorder. Dr. Hafeez cautions that, “Any person considering treatment with an antidepressant medication should discuss the benefits and risks of treatment with their doctors.”
Individuals with a predisposition to bipolar disorder should be more cautious in approaching treatment for SAD and depression in general. Light therapy, like antidepressant therapy has been associated with increased risk of experiencing a manic episode. The specifics of this are beyond the scope of this review and again, should be discussed with one’s doctors.
Finally, a healthy lifestyle, including regular exercise, a good diet and a strong social network, is also likely to help you cope with SAD.
Sanam Hafeez Psy.D
New York State Licensed Neuropsychologist and School Psychologist
Dr. Sanam Hafeez is a New York City based Neuropsychologist and School Psychologist. She is also the founder and director of Comprehensive Consultation Psychological Services, P.C. She is currently a teaching faculty member at Columbia University.
Dr. Hafeez graduated from Queens College, CUNY with a BA in psychology. She then went on to earn her Master of Science in Psychology at Hofstra University. Following that she stayed at Hofstra to receive her Doctor of Psychology (Psy.D.) She later completed her post-doctoral training in Neuropsychology and Developmental Pediatrics at Coney Island Hospital.
Dr. Hafeez’s provides neuropsychological educational and developmental evaluations in her practice. She also works with children and adults who suffer from post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), learning disabilities, autism, attention and memory problems, trauma and brain injury, abuse, childhood development and psychopathology (bipolar, schizophrenia, depression, anxiety, etc…) In addition, Dr. Hafeez serves as a medical expert and expert witness by providing full evaluations and witness testimony to law firms and courts.
Dr. Hafeez immigrated to the United States from Pakistan when she was twelve years old. She is fluent in English, Urdu, Hindi and Punjabi (Pakistani and Indian languages.) She resides in Queens, New York with her husband and twin boys.
Train It Right Youtube Launch
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Health Smart Financial Services ("Health Smart"), a technology-enabled specialty lender, announced today that it has closed a new senior revolving credit facility with CWB Maxium Financial ("CWB Maxium").
Health Smart's technology platform allows healthcare providers to offer their customers affordable monthly payments for services and products that require private out-of-pocket expense. Health Smart has a rapidly growing base of over 1500 merchant partners who benefit from the company's instant credit approval and paperless transaction capability.
"CWB Maxium is a great partner for our business," said Wayne Pommen, President & CEO of Health Smart. "This new revolving facility replaces our existing facilities and provides us with substantially increased funding capacity to grow our consumer loan portfolio. Combined with the growth equity investment we received from iA Financial Group last month, we are very well capitalized to continue our pace of growth in 2017 and beyond."
"We are pleased to be a funding partner for Health Smart as they capture the point-of-sale financing opportunity in Canada," said Neil Cruickshank, Vice President at CWB Maxium. "Health Smart has tremendous potential to attract quality financial assets. The transaction aligns with our strategy for creative and innovative financing, and supports our growing portfolio in the Canadian financing sector. We look forward to ongoing growth opportunities and collaboration."
About Health Smart: Health Smart Financial Services is a leading Canadian point-of-sale consumer lender focused primarily on the healthcare sector. Using Health Smart's platform, healthcare providers can have their customers approved for affordable monthly payments on-location or remotely using desktop, tablet, or smartphone interfaces. By partnering with Health Smart, merchants provide their customers with greater access to services while growing their sales. Health Smart's major segments include dentistry, fertility, audiology, mobility devices, veterinary services, and cosmetic procedures, in addition to selected segments outside the healthcare sector. Health Smart has approved over $170 million in consumer credit since inception.
About CWB Maxium: CWB Maxium Financial is a CWB Group company and offers creative structured financing that responds directly to the specific needs of each customer. Maxium Financial Services Inc. was founded in 1993, and on March 1, 2016, it became a CWB Group company. Today, the portfolio exceeds $1 billion. With over 35,000 customers, CWB Maxium is earning a reputation for innovative lending solutions coupled with an unparalleled ability to build long-term relationships. Learn more at www.cwbmaxium.com
ACE launches JointHealth™ Education
North America's first on-line classroom designed to educate, empower and graduate today's modern arthritis patient
Arthritis Consumer Experts (ACE) today announced the launch of its newest on-line patient education program: JointHealth™ Education. Designed to enable arthritis patients to progress from being a "student" of arthritis to full-fledged "graduate," JointHealth™ Education empowers and equips them to be equal partners on their health care team. As part of the launch, ACE is introducing the first course in the program - JointHealth™ Education: Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) - to help patients and their healthcare providers better understand each other's motivations and goals for the patient's overall treatment and care plan.
"JointHealth™ Education was inspired by many of ACE's members living with an inflammatory arthritis who have told us they lack the communications expertise to have full, satisfying conversations with their rheumatologists on topics such as treatment options during their clinical visits. The program is informed by our organization's participation on a global advisory panel that conducted a survey in 16 countries of rheumatoid arthritis patients and their health care providers. The results illuminate the discord between the needs, concerns and fears of patients compared to the views of their health care providers," said Cheryl Koehn, Founder and President of Arthritis Consumer Experts and a member of the RA Narrative Global Advisory Panel.
Key findings of the RA Narrative Global Patient Survey included:
The vast majority of RA patients survey indicated they defined treatment success as no longer being in pain and having little to no inflammation, followed by improvement in their overall quality of life; the healthcare provider survey reported that their goals for their patients were achieving disease remission and/or low disease activity;
More than a third of patients surveyed reported they do not take their RA prescription medication as prescribed;
Over two-thirds of RA patients reported they felt uncomfortable raising their concerns/fear with the healthcare provider, and over a third strongly agreed or agreed that they worry if they ask too many questions, their healthcare provider would consider them a "difficult patient" and this would affect their quality of care.
These and other important findings from the RA Narrative Global Patient Survey led ACE to seek a made-in-Canada solution that focuses on closing the "communication gap" between RA patients and their rheumatologist to help them work as equal partners in disease management.
"The survey represents the views of 4,000 RA patients around the world and of their healthcare providers in the companion survey, providing ACE the road map for the development of JointHealth Education RA," said Koehn. "This evidence tells us that a patient's perception of their RA and its treatment, as well as their relationship with their healthcare provider, impacts the management and the outcomes of their disease. It shows us that, together, RA patients and their rheumatologists can better communicate and understand one another's views to achieve the best possible outcomes for patients."
JointHealth™ Education provides current, evidence-informed lessons, quizzes and coaching videos through a secure, on-line classroom where they can learn from the comfort of their own home or over the work day lunch hour. The program helps prepare patients to appropriately frame their health concerns and questions with their healthcare provider. Upon successful completion of a course the patient "Graduate" receives a certificate indicating they have the knowledge and communication tips needed to successfully prepare for their medical visit, talk to their health care provider about setting treatment goals and making an overall plan, discuss specific treatments (medication and non-medication forms) to manage and monitor their type of arthritis.
"Canadian rheumatologists have been actively discussing and pursuing ways to improve communication between patients and rheumatologists in order to work together to set treatment goals and establish a treatment plan to achieve the best possible disease outcomes. JointHealth™ Education is a valuable tool not just for patients, but also for rheumatologists – junior and senior, alike – to better assess the wants and needs of patients through their eyes, not just ours as was the case in days gone by," said Kam Shojania, MD, FRCPC, Clinical Professor and Head, Division of Rheumatology, University of British Columbia, and Medical Director of the Mary Pack Arthritis Program.
About Arthritis Consumer Experts
Arthritis Consumer Experts is a national organization that provides free, science-based information and education programs in both official languages to people with arthritis. ACE serves people living with all forms of arthritis by helping them take control of their disease and improve their quality of life through education and empowerment. Founded and led by people with arthritis, ACE also actively advocates on arthritis health and policy issues, through ACE's JointHealth™ family of programs and the Arthritis Broadcast Network, directly to consumers/patients, healthcare professionals, media and government. ACE is guided by a strict set of guiding principles, set out by an advisory board comprised of leading scientists, medical professionals and informed arthritis consumers.
World Stroke Day reminds us all that stroke is treatable
March of Dimes Canada celebrates global campaign on October 29
Anna Bauer-Ross was 36 when she had her stroke. She was on vacation in the Bahamas with her young kids, unaware of how her life was about to change.
"I had to relearn the basics because the stroke had caused a severe left side neuropathy and even damaged my vocal chords," Bauer-Ross says. "My days of being a busy mom, carpooling, and taking my children to their sporting events were over. I was learning how to conquer the most elementary tasks: walking, writing, even seeing."
The most surprising thing is that Anna is not alone - stroke can and does strike people of all ages. It's a devastating diagnosis, of course, but there's good news too: stroke is treatable!
That's the theme of this year's World Stroke Day (October 29th). Like March of Dimes Canada'sStroke Recovery Program, the World Stroke campaign focuses on rehabilitation and recovery, and the fact that stroke survivors can return to engaged, fulfilling lives.
"What happens after a stroke is extremely important," says Andria Spindel, President and CEO of March of Dimes Canada. "March of Dimes Canada focuses on helping the individual move past the stroke, find meaning and support, develop re-integration and independence skills, build new or renew social relationships, access recreation, health education and more. Stroke Recovery groups assist in rebuilding lives."
Today, Bauer-Ross is doing well, but she describes recovery as a long-term process.
"Recovery never ends. It's a journey. The key has been to understand the importance of medication maintenance, staying active with the help of my family, and doing all that I can to stay on course with my recovery."
March of Dimes Canada is a nationally registered charitable organization providing support services to people with disabilities, their families and caregivers across Canada. Our goal is to enhance the independence and community participation of people with physical disabilities every day through a wide range of programs and services across Canada. For more information, please visit www.marchofdimes.caor call 1-800-263-3463.
SOURCE March of Dimes Canada
Fitness Ladies Why Draw Brows When You Can Tattoo. You sweat off your brows anyway. So why not try a permanent fix! Introducing: The Good Geisha
“Restoring confidence in someone’s life makes all the difference.”
- Amber Gotzmiester –
COSMETIC TATTOOING IN TORONTO
TORONTO, ON – From permanent make-up, to medical and restorative procedures; cosmetic tattooing, known as ‘micropigmentation’ is becoming a common practice for both men and women living in and outside of the GTA. Responding to this growing trend, are Cosmetic Tattoo Artists, Amber Gotzmeister and Anna Chow, who have teamed up to bring Toronto its first premiere cosmetic tattoo shop calledThe Good Geisha. The pair is working hard together at quickly distinguishing themselves from the bad to THE GOOD by practicing voluntary standards in an unregulated industry with ongoing health and safety concerns.
“Many professionals in the industry, including myself, strongly believe that cosmetic tattooing does not belong in an environment where you'd get your nails done,” says Amber Gotzmeister. “Because the industry is unregulated with little enforced standards, you want to do your research before selecting someone to administer cosmetic tattooing. You have to be very careful. I would strongly advise against budget cosmetic clinics and day spas offering cosmetic tattooing.”
Gotzmeister hasbeen a senior instructor at the Micropigmentation Centre since 2014, primarily focused on all “hands on” practical training for all of the programming.She also leads the Microblading Programteaching theory, design concepts and strategies.Gotzmeisterhas performed over 500 eyebrow and eyeliner services; 200 lips and 100 paramedical.
“We hear countless horror stories and witness mistakes up-close and personal; often having to correct errors from improper and unprofessional procedures,” says business partner, Anna Chow. “There has also been little positive media coverage on our industry. We want to change these attitudes by highlighting the benefits, but while addressing health & safety concerns such as infections, permanent disfigurement, and Hepatitis B and C. Not only can cosmetic tattooing be expensive to correct, improper procedures can also be detrimental to one’s health.”
“Many celebrities are rumoured to have had permanent make-up procedures,” says Gotzmeister. “When you live your life constantly in the spotlight and under a microscope, it seems like a viable option. The same goes for those rushing to get to work in the morning. Many people are turning to cosmetic tattooing to save themselves the time and hassle from applying makeup.The three most common procedures are eyebrows, eyeliner, and lips, in that order. However, it changes between cosmetic and medical based on demographic and market targeting. American insurance companies are even starting to include cosmetic tattooing in their coverage plans. Canada has yet to follow.”
“I absolutely love how natural my brows look after microblading with Amber,” says Melissa Andre of Melissa Andre Events. She was able to perfect my brow shape and give me perfect definition to highlight my eyes. I fly between Toronto and LA throwing parties for Drake and many other celebrities; cosmetic tattooing has helped me save a lot of application time. When you are constantly working in the spotlight and busy like me, the procedure was a wise investment that improved my business of being social.”
Why "The Good Geisha"?
“I really wanted to make sure I wasn't confused with the typical beauty bar so I wanted a name that reflected a traditional tattoo shop. I found a "tattoo shop name generator" on Google and just clicked a button to come up with names. The first click populated the name Bad Geisha. I liked it, but I didn’t want to give off a brothel impression. I changed bad to good and bounced it off my husband. He said I should put word "the" in front of it. When I bounced it off my girlfriends she mentioned the stigma of the geisha so I did some research. I found an article by Elle magazine that I think summed up exactly what made me fall in love with the name.”- Gotzmeister
"There are numerous reasons why geisha have remained icons of enduring enchantment since they first emerged in Japan in the 1700s. They are a very secretive group, existing in what is known as karyukai, or "the flower and willow world." To see one, even in their traditional home base of Kyoto, is rare, not only because there are now fewer than 300 of them, but because they perform their tea ceremonies only for the wealthiest and most elite (contrary to popular belief, geisha were never courtesans; the confusion stems from Western soldiers' reductive use of the term geisha girls for Japanese prostitutes during WWII). Living embodiments of mystery, serenity, and romance, there are perhaps no other women on earth so devoted to the pursuit of beauty in all of its forms." – Elle Magazine Source -
About Amber Gotzmeister
Amber Gotzmeister is aColour Correction Expert, the Senior Instructor at the Micropigmentation Centre and the Co-owner of The Good Geisha. Shestarted in the medical camouflaging makeup industry in 2003 teaching her clients how to cover their scars and birthmarks with makeup.Her directed focus in micropigmentation began in 2007, and since then she has performed countless procedures.As an instructor, Amber developed and implemented fundamental training programs as well as advanced workshops targeting the popular procedure, Microblading. Amber is known for her calming personality and her extensive knowledge on colour in the skin.Amber holds a CIDESCO designation in medical esthetics and a Marvel Makeup Diploma since 2003.Specialities: 3D Microblading, Colour Corrections, Cosmetic & Para Medical Tattoos.@microbyamber
About Anna Chow
Anna has always had a passion in visual arts even as a child. With a finance background and having worked on Bay St., she decided to quit her career and pursue her passion. She entered the industry by extensively training under numerous worldwide renowned artists before starting her own Studio in Vaughan and now a Co-Owner of The Good Geisha.Her strong belief of "when you stop learning, you stop growing" is why she continues to learn, share andinstructMicroblading. Her love and perfection for the beauty industry is reflected through her work as she finds fulfillment by listening to her clients’ needs, assessing facial structures and helping recreate their image. Specialties: Microblading, Micropigmentation,Certified Slope Needle Specialist and Certified Eliminink Specialist. @annavictoriachow
FAQs
1. What procedures does The Good Geisha specialize in?
We specialize in all forms of cosmetic tattooing, which include eyebrows, eyeliners, lips and beauty marks. We also specialize in para-medical tattooing, which includes density re-pigmentation for scalp, areola/nipple complex re-pigmentation and also camouflaging for skin disorders. Our most popular procedure is eyebrow Microblading, which lasts up to 1 year (for some, a little longer) and it gives a very soft, realistic look.
2. What is the main difference between The Good Geisha and typical beauty bars? The Good Geisha is Toronto’s very first Premiere Cosmetic Tattoo Shop. We specialize in only cosmetic/medical tattooing. No other services, no confusion. With over 10 years of combined experience, we aim to raise the bar in health and safety in our growing industry, by providing a standard in which you can trust and expect the highest quality of work using only 100% disposable tools.
3. Why should consumers avoid typical beauty bars? What health and safety concerns should consumers be aware of?
Typically beauty bars encompass a wide range of beauty services, which means their facilities may not be designed for a tattooing service. Beds or chairs should be linen free and appropriately wrapped in barrier film. All tools should be 100% disposable (including all hand pieces used for Microblading). Ask if your artist is Bloodbourne Pathogen Certified? This will ensure that they have had adequate training in the risks of tattooing, cross-contamination, and health and safety in the tattoo shop workplace. Consumers should do their research before committing to any type of tattoo. They should look into an artist’s work, ask to see their before and after photos, and check out the facility beforehand to ensure the highest form of safety measures are put into place.
4. What is the difference between micropigmentation and microblading?
MICROBLADING is a short term tattoo for the eyebrows. We use tiny pin like needles (not an actual blade) to implant pigment into the skin approximately 0.5 mm deep using a manual tool. This results in crisp realistic lines that resemble real eyebrow hairs. This style of tattooing is meant to last up to 1 year. You will require 1 touchup session within 4-6 weeks prior to initial appointment.
MICROPIGMENTATION is a permanent tattoo for eyebrows, eyeliners, lips, beauty marks, colour correction, scaring, areola/ nipple complex, and scalp using a state of the art electrical machine. Any form of tattooing on the face, palms of hands, and soles of feet will fade faster than anywhere else on the body. Therefore the longevity of the tattoo will be unique to each person’s needs, skin type, and lifestyle.
5. What is the average cost of microblading?
The average cost of microblading is anywhere from $450 - $650. The price varies depending on the artist and the artist’s experience in the field.
6. How long does microblading last (procedure and results)?
Microblading is a manual procedure that creates a hyper realistic hair stroke effect and can last anywhere from 1-2 years. The procedure takes about 90 mins. A person’s skin type and their innate healing process will determine their results. Everyone heals differently and some people’s skin/cell turnover pushes the colour out quicker or slower than others. There is no way to determine or guarantee what your individual experience will be.
7. Who is a good candidate for microblading? Almost anyone can be a candidate formicroblading. The only people who we caution are those who are in need of significant corrective work. Or those prone to keloid scarring. We would then, in most cases, recommend Micropigmentation as an alternative.
8. How does the microblading procedure actually work (what materials/techniques are used)? We use tiny pin like needles (not an actual blade) to implant pigment into the skin approximately 0.5 mm deep using a manual tool. We do this by gently pulling the needles through/across the skin to create a hair stroke feathered effect.
9. Is there any aftercare or maintenance involved after the procedure? Yes, aftercare is very important. Just like any tattoo, the aftercare regimen determines the colour retention in the tattoo. At The Good Geisha, we ask the clients to use our aftercare product the night of their procedure, and continue to use it for the following 2 weeks. Using a clean cotton swab, lightly massage a thin coat over the area several times per day. This will help with healing, minimize crusting and aid in colour retention.
FULL LIST OF SERVICES AND PROCEDURES:
Microbladingis a short-lived tattoo for the eyebrows. The Good Geisha uses tiny pin-like needles (not an actual blade) to implant pigment into the skin approximately 0.5 mm deep using a manual tool. This results in crisp realistic lines that resemble real eyebrow hairs. This style of tattooing is meant to last up to one year. Clients will require one touchup session within 4-6 weeks prior to initial appointment.
This is good for someone who is nervous or apprehensive to take the leap into a permanent tattoo. This is also what everyone is seeing on instagram so it is very trendy. It is actually a very old method of tattooing - like we are talking back to the bamboo stick days but it has come full circle and has been reintroduced more recently starting in Asia.
Micropigmentation is a permanent tattoo for eyebrows, eyeliners, lips, beauty marks, colour correction, scaring, areola/ nipple complex, and scalp using a state-of-the art electrical machine. Any form of tattooing on the face, palms of hands, and soles of feet will fade faster than anywhere else on the body. Therefore the longevity of the tattoo will be unique to each person’s needs, skin type, and lifestyle.
Eyebrows are the most popular procedure. Most women are unhappy with their brows either from over plucking or they are just naturally sparse. Our brows thin with age and disappear from the tails mostly from sleeping and rubbing in pillows. Then there is more a medical aspect like conditions such as alopecia (when you stop growing hair altogether). No eyebrows equals no expression. This is also a great option for those suffering through chemo treatments. I have done many brows prior to their treatment commencement and when they start to lose their hair it’s not such a shock because they still have "eyebrows".
Eyeliner is the second most popular and is primarily for cosmetic purposes except for those with alopecia. It saves women time (approx. 10 min per day) from having to put their eyeliner on evenly every day. There are so many meme’s and videos making fun of this fact. The Good Geisha posted one on the Facebook page MicrobyAmber and it reached over 60,000 views.
Lips are sought after to bring colour that fades away from the vermillion boarder with age, coldsore scarring etc. It is also for those who like to wear colour every day. It is more of a staining effect then an opaque coverage that you get with actual lipstick. Cleft palette augmentation is also possible but I haven’t personally done any of those before.
Beauty marks are still popular from the Cindy Crawford days. They are entirely cosmetic unless it is to match something that was there before some type of scarring or augmentation.
Colour Correction is my (Amber’s) specialty. Colour theory in the skin is completely different then traditional colour theory. I have spent the last 10 years learning and testing colour changes in the skin with thousands of procedures under my belt for all types of cosmetic tattooing.
Scarring is possible to camouflage if the scar is lighter then that rest of the skin, and it is completely flat or depressed (anything raised is hypertrophic and cannot be tattooed). We can also combine colour matching with micro needling treatments that smooth the structure of the skin as well. This is a para medical procedure for any place on the body or face.
Areola/ nipple complex regimentation is for women who have augmentation scarring or loss of areola melanin due to trauma from surgery. Reconstruction due to mastectomy for survivors of breast cancer. We can create a new set or match the bilateral pair.
Scalp is for women and men with thinning hair. We can implant pigment in many different patterns to create density which gives the illusion of fuller thicker hair. Either for long hair, mid-short and also bald heads. This is also beneficial for those with hair transplant scarring as we can blend the hair pattern into the scar to create an illusion of no scar and an even density of the hair.
Most procedures are 1-2 hrs for cosmetic purposes. Lips and para medical can run longer 3-4 hrs. It depends on the extent of the procedure in combination with the skin type of the individual. (An eyeliner with a thick line and wing will take much longer than an eyelash enhancement which is a thin line following just inside the lash line).
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