The Cold, Hard Truth About Esthetic Technologies

You’ve heard me say it before and I’ll say it over and over and over again:

 

-       No two medical spas are the same.

-       Be wary of cheap clinics; you get what you pay for, and, in the end, maybe a little bit more than you bargained for.

-       It’s important to compare not only pricing, but equipment and technologies, too.

 

Let’s break it down:

Did you know there are “medical spas” that haven’t upgraded their technology for decades? Or worse – they don’t maintain and service them when needed? We get it: new equipment and proper upkeep are very costly. However, it’s imperative to not only continue to be relevant but also to ensure safety. We have promised from day 1 to provide the best possible results for our clients and with that of course comes gold-standard equipment.

Like a luxury sports car, premium technology will get you where you need to be, versus a 20-year-old beat-up vehicle that’s put on too many miles. As a business owner, why would I spend quadruple the price on technologies if I didn’t have to?! It’s all about the results.

Speaking of results, it’s easy to get swayed by medical spas or clinics with unbelievably low prices combined with glittery, trendy treatments. Did you know many of these technologies/treatments aren’t actually Health Canada-approved?

Health Canada’s approval process ensures that both the medical devices and treatments used in medical spas meet strict safety and efficacy standards. This is for the client’s well-being and protection. It also helps to protect patients from potentially harmful practices and treatments.

Remember, you always get what you pay for and serious reactions or infections will cost you much more in the long run. Always look to the credibility of a medical spa and its practitioners.

If you have any questions about our standards of care, our technologies, or our education, please don’t hesitate to ask; we are transparent about our equipment and our treatments, and always want our clients to trust their experience at Freedom Medi-Spa.

What’s the difference between a spa and a medi-spa? BLOG

Hey there, spa enthusiasts!  

 

Who doesn’t love a spa day – self-care and rejuvenation – yes, please! 

 

But many people often confuse a medical spa with a day spa, or vice-versa, so let’s break it down: 

 

At a Day Spa, you will likely be pampered with luxurious treatments that focus on relaxation. From soothing massages to expert manis and pedis, their mission is to transport you to a state of pure zen. We love day spas, and like to visit to unwind or recharge throughout the year. Some of the treatments are really fun, too!

 

At a Medi-Spa, you’re getting the best of beauty and science – advanced skincare treatments backed by medical expertise. Think of a medical spa as your go-to destination for treatments that not only make you feel fabulous but also tackle specific skin concerns. From laser therapies to Botox, these treatments are all about making a notable difference in the look and feel of your skin. The relationship you have with your med spa is a close one.

We work closely with each client to help them achieve and maintain long-lasting results.  Although some treatments are uncomfortable, we know we can help you reach your skin goals and enjoy the journey, too! 

 

Whether you're all about that chill vibes life or seeking some high-tech TLC, self-care is an investment that always pays dividends. 

Let's Talk About Retinol

Retinol is widely recognized for its benefits in promoting skin health.

A derivative of Vitamin A, retinol is a common ingredient in skincare products due to its ability to boost collagen production, reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, and improve skin texture. Retinol helps to stimulate cell turnover, which can lead to smoother and more youthful-looking skin.

Here are some ways retinol can be effective in your skincare regimen:

Treatment of Acne:

Retinol can help unclog pores, reduce inflammation, help exfoliate dead skin and regulate oil production, leading to fewer breakouts and clearer skin.

Improving Overall Skin Texture: 

Retinol supports collagen production, which is essential for maintaining skin elasticity and firmness. By promoting cell turnover, retinol can help smooth rough and uneven skin texture, making it feel softer and more refined.

Evening Skin Tone:

Retinol can also help fade dark spots, hyperpigmentation, and other forms of skin discoloration, leading to a more even skin tone. Retinol should only be used as part of your evening skincare routine as it will cause the skin to be more susceptible to UV. 

It's important to note that while retinol offers numerous benefits, it may cause skin sensitivity, redness, and irritation, especially when first introduced to a skincare routine. It's recommended to start with a lower concentration and gradually increase usage to allow the skin to acclimate. Retinol can also increase your skin sensitivity to sun, so SPF daily is so important. 

Do you have any other questions about retinol? Contact us!

How to Prep for Your Medical Spa Appointment

Congratulations on booking yourself in for some well-deserved self-care and rejuvenation. If this is your first time at our medi-spa, or if you’ve been here before, we’ve compiled a comprehensive guide on how to prep, to ensure you make the most of your experience:

1. Understand the Procedure You’re Booked In For: Whether your booked in for a treatment or you’re coming in for a consultation, feel free to ask as many questions as you need so you understand the procedure. We pride ourselves on our training and expertise and can help ease any concerns (if you have them), or provide information on the technologies or treatments. Please remember to tell us about any pre-existing medical conditions, allergies, or medications you're taking. This information is crucial for the staff to tailor the treatments to your specific needs and avoid any potential complications.

2. Follow Pre-Treatment Instructions: When you book your appointment and upon confirmation, you will receive an email with pre-treatment instructions. 

   For all treatments, we recommend avoiding caffeine the day of your treatment if possible, as it may reduce your pain threshold. Avoid spicy foods (they dilate the blood vessels) and come to your appointment with clean skin and without any skincare products, including sunscreen (in the areas we are treating specifically). 

   For all facial treatments including Microneedling, Peels, Secret Pro, CO2 and Forma, please discontinue any actives (retinols, Vitamin C, AHA/BHA, salicylic acid, etc.) 4 days prior to treatment and 4 days post-treatment, as they may interfere with the treatment or cause adverse reactions. Please do not wear make-up to your appointment. Arriving with a clean face will allow our medical estheticians to prepare your skin adequately before starting your treatment.

   For laser hair removal, please shave 1 day prior (unless instructed otherwise) and leave a small patch in each area. Please ensure the area we are treating is free from any creams or lotions and if you use actives, please discontinue 4 days prior. Please do not use self-tanner on these areas for two weeks prior to treatment.

3. Stay Hydrated and Get Enough Sleep: In the days leading up to your appointment, prioritize your health and well-being. Drink plenty of water and get adequate sleep to ensure your body is in the best condition for the procedure. Hydration and rest can help speed up the recovery process, increase your pain threshold and enhance the effectiveness of the treatments.

4. Dress Comfortably: Wear loose, comfortable clothing to your appointment. Depending on the treatment, we can give you a robe so your clothes do not get soiled. 

5. Plan for Downtime (if necessary): Some medi-spa treatments may require downtime for recovery. If your procedure calls for it, plan your schedule accordingly. Take time off work or avoid any strenuous activities that could impact the healing process. Use this downtime to rest, recover, and pamper yourself. If you’re unsure about downtime, ask us – some treatments require more downtime than others. 

6. Prepare for Post-Care: Before you leave the clinic, be sure to understand the post-treatment care instructions. Following the proper aftercare routine is vital for the success and longevity of the results. Depending on the procedure, this might involve avoiding sun exposure, using specific skincare products, or attending follow-up appointments.

7. Relax and Enjoy: Lastly, the most crucial preparation is to relax and enjoy your experience at Freedom Medi-Spa! Take this time to unwind, indulge, and focus on yourself. 

8. Please respect our Cancellation Policy: When you book an appointment with Freedom Medi-Spa, it means we have reserved time in our schedule exclusively for you. Please note, we require a minimum of 24 hours notice for appointment cancellations.

   Failure to provide 24 hours notice or missing an appointment/free consultation will result in a non-refundable $50 charge. Subsequent missed appointments without notice will be charged at full price.

   By following these essential tips, you'll be fully prepared to make the most of your medi-spa appointment. Enjoy the journey to a more refreshed and revitalized version of YOU! We are looking forward to seeing you for your next appointment at Freedom Medi-Spa!

Check Us Out!

Earlier this spring, I had the opportunity to chat with Rogers Business about Freedom Medi-Spa, what inspires the business, and our client care culture.

Read the blog on the Rogers Spotlight on Business and thank you, to Rogers for this feature!

Can you do laser in the summer?

You’ll often hear us say that you can’t get laser hair removal done if you have a tan. This is generally true. However, that doesn’t mean you can’t get laser in the summer months… let me explain:

If you have dark coarse hair, for example, we are still able to treat you with our YAG laser for your first few treatments, until your tan fades. If your hair is medium or light brown, we’ll need to use the Alexandrite laser, and in those cases, you cannot have a tan at all.

If you know you will not be in the sun much this summer, and you will be diligent with your sunscreen, summer may be the time to consider lasering your bikini or underarms or any areas that aren’t soaking up some rays!

Not having to deal with these key areas is life-changing! Once you start laser, you will be wondering why it took you so long! It’s a dream!

Upper thighs, lower backs, and bellies are also often safe zones as well, provided you won’t be exposing those areas to the sun very much. Plus, if you are a winter vacationer, summer is the ideal time to prep yourself for your upcoming winter holidays!

Of course, if you have any questions or concerns, we are always here to answer – and we can let you know at your consultation and patch test if we think this is the right time to start laser for you.

2023 Sunscreen Report -- It's All About the Lips!

Do you wear lip balm with SPF?

Great!

 But, when was the last time you checked the ingredients?

 You may be surprised to learn there are some dangerous chemicals found in some lip balms that contain SPF. We certainly were. What’s scarier is we put these chemicals directly on our lips.

For the last few years, Freedom Medi-Spa has done extensive research on sunscreens, and offered various comparisons to our clients, followers, and fans.  Our goal is to educate you to make the best choices when shopping for sunscreen for yourself and your family. Our sunscreen reports have been shared hundreds of times and remain an excellent resource on sun safety. Read our reports from 2020, 2021, and 2022.

This year, we want to pay special attention to our lips. We do think it’s important to protect your lips against harmful UVA and UVB rays. But it’s also important to know what you’re putting on them.

We’ve pulled 10 popular lip balms that contain SPF and we’re ranking them. As in the past, our scale is as follows:

Low Risk: contains mild-risk chemicals like Avobenzone and Octisalate (Remember, there are risks with all chemical ingredients)

Moderate Risk: contains Homosalate and Octocrylene

High Risk: contains Oxybenzone and Octinoxate (please never use these products, especially on your children.)

Our favourite sunscreens get a Glowing Seal of Approval.

How do your favourites stack up?? SPOILER ALERT: they almost all fail.

 In the High-Risk Category:

 ·      Aquaphor Lip Protectant + Sunscreen

Active Ingredients: Avobenzone 3.0, Octinoxate 6.75%, Octisalate 4.5%, Octocrylene 2.0%, Oxybenzone 5.4%, Petrolatum 31.0%

·      Banana Boat Sport SPF 15

Active Ingredients: Avobenzone (2.0%), Octocrylene (10.0%), Oxybenzone (6.0%)

·      Blistex Medicated Lip Balm with 15 SPF

Active Ingredients: Dimethicone (2.00%), Octinoxate (6.6%), Octisalate (4.4%)

·       Carmex SPF 15

Active Ingredients: Octinoxate (7.5%), Oxybenzone (4%), White Petroleum (35%)

·      JB Moisture Therapy Lip Balm SPF 25

Active Ingredients: Avobenzone 3.0% and Octinoxate 7.5%, Petrolatum 40.2%

·       Sun Bum Lip balm with 30 SPF 

Active Ingredients: Avobenzone (2.00%), Homosalate (15.00%), Octinoxate (7.50%), Octisalate (5.00%) 

·      EltaMD UV Lip Balm Broad-Spectrum SPF 36

Active Ingredients: Octinoxate (7.5%), Zinc Oxide (7.0%)

In the Moderate Risk Category:

·      Coola Lip Luxe SPF 30

Active Ingredients: Avobenzone 3.0%, Homosalate 4.0%, Octisalate 4.0%, Octocrylene 10.0%

In the Low to No Risk Category:

·      Burt’s Bees All Weather Moisturizing Lip Balm SPF 15

Active Ingredients: Zinc Oxide (11%)

Did you know that we carry the Jane Iredale Lip Drink with SPF 15 and the ONLY active ingredient is Titanium Dioxide? You might want to pick one up the next time you're in.

What's the Difference between Microneedling and Microneedling with RF?

Microneedling has always been a very popular treatment at Freedom Medi-Spa, great for both beginners and experienced medi-spa clients. But what’s the difference between regular microneedling and our new Secret Pro Microneedling with RF?

Let’s break it down:

Microneedling is a procedure that creates micro-wounds in the skin using very fine needles, in order to stimulate collagen and elastin production. As a treatment, it is most commonly used to help improve the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, acne scars, stretch marks, and skin texture. 

If you are experiencing early signs of aging, microneedling is an excellent treatment and will give great results in fine line reduction, acne, and overall skin texture.

And in comes the Secret Pro.

The Secret Pro, Microneedling with Radio Frequency is microneedling with a BIG boost. Radio Frequency is the gold-standard for deeper lines, laxity and scarring thus, will give you MORE lifting and more skin tightening than any other treatment. 

The Secret Pro causes fractionated damage beneath the skin and the deep heat will help with tightening, and ramping up collagen production.

If you have loved your Microneedling but want to try a more intense treatment that will help with deeper lines, the loss of collagen and crepey skin, it may be time to up the ante and try Secret Pro.

It’s important to note we stand behind both technologies and are proud to offer a variety of treatments to our clients based on their individual needs and concerns.

Want to Know More about Secret Pro?

Our new SecretPro treatment is a must-try at Freedom Medi-Spa! Want to know more about it?

What is Secret Pro RF?*

Secret Pro is a microneedling treatment that improves the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, laxity and scars with little to no downtime. It uses microneedles to deliver fractional Radio Frequency (RF) energy into varying levels of the skin.  

Can you explain the treatment?

Like ordinary micro needling, tiny needles penetrate the skin at various depths, causing micro-wounds. These micro-wounds stimulate the production of collagen and help to rejuvenate the skin. The difference is, the Secret Pro also uses radio frequency energy. This RF energy is delivered into the dermal layer causing fractionated damage beneath the epidermis. This stimulates mass collagen and repair.

How long is each treatment?

Here at Freedom, we ensure each client is numbed properly and comfortably. The actual treatment takes approx. 45 mins and we finish with a cooling post-care mask. The entire booking time is approx. 2 hours. Unlike many clinics that do not allow for the proper amount of prep and post care. As well many do not do as many passes over the areas as we do.

Does it hurt?

While Secret Pro RF is not a painless treatment, we do prep the skin with a numbing cream to make it a more comfortable experience. 

Who will see best results from Secret Pro?

If you have started to notice texture changes in your skin, laxity, lines and wrinkles that bother you, you could benefit from a Secret Pro RF treatment. It is a great treatment for all skin types.

When will I see results?

To achieve the optimal effect, 3-4 Secret RF treatments are recommended. You’ll start to notice results after even one treatment, however, optimal results appear 3 months after the last treatment.

Let’s do it! How do I book a treatment?

First, you’ll need a consultation — from there, we can provide all the details you need to make an informed decision about the procedure. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation with one of our Secret Pro treatment specialists.

*Secret Pro also has a second handpiece to do C02 treatments. We will save that Q & A for another day!

We are Laser Hair Removal Experts

After 25 years in the industry, we consider ourselves the Laser Hair Removal experts – we study laser technology, regularly upgrade our skills and knowledge, and know the equipment that gives you the best results.

A Laser is designed with a specific wavelength. That wavelength is chosen because it is the most effective at treating the target — whatever that may be. In this case, we will discuss the gold-standard wavelengths for permanent hair removal. 

Let’s get technical: a 755nm wavelength, commonly known as an Alexandrite laser,  is best at targeting light brown hair on a lighter skin type (generally best for skin types 1 - 3). 

At Freedom Medi-Spa, we often use an Alexandrite laser for these lighter skin types. The Alexandrite laser is designed to pick up even the lightest brown hair; it heats up the entire hair shaft delivering enough energy to virtually incinerate the root, preventing future hair growth.

Alternatively, the 1064nm wavelength, known as the ND:Yag, is best for targeting medium brown to black hair on a darker skin type (generally best for skin types 4-6).  

We use our ND:Yag laser for laser hair removal on our clients who have darker skin. This is the ONLY recommended laser to use for hair removal on darker skin. It has a low melanin absorption rate which works well for dark skin and is the gold standard.

Commonly, many clinics use an IPL or DPL for hair removal on lighter skin types (they should not be treating darker skin with these devices). When you try to permanently reduce hair on a skin type 1-3 with an IPL or DPL (which are both light-based technologies), you may find a decent result when destroying dark coarse hair,  but it is difficult for these machines to see medium brown hair. They definitely cannot see light brown hair. 

Unfortunately, this means many clients are left with sub-par results, or worse, hair that has lost its pigment that is not able to be lasered at all. (A low-powered technology can depigment a hair, rendering it impossible to treat with any laser). 

In other words - you need a medical-grade laser for best results. If you've tried treatments elsewhere and not been happy with the results - book a free consultation and with even just one treatment, you will see the difference a gold-standard laser makes.

September Promos Are HERE!

IT'S SEPTEMBER!! And it's time to try something new!

If you've always wanted to try Laser Hair Removal but haven't, or you've been to another clinic and didn't have great success, we want to give you the opportunity to try OUR laser.

From September 1-30, 2022, SAVE 25% OFF your FIRST SESSION of Laser Hair Removal at Freedom Medi-Spa.

We are experts in the industry, with over 25 years of laser hair removal experience. Come and see the difference a medical-grade laser makes, and be hair-free for Summer 2023!

PLUS --

Fall is a great time to stock up on your skincare and get back into a routine.

This month, take 10% off ALL Alumier MD Skincare Kits. This sale is only valid in-clinic, through the month of September.

Contact us to book your free consultation or to purchase your kit.

What's in a Green Peel?

What’s in a Green Peel?

Did You Know: Our beloved Dr. Schrammek Green Peel contains many different herbal compounds including phytohormones, mucilages and tannins, vitamins, carbohydrates, proteins, enzymes, mineral salts and trace elements. This organic treatment contains some well-known herbs to provide beneficial and effective results:

Horsetail – Waterhorsetail: strengthens the connective tissue and elasticity in the skin, improves structure of the skin, anti-inflammatory properties.

Aloe Vera: very healing for the skin, lends and binds moisture, helps to firm skin.

Camomile: anti-inflammatory, antibacterial and wound-healing properties.

Marigold: activates cell division, anti-inflammatory & wound-healing properties.

Algea – Spirulina Platensis: contains over 259 active ingredients, rich in minerals, proteins, essential amino acids, beta- carotene and provitamin A, helps regulate sebum (oil) production.

Ulva Lactuca: very calming and soothing on the skin, purifying effect, particularly rich in vitamin C, A B12, and minerals.

Fucus Vesiculosus: has antiseptic properties, particularly rich in vitamin C, stimulates fibroblast activity (collagen production).

Pansy: beneficial for impure and inflamed skin, rich in carotenoids and salicylic acid and has wound healing properties.  

Lungwort: regenerates cells, rich in minerals, keratolytic effect (causes the outer layer of the skin to loosen and shed.

Ribwort: regenerates cells, antibacterial effects, soothes irritations, re-epithelialising effect (restoration of the epidermis).

Very cool, right!?

Now perhaps you can understand why Green Peel is truly the most amazing peel. The results are incredible. 

Call us today to book your next Green Peel treatment!

What is Slugging?

Have you heard of slugging? It’s one of the newest viral skincare trends, said to originate out of Korea, that has people putting a layer of petroleum jelly (aka Vaseline) on their face before bed.

Is it a good idea? 

Well, the thought behind slugging is that petroleum jelly will add a protective layer between your skin and environmental factors, thereby allowing your skin to absorb whatever skincare is under the jelly, while healing and remaining hydrated. 

So, in theory, it can work.

But, if you’ve ever put petroleum jelly on your lips, feet, or baby’s bum, you know it can be slippery and sticky – and that can pose a problem when you’re trying to sleep.

Here’s what we recommend you try instead (your pillowcase will thank you):

• Cleanse your face before bed (I hope this is a given every pm)

• Apply your Retinol 

• Use a hydrating sheet mask & leave on for 10-15 mins remove the sheet and do a light massage to penetrate the remaining product.

• Follow with a thicker layer of your night cream 

• Add a thicker layer of your night cream 

Also:

• Drink LOTS OF water throughout the day to keep your skincare in check

• Try a lactic acid peel or microneedling treatment to help improve your barrier function. This will help your skin to retain moisture better. 

Our vote? Skip the slugging.

Should Microneedling Make You Bleed?

Should we be bleeding when we do Microneedling?  

The short answer? Not really. 

There are many reasons why some people bleed during Microneedling.

First of all: when doing Microneedling properly, the medical esthetician really doesn’t need to penetrate the skin too deep to stimulate the production of healthy, pliable collagen. So, if there is any bleeding, it is minimal. 

The only time we choose a deeper needle depth is when treating acne scars or pockmarks. With some scars, we do need to penetrate deeper to achieve better results and really help to lift the scar. 

Why is everyone bleeding all over Instagram? 

Well, it makes for a good show! 

Also, many needling pens bounce around and actually cause tearing of the skin. Our Microneedling pen works in a linear fashion - no bouncing. It creates perfect little micro-wounds, which stimulate collagen and elastin without the downtime. 

Ready to learn if Microneedling is right for you? 

Contact us to book your consultation (with treatment to follow if you’d like). 

Teens and Acne

Is your teen struggling with acne or acne scarring?

We can help. 

Many teens experience acne at some point in their lives, and some develop severe, cystic acne and scarring.

As with any client, we begin with a thorough consultation, examining the issue and providing a treatment plan we think will garner the best results. 

It should be noted that this is a process – it happens over a period of time, individual to each client. 

When treating acne, our first goal is to get it under control. That includes switching the client’s skincare to a medical-grade skincare line that targets acne specifically. 

For this client, we recommended a series of glow peels that contain salicylic acid, resorcinol and lactic acid. Each acid works together to help oxygenate and destroy the active blemishes, lighten and brighten the hyperpigmentation and deeply hydrate the skin. This also helps to prevent further papules and blemishes from forming.

The results are already incredible.

She is now beginning a series of Microneedling treatments, which will treat the hyperpigmentation and scarring. Microneedling can also be used as a treatment for mild acne, and is a go-to treatment for lines/wrinkles and skin laxity as well. 

We are extremely pleased with our client’s results so far. We understand the emotions teen acne can bring on a young person – it is our goal to make every single person who visits Freedom Medi-Spa leave more confident than when they arrived.

If you or your teen is battling acne, avoid treating it with multiple products that may be doing more harm. All our consultations are free. Book yours today.

Have you looked at the ingredients in your favourite sunscreen?

Purchasing sunscreen can be overwhelming, and many of us have favourites — from the price, to the fragrance, to how it’s applied, we all have preferences when it comes to the SPF we select.

As we all know, reading the ingredients on sunscreen labels is incredibly important. There are still some sunscreens on the market that contain harmful chemicals that no one should be putting on their skin. Also, certain sunscreens, like spray sunscreens, pose potential inhalation risks that need to be considered.

So, how does your favourite sunscreen stack up?

We’ve compared over 30 sunscreens and categorized them by GREEN — safe to use, AMBER — use with caution, and RED — STOP USING IMMEDIATELY.

NEW THIS YEAR, we’ve added a special chart for spray sunscreens specifically.

It’s important to remember that even sunscreens from the same company or brand contain different ingredients, so don’t be surprised if similar sunscreens are categorized differently.

So, without futher adieu, here is our 2022 Sunscreen Comparison.

Any surprises or sunscreens you’ll reconsider?

With school ending this week and summer camps on the horizon, be sure to stock your cabinets and knapsacks with quality sunscreen and safe ingredients.

2022 Sunscreen Report

It’s that time of year again for the Freedom Medi-Spa Annual Sunscreen Report.

If you are new to Freedom Medi-Spa, you will quickly learn we advocate for daily SPF use, regardless of the season or the weather. If you are a long-time Freedom fan, we appreciate you refreshing your sun and sunscreen knowledge to better protect your skin.

Remember: any single bad sunburn can increase your chances of developing melanoma by approximately 50%. That’s a pretty scary number. So, it’s imperative to remember just how important sun avoidance and sun protection is.

Read as much or as little of this report as you wish. We have tried our best to make it as simple as possible. Of course, if you have any questions, you can always contact us.

As you know, we recommend daily sunscreen on your face and neck -- no matter the weather, rain or shine, indoors or out! Our AlumierMD 40 SPF sunscreens are mineral-based and also protect against Ultraviolet-C Radiation, which comes from blue light from our screens.

Wearing a daily SPF will help keep our skin cells protected and our collagen intact. 

But with summer here, let's talk beach visits, sitting poolside, hanging out at the cottage or simply going for a walk on a beautiful day.

What do we use all over our bodies?

How do we protect ourselves and our kids from over exposure of UV rays?

 There are a few things we can do:

 ·       Try to avoid peak exposure hours of 12-4pm when possible,

·       Wear SPF protection clothing, a wide-brimmed hat and protective sunglasses at all times,

·       Look for the shade or bring an umbrella with you to a beach or picnic,

·       And of course, wear and re-apply sunscreen every 2 hours. 

And now for the sunscreens – which one to use?

Well, as we’ve said before, no two sunscreens are alike, and some sunscreens contain potentially harmful ingredients. The good news is, over the years, some sunscreen manufacturers have changed their formulas, and new brands are on the market.

All that said, it’s important to READ THE LABELS.

Our Stop, Caution and Go System will help you make the safest choice in the sunscreen aisle.   

The SAFEST sunscreens to use are ones that contain mineral ingredients. These ingredients are not absorbed into the skin. This sunscreen is often called “Mineral” or “Physical”.

Look for the Active ingredients section. If you see Zinc Oxide, Titanium Dioxide and/or Mexoryl, you are good to GO!

We understand that sometimes, the texture or experience of a mineral-based body sunscreen isn’t desirable. We have heard from our clients and tried many ourselves – some sunscreens will leave a white cast, go on thick or sticky – and we don’t all love that.

So, what do you do then?

There are a variety of sunscreens on the market that, while they contain some Active Chemical Ingredients, pose low or medium risk – and the benefit of wearing it outweighs the danger.

We suggest you use caution with these sunscreens as the ingredients pose a moderate risk. They may cause hormone disruption. I will also be putting sprays and powders into this category as you do need to be cautious during application. 

These ingredients include:

 ·       Homosalate: ideally should be no more than 5%. If it’s more than 10%, avoid it altogether.

·       Octisalate: may cause allergic reactions and contact dermatitis, also a possible hormone disruptor.

·       Octocrylene: high rate of skin allergies, new findings show this ingredient is easily contaminated with Benzophenone, a known carcinogen. It has been deemed safe in amounts under 10%. 

·       Avobenzone: low to moderate risk of endocrine disruption as well as testosterone.  

All sprays or powders: Due to the inhalation risk, we recommend holding your breath while spraying or applying. Do your best to avoid inhalation. Don’t forget to spread! To ensure even coverage, you still need to spread with your hands, otherwise, you’ll be sure to miss a spot or two.

If you see the following ingredients, OXYBENZONE or OCTINOXATE -- STOP. These active ingredients are known to cause hormone disruption and could be carcinogenic. They get an absolute red light from us. If you have sunscreen at home with these ingredients, toss!

We hope you find these reports informative and helpful. Thank you to Environmental Working Group and Cancer.org for help with our research.

Stay tuned for our sunscreen comparisons – coming soon!

Laser Hair Removal Gets Rid of Ingrown Hair

Ingrown hairs suck.

​​Ingrown hair occurs when a hair that's been removed starts to grow back and curves into the skin. Shaving, tweezing or waxing can cause this to happen. An ingrown hair can cause tiny, swollen bumps on the skin that may hurt.

Did You Know: Laser Hair Removal gets rid of ingrown hair? 

With laser hair removal, as we permanently destroy the hair and the hair follicles, we’ll find fewer and fewer ingrown at every treatment. 

Conversely, consistent waxing has the hair coming back thinner and thinner hair cannot push through the skin as easily as a coarse hair. This will cause ingrown hair bumps. For some, they can be severe. 

As for shaving, when you shave, you’re cutting the hair at the epidermal level, not at the root. Some razors actually pull the hair up to give you a tighter shave, which can also cause an ingrown. When the grows back, the hair can get caught in the layer of dead skin at the top of your epidermis, causing it to get trapped and develop into an ingrown. 

In some cases, shaving may also cause razor burn, which irritates and causes inflammation in the skin, dropping the hair and ultimately causing ingrowns.

 

In addition to permanently removing your hair, laser hair removal combats ingrowns, too. Call us for your free consultation and test patch.

Skincare While You Travel

If you’re planning an upcoming vacation, be sure to consider your skincare. We suggest keeping your skincare simple and consistent – use your regular products and avoid trying new things while you’re away:

Cleanser: A gentle daily cleanser will help remove any dirt and residual sunscreen on your face – use the same one in the morning and before bed. I like to bring my AlumierMD SensiCalm Cleanser; it’s great to soothe the skin in case I may have gotten more sun than I intended!

Eye Cream: With all the squinting and UV exposure, I’ll be damned if I am not going to bring my beloved eye cream and protect that thin skin around the eyes!

Moisturizer: It’s understandable if you really don’t want to pack too much, but Moisturizer is a MUST! If you're going to be in a hot place, your skin will need the added hydration, especially in the PM to replenish. You can bring your usual or you may want to consider a post-care cream like AlumierMD’s Recovery Balm or the Inno Skin Repair cream - so soothing and hydrating. 

Sunscreen: Like you didn’t know I was going to recommend bringing your SPF! A MUST on any holiday – we recommend bringing a couple, and keeping them on hand so you can re-apply when needed. If you are at the beach, look for a water-resistant, mineral-based, broad-spectrum SPF 30 or more. 

After-Sun: In the event you do get too much sun (ouch!), an after-sun product like Eucerin Sun Sensitive Relief, Inno Skin Repair or Recovery Balm are all great for soothing and calming irritated or red skin. 

Remember to take care of your skin on holiday – drink lots of water and wear a large brimmed hat and sunglasses for added protection. Choose shade where possible and re-apply your SPF often (at least every 2 hours in the sun). 

The sun is the number one cause of premature aging - just a reminder! :) Have a sun-safe vacation and your skin will thank you! 

HAPPY 9th ANNIVERSARY FREEDOM MEDI-SPA!

It’s our anniversary! And we want to give YOU a gift to thank you for being loyal customers and friends through these past 9 years!

For the ENTIRE MONTH OF JUNE, take 9% OFF every product, every treatment, every kit, everything!

No promo codes necessary, just shop online or in-clinic and your discount will be applied.

Our 9% sale is not valid on nurse services, packages, or pre-purchased treatment plans / laser guarantee.

Happy Shopping!