Intracel - The 98,000 Needle Facial

If learning about micro-needling in last week's blog didn't scare you off — then continue reading :). Intracel is basically micro-needling with radio frequency (RF), although this tip uses 49 insulated micro-needles. By adding RF, Intracel increases collagen and elastin production tenfold.

Think of it as a micro-needling treatment in overdrive!

Radio Frequency treatments have become the gold standard for stimulating collagen in the deeper layers of the skin. Which in turn help to treat:

• Lines/wrinkles

• Large pores

• Acne scars

• Skin laxity

• Tone/texture

Most RF technologies heat the skin from the outer layers (epidermis) in hopes to reach the dermal layers. They aren't able to deliver the same amount of RF to the area that is most effective. This is why the Intracel's patented technology is so key. Intracel, combines THERMAL Micro-Needling with RF. With its patented thermal needling system the epidermis (top layer of your skin) is spared as the RF is only delivered to the exposed .3mm of the needle tip.  Therefore ALL the RF is delivered exactly where we want it. This allows for maximum results with little to no downtime.

DOES IT HURT?

That is really what you want to know, right?

I realize how scary a 98,000 needle facial sounds, but it's really not so bad. I have had the treatment done as well and while I don't enjoy it, I would say it's uncomfortable but not painful. We apply numbing cream to the skin prior to treatment. Some areas are more sensitive than others, but overall it's manageable. If you are treating a body area - there is really no pain at all.

In a nutshell, Intracel is the most favourable treatment (outside of surgery), to help with both age prevention and age reversal. It truly helps with rejuvenation and resurfacing without the downtime of most other technologies.

If you are curious and want to learn more, read this past blog on What To Expect During Your Intracel Treatment: Link

INTRAcel - What to Expect...

We have been receiving a lot of interest in our INTRAcel Skin Tightening & Resurfacing.  So I thought this might be a good time to post our Intracel protocols and links to the actual procedure.

Remember – All of our consultations are FREE.  So please feel free to book an appointment to discuss what might be best for you.

What to expect….

The treatment begins with your before photos then the application of numbing cream (approx. 30mins), then it is cleansed off, and the treatment begins.  There are 49 needles in a 1cm square cartridge, that are penetrated quickly into the skin delivering Radio Frequency to the dermis. (For the record – the needles are tiny – the thickness of a hair). The needles are thermal needles which keep the RF from reaching the epidermis – sparing it from burns/damage (**This is a patented technology).  Most other treatments cause damage to the epidermis first and try to deliver enough energy to the dermis.  The actual treatment time is approx. 45-60 minutes followed by a cooling face mask with cold pack to reduce any inflammation and redness (approx. 20mins).  Then a post care cream and daily sunscreen is applied.  Total booking time 2.5 hours. 

What is to be expected in the days following…..

That same day and for the next day as well, cold packs will help with any swelling or discomfort.  There are also specific masks that are in the recommended Post Care Kit (apply 1 am and 1 pm). 

The skin will look a little pink and may have some tiny needle marks (tiny pin head scabs) – usually resolving within 5-14 days.  If you are using the Blemish Balm (or a safe coverage) most people would not notice anything is different about you.  If you are nervous about what your reaction might be, I would recommend that you plan to be at home for 1-2 days after the treatment. 

I have had four treatments done on myself over the past 3 years.  I really found the downtime minimal and the results quite impressive.  No one noticed any marks, redness or swelling even though I had a little of each and was at work on Day 2 on both occasions.  Every person I have treated with this has noticed a difference in their lines, scars, and the taughtness of the skin – some more than others.   However, it does take a least a month to start to notice changes.  These results continue to improve for up to 6 months. 

Here are a few links that might give you a better idea of the procedure… 

Intracel with Dr. Mulholland on Breakfast t.v. - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lLxmPjOg6PA 

A personal experience documented - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vPMT15lXa5w  

Dr. Poon’s neck area Before and After shots - http://www.elevatemagazine.com/before-after/391-shirley-s-platelet-rich-plasma-treatment  

Here is a link to our own before and after pics http://www.freedommedispa.com/intracel/

And last but not least is the Youtube video of Daniela Hofmann of Freedom performing the treatment - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cBF3Pl0vLLg  

This is an awesome treatment – allowing us to age gracefully - with subtle differences in lines/wrinkles we aren’t denying our age, just looking great while aging! 

INTRAcel - Gold Standard in Tightening

Is it time to do something about the reflection in that damn mirror?
Did you wake up one day and wonder, "Who the heck is that person and where did those wrinkles come from?"  Good news - we can help!

Radio Frequency treatments have become the gold standard for stimulating collagen in the deeper layers of the skin - which in turn help to treat lines/wrinkles, large pores, acne scars and loose skin.  However most technologies heat the skin from the outer layers (epidermis) in hopes to reach the dermal layers.  

Causing:

1. More downtime and a greater chance of a negative side effect (ie. Burns, blistering, texture changes) and;
2. Not enough heat in the target area (dermis), giving poor results.

INTRAcel to the rescue!  INTRAcel by Jeisys, combines THERMAL Micro-Needling with Radio Frequency.  With its patented thermal needling system the epidermis (top layer of your skin) is spared as the RF is only delivered to the exposed .3mm of the needle tip.  Therefore ALL the RF is delivered EXACTLY where we want it.  

"Jeisys is a leader in the field of microneedle technology. As a technological approach to RF delivery, microneedling is a great way to enhance skin volume through neocollagenesis, and treat scars and wrinkles aggressively with minimal downtime and high satisfaction.”  Dr. Michael Gold MD director of Gold Skin Care Center.  

Contact us to book a complimentary consultation 647-799-0400 or book online or email us reception@freedommedispa.com.

Intracel vs Thermage

The most popular skin tightening procedures use radio frequency(RF) to stimulate an increase in the production of collagen and elastin in the dermis.  We believe INTRAcel technology provides the best results.   You may have heard of Thermage for tightening as well.  These are the two most popular non-invasive skin tightening treatments on the market today.  So what are the differences?  

Intracel vs Thermage

When people think of needles they generally cringe - let alone 49 of them penetrating the skin at the same time!   
Yet the most common response, immediately following a treatment is - "Wow, that wasn't so bad."  Most clients are back to their regular schedule the next day, although I always advise to allow a day - as a precaution.  

INTRAcel uses thermal micro-needles, coupled with RF which promotes the type of positive results we've seen.  By by-passing the epidermis and releasing RF only in the Dermal layer, the treatment decreases downtime and increases results.  
   
Thermage also uses (RF) to target the dermis and stimulate collagen production - however, the RF must penetrate the epidermis first as it does not use micro-needles.  Thereby the epidermis receives the greatest amount of RF (which may cause a burn), and the dermis receives a minimal amount of RF (which equals unimpressive results).  

Is INTRAcel the right treatment for you?  If you are concerned with lines/wrinkles, laxity in the skin/jowls or pock marks/scars, etc. - then yes, this is by far the best treatment available to you.  Even with only one treatment, you will notice an improvement in the elasticity and a decrease in the appearance of lines/wrinkles.  

Remember if you wait too long, you may not be a great candidate for INTRAcel or any skin tightening solution.  INTRAcel is the best way to avoid going under the knife, or needing a more invasive alternative.  

If you are interested, we have an information package available.  Contact us if you wish to receive one or would like a complimentary consultation. 

INTRAcel FAQ's

How to Get Rid of Loose Skin

Whether it's on the face or on the body, loose skin is likely unwanted.  So, what are we to do about it?  When we talk about mass amounts - your best bet is usually surgery.  However, on a smaller scale, Radio Frequency (RF) treatments may be your answer.

  See HuffPost article.

There are many RF treatments available.  We use the INTRAcel machine which couples Micro-needling with RF.  The benefit with using the micro needles is that the RF is delivered exactly where we want it - the dermal layer of the skin.  This is where we rebuild collagen.  Most other technologies deliver the RF directly to the epidermis (the outer layer of the skin), in hopes that enough will penetrate to the dermis.  

Once the RF is delivered to the dermal layer, the body goes into repair mode.  This is how collagen is rebuilt in the area.  You will begin to notice differences at the 4 week mark and continue to notice changes (ie. Lifting/tightening/decrease in lines, increase in tone,  plumping of the skin, etc.) for up to 6 months.  The results are yours to keep.  The new collagen doesn't disappear - it simply begins to age and decrease as it naturally does.

Generally body treatments are recommended at 3-4 month intervals until you achieve the desired look.  Face treatments are generally recommended at 6 month intervals if you are looking for age reversal and once a year for maintaining your look.  

For any questions, do not hesitate to book a consultation or call/email us.  

For more info check out our Intracel page.

Daniela's Day At The Med Spa

We need to look good too!  

On April 20th, Vanessa and I treated each other to a few of our fave med spa services.   When I say "fave", I do not necessarily mean "enjoyable"!  I chose to have my annual Intracel treatment.  Intracel increases mass collagen naturally in the dermal layers of the skin.  It uses thermal microneedling combined with radiofrequency in order to stimulate the increase in collagen and elastin.  It's a great way to turn back the clock and prevent the deterioration of collagen.   Personally I think Vanessa enjoyed doing this to me, a little too much!  She seemed to be laughing and smiling a lot!  I was impressed with the immediate result - thanks to applying a cold Dermal Pure Soothing mask and cooling the skin with cold packs - I looked completely fine!  No one would know I had just had 98,000 needles in my face!  (Doesn't that sound like the ultimate spa treatment)?  So over the next 2-4 months you should see me literally turning back time!

Apparently that wasn't enough.  I wanted more!  So I also had Vanessa treat an annoying mole on my face.  I have been wanting to treat it for a long time!  She used the Cryo-Probe.  It works so quickly and with very little discomfort - basically liquid nitrogen in a pen form.  It will likely need 2-3 treatments.  A dermatologist was going to remove it - surgically, but I would be left with a scar.  I look forward to getting rid of it - without a large surgery scar!  

New! SRR Intracel treatment - No-Needle Intracel

Doesn't that sound like the best thing EVER?!  Well, don't get too excited.  Depending on your desired results, the Intracel treatment may still be your best bet.  Ideally the two treatments work hand in hand.  Intracel works to increase mass collagen production in the dermal layers - where the deeper lines/wrinkles, acne scars, and tightening really occurs. 

The SRR (Superficial Radio Frequency Rejuvenation - say that 10 times fast), targets the epidermis increasing collagen production in the upper skin layers to promote a smooth, even texture and a healthy glow.   We recommend combining the two treatments.  First the Intracel treatment, followed by the SRR treatment 2 weeks later.   The SRR alone is also ideal for those in their late 20's, early 30's to work on prevention. 

Remember, all of our consultations are complimentary.  Feel free to meet with us and discuss the best treatment plan for you.

SRR reg pricing Full Face & Neck  $450        INTRO PRICE   $325

*Purchase an Intracel treatment and add the SRR for only $199

**Purchase an Intracel pkg of 3 - and receive 1 SRR for FREE!

Contact us to book a complimentary consultation. Must be purchased by March 31, 2015.May not be combined with any other offers.

A Great Evening With a Great Group!

On Nov 12th we hosted a "Munch & Learn", where we performed an INTRAcel Skin Tightening demo and an IPL Photo Facial treatment.  Vanessa and I thoroughly enjoyed our time with our awesome guests. I think everyone learned a lot and had their questions answered - while sharing more than a few laughs! 

Thank you to Frank Gianforcaro, our awesome photographer for the pictures and putting together this awesome video.

Hope to see you at the next one!

Daniela

Intracel FAQ's

1.  Who is a candidate?

Anyone with signs of aging. Ie. Lines/wrinkles, loose skin, thinner skin, creping, etc.

Also those with scarring - acne scaring, pock marks, etc.

2.  What results can I expect?

Most clients will notice a tightening effect, a thickening of the skin and a smoother appearance in as   early as 4 weeks post treatment.  However, that one treatment is working to stimulate collagen   production for up to 6 months.

3.  What is the downtime to be expected?

1-2 days post treatment is the usual.  This is different depending on each person's comfort level.  Most   of our clients find that 1 day at home and the next into a little make-up is fine. 

4.  How does Intracel differ from other Radio Frequency treatments?

Comparable technologies deliver radio frequency (RF) to the epidermis (outer layer of skin), in hopes   that the RF is penetrated to the dermal layer (deeper layer), where collagen production takes place.   Therefore the downtime is greater (as the RF is causing surface damage) and the results are not as   favourable either.  With similar pricing - the Intracel is hands down the better choice.

5.  How painful is it?

A numbing gel is applied prior to treatment.  Most clients rate the pain as a 4 out of 10.  It is quite   manageable. 

6.  How much does it cost?

$1200/Full Face & Neck.  Starting at $950 for body treatments (depending on size of area).  We also recommend a post care kit to help with proper after care (this is optional). 

Body treatments are available - a consultation is necessary, pricing will be quoted at that time.

7.  How frequently it this recommended?

To  maintain the collagen you have - 1-2 per year.

To consistently increase collagen - 2-4 per year.

To treat deeper lines and acne scarring - every 3 months until you reach the desired result.

8.  Will I see a difference in just one treatment?

Yes.   Most clients notice a difference with only one treatment.  With some the difference is very   obvious, and others it is more subtle.  We also take before and after pictures that we will share with   you.

9.  What is the treatment protocol? 

We book a 2 hour session which includes:

• pre-treatment including before photos - 15mins

• numbing gel - 30mins

• treatment - approx. 45mins

• post treatment (soothing mask with cold packs) - 15mins 

• We also review home care and book a follow up visit to take after pics and review      changes - approx 6-8 weeks post treatment.

So?  Are you ready to shed a few years?  Call or email us today!

Microneedling... Friend or Foe?

Microneedling has been around for quite some time and has proven beneficial for stimulating collagen and elastin - helping decrease wrinkles, acne scars and large pores.  

In July's issue of Elevate Magazine, Audrey Dempsey talks about her experience with Microneedling (

ARTICLE LINK

).  She was very pleased with her results - however, she was having it done 3 times per week!  I have invited her to come and try the Intracel to compare the results - of just one treatment.  

Intracel combines Microneedling and Radio Frequency - which is starting to really turn heads in North America.  Marrying the two, has produced amazing results.  With the use of thermal, disposable needles, you not only benefit from the oxygenation of the skin, but also from the Radio Frequency which is delivered at the tip of the needle in the dermal layer of the skin.  This causes a noticeable increase in the production of collagen and elastin.  

When dealing with the signs of aging - prevention is key.  Once you begin to notice lines, creping, loose skin, that is the best time to start your Intracel treatments.  If you wait too long, more treatments will be required.

So friend or foe?  You decide.  I say FRIEND!

Comment below.

Isn't it time you look as young as you feel?  Book a complimentary consultation today. 

Book a consultation

.

INTRAcel in action at Freedom

We are seeing GREAT results with our INTRAcel treatments!  I recently had a client come in for her 2nd INTRAcel treatment.  Her concerns are pock marks as well as nasolabial fold lines and very few early lines around the eye area.

After her first treatment, she told me this was the first time she has noticed a significant difference in all of those areas.  She has had Fraxel treatment done in the past and did not notice much difference at all in the pock marks and only slight differences in the lines around the eyes.  With the Fraxel she had 2 weeks of downtime, whereby with the INTRAcel, she found it was only a few days - the day after she was fairly pink (wind burnt looking), and the next day into makeup and off to work.

A video of her latest treatment is below.

We thank her VERY MUCH, as she has allowed us to show video of her INTRAcel treatment.  Check it out and let us know your thoughts.

IntraCEL Treatment

Many of you have been very curious as to what an IntraCEL treatment is and what it can do for you.  I have been asked many questions, so I would like to explain the treatment further and show you some video clips of the actual treatment.

I had a demo day back in February of this year and I too had the treatment done along with a few others.  As many of you already know - I am a BIG suck.  However, I was fairly comfortable during the treatment (thank goodness for numbing cream).   We all went to work the next day - a little pinkier than usual, however, nothing absurd and noticable.   I would advise however, if possible, take the next day off of work (just in case you feel too red or swollen).  By approximately 3 weeks after the treatment I was VERY happy with the difference I noticed in my nasiolabial folds and the overall taughtness and texture of my skin.

Here is what to expect from beginning to end:

The treatment begins with the application of a numbing cream (approx. 30-40mins), then it is cleansed, and the treatment begins.  There is a disposible cartrige which houses 49 needles that are delivered quickly into the skin, then emitting Radio Frequency(RF) to the dermis.  The needles are thermal needles which keep the RF from reaching the epidermis – sparing it from burns/damage. Most other treatments cause damage to the epidermis first and try to deliver enough energy to the dermis.  The treatment time is approx. 30 minutes followed by a cooling face mask with cold pack to reduce any inflammation and redness (approx. 15mins).  Then a sunscreen is applied.  Total booking time 2 hours.

What is to be expected in the days following:

That same day and for the next day as well, cold packs will help with any swelling or discomfort.  There are also specific masks that are in the Post Care Kit (apply 1 am and 1 pm/must be kept in the fridge).

The skin will look pink and may have some needle marks – usually resolving within 3-5 days.  If you are using the Blemish Balm most people would not notice anything is different about you.  Most return to work within a day or two.  If you are nervous about what your reaction might be, I would recommend that you plan to be at home for the first day post treatment.

With just one treatment most will notice a difference in their lines, wrinkles, elasticity, texture, large pores, and scars.  It also helps to improve loose neck skin.  Depending on your concerns you may need to do 3 - 5 treatments for optimal results.  However, if you have mild symptoms of aging, a treatment 1-2 times a year can go a long way!  This is an incredible treatment to aid in the prevention of unwanted signs of aging.

Here are a few links that might give you a better idea of the procedure:

Intracel with Dr. Mulholland on Breakfast t.v.:

A personal experience documented:

A bloggers review:

http://www.foundbeautiful.com/2012/05/intracel-review/

Dr. Poon’s neck area Before and After shots:

http://www.elevatemagazine.com/before-after/391-shirley-s-platelet-rich-plasma-treatment

Please do not hesitate to ask any questions.  I believe this is an awesome treatment – allowing us to age gracefully (not plastically).  With subtle differences in lines/wrinkles we aren’t denying our age, just looking great while aging!

SmoothCool and INTRAcel

We welcome with open arms our two new babies to Freedom - the SmoothCool IPL and the INTRAcel.  I cannot express to you how excited I am to have these two amazing machines join our team!   They will allow us to address almost any concern you may have.  

The SmoothCool IPL with it's chill tip, will allow us to perform any treatment almost painlessly!  We are now able to treat Rosacea, superficial redness and broken capillaries, sun damage, age spots, Melasma and even Acne!   It also is able to perform permanent hair removal.  We will still be using the Laser for hair removal, however, in certain cases this high powered IPL may be better suited. 

The INTRAcel... I have been researching skin tightening for quite some time now.  The INTRAcel has impressed me the most.  It is designed to increase collagen in the layer between the epidermis and the dermis, making it the ideal treatment for lines/wrinkles/acne scaring/pock marks, etc.  It sounds scarier than it is but is really quite a comfortable treatment - there is a disposable  tip which encases 49 thermal needles which are injected into the skin (which is pre-numbed), and then radio frequency(RF) is emitted and the needles quickly retract.  It may seem like it would hurt, however, we had a "Demo day" back in February with 5 people taking part, including myself, and no one complained that the treatment was painful.  The numbing cream really works well.  Most of us noticed a sizable difference in lines or acne scaring - with just one treatment!  

I am very excited and proud to say that I will be the INTRAcel trainer and Freedom will be a demo centre for physicians who are interested in this amazing machine.  This technology will blow Fraxel and Pixel technology out of the water.  Those treatments (as well as most collagen rebuilding treatments), damage the epidermis with the bulk of energy in order to try to get to the area that should be targeted.  Therefore, there is 5-7 days of downtime, and the amount of collagen actually generated is minimal.  By using thermal needles the epidermis receives little to none and all the RF is delivered .5mm to 2mm below the epidermis (in the optimal area for collagen production).

Feel free to book a complimentary consultation and we can help you to decide what treatments would best suit you and your needs.