Helena Rosengren – Skinovation

Five simple ways to celebrate women on March 8th

Written by Helena Rosengren on March 7, 2022. Posted in Uncategorized.

March 8^th is International Women’s Day – a day to celebrate, inspire and empower. The annual event also marks a call-to-action for accelerating women’s equality. This year’s theme is #BreakTheBias:

Imagine a gender equal world.

A world free of bias, stereotypes, and discrimination.

A world that is diverse, equitable, and inclusive.

A world where difference is valued and celebrated.

Together we can forge women’s equality.

Collectively we can all #BreakTheBias.

(source: https://www.internationalwomensday.com)

While it can be hard to fathom how you can make an impact on a global scale, there are actually simple ways which you can celebrate International Women’s Day. Here are five ideas:

Recognise a local woman-owned company. We are surrounded by so many amazing female-led businesses here in Townsville! Recognising these inspiring women can be as simple as commenting on a social media post or sending an email to congratulate on a job well done.
Pen a ‘thank you’ note to your colleague, friend, sister, mother – or any influential woman in your life.
Watch a movie that has a strong female lead (some of our favourites include Erin Brockovich, The Hunger Games, Matilda, Amelie & The Silence of the Lambs)
Learn about famous & inspirational women. For some close-to-home inspiration, we highly recommend ‘Medicine Women’, which was released last year and features our very own Dr Helena Rosengren! It’s a compilation of pivotal and life-changing autobiographical stories by 20 female healthcare professionals. Talk about breaking the bias! (read more in Helena’s previous blog here)
Strike the IWD #BreaktheBias pose. Cross your arms in solidarity and share on social media using #IWD2022 to spread awareness.

As an all-female team, we at Skinovation think it’s important to recognise International Women’s Day. Mobile casinos are popping up all over the net. These casinos offer first class gambling experience. You will have an access to most popular casino games including online pokies, no deposit bonus can be given in mobile casinos as well. If you want to find a good and reputable gambling venue, go to the onlinecasinos-australia.com where you will surely find what you like. We are constantly inspired by our (largely female) clientele, and appreciate the opportunity to bring a little extra confidence to your day.

However you choose to mark the occasion, we wish you a Happy International Women’s Day! From the Skinovation team:

Dr Helena Rosengren – MBChB, FRACGP, FACSCM, FSCCA, MMed, MPHTM, DRCOG

Natural-looking face lift (without surgery!)

Written by Helena Rosengren on February 8, 2022. Posted in Skin Treatment, Thread Lifts.

If you think you must go under the knife for a face lift, you can think again! The future of face lifts is here…. And it’s far less scary than a traditional surgical face lift. Thread lifts have become increasingly popular ever since Eva Longoria shared her thread lift experience on social media back in 2016.

What is a thread lift?

Thread lifts use fine, dissolvable threads under the skin to produce a subtle yet visible ‘lift’ in the skin. It’s a very effective way to tighten sagging facial tissue, resulting in a younger looking reflection.

Are there different types of thread lifts?

There are two main types of threads available – short PDO threads and longer ‘anchored’ threads. Some benefits apply to both types of threads, including:

Production of collagen to restore volume – the body’s healing response will be constantly activated while the threads are in place, resulting in a boost of collagen to these areas. This results in an improvement to the skin’s tone and firmness.
Minimally invasive procedure – both types of threads are quick, non-surgical procedures, with minimal downtime.
Can be used in conjunction with dermal fillers.

PDO (polydioxanone) threads trigger the production of collagen to restore volume, but have a limited ‘lifting’ effect. This procedure is normally performed by nurses, with results generally lasting about six months.

The longer ‘anchored’ threads give a lifting effect as well as restoring volume through the production of collagen. We choose to use only Aptos threads, which we believe is the world leader of threads, in our Townsville clinic. Why? Read on below…

Benefits of Aptos Visage Excellence threads

In addition to the benefits listed above, Aptos threads also:

Provide an advanced support with this specialised ‘barbed’ (anchoring) thread which attaches comfortably to the deeper tissues in the skin. The threads are generally placed along the hairline or in the natural skin fold just in front of the ear to help hide the entry point and gently pull the skin back, creating a firming and tightening effect.
Create an immediate ‘lifting’ effect with results continuing to improve as the body’s natural healing response kicks in, sending collagen to the treated area.
Give a natural-looking result, a reduction in fine lines and a glowing complexion as the months pass following the procedure. This happens as the threads dissolve (a process which takes around 8 months), as elastin, collagen and blood flow in the skin all increase.
Have long lasting results, usually between 18 to 30 months with the effects of collagen production providing a supportive scaffolding and volume to the aussie online casinos tissue long after the threads are dissolved.
Commonly used for a natural minimally invasive face lifts, threads can also be used to lift eyebrows and provide an under chin or neck lift.

Aptos thread lifts are only performed by doctors who are certified in the technique – so you know you are in safe hands!

What happens in the procedure?

A local anaesthetic is gently injected to make the procedure comfortable. After that, you’ll feel a light tugging on the skin. The procedure usually takes about 20-40 minutes. For two or three days following the procedure, you might have some mild swelling and bruising – easily treated with ice packs and paracetamol.

Click here if you want to know more about thread lifts, or please contact us if would like to book an assessment to see if they are suitable for you.

Skincare in 2022: what does it mean for your skin?

Written by Helena Rosengren on January 3, 2022. Posted in Self-Care, Skincare.

In the world of ‘beauty’, people are continuing to spend their time (and money) on skincare rather than makeup. Interestingly, this is a trend that kicked off thanks to COVID. The forced closure of beauty clinics, along with more time spent at home, and more irritation to our skin caused by mask-wearing and sanitiser, saw a huge upswing in skincare sales (read about it in last year’s blog).

This trend continued in 2021, with the rise of the ‘skinimalism’ approach. (Google ‘skinimalism’, the term was everywhere last year!). Basically, it means natural, minimal or no-makeup beauty where your real skin shines through. Pinterest’s 2021 Trend Predictions Report describes skinimalism as “the end of the caked-on makeup look” and the new “effortlessly chic routine is simple and sustainable.” It’s an approach we fully support! But what does it mean for your skin this year?

Cutting back your skincare routine

Long gone are the days of the one-size-fits-all ‘exfoliate, cleanse, tone, moisturise’ routine, along with the 27 little jars of various scrubs, serums and eye creams cluttering your bathroom benchtop.

Skinimalism is all about giving your skin what it actually needs. I.e. adopting a simple routine with products and ingredients that are beneficial to your particular skin type.

With so many skincare products on the market, this can be easier said than done! If you don’t know your skin type, or how Vitamin A (or B or C or E!) might affect it, a personalised skin consult helps to cut through the confusion.

Using natural skincare products & practices

The Pinterest report also saw a 400% increase in searches for “how to get glowing skin naturally”. Think down-to-earth ingredients and products which naturally increase blood flow (Cacay Oil & Derma Roller, anyone?). Essentially, natural products = natural glow.

Hybrid cosmetics

Make up that also acts as skincare? Yes please! Multi-tasking ‘hybrid’ cosmetics are all the rage. New hybrid cosmetics have added skincare benefits that makes them worth using day-to-day.

One great example is Oxygenating Foundation by Oxygenetix. Not only does it offers SPF25 protection, it delivers amazing benefits to your skin along with flawless coverage. It’s built on a unique aloe vera base that helps protect and heal your skin, while allowing it to morrock.com breathe. The patented ‘Ceravitae’ formula is a supercharged oxygen complex which actually replenishes your skin cells, with plumping and anti-ageing results.

Minimally invasive procedures

Australians have been seeking professional advice and treatments to expand on their self-care routines started at home during lockdowns. We (and others in the industry) have seen an increase in demand for minimally invasive procedures such as microdermabrasion or galvanic infusions. These procedures naturally stimulate the skin with long-lasting results.

Our core philosophy here at Skinovation is ‘embracing your skin, naturally’. It comes as no surprise that we are advocates for the ‘skinimalism’ approach!

Is 2022 the year you will embrace your skin? If you want a tailored skincare routine and simplified products, we would love to help you find your natural glow!

Our top five products in 2021

Written by Helena Rosengren on December 14, 2021. Posted in Healthy skin, Skincare.

As you might expect, skincare is a hot topic of discussion in the Skinovation clinic, and we all love trying new skincare products!

These are the products we used all the time in 2021, and recommended to many of our clients as well. They are versatile, can be used on any skin type, and have a real impact on your skin’s appearance!

1. Derma Roller

This powerful little tool has become a regular part of our skincare routine. Used 2 to 3 times a week, the derma roller increases blood flow to the skin, naturally helping to remove toxins so it looks increasingly radiant with time. It also allows any face oils or serums to absorb more deeply. Hello, radiant skin! Find out more here.

(Derma Roller pictured with Cacay Oil, image thanks to @x_o_tix)

2. Cacay Oil

This little-known oil is a natural superfood for your skin. It’s packed with nourishing vitamins and fatty acids… in fact, three times as much Vitamin A than rosehip oil, and 50% more Vitamin E than argan oil!

There are heaps of benefits to your skin (read about them here), but in a broad statement, Cacay Oi l delivers maximum anti-ageing effects. We also love the fact that it’s sustainably sourced from the Amazon.

(image thanks to @x_o_tix)

3. Everyday Face SPF50+

We can’t stress enough the importance of daily sunscreen application. Not only does facial sunscreen help prevent potentially life-threatening skin cancer, it also has proven anti-ageing effects.

Every morning after moisturising, we apply Everyday Face SPF50 +, and then wait a few minutes before applying makeup. As a bonus, it works really well as a makeup primer! If you do not currently apply facial sunscreen every day, we encourage you to make this simple step your New Year’s Resolution. Your skin will thank you!

(image thanks to @hamiltonsunskin)

4. Synergie Skin

Okay, this is not one particular product, but a luxe skincare brand with a full suite of products. Synergie Skin was developed by an Australian female scientist with the philosophy of “Clean Science” – i.e. using science and nature in synergy to create highly effective, evidence-based, ethical skincare products. Be warned: once you start using Synergie, it’s hard to stop.

Available in the clinic, Synergie Skin introductory kits are the perfect way to try the range. While stocks last, we also have Synergie Skin BonBons – just $25 for two bestselling product minis!

(image thanks to @synergieskin)

5. Oxygenating Foundation

It’s makeup, but it works as skincare. This aloe-based foundation by Oxygenetix is like a breath of fresh air for your skin. It’s lightweight and allows your skin to breathe, but also offers a flawless texture and covers skin conditions such as acne. It’s also soothing and has healing properties, which is why we offer to apply it to our clients following certain treatments.

If you need any extra convincing, Oxygenating Foundation is used by celebs such as Kourtney Kardashian and Margot Robbie. You know they would only use the best!

(image thanks to @oxygenetix_australia)

6. Gift voucher

Whoops, did we say top five products? We couldn’t let this list be complete without a sneaky addition. The best product is of course a Skinovation rocket australia gift voucher, so you always have a professional rejuvenating treatment ready to go. Self-endorsement complete!

To our valued clients, we thank you for your continued support in 2021. Our clinic will be closed from 12.30pm on 24 December, re-opening on Tuesday 4 January. We look forward to welcoming you into the clinic in 2022!

Why microdermabrasion remains a top treatment

Written by Helena Rosengren on November 22, 2021. Posted in Healthy skin, Skin Treatment.

Microdermabrasion remains one of our most popular treatments, and it’s not hard to see why! It’s a non-invasive, relatively quick procedure that renews and rejuvenates the overall appearance of your skin’s tone and texture. As a bonus, it’s an affordable option compared to many other cosmetic treatments.

How does it work?

Microdermabrasion uses a unique applicator that features an abrasive surface and the use of tiny crystal to deeply exfoliate your skin. In the hands of an experienced cosmetic nurse, this exfoliation process removes dead and damaged skin cells to reveal a fresher, more radiant appearance.

What skin issues can it address?

Microdermabrasion can be used to address a whole range of skin-related concerns, such as sun damage, hyperpigmentation, wrinkles, fine lines, active acne or uneven skin tone. It works extremely well to banish dull skin!

If you’re unsure whether microdermabrasion is the right treatment for you, we can firstly assess your skin to recommend the most suitable course of treatment.

How is it different to microneedling?

While both treatments rejuvenate the skin, they work quite differently. Microdermabrasion is a deeply exfoliating treatment that smooths the skin from within. In-clinic microneedling uses very fine needles to create tiny ‘holes’ in the skin, which trigger collagen production.

While not recommended to have both treatments at the same time, microneedling can be a good option to maintain a radiant complexion between microdermabrasion treatments.

Cosmetic nurse Marie performs microdermabrasion in our Townsville clinic.

How often can you have microdermabrasion?

At first, many people choose to start with weekly treatments for three sessions and then change to a monthly or six-weekly maintenance regimen. Once again, this is something our cosmetic nurses can discuss with you after assessing your skin. The regime will depend on your desired outcome and your skin’s tolerance.

How long does it take?

Microdermabrasion treatments takes around 15-30 minutes, depending on the condition of your skin and what areas are being targeted.

So, if you’re juggling a busy daily life, this is the perfect procedure to squeeze into your schedule.

What to expect after treatment?

Common side effects could include mild tenderness and redness. These generally disappear within a few hours. We can apply Oxygenetix aloe-enriched foundation to cover any redness and assist in your skin’s healing.

How long to see results?

After just one microdermabrasion treatment, you will notice a rejuvenated and brighter skin tone. Most clients have noted visible results immediately after their treatment.

24 hours after the initial treatment, the effects will become more pronounced as the skin settles from the procedure.

Simply put, microdermabrasion is one the most affordable rejuvenating treatments on the market. Over time, this procedure offers an economical and non-invasive way to resurface your skin, leading to a younger looking, radiant appearance.

At Skinovation, our microdermabrasion treatments are affordably priced at $130.

We also offer an ongoing clinic special: When you pay for 4 microdermabrasion treatments, the 5th treatment is free!

Book a consultation by calling us on 4775 5664 or submit a request here.

How Skincare is Connected to Wellbeing

Written by Helena Rosengren on October 26, 2021. Posted in Healthy skin, Self-Care.

Many of us may assume that skincare is only an aesthetic practice. However, a good skincare regimen has the potential to offer you a range of benefits that will boost your wellbeing.

Better skin can help you look better but more importantly can make you feel better. Read on to discover how your skincare routine can create a meaningful difference in your life.

The Brain-Skin Connection

Have you ever noticed why your cheeks go red when you feel embarrassed? This is because your brain and nervous system have a direct impact on the skin’s immune cells through various chemical messengers and receptors that respond to stress, anxiety, and other emotions.

Negative emotions such as stress and anxiety can have a direct impact on the quality of your skin. This is because how you feel relates to the way your body reacts. As such, the act of practicing a regular skincare routine will help instil the thought that you are giving your skin the care it needs. The mental association that ‘good skin will improve your mindset’ will help to connect your skincare routine with positive emotions. As a result, maintaining a regular skincare routine works to create a cycle that not only improves both your skin’s appearance but also your inner wellbeing.

Skincare is SELF CARE

Having a consistent daily skincare routine is a great way to practice self-care. By taking a moment from your day to cleanse and moisturise your skin, you are dedicating your time and complete attention to yourself.

More than this, your skincare routine can also do wonders for your mental health. A daily regimen works to provide structure, stability, and structure into your week. If everything else seems out of control and stressful in your life, it’s a few minutes set aside to spend some time on you.

Your daily skin routine also creates a time to practice mindfulness, which enables you to focus your thoughts on the present moment. According to research, mindfulness has been known to be linked to regulating emotions and reducing symptoms of depression and anxiety.

Keep Your Skin Nourished with The Right Ingredients

Your skincare routine will achieve the best results when paired with good nutrition and regular exercise. Foods such as broccoli, spinach, avocados, and sweet potatoes are packed with plenty of antioxidants that will not only help to revitalise the skin but also combat the visible signs of aging.

Antioxidants offer a range of benefits to your skin including:

Works to neutralise free radical production
Contains anti-inflammatory properties that prevent sun damage and enable your skin to correct visible damage.
Helps to brighten skin tone by stimulating melanin production.

Combining a balanced diet with regular exercise will help to get your blood pumping around the body. This helps to deliver the essential nutrients to the skin’s surface, which accelerates the healing process of your skin. When you work up a sweat this helps to flush out all the dirt and oils from the skin and keep your skin looking clear and bright.

Exercise also releases feel-good hormones like endorphins that regulate the stress hormone, cortisol that is responsible for oil production and inflammation.

Drink Plenty of Water

‘Keep hydrated’ may seem like overused advice but this is for good reason! Ensuring your skin is properly hydrated is a vital step in maintaining healthy and glowing skin.

Without sufficient water intake, skin can appear duller, and your wrinkles, spots and pores can appear more prominent. Hydration helps to make your skin appear plumper and boosts elasticity, which means it’s less likely to produce spots and blemishes.

Drinking at least 8 glasses a day will help to flush out the toxins in your body, unclog pores and keep your skin moisturised.

At Skinovation Cosmetic Clinic we believe in the holistic approach to skincare. If you would like to discover a skincare regimen that is best suited to your individual needs, please book with one of our trained nurses by calling us on 4775 5664 or click here.

5 Amazing Treatments To Naturally Boost Collagen Production

Written by Helena Rosengren on August 31, 2021. Posted in Healthy skin, Self-Care, Skin Treatment.

In the skin world, collagen is something that will never go out of fashion. But, what is it, really?

Well, collagen is one of the most abundant proteins found in your body to help keep your skin looking youthful and vibrant. But that’s not all. Found in your bones, tendons and ligaments, collagen is one of the primary building blocks of your skin. Just think of collagen as a scaffolding structure that works to give firmness and elasticity to the skin.

Sadly, over time, collagen begins to break down faster than our body can replenish it. In fact, from our mid-20’s, we start to lose around 1% of our collagen per year and can lose up to 30% in the first years of menopause.

Not to fear though, there are plenty of natural treatments that help to boost collagen production and also work to keep your skin looking lush. Read on to discover a treatment that works for you…

1. Platelet Rich Plasma

Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) treatments are an injection treatment that involves drawing a small amount of blood and centrifuging it to separate the platelets from the red blood cells. The highly-concentrated plasma contains many anti-ageing properties that work to increase both collagen and elastin production when injected into specific areas of the face.

2. Hydrolyzed Collagen Supplements

If you’re not ready to head down the cosmetic treatment road, then there are numerous collagen-rich products that you can try at home.

One option to consider is hydrolyzed collagen supplements, which means the collagen has been broken down and easier to absorb. Mostly packaged as a powder, this option not only offers an easy way to incorporate collagen into your diet but also is the option your body absorbs the best.

Hydrolyzed supplements can be incorporated into your diets through coffee, tea, smoothies or any drink of your choice… AND, the good news is that powdered collagen is tasteless, so no need to worry about a nasty aftertaste.

Studies have shown that consuming collagen can increase skin elasticity, hydration, as well as promote dermal collagen density. You won’t see instantaneous results from this option, but you will begin to notice that your skin is more plump and elastic after several weeks.

3. Micro-needling

Micro-needling is a treatment method that is used to treat a number of skin conditions. This method involves using multiple tiny needles to puncture the skin and trigger our skin’s self repair process triggering more collagen to form in the skin. Micro-needling stimulates collagen production thereby rejuvenating aging skin.

4. Collagen Serums & Oils

Collagen serums and oils are a good option to add to your skincare routine. It’s important to note that the collagen particles in these products are too large to absorb into the skin when applied topically. However, there are a few skincare ingredients that will work to stimulate collagen production topically. Serums that contain retinol (an active form of vitamin A) help to boost cell turnover, hydration, and of course, increase collagen production. The next go-to collagen boosting ingredient is vitamin C. In fact, collagen synthesis relies on vitamin C and supports the body’s natural ability to produce collagen.

If you’re looking for a recommendation, we suggest adding Cacay Oil to your skincare routine. Cacay Oil contains wonderful skin-nourishing essential acids and vitamins such as retinol, vitamin E and linoleic acid (vitamin F). As Cacay Oil is so rich in natural goodness, it helps to reduce wrinkles and pigmentations as well as boosting collagen production which helps to smooth and brighten the skin. If you want to read more about the advantages of Cacay Oil, read this blog.

The additional use of a 0.25mm home derma-roller immediately before or after application of your quality serums will assist with deeper skin absorption so your products can be up to 40 times more effective. Derma rolling should only be done on clean skin and we suggest night time use only so the skin heals fully before use of makeup and sunscreen. Click here for more info on derma rollers, or watch below for an instructional video.

5. Red Light Treatment

Red Light Treatment (RLT) is a low-level light therapy that applies a low-energy red and near-infrared light to the body. It’s a completely natural, non-invasive method that heals your skin, muscle tissues, and other body parts on a cellular level.

RLT is a popular choice for those who are looking to improve the health and appearance of the skin. Why is that? RLT boosts blood flow, which brings oxygen and nutrients to the skin cells to encourage healing and minimise inflammation. This treatment also stimulates the collagen-producing cells called fibroblasts which boosts your collagen production.

At Skinovation we are committed to helping our clients feel beautiful and achieve their skin goals. If you would like to talk more about our in-clinic collagen boosting solutions, you can book in a skin consultation with our friendly team here.

Muscle Relaxants vs Dermal Fillers: Part 2

Written by Helena Rosengren on August 10, 2021. Posted in Dermal Fillers, Injectables, Muscle Relaxants.

Muscle Relaxants and Dermal Fillers are two popular injectable options to reduce the telltale signs of ageing. How do you know which is right for you? Following on from the previous Muscle Relaxants blog, let’s explore Dermal Fillers in detail.

Injectables, Part 2: Dermal Fillers

Dermal fillers work differently from muscle relaxants. While muscle relaxants work to address the ‘moving’ lines on the face, dermal fillers pay attention to the static, more permanent lines that develop as we age.

Dermal fillers can be used in the upper layers of the skins to soften visible fine lines without altering the natural contour of the face. Additionally, dermal fillers can also address frown and smile lines, hollow cheeks and eyes, as well as to lift the contours of the cheeks or jawlines.

What are they used for?

Dermal fillers are used at varying depths of the skin to address different concerns. There are the multiple dermal filler products available for various applications, such as:

Deeper fillers:

Fill the hollow areas in the cheeks
Lift the cheeks and jawline for a more youthful look

Medium depth fillers:

Subtly change the contours of your face by filling deep lines, skin folds and hollows
Lift corners of the mouth
Address frown and smile lines.

More superficial fillers:

Reduce or eliminate fine lines
Increase the fullness of the lips
Fill hollow areas under the eyes.

What are the benefits?

One major perk that comes along with opting for a temporary filler is that the procedures are typically pretty painless and you will notice the results quickly.

Additionally, dermal fillers can help to make your skincare routine more seamless. How so? Well, as dermal fillers smooth lines, folds and hollows on the face, this makes for an easier application of your skincare products.

What are the disadvantages?

After receiving your dermal filler injection, there is a chance that you will notice redness, swelling and/or bruising around the treatment area. However, these effects will subside in a few days.

How long do dermal fillers last?

This very much depends on the type of filler, the area of the body, and the individual. Generally, results can last anywhere from 6-24 months. We would discuss expected results as part of your initial consultation.

Which option is best for you?

Your aesthetic goals are the key criteria when deciding between muscle relaxants or dermal fillers. Before undergoing a treatment, we always recommend consulting with a trained medical practitioner to ensure that you select a treatment that is right for you.

Unlike some clinics, our injectable treatments are all performed by a highly skilled in-house doctor. Dr Helena Rosengren will discuss your concerns and desired/possible outcomes before administering the suitable treatment. Book in a consultation here to help you achieve your skin goals!

What’s Best for Me: Muscle Relaxants or Dermal Fillers?

Written by Helena Rosengren on August 5, 2021. Posted in Dermal Fillers, Injectables, Muscle Relaxants, Skin Treatment.

When we’re young, our skin is rich in hyaluronic acid, collagen and elastin. These elements work to keep our skin plump, firm and hydrated. However, as we age, our skin begins to produce less of these elements which causes our skin to become drier and less elastic. Sun exposure and gravity can also take a toll, causing skin to sag and wrinkles to form.

Muscle Relaxants and Dermal Fillers are two popular injectable options to reduce the telltale signs of ageing. But how do you know which is right for you? Over the next two blogs, we’ll give you the rundown on both of these treatments and how they might work for you.

Injectables, Part One: Muscle Relaxants

What are they?

Botulinum A muscle relaxants work to block signals between the nerves and muscles, so the injected areas do not contract. As a result, muscle relaxants help to minimise signs of aging by relaxing the muscles that cause facial expression lines such as forehead lines when you raise your eyebrows and crows’ feet when you smile.

What can they be used for?

Muscle relaxants are generally used to eliminate the visible lines or wrinkles that appear as your face naturally moves.

The most common treatment areas include:

The frowning area: the lines that are visible on your forehead when you raise your eyebrows.
Crow’s feet: The creases that appear around your eyes when you smile.
Bunny lines on the nose: These mostly appear when smiling.
Down turning of the corners of the mouth: These occur naturally as you age.
Strap muscles in the neck: These can be prominent when certain facial expressions are used.

What are the benefits?

As stated above, muscle relaxants work to minimise ‘moving’ lines and wrinkles. The results of this treatment are not instantaneous….but that’s not necessarily a bad thing. This gradual effect helps to ensure a subtle difference, making it difficult to detect that you’ve had work done.

What are the disadvantages?

When deciding which treatment is better suited to you, it’s important to weigh up the cons along with the pros.

While muscle relaxants work to reduce the lines and wrinkles that appear when your face is naturally moving, this treatment will unfortunately not work on the lines you see when your face is at rest. This means that if you have deep lines in your frown area, these do not disappear with this treatment. However, muscle relaxants will prevent the deepening of these lines when you frown.

While it is rare that you would experience complications when receiving this treatment from a skilled administrator, there are still some potential risks that you should be aware of. These risks include pain, tenderness, redness of the skin, infection and bruising around the injected areas. These issues will subside within a week after treatment.

How long do muscle relaxants last?

Muscle relaxants are a short-term cosmetic solution as the effects of this treatment generally lasts for around three months. However, this treatment can also last for six to eight months for some lucky people. Ultimately, the lifespan of this treatment will depend on the individual.

Click here for Injectables, Part Two: Dermal Fillers

Before undergoing a treatment, we always recommend consulting with a trained medical practitioner to ensure that you select a treatment that is right for you. Unlike some clinics, our injectable treatments are all performed by a highly skilled in-house doctor. Dr Helena Rosengren will discuss your concerns and desired/possible outcomes before administering the suitable treatment. Book in a consultation here to help you achieve your skin goals!

A career highlight in ‘Medicine Women’

Written by Helena Rosengren on July 29, 2021. Posted in Uncategorized.

As many of you may know, I had the honour of being asked to contribute a chapter to ‘Medicine Women’, which was released on 18 July. Already a bestseller in Amazon’s biography category, Medicine Women is an inspiring compilation of short autobiographical stories by 20 female healthcare professionals from around the world, ranging from doctors, psychologists and naturopaths.

While the beautifully written chapters are refreshingly different to each other, each author shares intimate moments that have been pivotal or even life changing. Some chapters include stories of personal tragedy, others touch on the prejudices experienced in the profession. Writing my own chapter, ‘’a sliding door moment’’, proved to be a cathartic experience, exploring my childhood and a traumatic event which proved to have a profound impact on my life.

Cathryn Mora, who compiled and edited the book, said “Reading the stories in this book moved me to tears multiple times. The responsibility of caring for the lives of others and delivering difficult news, all while coping with sexism, stress, and challenges on the personal front, including illness, sexual assault, miscarriage, natural disasters, and strained relationships.”

Here’s some quotes from some of the incredible women who have shared their wise words and experiences in Medicine Women:

“I wrote about my experience of being a patient in ICU with septic shock following an IVF miscarriage. My story highlights the challenges women face when juggling careers and the desire to have children. Most career progression occurs in the years women are more fertile, leaving us with a difficult choice: prioritise career advancement and risk infertility, or have children early and accept loss of financial independence and delayed career progression.

I am so proud to have my work included in this anthology alongside my 19 co-authors. These women have all achieved so much, despite many having backgrounds of considerable adversity or personal trauma. Their stories are an inspiring example of what women can achieve, despite the challenges and prejudices we often face.”

Dr. Anne Stark, Consultant Psychiatrist at the Royal Brisbane and Women’s Hospital

“Having “permission” to immerse myself in my life journey, to connect with deep and buried emotions, to explore how my life experiences impact me as a person and as a doctor was a defining experience – it has helped me grow in courage, confidence, and self-acceptance. Writing for the book Medicine Women legitimised that which I may otherwise have put aside as self-indulgent – oh, how I would have missed out!”

Dr Faye Jordan, Consultant Paediatric Emergency Medicine

Reviews

The response to Medicine Women has been overwhelmingly positive, with the book currently rated 4.8 out of 5 on Amazon.

“Wow, It’s been a while since I picked up a book that I just couldn’t put down. A “just one more chapter” book. I found myself reading late into the night, at lunchtime, sharing excerpts with my voice catching and my eyes brimming – you’ll need tissues! It also left me burning at the blatant and insidious prejudices they face as women in medicine.

Their different perspectives, and writing styles keeps it fresh, and their unvarnished honesty keeps it authentic.Their stories pricked my heart, and also left me reeling in awe of their tenacity and strength. This is a book that needs to be read and shared.”

Melissa H (Australia)

“I am a middle aged white guy doctor who is truly in love with these stories. Each is an incredible insight to what it means to work in medicine, and each is also an incredible insight to being a woman, in medicine… it is beautiful and funny across the board.”

Peter Rizzo (Australia)

In the Media

Medicine Women has also garnered positive attention from different media outlets and websites.

https://www.ramsayhealth.com.au/News/General-News/Greenslopes-Private-Hospital-emergency-doctor-shares-personal-story-in-Medicine-Women-book

https://medicine.uq.edu.au/blog/2021/07/passion-medicine-distilled-autobiographical-book

https://www.einpresswire.com/article/546559569/new-book-shared-a-rare-insight-into-the-private-lives-and-heartbreak-of-female-doctors

If you would like to get your hands on a copy of Medicine Women you can head here or simply visit our clinic for one.

It is my sincere wish that this incredible book may encourage others to step out of the box created by the challenging setbacks and prejudices they have experienced to fully embrace what truly inspires them while honouring their authentic selves, innate abilities and talents.

Happy reading!

70 Mooney Street, Gulliver

Author: Helena Rosengren