A Younger You Medical Spa Blog

Frequently Asked Questions About Microdermabrasion

February 4, 2019 by A Younger You

A Younger You Medical Spa in Burlington and Brookfield offers microdermabrasion for patients looking to relieve common skin issues, such as oily or leathery skin, enlarged or clogged pores, fine lines and wrinkles, minor acne scarring, minor discoloration, or blemishes. Microdermabrasion is a non-surgical, non-invasive, chemical-free treatment that uses a diamond-tipped wand to increase exfoliation and trigger the skin’s natural healing process to rejuvenate the superficial layers of the skin.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Does Microdermabrasion Work?

This non-invasive treatment works by using a special device. After the skin is thoroughly washed to remove any oil and dirt, the device is moved across the targeted area by a skilled and qualified professional. This ultimately erodes the dead skin cells, which are then removed from the treatment area. This promotes collagen growth, which leads to younger-looking skin.

Is the Treatment Safe for My Skin?

Microdermabrasion is a safe procedure with no surgery, anesthesia, or chemical treatments required. Unlike common procedures like chemical peels or facelifts, it is entirely non-invasive with virtually no risks of side effects.

Is There Downtime or Recovery After the Treatment?

Unlike many other common treatments, microdermabrasion requires no real recovery period or downtime. You can return to your normal routine immediately after your treatment. This includes returning to work or your other errands.

How Long is a Treatment?

This is known to be a quick treatment, making it a perfect option for someone with a busy schedule or lifestyle.

Who are Ideal Candidates for the Treatment?

An ideal candidate will be a healthy adult who has relatively minor skin conditions or imperfections. They should have realistic expectations for the results and prefer a non-invasive renewable treatment to a surgical procedure.

How Many Treatments are Recommended?

It all depends on the unique case. We may recommend a series of treatments, spaced at least a week or so apart. More serious skin issues like acne scars or skin discoloration may require additional treatments. After the initial treatment course, maintenance treatments are recommended every so often to maintain the results.

What Should I Expect Before Microdermabrasion?

If you’re considering this treatment, the first step is to schedule an initial consultation with one of our certified professionals. They will examine your skin to determine if you’re a suitable candidate for the treatment and discuss the process with you in greater detail. After deciding on the targeted area and scheduling your initial appointment, you will be given instructions on how to prepare for your treatment. As this is a non-invasive treatment, prep is minimal. You will be advised to keep your face clean and free of any makeup or chemicals before your treatment.

What Should I Expect During My Initial Treatment?

Your treatment will be performed by a skilled expert. The first step is to thoroughly clean your face. Then, a handheld wand goes over the targeted skin area. The wand targets the damaged skin and removes the dead skin along with it. The procedure may be finished by applying a serum and/or moisturizer to protect the newly exposed skin.

Is the Treatment Uncomfortable?

Microdermabrasion is considered a comfortable, well-tolerated treatment. You may feel a mild scratching sensation as the device moves across the skin, but the feeling should be bearable overall.

Should I Expect Any Side Effects After Treatment?

This treatment has no serious side effects. Immediately after the treatment, you may experience minor tightness or dryness in the skin, akin to a mild sunburn. This can be alleviated with a moisturizer and sunblock. Your skin may appear slightly red for a day after the treatment; however, this is entirely normal and temporary. No post-treatment effects will be serious enough to restrict you from resuming most normal activities.

When Will I See the Effects of My First Treatment?

The first treatment typically results in an immediate improvement in skin tone and a more youthful appearance. Results will depend on your individual skin tone, but you will walk out of the treatment seeing the effects, and they will be magnified in time and with every treatment.

What Areas of the Body Can Be Treated?

The face is the most common area for treatment, which is understandable since that’s the first thing most people see when they look at a person.

Who is Not a Candidate for Microdermabrasion?

This treatment is not recommended for anyone looking to remove deep scars, keloids, sunburns, rosacea, eczema, active acne, or deep scars. These more serious skin conditions are best treated with alternative treatments. The treatment is not recommended for anyone with skin cancer or infectious skin conditions such as warts, herpes, or unstable diabetes. Microdermabrasion is not recommended for pregnant women.

What are the Long-Term Results?

The treatment will most likely result in thicker, healthier, younger-looking skin. It will roll back minor skin ailments like fine lines, clogged pores, minor acne, sun damage, uneven skin tone, and oily or dry skin. After a full course of treatments, your body will produce new layers of skin with a higher level of collagen and elastin. Your skin will have a healthy, youthful glow.

Are At-Home Treatment Kits Recommended?

We recommend the treatment be done by a qualified professional. The treatment requires a specific, carefully timed method of application and removal to achieve maximum skin benefits.

Am I a Good Candidate for Microdermabrasion?

Are you looking for a non-invasive alternative to facelifts or other procedures?
Do you want to alleviate minor skin ailments like dry or oily skin, clogged or enlarged pores, or sun damage?
Do you prefer a short, renewable treatment to a major one-time procedure?
Is it important to be free to resume normal activities immediately?
Are you looking for an all-natural way to improve your skin tone?

Getting Started

Microdermabrasion is an all-natural, non-invasive treatment that uses a diamond-tipped device to remove the oils and dead skin cells from your skin and stimulate the growth of younger-looking, healthier skin. This amazing treatment is readily available right here at A Younger You Medical Spa. Contact us today to book a consultation at our office in Burlington or Brookfield!

Choosing the Right BOTOX Provider

January 7, 2019 by A Younger You

Most of us yearn to recapture our youthful looks as we get older, but actually achieving this goal can be quite a challenge. Despite the variety of products available on the market, only a few make a noticeable difference in our appearance. Fortunately, there is one treatment that consistently makes a difference, and this comes in the form of BOTOX®. Available from the experts at A Younger You in Burlington and Brookfield, this treatment has become increasingly popular over recent years.

There are many reasons why people choose this treatment to improve their appearance and provide a variety of additional benefits. There was a time when only the rich and famous had access to treatments such as this. However, BOTOX® has now become a huge hit among men and women from all walks of life, and it has also become more affordable and accessible.

Choosing a Professional to Administer the Injections

It is important that you find a professional to carry out your BOTOX® treatment if you want to benefit from both great results and peace of mind. In order to make the right choice, you need to make sure you consider a range of important factors. This will make it much easier for you to choose the right BOTOX® provider. Some key factors that you should take into consideration before you make your decision include:

How Much Experience the Provider Has
When you have a beauty treatment such as this, it is important to choose a professional with adequate experience. Administering this type of treatment is skilled work, so you naturally want to use someone who has the skills, expertise, and training to do the job right. Make sure you do your research on the provider’s website, look up customer reviews, and even consider speaking to the provider to find out more about how much experience they have with administering BOTOX® treatments.

The Cost of the Treatment
For many people, the cost will be a determining factor when choosing a BOTOX® provider. If you are on a budget, it is important to find out what the cost of the treatment will be before you make any decisions. It is also worth finding out whether there are any finance plans available, such as the ability to pay on a regular basis for your treatment. This will make it more affordable for you if you are on a budget while still allowing you to choose a well-respected provider. However, you should make sure you check the total cost even if installment plans are available.

Reviews of the Provider
It is always worth checking online reviews of the provider when having a treatment such as this. These reviews can prove invaluable by enabling you to learn more about the reputation of the provider. In addition, you can learn a lot about the quality of the treatment, results, and service levels from consumer reviews. So, you’ll want to take some time to explore reviews before you make up your mind.

The Credentials of the Professional
Naturally, when you are having a treatment such as this, you want to make sure you choose a provider with the right expertise, training, and credentials. You can go onto the facility website to find out more about the credentials of the provider. If there is not enough information on the site, it is worth speaking to someone on the staff and asking about the credentials and experience levels so you can make your choice with greater confidence.

Where the Facility is Located
Another consideration for many people will be where the facility is located. For instance, if you plan to have the treatment sessions during a break from your other daily activities and errands, you need a location that is an easy commute to and from these locations. Make sure the location of the facility is convenient for you so you can attend your treatment sessions with no issues or delays.

What You Can Look Forward to After Your Treatment

As long as you choose a reputable and experienced provider to carry out your treatment, you will be able to experience a range of valuable benefits once the sessions are completed. These include:

A More Youthful Appearance
When your treatment has been completed, you will be able to notice a wonderful and clear change in appearance in the days that follow. You will most likely look far more youthful and enjoy the benefits of a fresh, younger, rejuvenated appearance that may even attract positive comments from others. This treatment provides a great opportunity to recapture some of the youthful vibrancy that you enjoyed in the past.

An Increase in Confidence
When you know you look good, you will automatically notice a boost in confidence levels. You will step out feeling confident and fantastic once you have completed your treatment. The looks you get from others could be enough to fill you with pride and add a spring to your step. You can enjoy being free from deep wrinkles and fine lines, which could take years off your appearance.

Save Money on Products
Once you have had this treatment, you may no longer have to waste money on various anti-aging creams and products. These are often very expensive and largely ineffective, which leaves users feeling disappointed and cheated. Once you have used BOTOX®, there could be no need to waste your time and money on these products so you can spend your hard-earned cash elsewhere. You can also save yourself the time and hassle of having to apply these products every night and morning. Plus, when you visit our office for your treatment, we can point you in the direction of medical-grade products, which are known to be effective and provide amazing results.

Is This the Right Treatment for You?

Are you fed up with feeling and looking aged before your time? Do you yearn to look younger and feel more attractive? If so, BOTOX® could be the ideal choice for you. It is simple, convenient, affordable, and highly-effective, which is what makes it such a great choice for so many people.

If you would like to find out more about this treatment and discuss your needs with an expert, get in touch with the professionals at A Younger You in Burlington and Brookfield. Contact us today to schedule a consultation!

Who Needs Vitamin B12 Injections and Why?

December 3, 2018 by A Younger You

Many of our patients face the demands that life requires daily, and we offer health and aesthetic treatments and solutions to help them maintain wellness and quality of life in a timely fashion. Ranging from brain-fog and tiredness to irreversible neurological damage, health problems related to a vitamin B12 deficiency are both avoidable and costly. Vitamin B12 injections can help clients maintain their health in a quick, simple, but advantageous process. For our patients constantly on-the-go or who might want to improve their health and well-being, our B12 injection services are perfectly fitted to fill that need. The popularity of injections has increased more and more as an option to treat a B12 vitamin deficiency. We’ll delve into what B12 is and how it is used in the body, what conditions it can address, and how taking vitamin B12 injections can be an asset to improve your overall health.

What is Vitamin B12?

Vitamin B12 is a water-soluble vitamin that is naturally found in the body and is ingested when people eat animal products like fish, chicken, or dairy products. B12 plays an important role in how the brain operates, the function and creation of healthy red blood cells, and the maintenance of the nervous system. The suggested daily dosage of Vitamin B12 for adults is 2.4 micrograms (mcg) and increases for pregnant and breastfeeding women to 2.6 and 2.8mcg, respectively. Although avoidable, it is estimated that approximately 40% of Americans are deficient in the essential nutrient implemented in basic bodily processes such as sleep and cell production.

Who Needs Vitamin B12?

It can be difficult enough to track daily vitamin intake, and certain lifestyle choices like smoking and alcohol abuse and conditions like diabetes or thyroid disorders can make maintaining adequate levels of B12 even more challenging. Vitamin B12 can be purchased online or at most stores as a supplement, found in animal product-based foods, or purchased over-the-counter. Because the liver can store years worth of vitamin B12, it would seem uncommon for individuals to have significantly low levels of vitamin B12 in their bodies, yet that is often the case. Vitamin B12 injections are a quick and effective way to get levels back to where they should be. Those who want to experience improvements in their energy levels and well-being are potential prospects for vitamin B12 injections, but they aren’t the only ones.

Because B12 is found in certain animal products like beef, fish, and chicken, vegans and vegetarians are more susceptible to a B12 deficiency and often need to take supplements or receive injection services. Certain conditions like Crohn’s disease, celiac, Graves’, certain cancers, pernicious anemia, certain infections, and lupus also illicit B12 supplementation. Certain prescription medications such as antacids and some drugs for type 2 diabetes can increase the risk for a B12 inadequacy in the body. While pill supplements can sometimes work, individuals with many of these conditions often cannot properly absorb vitamin B12 and may not get enough from oral administration.

Since the injections go directly into the bloodstream, B12 bypasses the gastrointestinal system, so persons in risk groups for a vitamin B12 deficiency with gastrointestinal issues or former surgeries can opt for this option for a quick means of ensuring their body has sufficient stores of vitamin B12 to function optimally.

How Can Vitamin B12 Injections Help Me?

Vitamin B12 helps your body to use fats and carbohydrates to make proteins and is involved in blood, cell, and nerve functions throughout the body. While shots can be self-administered, we recommend going to a professional like the ones at A Younger You to ensure adequate, worry-free delivery. Weakness, constipation, and loss of appetite are some symptoms of a vitamin B12 deficiency; others include lack of concentration, tiredness, and trouble sleeping. These can be uncomfortable, embarrassing, and frustrating to deal with on a day-to-day basis, but they can also take up time and energy to address. In the short-term, they might seem innocuous, but an untreated deficiency can later lead to damage to the nervous system and other body functions, among additional issues.

B12 injections are a quick way to boost immune system functioning and can help ward against diseases and illnesses. They can even help improve bone density, a factor in osteoporosis. Additionally, injections may lead to improved mood, reduced symptoms of depression, and protection against brain atrophy. B12 can also lead to improved mental functions like memory and concentration, better sleep, less stress, and even healthy skin, hair and nails. Unlike oral supplements, because it is injected and not ingested, it goes directly into the system without being diluted or wasted to enhance mental performance, energy levels, and overall quality of life. Our practice offers B12 injections to our on-the-go patients who need to stay on-the-go.

What is Next?

Curious about what taking the next step involves? After an initial meeting with a medical professional, you could look forward to the improved mental, physical, and emotional benefits of B12 injection services. Vitamin B12 injections contain high levels of the vitamin to correct any scarcities in the body, and because it is water-soluble, the body eliminates anything it doesn’t need, so toxicity is not a concern. Although the vitamin is essential for the body and is considered safe, it can have interactions with some medications. It’s always important to check with a medical professional if you are taking any medications or treatments beforehand to be sure. It is possible to consume vitamin B12 through a variety of means, but the most direct delivery course remains the vitamin B12 injection.

A Younger You is located in Brookfield and Burlington and proudly serves clients in the surrounding areas as well. Here, we are proud to offer our patients vitamin B12 injections in addition to a wide range of expertly applied medical and aesthetic treatments in a pleasant and warm office environment. If you would like to learn about our practice or are ready to schedule a consultation appointment, contact us today. We look forward to speaking with you!

#TransformationTuesday

October 26, 2018 by A Younger You

Are You a Good Candidate for Latisse?

October 1, 2018 by A Younger You

Who doesn’t want to have long, lush, and thick eyelashes? There’s just something about having full lashes that brings out the allure of your eyes. It evokes class, beauty, and mystery, especially when partnered up with your favorite eye makeup. But just how does one get those thick lashes without any attachments or surgeries? The answer: Latisse®. This treatment is offered by the experts at A Younger You in Burlington and Brookfield, and it may be just what you need to look and feel your best.

Latisse® is the key to unlocking those beautiful and long eyelashes. If you are a woman who values her beauty, this is a natural and safe way to make your eyes look great.

What is Latisse®?

Latisse® is the only FDA-approved medication for eyelash enhancement. It goes under the medical name “bimatoprost ophthalmic solution.” This solution is 0.03% bimatoprost, a prostaglandin analog prescription used in the management of ocular hypertension. It is commonly prescribed to glaucoma patients, used topically (as eye drops) to control the progression of the disease. Prostaglandins are found naturally in our bodies, and they perform different functions in the cells and tissues, such as reducing inflammation and decreasing intraocular pressure by controlling the outflow of aqueous eye fluids.

Bimatoprost is marketed under the trademark Lumigan (marketed in Canada, the United States, and Europe by Allergan). It was originally used in glaucoma treatments, but doctors noticed a beneficial side effect: patients started having longer, lusher, and fuller eyelashes. This discovery prompted the pharmaceutical company to create a new market for the cosmetic prescription. In December 2008, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved a cosmetic formulation of bimatoprost commercially sold as Latisse®.

The way the product works is not fully understood yet by clinical studies. Eyelashes sprout from the hair follicles along the eyelids; this product is believed to stimulate the hair follicles, encouraging a fuller and longer growth and also extending the lifespan of the newly grown hair.

How to Apply It

Latisse® is a topical prescription applied by brushing it along the upper eyelid lash line using the official applicator (not on the eye itself). The solution automatically spreads to your lower lash line when you blink.

Tips on using the product include:

Make sure you remove any makeup or contact lenses ahead of time.
Dab the sterile applicator on the solution.
Brush the solution gently on the lash line on the upper eyelid.
Do not brush more than twice.
Do not apply it on your lower lid (according to the manufacturer’s instructions).
Be careful not to brush the solution on other areas around the eyes.
Only use the prescribed applicator once – do not reuse!
Ideally, apply the solution once every evening.
After two months, you should begin to see results.
Your eye doctor may recommend a different treatment schedule, so it’s important to consult accordingly.

Make the Most Out of Your Eyelashes

Having long eyelashes is already beautiful enough, but you can make it even better by applying makeup. Because Latisse® is a treatment that typically takes only a few minutes to apply, you can immediately put on your best makeup afterward.

Some makeup tips include:

Apply a neutral eye shadow color (should match your skin tone) over the eyelid.
Follow it up with a darker shade (two tones darker, or whatever is in vogue) along the outer corner of the eyelid and then blend nicely.
You can add glitter or shimmery color.
Primp your eyelashes using a curler.
Apply two coats of mascara on the upper lashes.
Apply one coat on the bottom lashes.
Apply highlighter on your brow areas.
If you want a more seductive look, you can opt for a cat’s eye look by using an eyebrow pencil.
If you wear contact lenses, make sure to apply them before applying makeup.

What are the Expected Results?

According to studies, users experience the best results after 16 weeks (4 months) of use. The reported results are:

Eyelash thickness increased by 106%
Length increased by 25%
Darkness increased by 18%

This is a prescribed prescription, so always consult with your eye doctor before using the prescription. Likewise, consult if you don’t get any results after 2 months, or if you experience side effects.

Who are Good Candidates?

Almost everyone and anyone who wants to achieve those beautiful and long eyelashes can qualify for the treatment. With that being said, the candidate must:

Be in good physical health
Be in good mental health
Get a prescription from a qualified professional
Have realistic expectations

Since this is still a prescription, there are potential undesired results to anyone with not-so-ideal conditions. Our team will make sure to take your medical history to determine whether you can use the prescription. As is the case with any treatment, there are certain things that can disqualify a person from undergoing the treatment. For example, it’s not a good idea for people with certain eye conditions or women who are pregnant or lactating.

Is It Safe?

According to clinical studies conducted before FDA-approval and after its commercial release, Latisse® is proven safe for most people. However, as mentioned above, the prescription isn’t for everyone, especially those with medical conditions like conjunctivitis or a stye, or someone with severe allergies. Because the bimatoprost active ingredient in the solution decreases intraocular pressure, it is not fit for anyone already using intraocular pressure prescriptions for glaucoma or ocular hypertension. Users have reported no problems or harmful side effects when the prescription got into their eyes.

Getting Started

Latisse® is a prescribed prescription. In other words, you cannot buy it over-the-counter as you will need to have a consultation with a qualified provider. If you want to know more this amazing product, our experts at A Younger You will gladly assist you. Our team will welcome you and determine if you qualify for the treatment. We have offices located in Burlington and Brookfield, and we happily serve clients throughout the surrounding areas. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and get started on your journey to achieving the long, beautiful eyelashes of your dreams!

The Surprising Benefits of BOTOX

September 3, 2018 by A Younger You

Made famous as “the fountain of youth” by aging celebrities in the 1990s, BOTOX® is FDA-approved to treat or cure over a dozen medical conditions ranging from chronic migraines to excessive sweating of the hands, feet, and underarms. Of course, its most common use involves minimizing the appearance of dynamic wrinkles on the face. If you would like to learn more about how this therapy could help you, please do not hesitate to contact the experts at A Younger You, with offices located in Burlington, WI and Brookfield, WI.

What is BOTOX®?

BOTOX® is a medical therapy implemented by the injection of a purified protein solution into the target facial muscles. Discovered in San Francisco, California in the 1970s by a doctor searching for a cure to strabismus, or crossed eyes, the discovery rights were purchased by Allergan in 1987. This was first used to treat blepharospasm, or uncontrollable blinking, and strabismus. Over the course of a decade, however, the FDA has approved this treatment for many more medical conditions. It is also being tested for its treatment of even more medical conditions.

Most everyone has at least heard of BOTOX® by now, but a lot of people still don’t know exactly how it works and what it does. To put it simply, the solution is injected into target facial muscles and aims to relax these muscles in order to allow the skin on top of them to relax. It is commonly used to treat crow’s feet, forehead lines, and other dynamic wrinkles.

Surprising Benefits

BOTOX® is commonly known to smooth fine lines and wrinkles in the face and other areas, but what else does it treat? Today, we will discuss some of the treatments that fewer people know about. For example, did you know that the treatment can be used for preventive purposes?

Treatment for Men

Over a decade, the prevalence of men using BOTOX® has increased by 250%. As a society, we are still trying to get over the stigma, however, that this therapy is just for women. Some men choose treatment simply because they don’t want to undergo surgery, but there are others who must choose the treatment because they don’t qualify for surgery for whatever reason.

That’s one of the great things about BOTOX®. It can work for many people who don’t qualify for surgery, allowing a lot of people to achieve their cosmetic goals in a non-surgical, convenient way.

Prevents the Emergence of New Fine Lines and Wrinkles

BOTOX® injections are not only used to eliminate or reduce existing fine lines and wrinkles temporarily. They are also used to delay the formation of signs of aging in the face and neck. This is particularly effective for healthy individuals who are still in their younger years, such as between their mid-20s and late-30s. We are seeing more and more younger individuals visiting our office for these injections because they realize the importance of maintaining a young and refreshed appearance for as long as possible. Rather than coming to us years down the line once the wrinkles have already taken effect, they come to us in order to prevent the formation of the wrinkles in the first place. By relaxing certain facial muscles, we are able to keep the skin above them smooth and wrinkle-free for much longer.

What to Expect

Expect your first visit to involve a consultation. It’s always a good idea to hydrate properly before you come in. Expect future treatments to take less time, since a consultation isn’t required. This treatment is simple and quick. It is entirely non-surgical. You can be treated during your break and go back to work or your other daily activities as if nothing happened, as there is no real downtime required.

One thing that many patients aren’t aware of is that the results take some time to become apparent. Do not expect to see any visible results right after the treatment if you are going in to smooth already-existing fine lines and wrinkles. However, in the days after the treatment, you will most likely see the results. You’ll notice as the lines and wrinkles in the treated area fade away.

One month or so after the treatment, the results will still be clear. Follow-up appointments are not usually needed until multiple months after being treated. With that being said, you can simply schedule an appointment as needed to maintain your results.

Am I a Good Candidate?

As BOTOX® is not a surgical procedure, almost everyone is a good candidate for the treatment. Our specialist can give you individualized advice during your initial consultation at our office, but mostly, you are a good candidate for this treatment if:

You are at least 18 years of age
You are neither pregnant nor nursing
You are in good general health
You have overactive muscles which you want to relax temporarily
You have realistic expectations which our team will help you understand during your initial consultation

Schedule Your Initial Consultation

If you think you may benefit from BOTOX® treatment, get in touch with the friendly professionals at A Younger You. Learn more about the treatment, including what to expect before, during, and after the procedure, as well as whether or not it can help you. Feel free to ask questions about the many uses and benefits of the treatment as it pertains to your unique case. We understand that everyone is different and has their own cosmetic goals, so we always aim to treat you like an individual. We don’t aim to treat our clients with a one-size-fits-all approach. After we have consulted with you, we can come up with a customized treatment plan based on your wants and needs.

Here at A Younger You, we look forward to helping you put your best face forward and live a happy and confident life. We have offices located in Burlington, WI and Brookfield, WI and happily serve clients in the surrounding areas. Contact us today to book a consultation and get started on the journey to achieving a rejuvenated appearance!

How Can You Benefit From Vitamin B12 Injections?

August 6, 2018 by ccdm_admin

Vitamin B12 injections are an increasingly popular health treatment to treat a vitamin deficiency in B12. Such deficiencies can cause an array of health problems ranging from simple fatigue to life-altering permanent neurological changes. We’ll explore what B12 injections are, what conditions they can address, and how you can take advantage of vitamin B12 shots to improve your overall health.

Why Vitamin B12 Injections?

Vitamin B12 is an essential vitamin for your body that is water-soluble and plays a key role in a number of bodily functions. Vitamin B12 helps to facilitate the production of energy, nerve cell health, neurological functions, DNA synthesis, red blood cell formation, and other essential functions in the body. Vitamin B12 is present in a wide variety of food sources, namely those that are animal-based as B12 is bound to protein molecules. During digestion, vitamin B12 is absorbed into the bloodstream, with adequate stomach acid being necessary to separate B12 from the protein, with the substance called “intrinsic factor” essential to absorb the B12.

When individuals cannot absorb Vitamin B12 properly, they may develop pernicious anemia, a condition that is characterized by the lack of intrinsic factor. Given that the daily recommended dosage of Vitamin B12 for adult men and women is 2.4 micrograms (mcg), and rises to 2.6 and 2.8mcg for pregnant and breastfeeding women respectively, absorption is essential.

Vitamin B12 Shots and Deficiencies

The primary purpose of receiving a Vitamin B12 shot is to ensure that your body receives a sufficient amount of vitamin B12 to perform its essential functions such as red blood cell production or neurological functioning. When B12 cannot be absorbed through food sources, it can be gained from a man-made version of the nutrient called “cyanocobalamin.”

Vitamin B12 shots contain high levels of cyanocobalamin to rectify any shortages in the body. The shots can be self-administered, although we recommend going to a professional to ensure adequate delivery without any hassle. These shots can quickly boost the level of B12 in your body, making up for any deficiencies.

It is possible to consume cyanocobalamin through a variety of means. The man-made vitamin can be found in liquid, tablet, or capsule form. Foods generally lacking in vitamin B12 can also be fortified with cyanocobalamin to increase the B12 content. The most effective and direct delivery method, however, remains the vitamin B12 shot.

Who Needs Vitamin B12 Shots?

Given that vitamin B12 can be purchased over the counter, can be found in foods, and also through pills and tablets, vitamin B12 shots are available only through prescription. Only those that truly need vitamin B12 shots should pursue this option. The human liver generally stores many years worth of vitamin B12, and thus it is rare for individuals to have a significant lack of vitamin B12 in their bodies. Such individuals are prime candidates for the beneficial treatment.

There are three groups of individuals who are particularly at risk of experiencing vitamin B12 deficiencies:

Those with symptoms of B12 deficiency
B12 deficiency risk factors
People with gastrointestinal issues

B12 Deficiency Symptoms

As noted above, one of the common symptoms of a B12 deficiency is pernicious anemia. Common signs and symptoms of a B12 deficiency manifested in this way include decreased cognitive functioning, including issues with memory. Fatigue is a common symptom coupled with lethargy, depression, and irritability. Headaches, feeling faint, and constipation are also additional symptoms to watch out for, alongside many others.

B12 Deficiency Risk Factors

Particular behaviors increase the level of risk that you might develop a B12 deficiency. Engaging in the following behaviors will heighten the risk of B12 deficiency: smoking, alcohol abuse, particular prescription medications such as antacids and some drugs for type-2 diabetes, endocrine-related autoimmune disorders including diabetes or thyroid disorders, eating a vegan or vegetarian diet, gastrointestinal disorders, gastric bypass, and aging.

Gastrointestinal Issues and B12 Deficiency

Persons who have gastrointestinal issues are particularly predisposed to issues with B12 deficiencies. When the gastrointestinal tract does not function effectively, it may inhibit the release of B12 from the protein and the absorption that is meant to follow it. Individuals who have had gastrointestinal surgery, such as weight loss surgery, may also have fewer cells through which to secrete stomach acid and intrinsic factor, inhibiting B12 absorption.

The Benefits of B12 Shots

The key advantage of vitamin B12 injections is the fact that they are absorbed directly into the bloodstream. This delivery method bypasses the gastrointestinal system altogether, so persons in risk groups for vitamin B12 deficiency with gastrointestinal issues may turn to the shot option for a quick means of ensuring their body has sufficient stores of vitamin B12 to effectively function.

Conclusion

Vitamin B12 is an essential vitamin for the proper functioning of the human body. In the presence of a deficiency, it is essential that you consult with medical professionals to identify the source of the deficiency. Should it simply be diet-based, for example if you are a vegan, you eat no meat and thus are denied foods high in proteins and thus vitamin B12, then using edible vitamin B12 supplements, whether tablets, pills, or fortified foods, is sufficient.

However, for those with gastrointestinal issues, the consumption of greater levels of vitamin B12 through foods and digestible sources will do little to rectify the deficiency. In such instances, vitamin B12 injections are necessary to provide for the need of the vitamin for the user. Vitamin B12 shots are delivered by medical professionals after testing, ensuring that the amount you receive is exactly what you require to achieve optimal functioning.

Candidates for vitamin B12 injections should consult with a medical professional to determine whether the treatment is viable, and if so, to what degree. To learn more and for consultations on how vitamin B12 injections can be used to improve your look, come on down and visit the professionals at A Younger You, with offices located in Burlington, WI and Brookfield, WI. Contact us today to book your appointment!

Facial Rejuvenation With Hydrafacial

July 16, 2018 by Lauren Trevino

Facial rejuvenation is all about stimulating healthy tissue growth and ensuring proper moisture content. Many of the facial skin treatments address only one specific concern, but the Hydrafacial procedure covers all the bases. This treatment exfoliates, removes damaged surface skin, opens up clogged pores, and infuses nutrients directly into the dermal layers.

Hydrated Skin Is Healthy Skin

Our skin contains hyaluronic acid, a sugar substance that helps keep moisture in place. As we age, we don’t produce as much of it as we did when we were younger. It’s, therefore, necessary to give the skin a hydration boost. At the same time, this loss of moisture results in brittle, dull-appearing skin. The Hydrafacial skin rejuvenation procedure addresses both of these problems with a single treatment.

Clogged pores result in a reduced ability for the skin to breathe properly. This also upsets the moisture balance in the dermal layers. The Hydrafacial treatment includes a step that opens up these pores and removes excess oil and foreign particles.

Multi-Step Procedure

We explain the entire Hydrafacial treatment during a consultation with the client. The treatment takes only about an hour or so to complete. The first step is exfoliation. We use a rotary brush tool to gently scour the skin surface. This lifts away damaged skin cells and foreign matter.

Next, we apply a mild acid solution to the skin. This is a chemical peel step, but unlike traditional peel treatments, this one takes only about 10 minutes to work its magic.

After washing the face, we use a suction tool to extract material from the skin pores. The final step in the treatment is the infusion of a special serum that contains antioxidants and peptides. Even before leaving our office, the client notices an improvement in the overall texture and tone of the facial skin.

After Treatment

In the days that follow, the skin will continue to improve in terms of texture and tone.

The peel step results in an acceleration of new epidermal growth, and this helps to reduce the appearance of injury scars, age spots, freckles, and other blemishes. The increase in moisture retention means skin that is more taut and supple.

Complete Skin Rejuvenation

This is a popular treatment because it’s performed in-house, and there’s no downtime for the client. The treatment can be adjusted to account for the individual’s skin tone and texture, making it a suitable procedure for most anyone plagued by age-related skin problems.

Learn more about the Hydrafacial by contacting us at A Younger You to schedule a consultation. We have offices located in Burlington and Brookfield, WI.

Discover Acne Treatment Options

July 2, 2018 by ccdmemaag

Acne is often caused by excessive hormone production in young men and women. Testosterone is perhaps the biggest culprit for this common skin condition. It can also be related to an overproduction of sebum, which is an oil that’s naturally produced by skin cells. This substance causes blackheads, whiteheads, and other outbreaks in clogged pores. While this skin condition can be frustrating and embarrassing, you do not have to settle for skin that does not feel smooth and healthy. Our team proudly offers a variety of acne treatment options.

Hygiene and Healthy Habits

While it may seem like a no-brainer, a regular hygiene routine is a key first step in a good skincare routine! It’s important to take a shower immediately after intense exercise. The skin might become irritated and inflamed as it rubs against sweat and soaked textiles. If showering isn’t possible, it’s still important to replace sweaty clothing with dry apparel. However, synthetic materials could actually exacerbate acne and other skin problems. Cotton rarely causes any discomfort, but synthetic polyester poses some risks for irritation of the upper body and back.

If you are interested in enhancing your skincare routine, we offer a variety of carefully selected skincare products to cleanse and refresh your skin. These products can address a variety of concerns, leaving your skin looking its very best.

Exfoliating Treatments

Exfoliation is one of the most important habits to have for healthy skin. While it is recommended to use a gentle exfoliant at home a few times a week, seeking a deeply exfoliating treatment can be helpful to combat acne!

Chemical peels and microdermabrasion are safe and effective treatment options to remove excess dead skin cells and unclog pores. Not only do these treatment options help reduce the appearance of acne, but they can be effective at reducing the appearance of acne scars!

IPL Treatments

IPL treatments, often called photofacials, use UV light to target and reduce bacteria of the skin. Acne can often be red or inflamed, and this FDA-approved treatment for this specific type of blemish.

Is it time to refresh your appearance? Contact us today at A Younger You to schedule a consultation. We have offices in both Burlington or Brookfield, WI. Start your journey to clearer skin today!

Thinning Eyelashes? Consider a Latisse Treatment

June 18, 2018 by blogeditor

Have you noticed that your eyelashes are starting to get thinner as you get older? You likely feel that this is detracting from your appearance. The idea of using false eyelashes or eyelash extensions may not be appealing to you. If you would like to do something about thinning eyelashes, we invite you to learn about the benefits that come from Latisse®.

Latisse® is an exciting treatment that is helping individuals to get fuller, darker, and thicker eyelashes. It is the first and only treatment that has been approved by the FDA for this purpose.
It is a prescription medication that is applied one time per day along the upper eyelid where the eyelashes grow.

You may be wondering how Latisse® works. Every hair follicle on the human body has a growth phase, even the eyelashes. This product works by lengthening the growth phase that your eyelashes go through. Because that phase is increased, your eyelashes are able to grow for a longer period of time.

After you receive your Latisse® prescription, you will likely be instructed to apply the product one time per day along the base of the upper eyelashes. After the product has been applied along the upper lash line, it will spread to the lower lash line after you blink. You are likely to start seeing results about three or four months after you begin using the product. At that point, you can likely start using Latisse® every other day in order to maintain the results.

Latisse® is not a makeup product. It is not used to coat the eyelashes in order to make them longer or darker. It is a treatment that actually helps your eyelashes to grow. So you may get the best results when you use mascara in combination with Latisse®.

You may wonder what will happen if you were to stop using Latisse®. After a couple of months, your eyelashes will go back to looking how they do now.

Schedule a consultation with A Younger You to learn about your candidacy for Latisse®. Our offices are located in Burlington, WI and Brookfield, WI.