Everything You Need To Know About Lidocaine

Lidocaine, also known as lignocaine, is a numbing medication used to numb tissues of body and to treat ventricular tachycardia. Lidocaine can also be used for nerve blocks. 5 percent of lidocaine is approved by FDA to be used a a numbing agent.

Lidocaine mixed with a small amount of epinephrine can be used as larger doses to be used as numbing and to make its effect last longer. When used in the form of injectable, it typically begins working within a few minutes and lasts for about three to four hours. Lidocaine can also be applied directly to the skin for numbing. 

Lidocaine was discovered in 1946 and came in the market for sale in 1948. It is on the WHO Model List of Essential Medicines as the most important medications needed in a basic healthcare system. Lidocaine is available as a generic medication and is not very expensive. 

Complications

Common side effects of lidocaine with intravenous use include dizziness, sleepiness, muscle twitching, changes in vision, confusion, tingling, and vomiting. Excessive usage can cause low blood pressure and an irregular heart rate. 

Concerns are also there when it comes to injecting it into a joint. This can cause problems with the cartilage. A lower dose may be required in those with liver problems. Generally, it is safe to use in those allergic to tetra Caine or benzocaine. It works by blocking sodium channels and decreasing the rate of contractions of the heart. When used locally as a numbing agent, local neurons cannot signal the brain. 

Indications and Usage for Lidocaine

Lidocaine hydrochloride injection is indicated for production of local or regional anesthesia by infiltration techniques such as percutaneous injection and intravenous regional anesthesia by peripheral nerve block techniques such as brachial plexus and intercostal and by central neural techniques such as lumbar and caudal epidural blocks, when the accepted procedures for these techniques as described in standard textbooks are observed.

Use in the Head and Neck Area

Small doses of local anesthetics injected into the head and neck area that includes retrobulbar, dental and stellate ganglion blocks can produce adverse reactions similar to systemic toxicity seen with unintentional intravascular injections of greater doses. Convulsions, respiratory depression, respiratory arrest, confusion, and cardiovascular stimulation or depression have been stated. These reactions may be due to the intra-arterial injection of the local anesthetic with retrograde flow to the cerebral circulation. Patients who receive these blocks should have their respiration and circulation examined and constantly observed. Resuscitative equipment for treating adverse reactions should be immediately available. It is highly recommended to take only the prescribed amount of dosage and not more. 

Labor and Delivery

Local anesthetics rapidly flow into the placenta and when used for epidural, pudendal or caudal block anesthesia, can lead to various degrees of maternal, fetal and neonatal toxicity. The potential for its toxicity greatly depends upon the procedure performed, the amount and type of drug used, and the technique of drug administration. Adverse reactions in the parturient, fetus and neonate involve alterations of the central nervous system, peripheral vascular tone and cardiac function.

Regional anesthesia has been resulted in maternal hypotension. Local anesthetics produce vasodilation by blocking sympathetic nerves. Raising the patient’s legs and positioning her on her left side will help prevent decreases in blood pressure. The fetal heart rate also should be monitored continuously, and electronic fetal monitoring is highly advisable.

Epidural, spinal, paracervical, or pudendal anesthesia may change the forces of parturition through changes in uterine contractility or maternal expulsive efforts. In one study, paracervical block anesthesia was associated with a decrease in the mean duration of first stage labor and facilitation of cervical dilation. But, spinal and epidural anesthesia have also been stated to extend the second stage of labor by removing the parturient reflex urge to tolerate or by interfering with motor function. The use of obstetrical anesthesia may increase the need for forceps assistance.

The conclusion is lidocaine is a great numbing agent if taken in right quantity as recommended by the doctor to avoid complications. 

Dr. Numb for Flu Vaccination

Flu is a common disease which is known to affect millions of people every year especially during the fall season. Flu leads to sneezing, coughing and body weakness and in worst cases, the patient even needs to be hospitalized.

Due to the devastating health effects of Flu, doctors recommend flu shot or Influenza shot before the flu season comes. Before or during the flu season you will come across many advertisements in newspapers, magazines and television commercials encouraging you to take preventive flu shots.

How Flu Spreads?

Experts say that flu viruses spread due to droplets secreted by people while coughing, sneezing or even talking. Anyone coming in contact with these droplets can easily catch infection. The symptoms of Flu are visible sometime after the infection gets transferred.

People under certain age group and medical conditions are more vulnerable to catch infection than others. Older people, young children, pregnant women and people suffering from asthma, diabetes, or heart disease are potentially at higher risk than others.

Though no one can clearly predict Flu outbreaks during a season but everyone is well aware of the severe effects of flu. Flu resulted into 3,000 to 49,000 deaths between the years 1976 to 2006.  

Why Do We Need Flu Vaccination?

Flu not only causes sneezing and body cramps but also leads to viral respiratory infections, bacterial infections and further complications. Thus, it is important to treat flu on time else it can affect lungs and other body parts. Since prevention is better than cure therefore, it is advisable to go for flu vaccinations to save both your health and money.

The flu vaccinations can help to stimulate the production of antibodies and fight against the flu virus. So, this will nullify the affect of flu virus on vaccinated person by destroying the viruses which attack the person.

Who All Should Get Vaccinated Against Flu?

Doctors recommend that every individual above 6 months should be vaccinated for the flu. People with some specific medical conditions such as asthma, diabetes, chronic lung disease, pregnancy should definitely go for flu vaccination as they are at higher risk of getting infected. Also elderly people (above 65 years of age) should also go for flu vaccination to avoid developing infections due to flu.  

Flu vaccinations

If you haven’t vaccinated yet against flu then it’s time to visit your GP and get your dose of flu vaccination.  Here are the common types of flu vaccinations to protect you against flu.

Trivalent flu vaccine helps to prevent outbreak of two influenza A viruses (an H1N1 and an H3N2) and an influenza B virus. 

The quadrivalent flu vaccine reduces risk of two influenza A viruses and two influenza B viruses.

Numbing Creams for Flu Vaccination

Immunization or vaccination involves pain because the needle is pricked into the person’s skin for injecting the vaccine. This makes it difficult for many children and people to go for vaccinations because of their high sensitivity towards pain. The vaccination can even result into swelling and pain which may last for a couple of days. But avoiding the vaccination just because of pain and discomfort is not a wise decision. So, a numbing cream is the best solution for all those who fear pain of injections.

A good numbing cream such as Dr Numb can numb the area where the vaccination is to be given and make it easier for the patient to bear the pain.  

Dr Numb is a popular numbing cream which is used in various dermatological procedures for a pain free treatment. Dr Numb cream is found to have 5% lidocaine which is the safest amount allowed permitted by FDA. You need to apply Dr numb cream 20 – 30 minutes before going for the vaccination. 

Connection Between Diabetes, Heart Disease, and Stroke

Diabetes – Although it isn’t a deadly disease, but it can turn into one as it can give rise to many other life-threatening complications like heart disease and stroke leading to death. Wondering!!!!! Read to know more.

It might shock you, but it is true! Having diabetes and even pre-diabetes puts you at a greater risk for heart disease and stroke. However, you can reduce your risk by keeping your blood glucose, also called blood sugar, blood pressure, and blood cholesterol controlled, close to the recommended target numbers, i.e. to the levels suggested by diabetes experts for good health. Accomplishing your targets also can help prevent blockage of the blood vessels in your legs, a condition called peripheral arterial disease. You can reach your targets by

• Choosing foods sensibly

• Being physically active

• Taking medications, if needed

If you already have had a heart attack or a stroke, taking proper care of yourself can prevent future health problems. Diabetes is an ailment of metabolism. It is the way our bodies consume digested food for energy. Most of the food we eat is broken down into glucose - form of sugar in the blood. 

What Is The Connection Between Diabetes, Heart Disease, And Stroke?

Those who are diabetic, you are at least twice as likely who does not have diabetes to have heart disease or a stroke. Diabetic people also tend to develop heart disease or strokes at an earlier age than other people. If you are middle-aged and have type 2 diabetes, studies suggest that your chance of having a heart attack is as greater as someone without diabetes who has already had one heart attack. Women and Men do have variations in their susceptibility. Women who have not gone through menopause are generally less prone to heart disease than men. But, women of all ages with diabetes have an increased risk of heart disease. This is because diabetes abandons the protective effects of being a woman in her child-bearing years.

People with diabetes who have already had one heart attack run an even greater risk of having a second one. In addition, heart attacks in people with diabetes are more serious and more likely to death. High blood glucose levels over time can lead to increased deposits of fatty materials on the insides of the blood vessel walls. These deposits may affect blood flow that increases the chance of blockage and hardening of blood vessels (atherosclerosis).

What Are The Risk Factors For Heart Disease And Stroke In People With Diabetes?

Diabetes itself is a risk factor for stroke and heart disease. Also, majority of people with diabetes have other conditions, which increase their chance of developing heart disease and stroke. These conditions are called risk factors.

One major risk factor for heart disease and stroke is having a family history of heart disease. This means that if one or more members of your family had a heart attack at an early age (before age 55 for men or 65 for women), you may be at an increased risk.

Numb The Pain With Dr Numb! Dr Numb Cream For Wart Removal

Warts are known to affect 7-10 % of population and the cases are more in young people. They are caused due to virus known as HPV or Human Papilloma Virus and can occur at any body part such as hands, elbows, face, soles of the feet and even on the genitals. They appear like a cauliflower or a solid blister and even are rough to touch. Nongenital warts are less harmful and contagious than genital warts. 

Statistics about HPV

• There are about 6.2 million people infected with genital human papillomavirus in United States which makes it the most common sexually transmitted infection. 

• There are more than 100 types of HPV out of which 40 are found to infect the genital area. 

• HPV types have been categorized as per their association with cancer. Non-oncogenic, or low-risk HPV types(HPV 6 or 11) cause benign or low-grade abnormalities of cervical cells, anogenital warts, and recurrent respiratory papillomatosis( disease related to respiratory tract). 

• Oncogenic, or high-risk HPV types (types 16 and 18) can cause intraepithelial neoplasia of the anogenital region that includes cervical, vulvar, vaginal, penile, and anal cancers.

• Cervical cancer is the most common cancer caused due to HPV infection. There have been 500,000 new cases and 275,000 deaths due to the cervical cancer all over the world in 2008.

• High-risk HPV infection is also found to cause vulva, vagina, penis and anus cancer. 

• As per research, more than 90% of new HPV infections, including high-risk types become undetectable within two years. 

• Around 1% of sexually active adolescents and adults in the United States have been detected with genital warts. According to a national survey, 5.6% of males and females aged 14-59 were found to have genital warts in their lifetime

Warts have been classified based on their location on the body and appearance: 

• Common warts (verrucae vulgaris) appear on the hands and fingers

• Plantar warts are found on soles of the feet 

• periungual warts are found around the nails of fingers and toes

• Digitate warts are found on scalp or face in the form of finger like projections

• Filiform warts are found around the face and neck

Warts can spread easily through body contact with an infected person. If a person has warts over fingers and somebody happens to touch it then it increases chances of getting warts. Genital warts are highly contagious and can lead to cancerous growth in penile and cervix. 

Wart Removal

Although many warts disappear within one or two years but if they turn out to be contagious they have to be removed. In this modern era, we have aggressive technology that can help us to get rid of warts before they turn out to be contagious. Wart removal is done with laser is most cases but if the situation gets complicated then it has to be done with a surgery. These techniques of wart removal cause a lot of pain because it involves removal of a part of the skin. Moreover, it takes some time for the skin to heal after the procedure. Many people have high sensitivity and cannot tolerate even slight pain. For them pain during wart removal surgery is the major concern. But with Dr Numb you don’t have to worry about pain at all. Dr Numb is a topical numbing cream used to numb the area for painful dermatological procedures.

Dr. Numb is a popular brand in the numbing cream market. It is used widely due to its safety and effectiveness in wart removal. Moreover, it has a long lasting effect which is good enough for the entire procedure to complete in a pain free manner. 

Anyone who is going for laser procedure or wart removal surgery should apply Dr Numb cream one hour prior to it. Keep the area covered with saran/cling wrap and don’t remove it till you don’t feel numb. Remove the wrap as per the instructions of the doctor. Now don’t worry about the pain and go ahead with your treatment. 

Tattoo Etiquette And Tips For The New Artists!

Do you like that particular ‘tattoo artist’ in the parlor who behaves rudely with the other artists, managers, piercers, and above all the customers? Obviously, NO! If you are new to the tattoo world, you need to learn that criticizing the other tattooist’s design, haggling for a lower price, etc. are of no use. Here is something you must follow. Read on.

When it comes to a perfect tattoo, it is often said, finding a good tattoo artist is half the job done…

And this might be the biggest reason, why people who love to get a tattoo search for the most professional and experienced artist. Whenever a person plans for a tattoo design, they first decide about the artist and the appropriate studio. For this, they ask a friend or relative for their opinion, might be they have some good or bad experience with some local tattoo shops. But, this is not all.  The customers today take more than that. Yes, they prefer making a deeper research for choosing the proper tattoo studio. Here are some major points what people look for:

• Whether the artist they are considering at the parlor has taken a course designed for tattoo artists? Is the area clean? Does the furniture in the parlor has the water proof barrier to prevent infections?  

• Are they using proper needles? Is the needle packing opened in front of you and disposed of after every client job is done? What about the ink quality? Is it poured into individual cups before use, and then discarded late?

• A licensed parlor and artist is enough to allure clients. As you are new to the field, start with your homework and find out what those regulations are. You can also ask for help from some studios to get the license.

• Is the artist you are considering is cooperative and friendly? Do you feel comfortable enough with him? As you need to communicate with the artist before and after the tattoo job, if something makes you uncomfortable or you are unable to talk, it might be stressful for you. Obviously, customers don’t want to enter a studio where the artist talking to them acts like a stranger. 

• Another thing customers check on priority is the portfolio. Often parlors display their work to the customers. And from here the clients get idea of their work and expect the same level from the artist. Hence, to attract more number of clientele, make sure the work meets the standards.

• You need to understand that people don’t really want to pick the cheapest place. As they look for good quality artwork to be done and if a place seems a lot cheaper as compared to others in the market, this can turn cutting corners somewhere. But, this never means you need to keep a hefty price list.

• As you are a newbie in the market, there might be some who advise you to start at home. But, this is a fact that people don’t count on someone who tattoos out of their home. It is not a good deal because it puts your career and the customer’s health at risk. The biggest reason is that sterility cannot be guaranteed, which is highly significant for tattooing.

• The aftercare matters a lot. Just getting the tattoo job done is not all. Customers expect a sense of affection. So, how you take care of their tattoo later is a great way to attract customers. Keep a good communication level with them, suggest them a good body lotion or help them in wrapping the tattoo with plastic wrap for an extended period. Providing basic first aid can help.

In the end, make sure you don’t show any kind of behavior that causes distraction or kills the vibe of the shop. Provide the best tattoo designs following the best shop etiquette!

Ayurvedic Herbs for Young Looking Secret

Though, aging is an inevitable process yet it can be controlled or delayed. The ancient technique of treatment based on natural herbs and therapies, Ayurveda has a lot for those who want to retain their youth for long.

Practitioners of Ayurveda, for hundreds of years, have slowed down the process of aging using special herbal treatments. Ayurveda believes that several factors contribute to our healthy skin and its newness. Correct balance in the moisture (Kapha), efficient nutrient and blood circulation throughout the skin (Vata) and effective chemical and hormonal metabolism (Pitta) are some of the most important factors in retaining our youth. By keeping a balance in our energies (doshas) – Vata, Pitta and Kapha using Ayurvedic remedies can bring them all in a state of equilibrium and hence we are able to keep our mind and body at finest levels.

It describes a term ‘Rasanaya’ that is used to describe any herb, food or activity that helps bring youthfulness and treat diseases. When these Rasanaya are takem properly, these can prevent early aging, keeping our mind and body young and active. These names may sound very strange, but can be easily understood with simple explanation. For the unique methodology of Kutipravesika, for instance, it is required that the person being treated should stay in a small shelter, which has only one outlet or door. However, there are holes around the shelter for the air to circulate through, but these holes are all very tiny.

Besides slowing down the aging process, the goal of Ayurvedic treatments is also make the body work at its best and bring energy and peace to individuals.

So, there are several herbs used in Ayurvedic as anti-aging treatments:

Amla Or Emblica Officianalis

Amla is a very effective citrus herb that is given special attention in the literature, Charaka Samhita. It is rich in natural vitamin C and hence has the capacity to revitalize bodily systems.

Turmeric Rhizomes

Turmeric Rhizomes in the form of curcumin, tetrahydrocurcuminoids and curcuminoids have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

The Ginger Family

Rich in anti-oxidative ingredients, the herbs of the ginger family increase blood flow to the peripheries and reduce inflammation at the cellular level.

Galanga (also called Chinese Ginger)

Galanga contains gingerols, diarylheptanoids and essential oils. Out of these, Diarylheptanoids are anti-arthritic. Raw Galanga, which is its purest form have the ability to fight oxidants, inhibit tyrosinase and absorb UV radiation. 

Frankincense, Boswellia

Pure compounds from this herb are extensively used in many anti-aging formulations. Also, Boswellia fights arthritis.

The clove family

Cloves are used to relieve pain such as toothache and muscle pains. The reason behind this is that they contain anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant properties.

Vitis

The anti-aging abilities of Vitis are accredited to the antioxidant properties of grape family members. Procyanidins are concentrated in the seeds while resveratrol is concentrated in grapes' skin.

Rosemary

The rosmarinic acid, carnosic acid, amyrenones, rocciferone, seco-hinokiol, oleanoic acid, carnosol and diterpenes ursolic acid contained in the rosemary herb possess strong anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and tyrosinase-controlling properties to prevent aging.

Licorice

This effective herb contains anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Also, it has also been found to guard the skin from the harmful UV rays. Licorice's active ingredients include liquiritins, glabridins, glabrol, glycyrrhetinic acid, and glycyrrhizin.

Neem

Neem is already renowned for its ability to control bacteria and insects (anti-bacterial properties). With its hypoglycemic, anti-malarial and wound-healing properties, it is also known to have powerful free radical inhibiting and antioxidant properties.

Pomegranate

This herb has punicalagins, punicalins, gallagic acid and ellagic acid. Although some of these substances are not used commercially, these are found to be effective in neutralizing oxidants and free radicals.

Headache - Do I Need An Eye Check-Up?

If you have been experiencing a consistent headache for long then certainly you need a close examination for your eye. You need to get your eyes, eye nerves and the optic discs checked if you experience headache or pain in the eye. The pain can be a result of increased eye pressure in the head but there can be multiple reasons for it. 

The following blog explains the reasons of eye pain and the possible complications that can be resulted due to it.

Initially, most of us refer to a normal medical care in case of headache or eye pain. We prefer to visit the ophthalmologist or optometrist for seeking medical attention for the eye pain. But it’s not always that the eye pain is a result of an eye problem. Pain in the eye region can also be a result of headache which may give rise to a number of eye-related problems. 

Let’s first understand what causes eye strain and then we will get into the complications that can be resulted due to it. 

What is Eye Strain?

"Eyestrain" can result into eye discomfort and even headaches. Eye strain is a result of improper focusing or alignment of the eye. Headache due to eyestrain is experienced after straining eyes by working on for long periods of time on computer, reading, or doing things that need close eye attention such as sewing.

In short, doing anything using your eyes for continuous and long periods of time can certainly lead to a headache. Therefore, it becomes must to use appropriate eyeglasses to avoid the discomfort. 

 Eye-complications that can result into severe headache 

Cornea-related problems: Cornea has a rich nerve supply and that’s what makes it sensitive. That’s why a small speck of dirt in the eye causes pain. So, anything that affects the front portion of the cornea can cause pain and redness of the eye. 

Sometimes dry eyes can also result into corneal pain. So, it is must to provide proper lubrication to cornea with tears released from glands near the eye. If the lubrication is inadequate then the front part of the cornea gets directly exposed to the air which causes pain. Dry eyes often lead to redness, itchiness, burning sensations, fluctuating blurred vision. 

Eye Inflammation: Inflammation inside the eyes or in the surrounding region can also lead to pain which also results into redness and swelling of the eye. This eye condition is generally examined with the help of a microscope (slit lamp). Tumors behind the eye are more painful than the ones inside the eyes. The pain is constant and leads to forward bulging of the eye. It can also lead to loss of vision or problems with peripheral vision.

Glaucoma: Although open angle glaucoma which is common is painless but an acute attack of angle closure glaucoma causes pain, blurry vision and a firm red eye. This attack may be a result of change of light conditions for example: going from dark environment to the one with excess of light- while leaving a movie theatre. This creates pressure over the eye and requires immediate attention to lower down the pressure. Mostly a laser technique is adopted to prevent future attacks.

Optic Nerve Conditions: The optic nerves are affected with the pressure variations over the brain. They can become swollen due to high pressure over the brain and also produce double vision in case of brain tumor. Pseudotumor cerebri (also called idiopathic intracranial hypertension) is a disorder that results into high pressure in the brain where there is no tumor developed. It is found in young, overweight women causing headaches inside or behind the eyes. It may also cause temporary visual loss lasting for few seconds, blurred vision, double vision or a whooshing sound in the ears. This is examined with the help of an ophthalmoscope. 

Giant Cell Arteritis:  This headache disorder affects people above 65 years of age leading to permanent blindness if left untreated. There is no particular reason for this but inflammation of blood vessels blocks the blood flow. Generally, the primary symptom of temporal arteritis is visual loss which is sudden and painless. Other symptoms seen are headaches, tenderness of the scalp, pain or weakness of the jaw while chewing, fever, and weight loss, loss of appetite, muscle soreness, night sweats, depression etc. and feeling poorly overall. It can be diagnosed through blood tests known as C-reactive protein and erythrocyte sedimentation rate and a biopsy of the artery under the skin of the temple. But once it occurs, it gets difficult to get back the normal vision. 

5 Things I Wish I Knew Before Botox

Whether it is makeover of your home or your body, it is a MUST for you to know a few important things to avoid various harms. And when it comes to BOTOX…. Check out here what all you should know….

Does that phase have arrived in your life when seeing your face in the mirror you get worried about those wrinkles around your eyes and lips? So, have you tried BOTOX or are you preparing to?
If you’re willing to go for jabbing your poor face full of petrifying needles to look baby-faced again, WAIT! It might surprise you to know that often people who undergo botox treatment say, “I wish I had known…” It’s not that botox is harmful, but before undergo such life-turning phase, you must know the below given crucial things about Botox.
Dig all your senses here to know more…

1) There are so many options… Whom Should I Trust?

People who take botox lightly are dumb, they should not! Giving proper botox isn’t simply playing with the face. One should be well experienced about how to use the needle on the skin. There is a huge difference between “who can inject” and “who should inject.” As such, research well about the nurse or doctor doing your injection. Don’t just judge by the price. You should get botox by only an actively board certified (ABMS, ASPS, ASAPS, AAD) dermatologist or plastic surgeon at a medical facility. Take expert opinion to make the final selection. Talk to people and check out the doctor before you visit them.

2) Know Well What Botox Can And Can’t Do

Before undergoing any medical process, you should know its benefits and loses. Botox is actually a neurotoxin that eases the muscles beneath the skin, which triggers the occurrence of wrinkles. Botox is FDA approved to treat only the “11s” – the lines that form between your brows. Other than this, Botox can also be used to treat forehead lines, tiny bunny lines, crow’s feet, and to give a mild lift to the brows. Do a little homework and research at home about various injection techniques and ‘off the label’ methods so that you know what your doctor will do and ask your doubts accordingly. Remember, an informed patient is a happy patient.


3) How It feels While Getting Botox?

Botox is a very quick procedure. It just takes about 10 minutes to complete one session. The needle is very small and so you need not to worry about anything. However, people with low pain tolerance can feel pain and discomfort, which can be avoided using a topical anesthetic cream. The cool part is that it doesn’t require you to take rest for a day or two; you can go to work even an hour later. Isn’t it amazing!!!

4) What About The Outcomes?

The results of the botox are not immediate. It can take a few days or weeks or even one or two sessions for the changes to appear. But, once it starts affecting, it is visibly smooth. The results of Botox are just amazing, they’ll kick in all at sudden, and you will love to see the changes in you…the results will surely drive you crazy! It doesn’t give you an artificial look, instead-- it's just youthful.
Those who are experienced to Botox strongly recommend avoiding Botox over the areas other than those mentioned in the point 2. It may lead to some unexpected results that probably make you look no less than a JOKER!

5) And What About The Side-Effects? 

A few doctors tell you about these, and the others may not. No medication or procedure is side-effect less and so does BOTOX. The experience of certain people with Botox reveals that it can cause headache for a few days after the procedure. Some complained that it causes tingling in the eyes in the sunlight. However, it’s just a myth that Botox causes bruising or swelling. Botox results are really stunning, but it might make you feel a little weird for some time!
Botox can really make you look younger again…however you need to take do some preparations before undergoing this amazing process to relive your youth again!!!

How to Use Numbing Cream For Getting Microdermabrasion Treatment?

Microdermabrasion is a popular technique for skin care due to its cost –effectiveness over other skin treatments like plastic surgery, chemical peels and Botox injections.

The following article is about the science behind microdermabrasion and use of numbing cream for a pain free procedure.   

In Microdermabrasion tiny rough grains are applied over the skin that can buff away the exterior layer of skin. This technique is widely used in clinics, salons and beauty products such as scrubs that can even be applied at home. The procedure is done for skin of face, chest, neck, arms or hands.

Also Read: 8 Easy Ways To Get Painless Waxing, Incredible Benefits of Green Tea,

How Does Microdermabrasion Work?

There are two main layers of the skin -the epidermis and the dermis. The epidermis is the outermost layer above the layer where cells mature and contains the dead skin cells.  

Some portion of the lotions or creams that we apply on the skin passes through this layer but not the whole of it. Microdermbrasion is based on this phenomenon. Stratum corneum acts as a barrier between the external environment and the inside layers of the skin. It prevents everything but the tiniest molecules from passing through.  Skin imperfections like fine wrinkles, lines and blemishes appear in this layer only.

Microdermabrasion can also be called as micro-epi-dermabrasion which affects the stratum corneum.

Effects of Microdermabrasion 

In microdermabrasion the stratum corneum in removed which the body considers as minor injury. Therefore, the skin starts working to renew the lost cells from the particular portion of the skin. The first hour of the treatment is marked by mild edema (swelling) and erythema (redness) which can even last for few days depending upon the sensitivity of the individual. 

After the removal of stratum corneum, there is formation of new skin cells which provide an improved look to the skin.  

Microdermabrasion is known to treat skin imperfections like sun damage, blemishes and fine lines. You may need to put on moisturizing cream after the microdermabrasion as it deprives the skin of moisture. 

Microdermabrasion can also unclog the clogged pores especially for people who are allergic to Retin-A. But Mcrodermabrasion is not recommended for people who are infected with oral herpes. 

People with the following skin conditions should not go for microdermabrasion:

   • Fragile capillaries

   • Vascular lesions

   • Widespread acne

   • Herpetic lesions (herpes)

   • Warts

   • Open sores

   • Skin lesions

   • Anyone who takes anti-coagulants

   • Eczema

   • Dermatitis

   • Psoriasis

   • Lupus

   • Erythematosus

   • Diabetes mellitus

Numbing cream can lessen the pain during the procedure.

A good numbing cream can cut off the excess pain involved with this procedure. Dr Numb’s cream is a widely recommended numbing cream by doctors, artists and beauty aestheticians. 

Dr. Numb is a non-oily topical anesthetic cream is which Lidocaine (5%) is present in the highest and purest amount which is declared as safe by FDA. 

Dr Numb cream also contains Vitamin E, which helps in faster heeling. Thus, Dr. Numb is not just safe to lessen the excruciating pain during the Microdermabrasion but also helps the skin for a faster recovery time after the therapy. 

How To Apply Dr. Numb Topical Anesthetic Cream?

1. First use soap and water to wash the area where the procedure is to be done. Then dry that portion   of the skin completely. 
2. Now take a thick amount of Dr Numb cream and apply it to the area. Gently rub the cream over the entire area to be treated.
3. Now place another thin layer of the cream over the same area.
4. Now cover that portion of the skin with plastic wrap so that the heat under the plastic wrap can activate the cream.  
5. Don’t remove the plastic wrap till your aesthetician or the professional doesn’t ask you to do so.

8 Easy Ways To Get Painless Waxing

Women can do anything for clear and hair-free skin. But getting rid of the hair is not that easy. There are several options, having waxing the most common one. The reason why waxing is preferred over other methods is that it leaves you with smoother and beautiful skin. The only thing which can stop you from going for waxing is the pain. Let’s find out a solution to make it pain free. 

You don’t like those extra hairs on your skin, isn’t it? Well, no one like them and crave for flawless skin. For this, a number of treatments, including waxing, shaving, laser treatment and many more are known to show amazing results. But, when it comes to popularity, there is only one to top this list. 

Also Read: Incredible Benefits of Green Tea, How to Use Numbing Cream For Getting Microdermabrasion Treatment?

Yes, You Guessed It Right, It Is Waxing. 

Using the hot wax to pull off the excess of hair from year skin is an old and reliable method. Undoubtedly, it works well but yes, it is painful. And if you are among those, who have been avoiding waxing just for the reason that it causes pain, here are some tips for you to make it painless. Have a look:

1. Escape The Cup Of Coffee: You love it. But for the day you are going for waxing, say ‘no’ to your coffee. 

Although coffee is considered to be good for your skin, yet when it is wax time, avoiding it is the right choice. The reason being, stimulants present in coffee can make your skin extra sensitive. Hence, when you get it done, it will cause more pain.  

2. Exfoliate Before: If you really wish to make your skin beautiful and clean, before waxing the process of exfoliation can help. 

You can do it at home easily. Start two days before with a body scrub so that there isn’t any extra dry and dead skin hanging. This will cause your skin to become lose and hairs can be pulled out easily.

3. Numbing Solutions Can Work: Using ice cubes to numb the area before waxing is not so good idea. 

It will simply tighten your skin and close the pores, which in turn will make waxing much more difficult. Numbing is the right solution only if you use a right product. Try for some natural numbing cream, which can cause numbing sensation for few hours and the process can be completed.  

4. A Warm Water Bath: Bathing before waxing is highly advisable. This clears of any dirt and dust particles settled on your skin. 

But, if you have time and want to make your waxing painless, soaking your body in a warm bath for about 30 minutes can be a great option. Remember, you need to do this before the appointment. It simple opens up your pores, soften the hair and make your waxing easier.

5. Reducing Acidity: Presence of acidic elements in your body can turn your waxing painful. 

Hence, if you are smoking and/ or a regular caffeine or alcohol consumer, you habit can create a lot of acid in the body. Avoid it at the day you are going to your parlor.  Actually acidity is directly proportional to skin's sensitivity. Hence, in order to make your skin less sensitive, avoid acidic things. 

6. Check The Hair For Light Length: Are your hair too short that wax won’t be able to pull the hair or too long that they need to be trimmed first? 

For proper waxing, you need to first learn about the right length of hair while you get them waxed. Make sure the hair is about 1/4 inch long. If it is more or less, there are higher chances of pain.  

7. No Shaving: Waxing is a perfect way to get wonderful skin. 

Hence, you hardly need to switch any other option. In case you are shaving your hair, make sure that at least three weeks prior to waxing you stop practicing any other technique. The reason being shaving can make your hair more resistant to wax.

8. Astringent or Toner - You Don’t Need Them: You can use a scrub to lose the follicle. 

But make sure that you don’t use a toner the day you are going for waxing. It will tighten the pores, making it harder to hold on the hair follicle. 

Follow these essential tips and go for pain-free waxing!  

Got a Black Spot???? Is it a Cancer?

Do you find some changes in your mole on your back or you face? Be cautious! Unusual moles, lumps or blemishes, may be a sign of melanoma or another type of cancer, or a warning that it might occur. Check out to know more.

There are a few things we never forget to do every week, just like routine check-ups – air in the car or bike tires, weekly expense calculation, washing clothes and household cleaning, etc. All these activities ensure that our personal property is in good condition. But, what about our own body and health!! 

Our body too needs regular check-ups to ensure its well-being. For instance, moles should be checked every month for loopholes that might indicate a problem like cancer. Shocking!! Find more. 

What Is A MOLE?

These are harmless spots that develop in infancy or later in life and can be found anywhere. Moles are usually small in size, round and regular with flat borders and an even color. Moreover, they usually don’t evolve or change shape.

A little change in your moles can be a BIG indication of disaster. So, here are ten things you should be looking for while self-inspecting the moles on your body. Have a look.

Changes In Color

The first indication of a potentially malignant mole is the extreme change in its color. If you find your mole with dark brown or grey, or varying colors, i.e. black in the middle and white, red, or pink in patches or around the borders, consulting the doctor is an immediate requirement. 

Blurred or Unclear Border

Normal moles have a definite border. But, melanomas or cancerous moles are somewhat different. These tend to look blurred or distorted around the external circumferences. Sometimes, they can also feel a little elevated while touching and color may run into the nearby tissues.

Pain

Any mole that causes pain or tenderness on touching should be considered threatening, especially if it exudes blood. As such, visiting your medic immediately for a skin examination is must.

Evolving Moles

A mole that has discrepancies or contradiction, such as transitions in color, height, shape, or surface texture might be unhealthy.  

Size

As said above, normal moles don’t grow in size than 6 millimeters in width. But, if any mole on your body is large or regularly growing in size, take an appointment to book a medical test.  

Sores That Don’t Heal

A mole that doesn’t heal, irrespective of how much time, cleaning, and medication you apply can be a potential cancer risk.

Dysplastic Moles

People with dysplastic moles - moles greater than 6 millimeters in size, dark centers, and distorted edges are certainly at a greater risk of developing melanoma or cancerous moles.

Bleeding 

Any mole that is lumpy, coarse, dry or scaly, especially if it’s itchy or tender to touch requires particular attention. Any mole that bleeds or builds a crusty coating needs immediate attention. 

Asymmetry

Normal moles are usually symmetrical in nature, meaning they are equally sized. However, if you find a mole that’s uneven or asymmetrical, you may want to get it checked at.

Heredity

Unfortunately, many of our health problems are passed down by our ancestors or family members through genes. In the case of moles cancer, a history of the disease can put you at higher risk.

Besides the above mentioned symptoms, the rule of ABCDE is yet another guide to the check your mole for cancer signs. Tell your doctor if you have any of the following features:

•  A for Asymmetry - One half of a mole does not match the others.
• B for Border – Borders turns irregular, notched or ragged. 
• C for Color - The color doesn’t remains same all over and may include hue  of brown or black, or with patches of pink, red, or white, sometimes.
• D for Diameter - The spot is larger than 6 millimeters across, although malignant moles can sometimes be smaller than this.
• E for Evolving - The mole changes in size, shape, or color.

It is sometimes even hard for doctors to tell the difference between melanoma and a normal or healthy mole. Hence, it’s important to show your doctor any mole that you are doubtful of.

Which is Less Painful: Laser Hair Removal or Waxing?

Hair Removal…and a great confusion of girls today! What to opt for… laser or waxing. Without wasting any time, let’s check out.

Waxing - the ‘pull-tight-and-hold-your-breath’ procedure. Although, it is quite straightforward, the technique literally pulls the hair follicle out of the root. Waxing is popular primarily for two reasons:

It gives you a hairless and a ‘fertile’, greasy skin and lasts longer than shaving.

Everyone does it. It's a smooth ordeal unless you have an extremely high pain tolerance.

But, what about Laser Hair Removal!

While absolutely not novel, it seems that more females are opting for this long-lasting method. Within a few short sessions, it frees you from worrying about recurring hair on your upper lip, hands, armpits, legs, or bikini area ever again. 

The procedure involves a certain wavelength of light to create heat energy at the hair root or follicle. By targeting the hair color, it warms up the follicle to a temperature which ends up destroying the stem cells, preventing the hairs to regrow.

So, Which Is The BEST????

Laser hair removal does not eliminate hair right away; its removes only about 10 percent in every session, and you can’t wax while you get it. This means, if you start now, you’ll be done entirely by next summer. So, a summer without waxing!!!!

Laser hair treatment is not as painful as waxing and is way faster. It feels like tiny pin pricks, depending on the area being treated. And…. waxing just hurts a lot. I’ve seen girls screaming and shouting in pain… with tears flooding from their eyes. It does not matter how good your beautician is or how long you’ve been doing it.

Laser Hair Removal is much expensive than waxing. A full series of Brazilian laser hair removal sessions is $2,000 as it involves multiple sessions. This is nowhere around the charges of waxing.

Whether you have a darker skin tone, or a pal skin, you can get it done.  There are many new lasers today that work on darker skin also. It hurts a little more with the darker skin, but works just as well.

The conclusion is still perplexing. It is something like 50-50. But, the common thing between both the procedures is that they are really painful. Whether it is Laser or waxing, you’ll have to experience them with pain.

For those who are worried about bearing pain.. while undergoing any of these process.. We have a superb solution for you… A topical Numbing Cream.

With the use of numbing cream, you can go for any procedure – whether waxing or laser.

Numbing Creams for Waxing and Laser Hair Removal

Clinicians, doctors and dermatologists today recommend people to apply numbing cream before undergoing these painful procedures. Since, the numbing creams contain Lidocaine– an effective anesthetic chemical… numbing creams are very effective.

Out of the many options available in the market, Dr. Numb is known to be the best. This is because of the following reasons:

• 100% effective – Dr. Numb is known as the most effective and reliable numbing cream for warding off the pain. Since, it contains Lidocaine in the most required amount (5%) and is even approved by FDA, it leaves you complete numbness in just an hour.  
• One-for-Many Solution – Whether it’s the pain of a hair removal treatment like laser, or threading or waxing, or it’s a body styling procedure like tattooing or piercing, Dr. numb is a one for all solution to the various pain. Not only this, it can also be used to get rid of the common body pain like back pain, or joint pain. Isn’t it amazing!!!
• No-side Effects – Unlike other numbing solutions, Dr. Numb tropical cream has no side-effects. If applied in the right quantity following the proper procedure, there is no chance for it to affect you in any wrong way. Also, it doesn’t harm your tattoo ink, unlike others.
• No Prescription Required - Dr. Numb is clinically tested and approved. As such, it is considered as an over-the-counter medication, means you do not need any medical prescription to buy it.  
• Easy Availability and Affordable – Dr. Numb can be purchased from medical stores and can also be ordered online. Its easy availability makes it the first choice of the people everywhere.
• Suitable for all – Dr. Numb is so safe that it can be used for all ages and all skin types. Even, it can be used among the infants or children.. but in the amount as prescribed by the doctors.

Note – Although, Lidocaine is 100% safe, care should be taken while using it over pregnant or lactating women or people with sensitive skin or allergies.

With Dr. Numb, you can opt for any option, whether it’s Laser or Wax..

What is the Expected Level of Discomfort in Fraxel Treatments?

Despite so many beauty products and treatments it is difficult to stop the natural aging that takes away the youthfulness of our skin. Aging affects our skin’s texture and our appearance by giving an older look to our face and skin.

Fraxel treatment is one of the ways that has been proved to reverse the signs of aging and keep you youthful. The following article deals with a basic introduction about Fraxel treatment and its miraculous effects to curb aging signs.

Fraxel is a laser technology which can naturally slow down the aging process and give you back your youthful appearance.  Fraxel can treat lines, wrinkles, pigmentation, sun damaged skin and even actinic keratosis effectively.

It has been approved by FDA to treat coagulated soft tissues, pigmented skin and even works on wrinkled skin. Fraxel helps to heal the skin fast and enhances the beauty of the face.

It cannot be used to treat face beauty but also can work upon neck, arms, hands and chest portions. The good thing is fraxel treatment work effectively on all skin types and even tanned skin.

How does the Fraxel Technology work?

Fraxel laser is an innovative technology that can reinvigorate the affected areas of the skin by boosting the collagen production of your skin. It can even clear off the age spots, dark spots and even the scars by penetrating deep into the dermis.

There are two types of fractional technology- fractional lasers and the CO2 laser systems.

For patients below 50 simple Fraxel treatment is recommended. But for patients with wrinkles and deep scars the fractioned CO2 lasers works more effectively. The CO2 system laser requires certainly takes more time than the simple Fraxel treatment. 

The erbium glass fractional lasers works best on following skin conditions:

• Sun damaged, wrinkled , and aged skin
• Some cases of melasma
• Surgical scars
• To reduce the fine lines near the eye region
• Can improve skin tone

How to deal with pain during the treatment?

Well to be true, the fraxel treatment is indeed painful. People with a super sensitive skin are bound to experience pain during the treatment. Otherwise, the treatment involves mild to moderate levels of discomfort and pain.

And generally pain is an important factor for most people in deciding to get the treatment or not. But still there are ways to keep away from excess pain and have a comfortable fraxel laser session.  

Generally, a numbing cream is used to keep away the patient from excess of discomfort. Dr Numb is a topical anesthetic numbing cream which if applied to the part to be treated can really cut off excess pain. This can be applied one hour prior to the treatment and covered with a saran wrap. After an hour the body can be checked for the sensation and accordingly the treatment can be given.

Dr Numb’s cream is one of the safest numbing creams in the market which has no ill-effects on the health of the individual. It has even been approved by FDA for usage in dermatological treatments. It is used by tattoo artists, beauticians and even doctors to provide a painless treatment to their patients.

Dr Numb’s cream consists of lidocaine which numbs the skin for a long time.  For dual fraxel treatments where swelling lasts for a longer time, Dr numb’s cream can help in getting quick relief.

Dr numb’s cream can even be applied for relieving pain after the treatment.

How to decide if you need a Fraxel?

You should not decide for yourself whether you need a fraxel or not. It’s best to check with the doctor or aesthetician if your skin really needs fraxel laser treatment or there are alternative ways to treat it.

Fraxel laser treatment can work on all types of skin and give improved results. Mostly people with a highly damaged skin condition, excess of acne and unnatural skin texture go for Fraxel treatment.

And sometimes money and time can also be a deciding factor in going for fraxel or not.

Fraxel treatment is not receommnded for pregnant women, people with a cold sore. They should consult first before going for this.