Zerona Treatment Update

We recently had several of our clients ask us for information and facts about the Zerona treatment.  We feel it is very important to keep our clients and the general public informed about the various treatments that are currently available so that you can make educated decisions about what is the right treatment for you and whether it is an effective and trusted treatment.

Recently a clinical study was performed by the clinical publication Lasers in Surgery and Medicine (43:114-121).  In the clinical study clients were treated on side of the body 3 times per week for 2 weeks.  One group of clients took the Zerona recommended supplement and one group did not.  The clinical data that came from this study is truly remarkable and speaks for itself: There was no statistically significant reduction in circumference at 7 days or at 30 days post treatment for either group.  Even more compelling, the clients who participated in the study ALL reported the results were “less than expected”.

Additionally, none of the physicians who participated in the study felt there was any remarkable improvement for their clients.

Ultrasound measurements of the treated areas showed no changes in the thickness of the fat layer.

Hmmmmm.

VASER Shape Coming to Refresh Laser Skin Spa!

We are thrilled to announce that Refresh Laser Skin Spa will be launching our newest treatment addition at the end of this month.

VASER Shape, a non-invasive fat removal solution delivers remarkable results without downtime, scars, or the excessive costs associated with surgical procedures. It is ideal for the average person who wants to target a specific problem area with no downtime.

VASER Shape not only targets fat cells, but skin laxity and visible cellulite as well. Nearly all areas of the body can be treated and treatments can be performed as frequently as twice per week. Most clients can expect to need between three and six treatments, however many notice results after the first treatment alone.

We will be launching VASER Shape on February 27th and are currently booking consultations as this treatment currently has a very high demand.

As they say, Problem area? Vaser it!

Join us in our excitement for a truly non-invasive body sculpting treatment that works!

Call today to book your complimentary consultation, spaces are filling up fast!

720.314.1965

It’s Never Too Early for SmoothShapes!

Happy New Year Everyone!

 

As we slowly make our way back into the daily groove, it is wise that we not forget our New Years resolutions and that we keep in mind that Spring really is right around the corner.

Have you promised yourself a new year of wellness, health, happiness, and pampering?

Is it time to treat yourself after the hustle and bustle of the Holiday Season?

SmoothShapes, the only FDA approved laser treatment of cellulite is the best way to not only fulfill your resolutions, but also prepare for the upcoming Spring!

As we here at Refresh reach our third anniversary performing this treatment, we have seen {literally} hundreds of women who have honestly changed their lives. Women who haven’t bared their legs in decades are now wearing shorts, bathing suits, and shorter skirts to show off their amazing results with this treatment.

And to help each and every one of you get the ball rolling on your resolutions, we are offering two incredible specials for the beginning of 2011- this is your year!!!!

For any new clients, we are offering a BUY ONE AREA, GET ONE FREE Special from now until Feb. 15, 2011. This is over $1,000 in savings!

And for any previous SmoothShapes clients, we are offering a fabulous maintenance package of 10 treatments for only $1,000 from now until Feb. 15, 2011.

Keep in mind that as soon as the ball dropped in Times Square, SmoothShapes season officially began in Colorado!

Call today to learn more about the treatment or to take advantage of these fantastic, limited time special offers.

720.314.1965

 

Rave Reviews for SmoothShapes!

We would like to share some recent client reviews about SmoothShapes – real clients sharing their experiences with this truly unique and effective treatment.

Have you had your SmoothShapes yet?!  Now is the time to feel confident showing some leg!

Here is what some recent SmoothShapes clients have to say:

“This treatment is so amazing! I love SmoothShapes so much and I love the staff at Refresh Laser Spa.  The owner, Kimberly Hall is very knowledgeable about the whole process and gives you all the facts about whether or not SmoothShapes is for you. She really wants you to be happy with your results!  Paula performed my treatments and was very pleasant during the process.  I had 10 sessions on the back of my legs and 10 sessions on the front of my legs and I tell you what; the results exceeded my expectations! Diet and exercise alone did not decrease the appearance of cellulite on my legs.  This treatment surpassed the goals I had for my appearance.  I love my legs!  I can wear my skinny jeans again!  I am wearing shorts, which I never used to do!  I am wearing lots of little black dresses.  I bought 3 new suits for the summer.  The list goes on & on…….  If I could say one thing to help someone questioning this treatment it would be make the investment the right way!  This is a non-surgical procedure that really does give the results you are looking for!  The costs is so minimal compared to the results.  If you compare the cost to a surgical procedure it is way less and maintaining your results is so easy.  Thanks, Refresh Laser Spa!”

“I loved my SmoothShapes treatments, they were very relaxing, and absolutely no pain at all. I have lost 1 and a 1/2 inches on each leg after 8 treatments and the cellulite has been reduced substantially. I am not afraid to show some leg since my treatments. Finally, something that really reduces cellulite! Thank you, Refresh Laser Spa!” PF, Denver, CO

“SmoothShapes is just what I needed! Not only did I notice a significantly diminished look of cellulite, I also noticed a big change in the shape of my saddlebags which also surprisingly almost became non-existent! I was pleasantly surprised. I can’t recommend SmoothShapes more!” SS, Boulder, CO

“Kimberly, I want to thank you and Refresh Laser Spa for my great results from the SmoothShapes treatments. I had my hips, back of thighs, and stomach/abdomen areas done. I am 51 and when I arrived for my first treatment I was wearing my “fat jeans” and a “big shirt”. Throughout the treatments, I noticed my clothes started fitting looser which for me was the true test and my goal. My skin was softer and smoother with less bulges and lumps. By the end of my treatments I came in wearing my “SKINNY JEANS” and getting compliments on how great I look and people asking me if I’ve lost weight!! I’m usually a skeptic, but I got fantastic results from something that really works. I am loving the outcome. I lost 2″ on my thighs! To be able to wear things I haven’t worn in years, all I can say is WOW! Thank you so much Kimberly and your office staff for being so courteous and professional. I’ll be back for other services for sure.” JS, Denver, CO

“After doing my research and finding out about the advancement of laser technology I was curious if the SmoothShapes procedure would help improve the appearance of the cellulite I had on my thighs. I met with Kimberly and her staff and felt very comfortable with working with them. Kimberly explained everything in detail and what results I could expect from the treatment. She was right!! I lost 2 inches of circumference in each thigh and the appearance of the cellulite is greatly diminished. This really works!!” SM, Boulder, CO

To learn more about SmoothShapes or schedule a complimentary consultation please call us at 720.314.1965 or send us an email at: refreshlaser@comcast.net today!

Is Fat Gender Bias?

Yesterday on the NewBeauty blog, they posted an article about the difference between men and women regarding where their fat “falls”. Here are their claims,

“It doesn’t take a doctor to see that men and women carry fat differently. Men tend to pack it on in the belly, whereas women will find fat accumulating in their hips, butt and thighs. But while the difference may be apparent, the reason hasn’t been.

Researchers at the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center recently analyzed fat genes in mice, who have a similar sex-based fat distribution pattern to humans. They found that male and female mice have very few fat genes in common. Therefore, male and female fat cells behave in completely different ways, giving way to dimorphic fat placement.

Women do have an advantage when it comes how where our fat tends to build up. Fat on the hips, thighs and butt is subcutaneous and therefore treatable with liposuction. However, belly fat in men is typically visceral and too deep to be treated with liposuction. The only way to reduce this kind of fat, which is considered a health risk, is with diet and exercise.”

So what are the connotations of these findings??

For us, the immediate concern is about cellulite. The fact that for us as women, our fat cells are subcutaneous means that they are living almost directly under the skin. And this friends, is why we have cellulite. In the subcutaneous region (or what have you), there are ‘chambers’ made of tissue.

Think of it almost like fishnet stockings… the empty spaces between the fibers would be your “chambers”. And then imagine if you maybe tried to push a slice of bread through those fibers. That’s cellulite. And since the gentlemen have more visceral fat, they in turn do not have visible cellulite.

Fortunately for us women, this is where the magic of SmoothShapes comes in.

With its dual wavelengths, SmoothShapes is working twofold. First, it is liquefying the adipose fat cells (or, “melting the bread”), then the other wave length is making those fibers (the fishnets) more malleable (or, stretching them out, so to say_ so that the now liquid fat cells can finally exit the chamber to ultimately be flushed out through your lymphatic system.

This also explains why women will need maintenance treatments after their initial SmoothShapes series. Because although we can essentially ‘repair the damage’, we cannot yet prevent (in its entirety) the formation of cellulite.

Perhaps the day will come, but for now an amazing fix is right here at our Spa in Denver.

So call or stop in today to learn more or to set up your complimentary consultation:

720.314.1965

SmoothShapes in Shape Magazine!

In the June 2010 issue of SHAPE Magazine, the focus of their “Bikini Body Special”

was, Your Best Ever Cellulite Busting Plan.

And although the direct focus of the article wasn’t on SmoothShapes, they did have some truly great advice for those looking for other solutions. We include our own Tips and Recommendations in every SmoothShapes’ client take-home packet, and these tips are great as well, with or without SmoothShapes:

Nix White Flour Foods: At least two studies have found that people who eat the most whole grains have less belly fat than those who eat fewer complex carbs (you can have cellulite around your middle, too). with the variety of whole-grain products on the store shelves today, it’s easier than ever to snub the refined stuff. The higher fiber content in whole-wheat bread and pasta keeps you feeling full longer, so you won’t have to contend with a rumbling belly.

Make Friends with Fat: It may sound counterintuitive, but trust us: To lose fat, you have to get over your fat phobia. Healthy fats, like nuts, seeds, avocado, and olive oil can actually help you lose weight (and cellulite).

“Cheat” the Right Way: The concept of a cheat day is a weight-loss staple, but it’s also the Achille’s heel of many eating plans. A day of eating whatever you want can add up to thousands (yes, thousands) of extra calories. It can also make it harder to get back on track the next day, when your brain has a chocolate cake hangover. Instead of splurging for an entire day, Lisa Young, Ph.D., R.D., the author of The Portion Teller Plan, recommends limiting yourself to just one cheat meal each weel. “Plan it, enjoy it, and as long as it happens just once a week you won’t break the caloric bank.”

Eat an Appetizer: Studies show that if you take the edge off hunger before lunch and dinner, you’ll eat less. Then, eat your main meal in the following order: veggies first (which should take up about half your plate), then the protein, the the whole-grain carbohydrates. “Having veggies first satisfies your stomach and brain,” explains Young. “Fiber-packed veggies are filling, and your eyes see a big portion, so your brain thinks you’re eating more too. By the time you get to the carbs- the danger zone for many people- you’ll be ready to stop.

Go Veggie One Day a Week: A recent study in the International Journal of Obesity found that people who are the most meat were about 27% more likely to be obese and 33% more likely to have abdominal obesity than people who ate the least amount of meat. They also consumed about 7– more calories per day, on average.

Lastly, but most certainly not least is their pick for Best In-Office Option: SmoothShapes!

They say: ” SmoothShapes ($2000-$3000 for eight sessions over four weeks) uses a laser and light energy to shrink enlarged fat cells and tighten skin, while a vacuum and rollers massage the body, increasing circulation.

Expert Take: “This FDA-approved treatment definitely has the science to back up its claims,” says Francesca Fusco, M.D.

Real Life Results: “It felt like getting a deep tissue massage, and while I did experience a little hickey-like bruising, the decrease in dents was noticeable after four weeks.” -Samantha, 30

Editors Note: While SHAPE Magazine says you will pay $2000-$3000 for 8 treatments, here at Refresh Laser Spa it is only $1,600 and that includes 10 treatments!

To learn more or to set up your complimentary consultation, call:

720.314.1965

The Truth about Zerona

Recently there has been much press about a relatively new treatment, Zerona.

Unfortunately, the vast majority of this press is centered around false information, misleading marketing, and extremely questionable research and studies.

First and foremost is the gross misunderstanding that Zerona is a cellulite treatment. This is false. Even according to Zerona, the treatment is, “a new non-invasive body sculpting procedure designed to remove fat and contour the body without invasive surgery.”

Still, the rumor persists. Even on RealSelf the question is posed to a panel of doctors, “Will Zerona help with cellulite?”

Here are some answers, straight from the Doctors’ mouths:

Dr. Michael A. Persky says, “Zerona will not help with your cellulite. The Cardua liquid supplement that you drink, along with exercise, and increased water intake alone is what most scientific oriented physicians believe is creating some affect in some patients. The laser is not strong enough to penetrate the skin, let alone affect the underlying fat tissue. The main and most painful side effect of Zerona will be $2000-$3000 less in your pocket.”

Dr. Darryl J. Blinsk says, “Colleagues, you are correct. I tried the Zerona, personally, WHAT A JOKE!!! Minimal results if any for a large $ amount, Makes you think – WHAT NEXT?”

Dr. Otto Joseph Placik says, “Despite the claims made about this seemingly ideal treatment, I am not convinced about their claims. It is essentially the same laser energy as a laser pointer.”

Dr. Burr Von Maur says, “The results after Zerona treatments are inconsistent. It is not possible to predict significant improvement in cellulite of body contour for that matter after Zerona treatments.”

And on and on and on, the sentiment repeats….

One of the leading Doctors there, Dr. Persky even posted on his own blog, an entire post devoted to debunking the myth that is Zerona:

“Many of my patients, and many more of you out here in internet-land have asked me what my thoughts are regarding Zerona laser treatments. For the past year I have researched Zerona technology (since it came to market). I remember first seeing advertisements for Zerona at the Aesthetic Show in Las Vegas, July 2009. The ads were the first of their kind, pasted on the mirrors in the restroom outride of the lecture conference halls at Caesar’s Palace. This was my introduction to the creative marketing efforts of the company behind Zerona. The company has employed Leeza Gibbons as their spokesperson.

Zerona claims that patients lose 3 1/2 inches to 9 inches (from their waist, hips, and thighs) in 2 weeks with 6 every other day 40 minute sessions (20 minutes on the front, 20 minutes on the back). All patients need to do is lay still and let 5 painless laser lights rotate on their skin (some practitioners even treat OVER clothing) like a prom night laser light show.

Unfortunately, the science of lasers does not support the Zerona’s claims.

As mom always told us, if it “sounds too good to be true, then it usually is.” I am afraid that in my opinion as an expert laser surgeon, Zerona’s claims are too good to be true. I really wanted Zerona to be the real deal, and offer it to many satisfied patients. At $2000 to $3000 per treatment series, the financial incentives are very attractive. I cannot ethically and in good conscience offer my patients a treatment that is scientifically unsound.

Zerona’s 635nm laser cannot penetrate the skin so it cannot have any effect on fat cells. The electon-microscope studies that have shown “microscopic holes in the fat cell membrane and leakage of fat from the cells” were done with the laser DIRECTLY applied to fat cells underneath the skin, with no skin to penetrate. The loss of “inches and pounds”, if any, comes from the mandatory Curva niacin supplement drink, diet, and exercise that desperate patients must follow (this explains why there is “loss in areas that were not even treated by the laser”). The company claims are that the “laser triggers a response in the body that causes the fat cells to communicate, causing a general effect in the entire body.” Recall that the laser cannot penetrate through the skin to be able to affect the fat cells.

There have not been any comparative studies looking at results with the use of Curva supplement, diet, and exercise alone versus with the addition of the laser light. Given that the laser cannot penetrate through the skin to have any effect on fat cells, most likely the results will be the same without patients having to waste their time having the Zerona laser lights rotating on their skin.

As for me, when the time comes for my inches to be lost, I will try the “AB Circle Pro” at $199 plus shipping and handling. Their before and after photos looked more impressive than the Zerona photos. A few yoga sessions, honest exercise, and diet will likely help as well. Pass me that scoop of Baskin Robbins Rocky Road ice cream please. Be well.”

And again, from RealSelf, Dr. Arnold R. Oppenheim explains everything wonderfully and delves in to the sneakier, unfortunate aspects of the Zerona clinical studies, read it here.

All of this reinforces the fact that SmoothShapes is the only FDA approved laser treatment for cellulite. It produces outstanding, consistent results and has all of the scientific evidence in the world backing it up.

To learn more about SmoothShapes, or to set up your complimentary consultation, call:

720.314.1965

Real Housewife does SmoothShapes!!

Wow! American Health and Beauty tweeted today that Orange County Housewife, Jeana Keough, went on the television show The Doctors to reveal her SmoothShapes results and give an inside look into her last treatment!

I haven’t been able to find out what results she had, but I will certainly continue to look! And, if any of you know- leave a comment and we’ll discuss it!

American Health and Beauty had this to say,

“Cellulite and skirts- not a good mix. This is especially difficult if you live in Orange County, where skirts and shorts are nearly mandatory.

Jeana Keough, former cast member of Bravo’s Real Housewives of Orange County is no stranger to either- OC dress code or cellulite. SmoothShapes is a low pain, non-invasive process that uses a combination laser and light technique called photomology to improve engorged fat cells and treat cellulite at its source. This treatment causes some of the fat to be released from the fat cells giving them a smoother contour and reducing the appearance of cellulite.

SmoothShapes requires a series of treatments, ussually 2 per week for 4 weeks at about 20 minutes each, The number of treatments may vary depending on your exact needs. Most patients report feelings as if they’ve had an intense workout after the treatment, and it takes about two weeks to see the results. Some redness is common, and only temporary.

Jeana underwent her final treatment on The Doctors today and revealed her results. While SmoothShapes is not a permanent solution, you can help maintain your results with proper diet and exercise. Updates are meeded though so you’ll need to return for follow-up treatments once a year.”

Pretty spot on, AH&B, however, I would like to clear up a few things. They mention that the treatment is low pain. Fortunately, the treatment is actually PAIN FREE. There is absolutely no pain associated with this treatment if you are a medically appropriate candidate. ALso, I would say that from our experience with SmoothShapes, most clients do not report a feeling of having had a heavy workout. Most clients, in all honesty, walk out of the treatment after just having awoken from a nap. That’s how relaxing and pleasant this treatment is.

Are you a housewife looking to get rid of some cellulite?

Or are you a single lady looking for smooth thighs for Summer?

Either way, we have the answer for you!!

SmoothShapes In New Beauty Magazine!!

{click to enlarge}

SmoothShapes is another cellulite-fighting treatment, and one of the newest ones too. It relies on Photomology, a combination of laser and light energy coupled with rollers and vacuum suction to target cellulite at the source. Furing each of the eight pain-free treatments, enlarged fat cells are liquefied and collagen is regenerated to improve the skin’s texture.

Well put, New Beauty!

March 2009 Happenings at Refresh Laser Spa

We are excited about our SmoothShapes Open House event coming up on Thursday March 26th from 6-8PM.  In addition to the great fun, socializing, wine, and food that we always have, James Kammemeyer from Eleme Medical will be attending to answer questions and help us out with live demonstrations of the SmoothShapes treatment system.

We are so proud and excited to be the very first provider to have the SmoothShapes cellulite treatment system in the Denver Metro Area!

I was a skeptic when we first began researching effective cellulite treatments to offer here at Refresh.  Very often I have seen cellulite treatments fall short of their claims of effective lasting treatment results.  I have been using the SmoothShapes treatment system here at the spa on a few models and several of my clients. I have seen for myself the remarkable results they are receiving. My personal experience as a SmoothShapes treatment provider has been consistent. I see marked visual improvement in the appearance of cellulite, smoother skin texture, tight, firmer skin and a significant reduction in the circumference of the area treated.

Not only are we seeing truly great results in the treatment of cellulite and loose skin, but also when using this same process after laser assisted lipolysis (AKA: SmartLipo or SmoothLipo). We are seeing a much better result in terms of tighter, firmer skin, reduction of surgery related edema, and bruising.  Often clients who have laser assisted lipolysis will see an increase in the appearance of cellulite, or will see skin laxity (loose skin) post treatment.SmoothShapes helps to significantly reduce these post treatment issues and create a much better result.

Post treatment swelling and bruising can be a problem for clients who have decided to have laser assisted lipolysis.  Because these symptoms can vary greatly from client to client, often a provider cannot adequately prescribe how significant the swelling or bruising may be for a given client.  SmoothShapes is a viable, affordable option for clients experiencing any of these post procedure problems that truly works.

The science behind the SmoothShapes laser cellulite treatment just makes good sense.  Using two dynamic light sources at wavelengths that make good common sense in terms of where the unhealthy tissue lives, and then using the massaging hand piece to move those cells towards the lymphatic system to be eliminated from your system SmoothShapes actually gets to the root or “cell” of the problem and is not a “band-aid” treatment like an herbal wrap or topical gel.

Most clients see a great result that lasts for up to 14 months.  Some may feel they need a follow-up “maintenance” treatment in about a year, and some won’t.  It can be subjective as it often depends on the severity of the original problem, general overall health of the client, condition of the client’s skin, and the client’s nutritional status.  Clients will see a great result whether they change eating and exercise habits or not.  Of course, as we are using the lymphatic system to help dispose of the adipose cells released from the treatment, increased intake of water is encouraged and necessary for a good overall result.

Currently, the recommended treatment protocol is two 20 minute treatment sessions per week for 4 weeks (for a total of 8 treatment sessions per area).  If need be, the treatments can be spaced once per weeks for 8 weeks.

There are no restrictions post treatment and all activities can be resumed immediately.  Most clients feel very energized and have a sense of well being after the treatments. The combination of the two dynamic light sources seems to responsible for giving clients this good feeling after the treatment session.

If you have questions or just want more information feel free to call me directly at 720.314.1965 or go to our website for some great information and photos.

I hope to see you at the open house!  This is an RSVP only event and we have limited space so please make your reservation early!

Did I mention we will be giving away a SmoothShapes treatment package at the open house?

Feel free to invite friends and family you think might be interested.  Just let us know how many are coming!

Cheers!
Kimberly