Just returned from a regional Aesthetics Conference in S'pore. Can't say that there have been major breakthroughs in new technologies but certainly there have been many advancements in improvement in quality of new products & the research to back up their claims. In addition, I've also reconfirmed what I already know to be true so here are a few myth-busting truths:
Melasma
1. Lasers & IPL are not good treatments for melasma. Results are only temporary (can be as short as 1 week) & it ALWAYS relapses within 8 weeks. In many cases, you get post-inflammatory pigmentation which makes your pigmentation look darker. Moreover, you need to do 10 sessions weekly for the 1st 10 weeks to lighten it - this costs RM5K-8K as an initial investment. Subsequently, you have to repeat the procedure at least 1x per month i.e. RM500-800 each month. These costs don't take into account the cost of creams which you have to use concurrently.
2. Treatment protocols are different for lighter & darker skin types, so please consult your doctor. Don't just buy some "miracle cream" from your friendly pirated DVD seller who persuades you to do so because her skin has whitened so much. Chances are her "miracle cream" contains high % hydroquinone & mercury. Don't begrudge your doctor the professional consultation fee because you'll end up paying multifold if things go wrong elsewhere.
3. There is still no miracle CURE for melasma. Whoever holds the cure will be the next multibillionaire on the Forbes list. The only time someone can guarantee you won't get melasma recurrence is when you're post-menopausal & not on HRT (hormone replacement therapy.
4. Everyone has a budget, so always start treatment with some good topical creams & sunblock - these form the foundation of a successful management of melasma. Other in-clinic treatments are add-ons.
ANTI-AGING - PRP V. STEM CELLS V. PLACENTA
There are so many things one can inject (or mesotherapy) into the face to rejuvenate the skin - from commercially manufactured products (you name it...vitamins C, lightening stuff, hyaluronic acid, commercially engineered growth factors, etc, etc) to your own plasma or even your own stem cells. How does one decide what's best? Ok, I've decided to sift it through & simplify it for everyone.
Firstly, I would skip the commercially manufactured stuff i.e. "ampoules". These "ampoules" are mostly from Taiwan or Korea or various parts of South East Asia. Frankly you never know what's inside & can never ascertain what they claim is true. Hopefully, it's not just plain water or something that you could develop an allergy to.
That leaves PRP or STEM CELLS or PLACENTA - preferred as all contain physiologically balanced natural levels of growth factors (some commercially available products containing growth factors at very elevated concentrations were discontinued because of their association with abnormal tissue growth patterns)
PRP = platelet rich plasma
Pros - growth factors derived from your own blood so you know it's 100% safe & zero risk of allergy
- cheaper because the product is your own blood, just have to pay for processing & injection fees. Cost RM3600 for 3 sessions. More expensive if add hyaluronic acid filler as well.
Cons - Some believe that if you're sick or very old, the platelets or stem cells that are there will be of poorer quality (compared to an embryonic source).
STEM CELLS
Stem cells can be from your own tissue (usually fat) or from an embryonic source.
Your own stem cells:
pros - Absolutely safe as it's from your own body
cons - have to do liposuction to get the fat tissue out. It's a small procedure but nevertheless another big needle stuck into your body.
- not cheap - costs about RM20K (or more, depending on lab) in total - inclusive of liposuction, transport, storage, reinjection.
- again, if you're biologically old or of poor health, the quality of stem cells might not be as good as embyronic source.
Enbryonic stem cells:
CHA Hospital (branches in Korea, Switzerland, Boston, Hollywood) have come up with Evercell - the ONLY approved embryonic stemcell available in the world currently.
pros - convenient source, no need to do liposuction
- cheaper than your own stem cells. Cost RM10K in total for 5 sessions done every fortnightly.
- best quality stem cells as it comes from 3 day old human embryos.
- it has been tested for toxicity & allergenic potential & the results have been good.
cons - not cheap compared to PRP but cheaper than harvesting one's own stem cells.
PLACENTA (human source)
pros - relatively cheap source available from Japan or Korea. cost RM2000 for 5 sessions.
- again convenient source as no need to do liposuction
cons - allergy to placenta possible
FILLER
What do you want in a filler?
- safe - non-toxic, non-inflammatory, no foreign body reaction, does not cause cancer
- effective - does not migrate, fells natural, long-lasting yet biodegradable
- approved & cost-effectfive
Look no further than hyaluronic acid. No other filler material has the safety record of hyaluronic acid. It is also affordable as it now comes in large volume syringes capping the cost of a "liquid facelift" at a maximum of RM3000. Ther eis also now superior MPT technology that makes it last 2-3 months longer than previous formulations.
Tuesday, September 21, 2010
Tuesday, June 29, 2010
Stem Cells reverse blindness
Some of my clients misinterpret my views about stem cells after reading the articles posted in my blog. I definitely support this very exciting field of medicine. However, for cosmetic purposes, please weigh up the pros & cons as presented to you & as per your own research before trying it.
Jun 24, 2010
Stem cells reverse blindness
This image from an Italian study published online by the New England Journal of Medicine shows the eyes of three patients with alkali burns before and after successful stem cell transplants. -- PHOTO: AP
LOS ANGELES - DOZENS of people who were blinded or otherwise suffered severe eye damage when they were splashed with caustic chemicals had their sight restored with transplants of their own stem cells - a stunning success for the burgeoning cell-therapy field, Italian researchers reported Wednesday.
The treatment worked completely in 82 of 107 eyes and partially in 14 others, with benefits lasting up to a decade so far. One man whose eyes were severely damaged more than 60 years ago now has near-normal vision.
'This is a roaring success,' said ophthalmologist Dr. Ivan Schwab of the University of California, Davis, who had no role in the study - the longest and largest of its kind.
Stem cell transplants offer hope to the thousands of people worldwide every year who suffer chemical burns on their corneas from heavy-duty cleansers or other substances at work or at home.
The approach would not help people with damage to the optic nerve or macular degeneration, which involves the retina. Nor would it work in people who are completely blind in both eyes, because doctors need at least some healthy tissue that they can transplant.
In the study, published online by the New England Journal of Medicine, researchers took a small number of stem cells from a patient's healthy eye, multiplied them in the lab and placed them into the burned eye, where they were able to grow new corneal tissue to replace what had been damaged. Since the stem cells are from their own bodies, the patients do not need to take anti-rejection drugs. -- AP
Jun 24, 2010
Stem cells reverse blindness
This image from an Italian study published online by the New England Journal of Medicine shows the eyes of three patients with alkali burns before and after successful stem cell transplants. -- PHOTO: AP
LOS ANGELES - DOZENS of people who were blinded or otherwise suffered severe eye damage when they were splashed with caustic chemicals had their sight restored with transplants of their own stem cells - a stunning success for the burgeoning cell-therapy field, Italian researchers reported Wednesday.
The treatment worked completely in 82 of 107 eyes and partially in 14 others, with benefits lasting up to a decade so far. One man whose eyes were severely damaged more than 60 years ago now has near-normal vision.
'This is a roaring success,' said ophthalmologist Dr. Ivan Schwab of the University of California, Davis, who had no role in the study - the longest and largest of its kind.
Stem cell transplants offer hope to the thousands of people worldwide every year who suffer chemical burns on their corneas from heavy-duty cleansers or other substances at work or at home.
The approach would not help people with damage to the optic nerve or macular degeneration, which involves the retina. Nor would it work in people who are completely blind in both eyes, because doctors need at least some healthy tissue that they can transplant.
In the study, published online by the New England Journal of Medicine, researchers took a small number of stem cells from a patient's healthy eye, multiplied them in the lab and placed them into the burned eye, where they were able to grow new corneal tissue to replace what had been damaged. Since the stem cells are from their own bodies, the patients do not need to take anti-rejection drugs. -- AP
Monday, June 21, 2010
Bioidentical Hormone Replacement therapy
Bioidentical hormone replacement therapy (BHRT) treats hormonal imbalances with natural hormones rather than chemically manufactured or altered ones. Hormonal imbalance is most often caused by menopause, and at any given time, more than 40 million American women are experiencing some stage of menopause.
Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Facts
* Hormones are extracted from plants and vegetables rather than lab created.
* Balances hormones to relieve symptoms of menopause or other hormonal imbalance.
* Often prescribed as a cream rather than a pill.
How does BHRT work?
Bioidentical hormones are designed to have the same molecular structure as the hormones made by your own body. They are made from natural extracts, often coming from soy or yams. Conversely, synthetic hormones like Premarin and Provera are intentionally different. Pharmaceutical companies can't patent a bioidentical structure, so they invent synthetic hormones that can be patented. Often, bioidentical hormones are creams that are rubbed in the skin which many feel is a more natural method of delivering the hormones than swallowing a pill. Some physicians feel that synthetic hormones carry harsh side effects and can even increase a patient's risk for certain cancers which led to the development of bioidentical hormones.
A great benefit of bioidentical hormones is that because they are natural, your body can metabolize them as it was designed to do with little or no side effects. Many synthetic hormones are quite powerful and often produce difficult side effects.
Your physician will typically take some blood work or send you to a lab to have blood work done to determine your hormone levels and decide which hormones and at what strength are appropriate to help overcome the symptoms of hormonal imbalance.
What are the risks?
Although the benefits of HRT are well documented, uncertainty still remains regarding its risks. Only about 20 percent of postmenopausal women use HRT long-term. This is partly due to unresolved questions about HRT, its potential cause for breast cancer and intolerable side effects.
How much does BHRT cost?
The fees vary greatly. There is a charge for the lab to process your blood work which is taken to determine what hormones you need. Finally, there is the cost for the hormones themselves.
Classic symptoms of menopause include:
# Hot Flashes
# Night sweats
# Depression
# Anxiety
# Irritability
# Sleep disturbances
# Mood swings
# Headaches
# Memory problems
# Decreased libido
# Vaginal dryness
# Loss of bladder control.
Symptoms of menopause may begin to occur five to seven years before menopause, when the production of estrogen and progesterone hormones decreases.
Registered bioidentical hormones are now available in Malaysia.
Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Facts
* Hormones are extracted from plants and vegetables rather than lab created.
* Balances hormones to relieve symptoms of menopause or other hormonal imbalance.
* Often prescribed as a cream rather than a pill.
How does BHRT work?
Bioidentical hormones are designed to have the same molecular structure as the hormones made by your own body. They are made from natural extracts, often coming from soy or yams. Conversely, synthetic hormones like Premarin and Provera are intentionally different. Pharmaceutical companies can't patent a bioidentical structure, so they invent synthetic hormones that can be patented. Often, bioidentical hormones are creams that are rubbed in the skin which many feel is a more natural method of delivering the hormones than swallowing a pill. Some physicians feel that synthetic hormones carry harsh side effects and can even increase a patient's risk for certain cancers which led to the development of bioidentical hormones.
A great benefit of bioidentical hormones is that because they are natural, your body can metabolize them as it was designed to do with little or no side effects. Many synthetic hormones are quite powerful and often produce difficult side effects.
Your physician will typically take some blood work or send you to a lab to have blood work done to determine your hormone levels and decide which hormones and at what strength are appropriate to help overcome the symptoms of hormonal imbalance.
What are the risks?
Although the benefits of HRT are well documented, uncertainty still remains regarding its risks. Only about 20 percent of postmenopausal women use HRT long-term. This is partly due to unresolved questions about HRT, its potential cause for breast cancer and intolerable side effects.
How much does BHRT cost?
The fees vary greatly. There is a charge for the lab to process your blood work which is taken to determine what hormones you need. Finally, there is the cost for the hormones themselves.
Classic symptoms of menopause include:
# Hot Flashes
# Night sweats
# Depression
# Anxiety
# Irritability
# Sleep disturbances
# Mood swings
# Headaches
# Memory problems
# Decreased libido
# Vaginal dryness
# Loss of bladder control.
Symptoms of menopause may begin to occur five to seven years before menopause, when the production of estrogen and progesterone hormones decreases.
Registered bioidentical hormones are now available in Malaysia.
Debunking the myths about liposuction techniques
The article below is quoted from Plastic Surgery Practice:
Dr. William Hall acknowledges that there are many great liposuction products and technologies that assist in helping patients look their best, but many of the claims are exaggerated and inaccurate.
“To state that they are better because they provide a new technology that will avail superior skin-tightening or “painless” results is not necessarily true,” Hall said.
“I started and built my practice in 2001 as a tumescent liposuction pioneer, specialist and trainer in the industry,” Hall proclaimed. “Back then, tumescent liposuction was the least invasive, safest form of liposuction, because of the localized anesthesia, smaller incisions and instruments that allowed for more precision and limited downtime than traditional liposuction – and it is still one of the best techniques the industry has to offer,” Hall said.
Now, we have a new generation of hybrid lipo techniques that capitalize on people’s interest. Hall lists the names of many new procedures, such as: Smart Lipo® a trademark of Cynosure; Laser Liposuction; VASER® (Vibration Amplification of Sound Energy at Resonance) Liposelection® owned by Sound Surgical Technologies; and Ultrasonic Liposuction or H2O℠ Body Jet Liposuction (manufactured by human med). Hall stats that they all solicit to reduce complications and to be better than the next, but in fact, they are machines that assist in the liposuction technique, and they are only as good as the surgeon performing the procedure.
"The truth is that all of these procedures are at least minimally invasive, and they all cause minor pain, swelling and bruising for a very short period of time.” "In addition, the jury is out on whether one trumps the other, because it is really about the surgeon's experience and technique - more than the equipment itself," Hall stated.
“I get patients all the time who come to me for corrective surgery, dissatisfied, because they believed in the hype and implication and went to an inexperienced surgeon who offered the latest technique,” Hall said. “This has an impact on the credibility of the procedure itself."
“As an innovative physician, I have learned to embrace next-generation technology and educate myself about new equipment and procedures, but not to abandon one procedure or technique over the other, merely because a manufacturer tells me their product is better,” Hall stated.
In addition to experience & skill of the surgeon, I believe safety of liposuction also depends on proper patient selection, availability of emergency backup i.e. proper hospital setup in case of complications. The recent death from liposuction in Singapore (a prominent CEO of a large property development company)had several factors screaming high risk. The patient died from at least 3 punctures into his guts. The surgeon was experienced having had at least 300 cases under his belt but to puncture his intestines means the patient wasn't fat to start with (The first contraindication to liposuction is NO FAT). Moreover, the surgery was done in a clinic setup on Orchard Road.
Dr. William Hall acknowledges that there are many great liposuction products and technologies that assist in helping patients look their best, but many of the claims are exaggerated and inaccurate.
“To state that they are better because they provide a new technology that will avail superior skin-tightening or “painless” results is not necessarily true,” Hall said.
“I started and built my practice in 2001 as a tumescent liposuction pioneer, specialist and trainer in the industry,” Hall proclaimed. “Back then, tumescent liposuction was the least invasive, safest form of liposuction, because of the localized anesthesia, smaller incisions and instruments that allowed for more precision and limited downtime than traditional liposuction – and it is still one of the best techniques the industry has to offer,” Hall said.
Now, we have a new generation of hybrid lipo techniques that capitalize on people’s interest. Hall lists the names of many new procedures, such as: Smart Lipo® a trademark of Cynosure; Laser Liposuction; VASER® (Vibration Amplification of Sound Energy at Resonance) Liposelection® owned by Sound Surgical Technologies; and Ultrasonic Liposuction or H2O℠ Body Jet Liposuction (manufactured by human med). Hall stats that they all solicit to reduce complications and to be better than the next, but in fact, they are machines that assist in the liposuction technique, and they are only as good as the surgeon performing the procedure.
"The truth is that all of these procedures are at least minimally invasive, and they all cause minor pain, swelling and bruising for a very short period of time.” "In addition, the jury is out on whether one trumps the other, because it is really about the surgeon's experience and technique - more than the equipment itself," Hall stated.
“I get patients all the time who come to me for corrective surgery, dissatisfied, because they believed in the hype and implication and went to an inexperienced surgeon who offered the latest technique,” Hall said. “This has an impact on the credibility of the procedure itself."
“As an innovative physician, I have learned to embrace next-generation technology and educate myself about new equipment and procedures, but not to abandon one procedure or technique over the other, merely because a manufacturer tells me their product is better,” Hall stated.
In addition to experience & skill of the surgeon, I believe safety of liposuction also depends on proper patient selection, availability of emergency backup i.e. proper hospital setup in case of complications. The recent death from liposuction in Singapore (a prominent CEO of a large property development company)had several factors screaming high risk. The patient died from at least 3 punctures into his guts. The surgeon was experienced having had at least 300 cases under his belt but to puncture his intestines means the patient wasn't fat to start with (The first contraindication to liposuction is NO FAT). Moreover, the surgery was done in a clinic setup on Orchard Road.
Thursday, June 17, 2010
stem cell therapy - 2 years safety study
Curr Stem Cell Res Ther. 2010 Mar;5(1):81-93.
Safety and complications reporting on the re-implantation of culture-expanded mesenchymal stem cells using autologous platelet lysate technique.
Centeno CJ, Schultz JR, Cheever M, Robinson B, Freeman M, Marasco W.
Centeno-Schultz Clinic, Broomfield, Colorado, USA. centenooffice@centenoclinic.com.
ABSTRACT: Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) hold great promise as therapeutic agents in regenerative medicine. Numerous animal studies have documented the multipotency of MSCs, showing their capabilities for differentiating into orthopedic tissues such as muscle, bone, cartilage, and tendon. However, the complication rate for autologous MSC therapy is only now beginning to be reported.
RESULTS: Mean follow-up from the time of the re-implant procedure was 10.6 +/- 7.3 months. Serial MRI's at 3 months, 6 months, 1 year and 2 years failed to demonstrate any tumor formation at the re-implant sites.
CONCLUSIONS: Using both high field MRI tracking and general surveillance in 227 patients, no neoplastic complications were detected at any stem cell re-implantation site. These findings are consistent with other reports that also show no evidence of malignant transformation in vivo, following implantation of MSCs that were expanded in vitro for limited periods.
Safety and complications reporting on the re-implantation of culture-expanded mesenchymal stem cells using autologous platelet lysate technique.
Centeno CJ, Schultz JR, Cheever M, Robinson B, Freeman M, Marasco W.
Centeno-Schultz Clinic, Broomfield, Colorado, USA. centenooffice@centenoclinic.com.
ABSTRACT: Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) hold great promise as therapeutic agents in regenerative medicine. Numerous animal studies have documented the multipotency of MSCs, showing their capabilities for differentiating into orthopedic tissues such as muscle, bone, cartilage, and tendon. However, the complication rate for autologous MSC therapy is only now beginning to be reported.
RESULTS: Mean follow-up from the time of the re-implant procedure was 10.6 +/- 7.3 months. Serial MRI's at 3 months, 6 months, 1 year and 2 years failed to demonstrate any tumor formation at the re-implant sites.
CONCLUSIONS: Using both high field MRI tracking and general surveillance in 227 patients, no neoplastic complications were detected at any stem cell re-implantation site. These findings are consistent with other reports that also show no evidence of malignant transformation in vivo, following implantation of MSCs that were expanded in vitro for limited periods.
BBC news - stem cell therapy 'damage' seem in kidney disease
A new complication has been seen in a patient with kidney disease who received stem cell therapy, scientists have warned.
Stem cells were injected into the kidney, but the patient suffered tissue damage and died from an infection.
The patient in this case had been treated by a private clinic.
Dr Duangpen Thirabanjasak, from Chulalongkorn University, who led the research, said: "This type of lesion has never been described before in patients, and we believe that this is either formed directly by the stem cells that were injected or that the stem cells caused these masses to form."
The authors conclude that their findings should serve as a warning to clinical investigators that the development of blood vessel and bone marrow masses may be a possible complication of stem cell therapy.
Writing in the journal, Andras Nagy, of Toronto's Mount Sinai Hospital, and Susan Quaggin, of the University of Toronto, said caution was needed over stem cell therapies - especially if they were being offered by unregulated private clinics.
They added: "Premature enthusiasm and protocols that are not fully vetted are dangerous and result in negative publicity for the field of stem cell research, and more importantly, may result in disastrous outcomes with no benefit to the patient.
"Although there is promise, a large gap still exists between scientific knowledge and clinical translation for safe and effective stem cell-based therapies.
Stem cells were injected into the kidney, but the patient suffered tissue damage and died from an infection.
The patient in this case had been treated by a private clinic.
Dr Duangpen Thirabanjasak, from Chulalongkorn University, who led the research, said: "This type of lesion has never been described before in patients, and we believe that this is either formed directly by the stem cells that were injected or that the stem cells caused these masses to form."
The authors conclude that their findings should serve as a warning to clinical investigators that the development of blood vessel and bone marrow masses may be a possible complication of stem cell therapy.
Writing in the journal, Andras Nagy, of Toronto's Mount Sinai Hospital, and Susan Quaggin, of the University of Toronto, said caution was needed over stem cell therapies - especially if they were being offered by unregulated private clinics.
They added: "Premature enthusiasm and protocols that are not fully vetted are dangerous and result in negative publicity for the field of stem cell research, and more importantly, may result in disastrous outcomes with no benefit to the patient.
"Although there is promise, a large gap still exists between scientific knowledge and clinical translation for safe and effective stem cell-based therapies.
Wednesday, June 16, 2010
Lasers useful for promoting hair growth
Lasers useful for promoting hair growth
Publish date: Jun 1, 2010
By: Joely Kaufman, M.D., Bernard Nusbaum, M.D.
Source: Dermatology Times
* Most reports on lasers and hair growth originated from hair removal literature
* LLLT with red light stimulates terminal hair growth on hair count analysis, but results difficult to judge
* Several devices on market for at-home hair growth treatment
Joely Kaufman, M.D.
Most of the time, when lasers are discussed in the context of hair, it is regarding the removal of hair. It was not until fairly recently that these devices received significant attention for their role in stimulating hair growth.
Bernard Nusbaum, M.D.
Androgenetic alopecia (AGA) affects more than 35 million men and 21 million women in the United States. Due to the relative lack of viable nonsurgical treatment options for AGA, the therapeutic focus has once again turned to lasers.
The idea of using light to stimulate hair growth was first published in the 1960s and involved mice studies (Mester E, Szende B, et al. Kiserl Orvostud. 1967;19:628-631). Despite this history, the mechanism of action of how lasers may function to prevent, stop or even promote growth in AGA is still unknown.
LLLT and hair growth
There is clear evidence that low-level lasers alter cell function in some manner, and low-level laser therapy (LLLT) for wound healing, pain, anti-aging and inflammation is a popular modality. In vitro studies with different wavelengths have shown modulation of cell activity, including increased mitochondrial activity as well as increased production of ATP.
This "stimulatory effect" of light therapy is what has driven scientists and physicians to explore low-level laser photobiomodulation for hair growth. Clinically, LLLT does seem to provide some effect, although in some treatments it is difficult to measure. When it comes to AGA, most of the focus has been on red and near-infrared light devices (600 nm to 950 nm).
Ironically, many of the reports on hair growth and lasers actually originated from laser hair removal literature. Stimulation of hair growth is an adverse event associated with hair removal with intense pulsed light (IPL), diode and alexandrite lasers. If we could predictably control this "adverse event" and elicit it in patients who actually desire more hair, a new therapeutic option could emerge.
Hair growth studies
Laser-induced hair growth in mice has been replicated using several different devices, including a helium-neon (He-Ne) laser (Shukla S, et al. Skin Pharmacol Physiol. 2010;23(2):79-85). In this study, mice treated with the He-Ne laser had a much higher percentage of hairs in anagen phase than those not treated.
There is one published double-blind, sham device-controlled, multicentered study on hair growth (Leavitt M, et al. Clin Drug Invest. 2009;29(5):283-295). A total of 123 patients with AGA were enrolled. Hair counts were completed, as were photographic assessments and patient self-assessment scores. The treatment group used a low-level laser comb 15 minutes a day, three days a week, for a total of 26 weeks. Hair counts at the end of six months showed a statistically significant (p<.0001) difference in hair density counts between the laser group and the sham group (+19.8 hairs/cm2 vs. -7.6 hairs/cm2 ). There was also a statistically significant difference in the subjects' self assessments.
While LLLT with red light does stimulate terminal growth on hair count analysis, the clinical improvement is more difficult to judge. The study did not evaluate for any textural changes in hair. Textural changes may make hair appear clinically fuller, and patients may be happy with "thicker" hair that doesn't necessarily exhibit a higher hair count. It may be that longer treatment sessions or duration of the treatment is needed. It may also be more helpful clinically when used in combination with other therapies, such as hair transplant, finasteride or minoxidil.
Optimum treatment frequency and duration have not yet been determined for hair-growth laser therapy, and it is theoretically possible that large overdoses could reverse the therapeutic effects. In other words, more power with LLLT does not necessarily translate into better results. Long-term follow-up of patients receiving LLLT for AGA is needed to determine if therapeutic benefits can be maintained with prolonged therapy.
In summary, LLLT is a safe, tolerable and easy-to-use treatment option for patients with AGA. Hair counts have been shown to increase in the only double-blinded study published. Proper parameters and treatment regimens must be better elucidated in order to make this treatment more universally accepted.
At this point, LLLT (red, 630 nm to 670 nm) for AGA seems to show some effects in some patients, yet future studies are needed to optimize results by better defining treatment power, dosing and frequency. With so few reliable noninvasive therapeutic choices for AGA, laser therapy is a welcome addition.
Joely Kaufman, M.D., is assistant professor of clinical dermatology at the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine and director of lasers for the University of Miami Cosmetic Group.
Bernard Nusbaum, M.D., is a board-certified dermatologist specializing in hair loss and hair restoration. He is past president of the American Board of Hair Restoration Surgery and co-editor of Hair Transplant Forum International.
Comments from our Readers
Dr. Alan Bauman / Boca Raton, FL, UNITED STATES
Posted 2010-06-02 07:23:26.0
Drs. Nusbaum and Kaufman, I read with much excitement your article on LLLT and hair growth. Having successfully used Low Level Laser Therapy in my own hair restoration practice for nearly ten years, I can tell you it was not too long ago that many physicians were reluctant to even acknowledge that photomedicine and Laser Therapy were viable treatment options. Today, with the increase in numbers of devices FDA-cleared for wound healing, pain control, facial rejuvenation and hair growth more and more physicians are working with laser and LED light sources and understanding more about what they can and cannot do. One of the most important things I have learned from administering and prescribing thousands of laser therapy treatments for hair growth is that without the 'target organ' (the hair follicle!) the treatment will not succeed. LLLT seems to improve the functioning of the skin including the hair follicles that are present and this is what creates the satisfying results for patients over months. However, if there are areas where hair follicles are severely depleted, these areas are unlikely to respond. As we always say, therefore, early treatment is the best treatment! Sincerely, Alan J. Bauman, M.D. / Certified, American Board of Hair Restoration Surgery
Publish date: Jun 1, 2010
By: Joely Kaufman, M.D., Bernard Nusbaum, M.D.
Source: Dermatology Times
* Most reports on lasers and hair growth originated from hair removal literature
* LLLT with red light stimulates terminal hair growth on hair count analysis, but results difficult to judge
* Several devices on market for at-home hair growth treatment
Joely Kaufman, M.D.
Most of the time, when lasers are discussed in the context of hair, it is regarding the removal of hair. It was not until fairly recently that these devices received significant attention for their role in stimulating hair growth.
Bernard Nusbaum, M.D.
Androgenetic alopecia (AGA) affects more than 35 million men and 21 million women in the United States. Due to the relative lack of viable nonsurgical treatment options for AGA, the therapeutic focus has once again turned to lasers.
The idea of using light to stimulate hair growth was first published in the 1960s and involved mice studies (Mester E, Szende B, et al. Kiserl Orvostud. 1967;19:628-631). Despite this history, the mechanism of action of how lasers may function to prevent, stop or even promote growth in AGA is still unknown.
LLLT and hair growth
There is clear evidence that low-level lasers alter cell function in some manner, and low-level laser therapy (LLLT) for wound healing, pain, anti-aging and inflammation is a popular modality. In vitro studies with different wavelengths have shown modulation of cell activity, including increased mitochondrial activity as well as increased production of ATP.
This "stimulatory effect" of light therapy is what has driven scientists and physicians to explore low-level laser photobiomodulation for hair growth. Clinically, LLLT does seem to provide some effect, although in some treatments it is difficult to measure. When it comes to AGA, most of the focus has been on red and near-infrared light devices (600 nm to 950 nm).
Ironically, many of the reports on hair growth and lasers actually originated from laser hair removal literature. Stimulation of hair growth is an adverse event associated with hair removal with intense pulsed light (IPL), diode and alexandrite lasers. If we could predictably control this "adverse event" and elicit it in patients who actually desire more hair, a new therapeutic option could emerge.
Hair growth studies
Laser-induced hair growth in mice has been replicated using several different devices, including a helium-neon (He-Ne) laser (Shukla S, et al. Skin Pharmacol Physiol. 2010;23(2):79-85). In this study, mice treated with the He-Ne laser had a much higher percentage of hairs in anagen phase than those not treated.
There is one published double-blind, sham device-controlled, multicentered study on hair growth (Leavitt M, et al. Clin Drug Invest. 2009;29(5):283-295). A total of 123 patients with AGA were enrolled. Hair counts were completed, as were photographic assessments and patient self-assessment scores. The treatment group used a low-level laser comb 15 minutes a day, three days a week, for a total of 26 weeks. Hair counts at the end of six months showed a statistically significant (p<.0001) difference in hair density counts between the laser group and the sham group (+19.8 hairs/cm2 vs. -7.6 hairs/cm2 ). There was also a statistically significant difference in the subjects' self assessments.
While LLLT with red light does stimulate terminal growth on hair count analysis, the clinical improvement is more difficult to judge. The study did not evaluate for any textural changes in hair. Textural changes may make hair appear clinically fuller, and patients may be happy with "thicker" hair that doesn't necessarily exhibit a higher hair count. It may be that longer treatment sessions or duration of the treatment is needed. It may also be more helpful clinically when used in combination with other therapies, such as hair transplant, finasteride or minoxidil.
Optimum treatment frequency and duration have not yet been determined for hair-growth laser therapy, and it is theoretically possible that large overdoses could reverse the therapeutic effects. In other words, more power with LLLT does not necessarily translate into better results. Long-term follow-up of patients receiving LLLT for AGA is needed to determine if therapeutic benefits can be maintained with prolonged therapy.
In summary, LLLT is a safe, tolerable and easy-to-use treatment option for patients with AGA. Hair counts have been shown to increase in the only double-blinded study published. Proper parameters and treatment regimens must be better elucidated in order to make this treatment more universally accepted.
At this point, LLLT (red, 630 nm to 670 nm) for AGA seems to show some effects in some patients, yet future studies are needed to optimize results by better defining treatment power, dosing and frequency. With so few reliable noninvasive therapeutic choices for AGA, laser therapy is a welcome addition.
Joely Kaufman, M.D., is assistant professor of clinical dermatology at the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine and director of lasers for the University of Miami Cosmetic Group.
Bernard Nusbaum, M.D., is a board-certified dermatologist specializing in hair loss and hair restoration. He is past president of the American Board of Hair Restoration Surgery and co-editor of Hair Transplant Forum International.
Comments from our Readers
Dr. Alan Bauman / Boca Raton, FL, UNITED STATES
Posted 2010-06-02 07:23:26.0
Drs. Nusbaum and Kaufman, I read with much excitement your article on LLLT and hair growth. Having successfully used Low Level Laser Therapy in my own hair restoration practice for nearly ten years, I can tell you it was not too long ago that many physicians were reluctant to even acknowledge that photomedicine and Laser Therapy were viable treatment options. Today, with the increase in numbers of devices FDA-cleared for wound healing, pain control, facial rejuvenation and hair growth more and more physicians are working with laser and LED light sources and understanding more about what they can and cannot do. One of the most important things I have learned from administering and prescribing thousands of laser therapy treatments for hair growth is that without the 'target organ' (the hair follicle!) the treatment will not succeed. LLLT seems to improve the functioning of the skin including the hair follicles that are present and this is what creates the satisfying results for patients over months. However, if there are areas where hair follicles are severely depleted, these areas are unlikely to respond. As we always say, therefore, early treatment is the best treatment! Sincerely, Alan J. Bauman, M.D. / Certified, American Board of Hair Restoration Surgery
Monday, April 19, 2010
PRP skin rejuvenation
NEW FACIAL CELL THERAPY WITH AUTOLOGOUS PLATELET-RICH PLASMA (PRP)
PRP is facial therapy with autologous platelet-rich plasma i.e. rejuvenating your own face with your own blood plasma which is rich in growth factors - takes only 30 minutes to generate.
How is it different to other skin rejuvenation procedures?
1. Compared to lasers & light, it is 1-3 sessions. (To get best results, 3 consecutive treatments done 1 month apart are required). Duration of effect up to 1 year.
2. There is hardly any downtime.
3. There are no side-effects such as burns & post-inflammatory pigmentation which can happen with lasers.
4. You're being injected with your own plasma so there is no possibility of allergies.
5. Visible changes in skin complexion seen in 1 month.
6. There is minimal pain if adequate numbing cream & small needles are used.
WHAT IMPROVEMENT CAN YOU SEE WITH PRP?
The dermis and epidermis are augmented by enhancing the growth of keratinocytes, fibroblasts and deposition of collagen. This improves skin tone, texture and colour.
It needs redoing 6-12 monthly because of the ongoing chronological aging process. This is an excellent adjunct to soft tissue facial rejuvenation but is not a magic bullet for the amelioration of deep creases, folds, pigmentation, elastosis, jowls and deep forehead vertical lines. It's a good complement to Botox as dynamic lines are not affected by this PRP rejuvenation process. Clients tend to forget the aging process continues unabated and that the results of non-invasive treatments such as laser, IPL and RF only last for about 6 months. PRP does offer something special, because the patient’s own plasma is used for the enhancement of facial macroaesthetics.
PRP facial rejuvenation addresses the soft tissues lost through aging or solar damage – and is directed at improvement of dermal atrophy, fat atrophy, gravitational descent to a degree, loss of skin tone and skin texture.
INVARIABLE OR NO RESPONSE TO THE PRP PROCESS INCLUDES:
* Alcohol abuse
* Cigarette smoking
* Genetics and rapid natural chronological aging with line formation
* Advanced solar aging
* Advanced hyperpigmentation
* Deep vertical forehead lines & perioral lines
* Telangiectasis of the cheeks and nose associated with plethora
CONTRAINDICATIONS TO THE PRP PROCESS
* Facial cancer, past and present. This includes SCC, BCC and melanoma
* Systemic cancer, chemotherapy, steroid therapy
* Dermatological diseases affecting the face ( i.e. porphyria)
* Blood disorders and platelet abnormalities
* Anticoagulation
* Certain herbal products
* Aspirin or anti-platelet agents
SAFETY OF PRP FACIAL REJUVENATION
It is safe treatment because autologous (your own) plasma is used. Expect mild redness, swelling, bruising and minor discomfort.
THE PRP PROCESS:
1. Doctor takes a sample of venous blood from your arm
2. Blood is placed in a special collection tube and the PRP is processed.
3. Your face is covered with Emla® cream, or equivalent numbing cream for 45 minutes - 1 hour before injection
5. Multiple small jab injections are made close together into the skin releasing the PRP in order to kick-start rejuvenation by GF stimulation that is derived from your platelets in the PRP. The neck and back of hands can also be done in one session. Procedure time for the face is about 1.5 hours. Alternatively, the PRP can be delivered after needleabrasion with a dermaroller.
6. Recovery is fast and expect results starting at 4 weeks. Optimal results are seen after 3 consecutive monthly sessions. Some persons show more swelling of the skin under the injections than other clients. It is impossible to identify who will show excessive swelling. Fortunately, the swelling subsides within a day in all and there are no sequelae.
7. Adding sessions of Radiantmax low level red laser therapy to PRP is in your interest and recommended for 4-6 sessions.
POST-CARE ADVICE
Daily application of retinol & glycolic acid will enhance the results even more.
Avoid further sun exposure and use sun screens.
Don’t be drowned in heavy moisturizers. Aging is not a lack of oil.
Follow up with biweekly to monthly high tech facials - microedermabrasion with transdermal electroporation and Radiantmax low level laser therapy.
PRP is facial therapy with autologous platelet-rich plasma i.e. rejuvenating your own face with your own blood plasma which is rich in growth factors - takes only 30 minutes to generate.
How is it different to other skin rejuvenation procedures?
1. Compared to lasers & light, it is 1-3 sessions. (To get best results, 3 consecutive treatments done 1 month apart are required). Duration of effect up to 1 year.
2. There is hardly any downtime.
3. There are no side-effects such as burns & post-inflammatory pigmentation which can happen with lasers.
4. You're being injected with your own plasma so there is no possibility of allergies.
5. Visible changes in skin complexion seen in 1 month.
6. There is minimal pain if adequate numbing cream & small needles are used.
WHAT IMPROVEMENT CAN YOU SEE WITH PRP?
The dermis and epidermis are augmented by enhancing the growth of keratinocytes, fibroblasts and deposition of collagen. This improves skin tone, texture and colour.
It needs redoing 6-12 monthly because of the ongoing chronological aging process. This is an excellent adjunct to soft tissue facial rejuvenation but is not a magic bullet for the amelioration of deep creases, folds, pigmentation, elastosis, jowls and deep forehead vertical lines. It's a good complement to Botox as dynamic lines are not affected by this PRP rejuvenation process. Clients tend to forget the aging process continues unabated and that the results of non-invasive treatments such as laser, IPL and RF only last for about 6 months. PRP does offer something special, because the patient’s own plasma is used for the enhancement of facial macroaesthetics.
PRP facial rejuvenation addresses the soft tissues lost through aging or solar damage – and is directed at improvement of dermal atrophy, fat atrophy, gravitational descent to a degree, loss of skin tone and skin texture.
INVARIABLE OR NO RESPONSE TO THE PRP PROCESS INCLUDES:
* Alcohol abuse
* Cigarette smoking
* Genetics and rapid natural chronological aging with line formation
* Advanced solar aging
* Advanced hyperpigmentation
* Deep vertical forehead lines & perioral lines
* Telangiectasis of the cheeks and nose associated with plethora
CONTRAINDICATIONS TO THE PRP PROCESS
* Facial cancer, past and present. This includes SCC, BCC and melanoma
* Systemic cancer, chemotherapy, steroid therapy
* Dermatological diseases affecting the face ( i.e. porphyria)
* Blood disorders and platelet abnormalities
* Anticoagulation
* Certain herbal products
* Aspirin or anti-platelet agents
SAFETY OF PRP FACIAL REJUVENATION
It is safe treatment because autologous (your own) plasma is used. Expect mild redness, swelling, bruising and minor discomfort.
THE PRP PROCESS:
1. Doctor takes a sample of venous blood from your arm
2. Blood is placed in a special collection tube and the PRP is processed.
3. Your face is covered with Emla® cream, or equivalent numbing cream for 45 minutes - 1 hour before injection
5. Multiple small jab injections are made close together into the skin releasing the PRP in order to kick-start rejuvenation by GF stimulation that is derived from your platelets in the PRP. The neck and back of hands can also be done in one session. Procedure time for the face is about 1.5 hours. Alternatively, the PRP can be delivered after needleabrasion with a dermaroller.
6. Recovery is fast and expect results starting at 4 weeks. Optimal results are seen after 3 consecutive monthly sessions. Some persons show more swelling of the skin under the injections than other clients. It is impossible to identify who will show excessive swelling. Fortunately, the swelling subsides within a day in all and there are no sequelae.
7. Adding sessions of Radiantmax low level red laser therapy to PRP is in your interest and recommended for 4-6 sessions.
POST-CARE ADVICE
Daily application of retinol & glycolic acid will enhance the results even more.
Avoid further sun exposure and use sun screens.
Don’t be drowned in heavy moisturizers. Aging is not a lack of oil.
Follow up with biweekly to monthly high tech facials - microedermabrasion with transdermal electroporation and Radiantmax low level laser therapy.
Banned cosmetics - updated list
A faithful reader has pointed out to me the mass of banned cosmetics available on the market & I thought it would be a good idea to share this info in this blog. The Ministry of Health has just updated the list of cosmetics banned for containing banned ingredients in cosmetics. The following cosmetics were banned between 2008-2010.
1. NV toner treatment no. 1 & 2
2. Felisa Gentle Peeling lotion
3. Krim Malam Rahsia Rimba
4. Biocosmet whitening essence cream
5. H2O+ Waterwhite brightening night cream
6. Magixpress lightening plus
7. A.Vant cream
8. Eriesyc Spa Beauty cream
9. Natasha Krim Herba
10. Kahzanah White Pembersih Wajah
11. Krim Malam & Siang Gloskin
12. Astringen Lanjutan Reena
13. Skin Desires Deep whitenign cleansing milk
14. EETYE whitening cream
15. Lynn's skin lightening cream
The following were also banned in past years - don't know if they have resurfaced in the market!
1. Cellnique skin whitening range
2. Dr Seagar Skin Recon
3. Dewajah night cream
4. Hebarites Skin whitening
5. Atika Beauty skin lightening cream
6. Crystal White extra night cream
7. Sendayu Tinggi body & skincare
There is also a brand called MIYOME that a whole bunch of females talk about in the internet Cari forum. The side-effects described i.e. skin irritation ,redness, turning pasty white pretty much guarantees it contains hydroquinone & retinoic acid as well. Anyway, a search reveals that this brand is not registered with National Pharmaceutical Control Bureau (NPCB)
BTW, the drug TRILUMA is a DRUG registered with the NPCB - prescribed by doctors for lightening dark pigmentation problems. Yes, it contains hydroquinone & retinoic acid & a mild steroid. However, I have to make it clear that these drug ingredients are not banned in drugs, only in cosmetics. These drug ingredients can cause irritation & allergic skin reactions hence the need for a doctor to explain how to use it - how much to apply, how often, where to apply & what to do when signs of irritation occur. These ingredients are highly effective in skin lightening (hence the hundreds of products on the market putting them in cosmetics). These ingredients only become a problem when the consumer doesn't know about the existence of these ingredients in what they think is a mild over the counter cosmetic & keeps applying them non-stop in the hope of getting "glowing skin".
When your new cosmetic cream makes you peel like a snake, leaves you red like you've been imbibing in alcohol & makes your skin sensitive with easy acne outbreaks, you can bet your bottom dollar - it contains drug ingredients!
1. NV toner treatment no. 1 & 2
2. Felisa Gentle Peeling lotion
3. Krim Malam Rahsia Rimba
4. Biocosmet whitening essence cream
5. H2O+ Waterwhite brightening night cream
6. Magixpress lightening plus
7. A.Vant cream
8. Eriesyc Spa Beauty cream
9. Natasha Krim Herba
10. Kahzanah White Pembersih Wajah
11. Krim Malam & Siang Gloskin
12. Astringen Lanjutan Reena
13. Skin Desires Deep whitenign cleansing milk
14. EETYE whitening cream
15. Lynn's skin lightening cream
The following were also banned in past years - don't know if they have resurfaced in the market!
1. Cellnique skin whitening range
2. Dr Seagar Skin Recon
3. Dewajah night cream
4. Hebarites Skin whitening
5. Atika Beauty skin lightening cream
6. Crystal White extra night cream
7. Sendayu Tinggi body & skincare
There is also a brand called MIYOME that a whole bunch of females talk about in the internet Cari forum. The side-effects described i.e. skin irritation ,redness, turning pasty white pretty much guarantees it contains hydroquinone & retinoic acid as well. Anyway, a search reveals that this brand is not registered with National Pharmaceutical Control Bureau (NPCB)
BTW, the drug TRILUMA is a DRUG registered with the NPCB - prescribed by doctors for lightening dark pigmentation problems. Yes, it contains hydroquinone & retinoic acid & a mild steroid. However, I have to make it clear that these drug ingredients are not banned in drugs, only in cosmetics. These drug ingredients can cause irritation & allergic skin reactions hence the need for a doctor to explain how to use it - how much to apply, how often, where to apply & what to do when signs of irritation occur. These ingredients are highly effective in skin lightening (hence the hundreds of products on the market putting them in cosmetics). These ingredients only become a problem when the consumer doesn't know about the existence of these ingredients in what they think is a mild over the counter cosmetic & keeps applying them non-stop in the hope of getting "glowing skin".
When your new cosmetic cream makes you peel like a snake, leaves you red like you've been imbibing in alcohol & makes your skin sensitive with easy acne outbreaks, you can bet your bottom dollar - it contains drug ingredients!
Thursday, April 1, 2010
The Anti-aging HOPE vaccine & Caviarlieri
I just received this email from a supplier of anti-aging products - reproduced as below. Over the years, I've heard of people paying anything from RM6K-50K (or more!)for the elixir of youth. And it's not just higher income folks who are willing to part with thousands for this. People are just so gullible, I don't know why I haven't taken advantage of my medical degree to shore up my retirement nest egg.
COPIED & PASTED EMAIL FROM SUPPLIER BELOW:
"Human Ultracell - Anti Aging Vaccine by Biocell France.
Cells Origin Sheep
total 4 vials / injections 1 vial a week.
Retail Price RM19-22k.
Immediate can feel improvement after just 1 vial n see improvements after complete 4 vials!
- Rejuvenator
- Cellular Renovator
- Skin Revitalizer
- Mental & Physical improvement
- Wrinkles & Folds Eliminator
- High Purity
INDICATIONS:-
Improves skin tone
Stimulates capillary & nail growth
Prevents skin aging
Revitalises corporal functions&restores d balance of treated organs
Increases Stress resistance
Improves cardiac performance, renal, liver,spleen & other organs that weaken with age.
Reduces arterial tension, raises good cholesterol (HDL) & reduces the LDL,
Increases memory
Improves quality of sleep & resistance to allergies.
Prevents osteoporosis, stimulates libido in both sex
Stimulate blood vessels & accelerates the recuperation from wounds.
Stimulate growth hormones production
Improves anaemia of any origin
3 working days advance order. Collect Payment upfront. Have to pay 1st b4 shipment leave BIOCELL FRANCE."
OK, OK, I'm being sarcastic. I subscribe to anti-aging diets & lifestyles...but an anti-aging vaccine?!
22 Nov 2011 - A new product called Caviarlieri (from Switzerland) claims to give all the benefits as above. Well, I'm now into my 4th week of taking this & I've suffered 2 viral infections to date....so much for the strengthening of immunity claim :-(
In truth, none of these "anti-aging" oral or injectable supplements will work to make you feel & look younger unless you FIRST take steps to eat & live healthily (regular exercise, no smoking, no excess alcohol, etc, etc, etc. ) Supplements are just that, they supplement your primarily healthy lifestyle.
If you only just did caloric restriction (it's a diet consisting of basically all fresh organic vegetables), you would prolong & improve the quality of your life already, even without taking any supplements. What are health supplements anyway but extracts of plants & marine life. It's more convenient to buy them in bottles than to spend time shopping at health food stores/markets. Granted, there is no single market in Malaysia that I know of that sells a complete variety of fresh organic fruits & veges - the bulk would need to be imported. I guess nobody is in this business because there aren't enough health freaks to make it a viable business.
I'm not saying placenta injections are bunkum - they are actually proven to be very useful medicine for liver diseases & menopausal symptoms. They certainly are overpriced in Malaysia because they are all black market goods.
Before you jump in to inject yourselves with these overpriced health jabs, please do the following in the order stated:
1) Revamp your diet & lifestyle - permanently - don't imagine that once a year "detoxing" your body can flush out what you've been poisoning your body with the other 51 weeks in the year.
2) If you've successfully achieved 1) then you can consider jabbing yourself with the "hope vaccines". For those who can afford it, do it in Europe or East Asia where it's legal & you know you're being injected with the bona fide stuff. What you get here in Malaysia all came in through the back door so the product quality is always questionable. Why splurge in middleman fees locally when you can have a nice overseas holiday at the same time?
3) If you can't achieve 1) & you have spare cash lying around, do something that is at least good for the soul. Consider donating some to the needy and to our vernacular schools. Investing in our children is investing in our future.
COPIED & PASTED EMAIL FROM SUPPLIER BELOW:
"Human Ultracell - Anti Aging Vaccine by Biocell France.
Cells Origin Sheep
total 4 vials / injections 1 vial a week.
Retail Price RM19-22k.
Immediate can feel improvement after just 1 vial n see improvements after complete 4 vials!
- Rejuvenator
- Cellular Renovator
- Skin Revitalizer
- Mental & Physical improvement
- Wrinkles & Folds Eliminator
- High Purity
INDICATIONS:-
Improves skin tone
Stimulates capillary & nail growth
Prevents skin aging
Revitalises corporal functions&restores d balance of treated organs
Increases Stress resistance
Improves cardiac performance, renal, liver,spleen & other organs that weaken with age.
Reduces arterial tension, raises good cholesterol (HDL) & reduces the LDL,
Increases memory
Improves quality of sleep & resistance to allergies.
Prevents osteoporosis, stimulates libido in both sex
Stimulate blood vessels & accelerates the recuperation from wounds.
Stimulate growth hormones production
Improves anaemia of any origin
3 working days advance order. Collect Payment upfront. Have to pay 1st b4 shipment leave BIOCELL FRANCE."
OK, OK, I'm being sarcastic. I subscribe to anti-aging diets & lifestyles...but an anti-aging vaccine?!
22 Nov 2011 - A new product called Caviarlieri (from Switzerland) claims to give all the benefits as above. Well, I'm now into my 4th week of taking this & I've suffered 2 viral infections to date....so much for the strengthening of immunity claim :-(
In truth, none of these "anti-aging" oral or injectable supplements will work to make you feel & look younger unless you FIRST take steps to eat & live healthily (regular exercise, no smoking, no excess alcohol, etc, etc, etc. ) Supplements are just that, they supplement your primarily healthy lifestyle.
If you only just did caloric restriction (it's a diet consisting of basically all fresh organic vegetables), you would prolong & improve the quality of your life already, even without taking any supplements. What are health supplements anyway but extracts of plants & marine life. It's more convenient to buy them in bottles than to spend time shopping at health food stores/markets. Granted, there is no single market in Malaysia that I know of that sells a complete variety of fresh organic fruits & veges - the bulk would need to be imported. I guess nobody is in this business because there aren't enough health freaks to make it a viable business.
I'm not saying placenta injections are bunkum - they are actually proven to be very useful medicine for liver diseases & menopausal symptoms. They certainly are overpriced in Malaysia because they are all black market goods.
Before you jump in to inject yourselves with these overpriced health jabs, please do the following in the order stated:
1) Revamp your diet & lifestyle - permanently - don't imagine that once a year "detoxing" your body can flush out what you've been poisoning your body with the other 51 weeks in the year.
2) If you've successfully achieved 1) then you can consider jabbing yourself with the "hope vaccines". For those who can afford it, do it in Europe or East Asia where it's legal & you know you're being injected with the bona fide stuff. What you get here in Malaysia all came in through the back door so the product quality is always questionable. Why splurge in middleman fees locally when you can have a nice overseas holiday at the same time?
3) If you can't achieve 1) & you have spare cash lying around, do something that is at least good for the soul. Consider donating some to the needy and to our vernacular schools. Investing in our children is investing in our future.
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