There’s an ongoing argument online about beauty services: What professionals charge, what clients receive, and whether the two still line up.

Across the board, hair professionals, nail artists, and estheticians are taking heat over rising prices. Some providers describe struggling to cover expenses and pay themselves adequately, all while navigating last…

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I’ve been looking for a space to rent for my business, and I’m quickly realizing the process is equal parts incredibly exciting… and completely intimidating.

There’s a lot to figure out before you launch your beauty business, and plenty of it comes before you even start touring spaces. I wanted to help someone if I could and put together the most vital d…

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You’ve heard of melanin.

It’s the pigment that gives your skin, hair, and eyes their color, and it’s produced by specialized cells known as melanocytes. We all have melanin, just in varying amounts.

So, what causes skin to lose pigment (or its ability to produce melanin) after surgery?

During surgery, an incision cuts through multiple layers of skin. The body’s priority then becomes to heal and close that wound. It’s not necessarily to return the skin exactly as it existed before.

Collagen is produced to bridge the damage, and scar tissue is created. During these processes, damaged melanocytes take a backseat. Pigment only returns if the melanocytes surrounding the injury survive or if enough functional melanocytes remain that can, essentially, repopulate.

If they are able to successfully regenerate or repair, the result is a gradual change in pigment. It’s one reason a new scar can continue changing color for many months as it matures.

But when melanocytes have been severely damaged or destroyed, the scar may be permanently left with significantly less pigment than the surrounding skin. This is known as hypopigmentation. When pigment is completely absent, that loss is called depigmentation.

The skin itself can heal, even when its pigment-producing cells do not fully recover.

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Can it be fixed?

First, when we’re dealing with hypopigmentation, it’s imperative to wait until a scar has fully matured. Scar maturation can take at least 12 to 18 months, and color may continue improving during that period.

If hypopigmentation persists, treatments via light therapies, fractional (skin resurfacing) lasers, microneedling, and other methods may stimulate melanin production depending on why it was lost in the first place.

For example, topical steroids can possibly be an appropriate treatment if the loss of pigment was due to vitiligo, psoriasis, or other skin conditions. These will not be helpful on a healed, white surgical scar.

The “why” determines the correct approach.

Of course, there is never a guarantee that stimulation will restore pigment to a scar with severely compromised pigment-producing capacity.

Which leads us to scar camouflage…

When a scar is mature, stable, flat enough to tattoo safely, and remains noticeably lighter, then paramedical tattooing, or scar camouflage, becomes an excellent option.

There’s a misconception when treating scars with tattoo camouflage that EVERY scar will require skin-tone matching. That’s simply not the case.

Only when pigment is lost and cannot be restored naturally do we match skin tone. Obviously, we cannot restore melanocytes with tattooing, BUT we’re applying that missing pigment via ink to recreate that seamless appearance and blend the scar into the surrounding skin.

When left with hyperpigmentation, where the skin is darker due to an excess of melanin, a different approach is taken. The focus is on lightening the scar, not piling color on top of it.

Our skin is excellent at repairing itself, but can ultimately fall short.

When pigment is lost, the first question should always be why.

Is the skin still healing?

Are there functioning melanocytes present?

Is repigmentation possible, or has the loss become permanent?

The answers determine treatment. The good news is, there’s always an option.

Over the last week, I’ve been wildly humbled.

I learned some things I kind of already knew, including one important lesson that I’m grateful not to have learned the hard way (and with money still in my pocket): Appreciate what you have while you have it.

I also learned that your treatment room is not just where you put a bed or chair. Next to skill and know-how, it’s one of the biggest parts of your business.

The privacy, lighting, cleanliness, noise level, accessibility, the way a client feels when they walk through the door, even the walk through the parking lot from their car… how many times have you been turned off to a business by one or more of those things?

It all becomes part of the experience you’re selling, whether you intended for it to or not.

I learned that quite abruptly when the space I’ve been working out of became unavailable with essentially no warning.

One Wednesday morning, we all found ourselves locked out. Equipment, supplies, and personal belongings were inaccessible. Appointments were still in the books, and clients were still coming, but we had nowhere to treat them. In our case, some had traveled across the U.S. to be here, so this was no simple “reschedule and buy some time” situation. We needed a solution, and a good one.

Without naming names or including identifying details, this was ultimately the result of one person’s business practices affecting dozens of independent business owners.

Fortunately, another local salon owner graciously offered temporary rooms to a handful of tenants almost immediately. It was an incredibly generous gesture, but walking into a makeshift treatment room that Wednesday afternoon made me realize just how good we’d had it. Gone were our organized shelves, our supplies, our setup, and the environment we’d become accustomed to working in.

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I appreciated having any accommodation on such short notice, but it wasn’t ours. It wasn’t to the standard I was accustomed to, and it wasn’t what I wanted for our clients.

I don’t exactly take kindly to disruption and disorganization, especially when they interfere with routines and to-do lists I’ve meticulously gotten down to a science after feeling so completely out of my element at the beginning of this apprenticeship.

The strange part is that I probably had less to lose than almost anyone.

I don’t hold the lease. I don’t pay the rent. I haven’t spent years building a business around that address, and I don’t have a huge book of clients whose relationship with me depends on that location. I’m just an apprentice.

Of everyone affected, I should theoretically have been the one to shrug and say, “Well, that sucks. Call me when it’s worked out.”

Instead, I was genuinely disheartened by the whole thing.

Not only because we lost the space, but because I slowly realized something else:

Apparently, nobody was particularly surprised. That part bothers me.

The beauty industry is much smaller than it looks from the outside. Las Vegas as a whole is, too. People know people, and you don’t typically get very far here without having an “in.” Artists, estheticians, hairstylists, and colorists move between studios. Tenants talk. Clients talk. Vendors talk. Former employees definitely talk.

We’re usually taught to dismiss a lot of that as gossip, and sometimes that’s exactly what it is. One angry former employee doesn’t establish a pattern. Neither does one pissed-off client, a negative Google review, or a business relationship that went south.

There are two sides to plenty of stories, but there’s also a difference between gossip and pattern recognition.

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As everything started unraveling, I realized that perhaps “suddenly” wasn’t quite the right word for what had happened to us. The lockout was sudden. The circumstances leading to it weren’t.

The person running the space already had a reputation, and I don’t mean in a vague “some people didn’t like her” sort of way. I had heard stories about previous beauty businesses that failed, talk of past investigations involving regulatory boards, complaints about how the business was being run, and criticism of where the priorities seemed to be. People joked about money-where was it going? Basic issues weren’t being addressed, but there was apparently a budget for gaudy decor.

And these weren’t warnings everyone dismissed as ridiculous.

People believed them.

People continued working there while openly talking about how badly they thought the business was being run. Some seemed to fully expect that eventually, something would happen.

And then they... stayed!?

That’s the part I still can’t wrap my head around. How many times do you have to touch a stove before you believe it’s hot?

There were even things happening immediately before the lockout that are difficult not to think about in retrospect. I personally watched large pieces of artwork being removed from the space in the days beforehand. At the time, I didn’t know what it meant, although I suspected something was in the works.

Then came the lockout.

Yet one of the sentiments I kept encountering afterward was some variation of: We knew she was like this. That has bothered me almost more than the closure itself.

Because if you knew the stove was hot, why was your hand still on it?

I get it. I don’t want someone else deciding who I like, trust, or do business with because they had a bad experience. A reputation isn’t proof. BUT a reputation is information, and it usually didn’t materialize out of thin air. You can be a perfectly fine person while still being god-awful at business. Or you can be pretty terrible overall and also run a business into the ground.

There’s another uncomfortable part of this that I don’t think we talk about enough in any industry, and that’s: association matters.

Where you work matters. Who you choose to do business with matters. Who you trust with your clients, your money, and your professional reputation matters.

You can personally be ethical, talented, and professional while attaching your name to an operation that isn’t. Clients don’t necessarily understand all of the complicated relationships happening behind the scenes. They don’t know who holds the master lease, who subleases from whom, who controls the money, or which business technically belongs to which person.

They see the building. They see the business name. They see you working there. Fair or not, some of that association falls on you too.

Maybe that’s why this bothered me so much despite having comparatively little invested in the space? I don’t want chaos and bad business practices to become so familiar that I stop reacting to them, and I definitely don’t want to knowingly attach my business or my name to someone whose professional reputation I would be embarrassed to inherit.

In the end, we’ll be back in that previous location sometime in the coming weeks. New management will take over, the doors will reopen, and the space will once again feel like somewhere we’re proud to bring our clients.

I know I’m certainly going to appreciate it more when we get back…

I don’t think the lesson here is to believe every rumor you hear. It’s much simpler than that.

When enough people tell you the stove is hot, you don’t always have to burn your own hand to find out.

I wanted to report back on my BBL + MOXI experience! I had my face, neck, and chest treated.

First, to explain: BBL is not quite what you’re thinking… It’s broadband light, basically a stronger version of IPL, used to target pigment, uneven tone, and sun damage. Next is MOXI, a fractional laser that uses heat to address skin concerns like texture, fine lines, and enlarged pores. MOXI is non-ablative, so it doesn’t remove an entire layer of skin, which makes your downtime pretty minimal.

I decided to try it because I felt like my routine was stale. At my age, it makes sense to start regularly incorporating treatments like lasers, in addition to my microneedling and chemical peels, instead of relying entirely on skincare. I think I’ve just been looking for the right one.

My biggest concerns were just general dullness, uneven skin tone, and a few sun spots that were starting to hang around.

I was numbed for a full hour before we started. BBL came first, followed by MOXI, which was definitely the spicier part, but honestly, pain never got above maybe a 3/10 for me.

I was given really extensive aftercare instructions explaining exactly what to expect and when, and pretty much everything my provider told me would happen did… down to the skin around my mouth cracking first from all the constant movement!

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By the time I got to my car, pain was up to a 6.5/10. It was burning. It was uncomfortable. I was chanting “beauty is pain” on the drive home.

The MOXI MENDS (microscopic epidermal necrotic debris) definitely got me. Days 2–4, I walked around looking like someone sprinkled coffee grounds all over my face. When they say your skin will have a sandpaper texture, they are 100% correct. I didn’t quite believe it and assumed it was just a dramatic way of warning people that their skin would be really dry. Can confirm: it was sandpaper indeed.

But by day 4, as you can see in the photos, I looked mostly back to normal again - just with much glowier skin!

Overall, the downtime was really easy and very predictable.

Even as temps climbed back up to 105° and I was basically afraid of the sun, GlyMed’s SPF Oil came in clutch. I’m about a week out now, and I’m already really happy with the results. I may continue to see even more improvement over the next few weeks! …pretty nice bonus.

Recently, I made a carousel post on how to select a trainer to learn scar camouflage from. It got me thinking about just how easily fooled some people are by a high follower count or an aesthetically pleasing social media page… as if that equates to being an authority in your industry.

This isn’t an issue unique to only scar tattooing training. It applies to most services that people can sign up to learn over the course of a few days and then be released into the wild to perform on unsuspecting clients.

The lack of foundational knowledge or any type of background in an (at least!) somewhat related field is alarming.

That’s not to say someone needs to be an esthetician, nurse, tattoo artist, or have another very specific professional background before learning these services. However, it does mean that if you don’t already have that foundation, you need to recognize the gaps in your knowledge …and be willing to fill them.

A two- or five-day course can teach you a basic how-to. It cannot possibly teach you everything there is to know about skin, wound healing, infection control, ingredients, contraindications, machine mechanics, technique, or how to recognize when something simply isn’t working the way it should.

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I was reminded of this recently when I heard a trainee asking for advice about inkless stretch mark treatment she was already offering. She had been using witch hazel as her working solution, as instructed in her previous training, and couldn’t understand why her needle kept snagging on the skin.

Witch hazel is an astringent. It isn’t a serum. While some formulations can contain hydrating ingredients, it offers no meaningful benefit to a stretch mark treatment, and, more importantly, it provides none of the lubrication needed for the cartridge to appropriately glide across the skin. She didn’t know she needed to change products expeditiously; she more so wanted a fix on how to prevent the needles from catching and repeatedly hurting the client.

While horrifying, the witch hazel really isn’t the point here.

The problem was that she knew the procedure she had been taught, but didn’t have the foundational knowledge to recognize why that was a terrible choice.

Bare minimum, you should be able to answer these two questions:

1. What effective topical ingredients are actually necessary for this treatment?

2. Why are they necessary?

And that is the difference between knowing the steps of a procedure and understanding the procedure you’re performing.

If you are a professional seeking additional certifications, research who you are learning from. Be wary of websites where even basic information (like the cost of training) is gatekept behind a form requiring all of your contact information, only for you to be immediately funneled into sales texts from a third party.

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My other favorite tactic is when they try to create urgency and tell you there’s “One spot left!” and offer a made-up discount to snag that last opening. I’ve seen this a few times firsthand. You shouldn’t be pressured into believing some imaginary clock is ticking.

Too many programs are built around continually churning out large classes of newly certified practitioners because training is the real moneymaker.

When the financial incentive is to fill as many seats as possible, I think it’s fair to question how much emphasis is being placed on individual competency, mentorship, and what happens to those trainees once the course is over.

Education should create competent practitioners, not simply more of them.

I’ve discussed the many scar treatment options that are available today, and the latest one that’s gaining steam after additional published studies: Botox!

The original idea behind using Botox was largely about mechanical tension. When it comes to a healing incision, tension + pulling can contribute to wider, more noticeable scars.

This is especially important on the face, where the muscles underneath are constantly moving. Smiling, frowning, talking, and squinting can repeatedly pull on a fresh wound. Since Botox already works by temporarily relaxing those muscles, researchers wondered: What if Botox could reduce that constant pulling while an incision heals?

How does it work?

So there are actually two ways in which Botox is being used to treat scars. It’s being studied and used to help prevent or reduce hypertrophic scarring and keloid formation, particularly in people who are prone to it, and it’s also been used to treat existing hypertrophic scars and keloids.

For fresh surgical scars, the approach has been small injections made along both sides of the incision/wound, typically into the surrounding tissue or underlying muscle. The goal is to temporarily weaken the pull across the incision to create less tension while healing.

For an existing hypertrophic scar, keloid, or scar with a poor cosmetic appearance, Botox has also been studied using shallow injections into the dermis or directly into the scar itself.

Researchers are interested not only in the resulting muscle relaxation, but also in Botox’s potential direct effects on fibroblasts, collagen production, inflammation, and symptoms such as itching and pain during that scar remodeling phase.

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Am I Out of a Job?

No. In all seriousness, this is largely an early-intervention option for a very specific aspect of scarring, particularly for people who expect to heal poorly based on past results or genetic predisposition.

If anything, this may give us another option for treating problematic scars, kinda like steroid injections.

Does it take away the need for pigment replacement, or scar lightening? In most cases, no.

There is also an important shortcoming in the research: the populations studied have not been diverse. At all.

Much of the published research touting its success has involved Asian populations, with considerably less evidence involving Caucasian skin. Earlier reviews even noted an absence of participants of African ethnicity.

So while the results are looking promising, can we assume those same results apply equally across all skin types and ethnicities? What about Black and Hispanic patients, as these are the populations already at greater risk for hypertrophic scarring and keloids?

Another limitation? Scar location.

While there has been some expansion of the original study, the majority of treatments have still been on facial and neck scars, as well as scars following procedures such as Mohs surgery and thyroidectomy.

*As of 2026, Botox is not currently FDA-approved for scar prevention or treatment, but is still considered a promising off-label option. Studies have shown some impressive results, BUT research is still in the works, particularly when it comes to scars on the body and a broader range of skin tones.

I’ve read bits and pieces on this peptide, but it recently came up again after a client walked in praising “melatonin” for maintaining her tan with a simple weekly injection. (For the record, it’s Melanotan.)

What is it?

Melanotan I was developed to stimulate the MC1 receptor, which signals the body’s pigment-producing cells (aka melanocytes) to produce more melanin. That’s what’s responsible for our skin, hair, and eye color.

It has actually been in existence for decades as a medication to treat rare and very real painful skin disorders that cause light intolerance. Basically: a potentially toxic reaction to sunlight and even artificial light.

But… researchers later modified it, creating Melanotan II. This newer version not only increases melanin production faster, but also affects other parts of the body, with reported side effects including nausea, decreased appetite, and an increased libido.

It’s marketed online under catchy names like the “Barbie Drug” or “Vacation Vial,” making it sound more like a beauty hack than an unapproved injectable. As concern has grown, hashtags with Melanotan have even been restricted or banned on platforms like TikTok.

But many users remain unconcerned, dismissing warnings from dermatologists and medical journals in favor of the affiliate program from their favorite influencer or podcaster.

Perhaps most surprising is who is using it. This isn't just a trend among teenagers or young adults. A 2025 survey found the average user is 39 years old, with men representing the largest group of users. The peptide is readily available online, in gyms, and through questionable med spas.

What Makes it Concerning?

Since Melanotan stimulates the cells that produce pigment, it’s not exactly surprising that existing moles and freckles may darken, become more noticeable, and overall experience rapid change. Some people also report developing new spots.

While pigment changes alone don’t automatically mean cancer, they can make it more difficult for both patients and their dermatologists to identify the early warning signs of melanoma.

Delayed recognition of concerning lesions and more complicated skin examinations can ultimately delay a diagnosis. Dermatologists are trained to recognize subtle changes in moles that may indicate skin cancer. When it comes to melanoma, early detection is one of the most important factors in successful treatment.

Anything that can interfere with that detection deserves careful consideration.

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Now let’s get into some rapid fire Myth vs. Fact…

Myth: “Melanotan protects me from the sun.”
Fact: It increases melanin production; it does not make you immune to UV damage. Your skin can still experience DNA damage that contributes to premature aging and skin cancer.

Myth: “But peptides are healthy!”
Fact: “Peptide” only describes the molecule. It never guarantees safety. Many peptides are prescription medications OR experimental compounds, and Melanotan II has not been approved for cosmetic tanning.

Myth: “Tanning is healthy. Only burning is harmful.”
Fact: A tan is your skin’s response to UV-induced DNA damage. Sunburn is simply a more severe form of that damage, but not the only harmful one.

Myth: “A base tan protects my skin.”
Fact: A tan provides very little natural UV protection (equivalent to approx. SPF 2-4). That’s nowhere near enough to replace sunscreen or prevent sun damage.

Myth: "I don't have to spend as much time in the sun, so it's safer."
Fact: Melanotan may help some people tan faster and burn less easily, but UV exposure can still damage your skin and increase your risk of premature aging and skin cancer, even if you don't develop a sunburn.

Myth: "We need vitamin D, so some tanning is healthy."
Fact: Most people can meet their vitamin D needs through diet, supplements, and incidental day-to-day sun exposure. Intentionally tanning is not necessary,

Myth: “If influencers are selling it, it must be safe.”
Fact: Social media testimonials aren’t the same as scientific evidence. Many people promoting Melanotan aren’t discussing product quality, long-term safety, or potential side effects; they’re looking to add to their own bottom line.

Myth: “It’s FDA approved.”
Fact: Melanotan II is not FDA-approved for cosmetic tanning, and products sold online are manufactured without the quality control required for approval.

My goal is never to shame, but to inform. I was genuinely surprised that day in the office when a client shrugged off the potential risks to stay golden year-round. It was a reminder of just how powerful beauty trends and influence can be… and how easily they can outweigh the evidence and information that’s out there.

Chasing a tan shouldn’t come at the expense of your health. Even if someone believes Melanotan is safe enough, the product they’re injecting may not be. The purity, dose, and even the contents of the vial often can’t be verified.

Before injecting an unregulated peptide, consider whether the promise of a tan is worth the unknowns that come with it.

These are products I use and recommend. (Many have already been reordered a few times!)

They’re part of my daily routine, while others rotate in, depending on what my skin needs. I've also included where you can find each item.

1. GlyMed+ Hydrating Masque - A weekly must, especially in dry climates!

2. GlyMed+ Resurfacing Night Cream - I apply this to my brachioplasty scars just about every other night. It does show a reduction in the pink of the scar, along with the texture I still have remaining. Glycolic Acid is a chemical exfoliant, so it can have a little zing to it when first applied.

3. Cetaphil Sun SPF 50 Stick (Available at: Amazon, Walmart, Target) - If you have trouble remembering to apply sunscreen, buy this stick.

4. IMAGE Skincare Daily Prevention SPF 75 in smartblend (tinted) - I actually had another esthetician first apply this to my face post-treatment, and I couldn’t stop looking at myself. Now I use this every summer instead of foundation for dewy skin all day.

5. GlyMed+ Revitalizing Essence - I apply a few drops of this every morning and follow it with…

6. Anua Azelaic Acid Cica Skin Soothing Moisturizer (Available at: Ulta)

7. GlyMed+ Firming Serum - Twice daily, focusing on my neck and lower face.

8. Tretinoin, topical retinoid in .01% to .1% strengths. (Derm prescribed only) - Used nightly before bed, start LOW to give your skin a chance to adjust! Pro tip: If you’re having trouble getting an appointment with a dermatologist, many health plans include a tele-derm option.

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Why no cleanser? I don't think most people need a medical-grade facial cleanser. Just make sure it checks the most important boxes:

• Gentle - no harsh ingredients or unnecessary fragrance

• Doesn't leave your skin feeling tight!

• Appropriate for your skin type (dry, oily, combination, sensitive)

I personally double-cleanse every evening. I start with Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser (Available at: Amazon, Walmart, Target, literally any drugstore) to remove makeup, sunscreen, sweat, and daily buildup. Then I follow with a second cleanser based on what my skin needs that day.

About 5-7 nights per week, I incorporate at-home red light therapy. There are several devices on the market, and I’ve included some options I use and highly recommend in my Linktree.

Of course, while I do include some sensitive skin favorites on my list, skincare is never one size fits all.

If you'd like personalized product recommendations based on your needs, if you want help building a routine, or even have questions about the different devices available, don't hesitate to send a message.

I’m exhausted, y’all.

I saw this ad, targeted toward aesthetic professionals, so I’m giving you a look at just how predatory things can get…

First, let’s be clear. This isn’t some revolutionary new technology that’s being promoted. It’s radio-frequency and low-level laser packaged under a new name, with “lymphatic drainage” thrown in via vacuum therapy.

Apparently, every device now needs to claim it aids with lymphatic drainage…

Not the first to rebrand like this, and certainly won’t be the last.

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Second, these results are not realistic. Period.

I have officially hit my limit when it comes to people claiming they have the cure-all for loose skin following weight loss or pregnancy.

Skin with this degree of laxity simply does not (will not) tighten to this extent from RF/laser treatments alone. This is to the point of surgical intervention, and to suggest otherwise is cruel and exploitative. (As is referring to loose skin as a “gold rush” and calculating just how much you could make off of GLP-1 users. Gross.)

Also, who approved this ad? Lasers cannot be used directly over tattoo pigment because of the risk of severe burns and/or distorting the tattoo.

Is some temporary improvement achievable? Sure.

Heat-based treatments can cause mild collagen contraction and reduce swelling, making skin appear a little tighter for a period of time. Add on the fact that freshly treated, well-hydrated skin will almost always look smoother than dehydrated skin. That’s a little trick that’s often used in before-and-afters.

If this treatment piques your interest, just keep in mind: any improvement is generally modest, requires a series of sessions to achieve, and results will not be permanent.

Be skeptical of dramatic before-and-afters that look too good to be true.

A few years ago, every product seemed to contain hyaluronic acid. Then niacinamide had its moment. Now?

You can’t research anything on skincare without seeing peptides mentioned.

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From skin chemists to TikTok influencers to new estheticians who swear they’ve found the holy grail of facial routines… everyone is pushing this buzzword as the magic fix you’re missing. Why?

What are Peptides?

Peptides are chains of amino acids. Think of topical peptides as tiny messengers that send reminders to your skin to perform certain jobs. Different peptides send different messages, so there isn’t just one type.

Some peptides are better at supporting collagen, some focus on hydration or repair, and others are designed to soften the look of wrinkles, but there are four main types used in skincare.

I’ll explain them in plain English because every bit of information out there seems to overcomplicate it:

Signal Peptides

They “signal” the skin to produce more collagen, elastin, and other proteins that help support firmness and improve the appearance of fine lines over time. Think: the anti-aging peptide.

You’ll find them in: Matrixyl®, Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1, Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7

Carrier Peptides

These help deliver ingredients, such as copper, that support skin repair and healing. Result? Glowing skin, inflammation reduction.

Found in: Copper peptide, GHK-Cu

Neurotransmitter Inhibitor Peptides

These are the ones touted as a “Botox alternative.” bombastic side eye

Is it really? Absolutely not… BUT it does work by interfering with some of the chemical signals between nerves and facial muscles. Just don’t expect miracles.

Example: Argireline®, Acetyl Hexapeptide-8

Enzyme Inhibitor Peptides

These peptides help slow down enzymes that naturally break down important components of the skin, such as collagen or elastin. They can also work well on dark spots as a melanin interrupter.

Sounds like it could be the most effective game changer when it comes to preventative skincare, right?

It’s actually not as common: Oligopeptide-68

You've likely heard the word "peptide" outside of skincare, too.

Prescription medications like GLP-1s are also peptides, but they work throughout the body to treat conditions such as type 2 diabetes and obesity.

There are also “wellness” peptides, a common add-on at questionable medspas. These are typically non-approved, compounded ingredients in the form of injectables, advertising more energy, better metabolism, muscle growth, etc.

The marketing is impressive. The human evidence is lacking… to say the least.

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Do Skincare Peptides Work?

With realistic expectations, yes. While not every peptide has the same level of research behind it, well-studied peptides have consistently shown benefits for hydration, skin barrier support, and improving firmness.

Like most skincare, the results are gradual rather than dramatic and dependent on several months of consistent use.

If you’re looking to add peptides to your routine, you’ll usually find them in serums and moisturizers. The good news? They’re one of the easiest ingredients to work into an existing routine because they generally play well with other ingredients.

You may have heard the old school advice that peptides shouldn’t be used with AHAs, BHAs, or Vitamin C. While that advice is still recycled online, there isn’t much evidence to support it.

Most modern peptide products are formulated to be used alongside other active ingredients.

So, you get the science behind it now. What about products?

My personal pick is GlyMed+’s Firming Serum. I recommend it because it contains several of the best-studied peptide technologies in one formula:

• Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1
• Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7
• Copper Tripeptide-1 (GHK-Cu)
• Acetyl SH-Heptapeptide-1

You’re getting both collagen-supporting peptides and copper peptides in a single product, rather than relying on just one ingredient.

I’ve been using it consistently myself, and one of the first things I noticed was how hydrated my skin looked immediately after application. Over the past several weeks, I’ve also noticed my neck, a bit of a “problem area” after weight loss, looks less crepey throughout the day when I use it morning and night as directed.

That’s my personal experience, not a clinical study, but it’s enough that this has earned a permanent place in my routine. I’ll definitely be repurchasing… (Watch out for a coming post on what items are on my re-order list!)

If you’re looking for something richer, GlyMed+’s Atraxi Peptide is another standout.

It’s a moisturizer rather than a serum, and it’s packed with multiple peptide technologies, including Matrixyl-family peptides, copper peptides, and Argireline, making it one of the most peptide-rich products in GlyMed’s lineup.

From the skincare brands I work with, these are two of the standouts that check all the boxes and will give the most return from your investment.

Peptides aren't a magic wand that will erase 20 years of sun damage or replace procedures, and they certainly won't replace sunscreen, tretinoin, or healthy skin habits. But unlike many skincare trends that come and go, they have a growing body of research behind them and some serious staying power.

If you're looking for a gentle ingredient that can support healthier, stronger, and more resilient skin over time, peptides are absolutely worth considering.

If you want some additional recommendations, leave a comment or reach out on Fiverr.

One of the things I’ve been up to recently is starting an apprenticeship under one of the top scar camouflage providers in the U.S.

It’s something I’ve been curious about for years,… I still have a vivid memory of seeing paramedical tattooing featured on one of the popular “Ink” shows back in the mid-2000s.

Even then, I was fascinated by the idea that tattooing could be used not just for art, but to help restore confidence.

As I earned my Advanced Esthetician license and eventually underwent surgery myself, my interest in this scar treatment option only grew stronger. I always assumed this wasn’t something one could just easily study or practice; you had to already be a full-fledged tattoo artist.

That’s only half right. While you do have to complete the same requirements as a traditional tattoo artist, a long history of creating large-scale artwork or decorative tattoos isn’t a prerequisite. Of course, a solid understanding of color theory and technique is essential, but many practitioners come from backgrounds in esthetics, nursing, or other medical and cosmetic fields.

Personally, I thought it was the perfect pairing.

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So… What is it?

Scar camouflage, or paramedical tattooing, is a service designed to help blend lighter scars or areas of discoloration into the surrounding skin tone. The goal is to soften the contrast so it appears less noticeable.

Quick Disclaimer: Scars are not flaws, they’re not “wrong,” and they do not need to be “fixed.” They can stir all kinds of emotions and bring us back to certain events in our lives. Or they can serve as a reminder of what we’re capable of. Whether you choose treatment or choose to embrace your scars exactly as they are, both decisions are equally valid.

What Can Be Treated With Scar Camouflage?

Injury and burn scars: Accidents, trauma, burns, and other injuries can sometimes leave behind lighter or uneven areas of skin. Once fully healed, these scars may be candidates for camouflage.

Plastic surgery and other surgical scars: Scars from tummy tucks, breast lifts, arm lifts, C-sections, body contouring, and other procedures are the most commonly treated and see incredible improvement.

Hypopigmentation, sun spots, and some birthmarks: Areas lacking pigment may be improved by carefully color-matching and implanting custom pigment into the skin.

Some birthmarks may be treatable, but this depends on color, texture, size, and overall skin behavior. The risk is that it won’t ultimately hold the ink long-term.

Gender-affirming scars: Top surgery and other gender-affirming procedure scars are also common candidates for scar camouflage.

What is Inkless Camouflage?

Inkless scar camouflage creates micro-injuries in the skin, much like in micro-needling. There’s no ink; it works hand in hand with medical-grade serums designed to rebuild damaged tissue, brighten discoloration, and deeply hydrate to improve texture, tone, and skin quality.

Inkless treatments are used for:

Stretch marks: Mature, silvery white/light-colored stretch marks that are ideally sunken or raised. Must no longer be red or purple.

Acne scars: Certain textural acne scars may benefit from inkless work.

Pro tip: Sometimes, a session of inkless treatment is incorporated if a client is getting their scar treated, but is either unhappy with (minor) texture issues, OR is not retaining pigment. The latter is due to the scar being too fibrous or formerly necrotic.

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I include this infographic to explain to clients the before, during, and after of their sessions. Obviously, it’s customized to where I currently apprentice, but the information regarding the number of sessions, healing, and the aftercare is universal.

Every scar is different, which means every treatment plan and approach will be different.

Not every scar can be camouflaged: Scar maturity, texture, color, and your skin’s healing response all play a role in determining whether camouflage is appropriate. Raised, active, or unstable (still changing) scars may not be ready yet.

Photos may be requested of you: For Parkway Esthetics, photos must be submitted beforehand, but many providers will either ask for clear photos taken in natural lighting or give a free in-person consult.

This allows the scar to be evaluated and helps determine whether camouflage, inkless work, or waiting longer may be the better option. It also serves as a record of your “before.”

Rarely will a scar only need one treatment session. Most scars will need 3 to 5 sessions for adequate coverage that satisfies both client and provider, but could require quite a few more. Pigment can heal lighter, softer, darker, warmer, or cooler, depending on the skin, so sessions are spaced out to allow full healing to determine if adjustments need to be made.

Keep this in mind when choosing who to go with. Paying per session can get costly very quickly. I prefer the business model of a flat rate, as it keeps everyone honest.

Keep in mind: Scar camouflage helps reduce color contrast, but it does not erase the scar itself, and it will not significantly improve texture.

If a scar is raised (not quite keloided, as those cannot be safely treated), indented, or very rough/bumpy, that texture will still be visible and may cause shadowing even after the color is blended.

Healing takes time. It is normal for a scar to look darker before it looks lighter. Final results are typically seen after about 6 to 8 weeks of healing, which is why patience is important.

Sometimes, even better results can be achieved with longer pauses between appointments (think: 3 months)

Aftercare matters. Proper aftercare plays a major role in getting the best possible results. Following instructions, cleaning the area, avoiding sun exposure, and allowing the skin to heal properly all help protect your outcome.

Not following the given aftercare can cause zero pigment retention.

Paramedical tattooing is continuing to grow, and I’m happy to be a part of that. Whether you’ve lived with your scar for years or had surgery to treat one concern, but ended up with a new insecurity, there are now options.

One thing people underestimate about advanced treatments?

The healing phase.

You can spend money on peels, exfoliation, cavitation, or corrective treatment, but if the skin isn’t supported properly afterward, you can cancel out potentially great results and end up instead with prolonged irritation, dehydration, and uncomfortable sensitivity.

Freshly treated skin is often more reactive with a more compromised barrier. Honestly, we’ve all been there where our skin feels tight and dry, as if it’s about to crack. This is where appropriate post-care can make such a difference in both comfort and your results.

Recently, I came across an essentials kit that Glymed+ released, and it has what you need for essential post-treatment skincare.

One thing I appreciate about GlyMed’s post-procedure kit is that it’s focused on aiding in healing and repairing skin, speeding up recovery time without impeding results. Every ingredient has its purpose in reducing inflammation, redness, calming the skin, and keeping it hydrated.

It includes barrier-supportive staples like:

• Mega Cream Cleanser

• Hydrating Masque with Enzymes

• Recovery Cream with Arnica (a rockstar natural ingredient for swelling and bruising)

• Daily Skin Clarifier

• Ultra Hydro Gel

• Moisturizing Protection Cream with SPF 30

It’s one of the more thoughtfully assembled kits I’ve seen for post-treatment skin. Recovery is part of the result, and having the right products during that phase genuinely matters.

Have a procedure coming up and want to be prepared with the best post-care treatment? You can order this kit (or shop GlyMed’s full line of skincare products) through my store here!

You may have heard of Inkless Tattooing recently, as a treatment for scars and stretch marks. But despite the buzz, I’m finding many still don’t know what it actually does.

What Is Inkless Tattooing?

Inkless tattooing uses a tattoo machine without pigment to create controlled micro-injuries in the skin.

Instead of depositing color, hydrating serums with skin-repairing ingredients are used.

These are worked into the skin during the process to support healing and regeneration. When done correctly, it can meaningfully improve the appearance of certain types of scarring.

But Wait… Isn’t That Just Micro-Needling?

These two treatments are similar, but not the same. With inkless tattooing, a tattoo machine is used, with even finer needles than those on a microneedling pen.

Both treatments promote collagen production and the body’s natural wound healing response, but inkless can target very specific scar tissue, while microneedling is best for larger areas.

What Types of Scars Can It Help?

Inkless tattooing tends to work best on skin that is fully healed but still shows a visible texture change. Most commonly, stretch marks or flat, mature scars.

When the skin is a good candidate, results are typically subtle but still noticeable. Texture will appear smoother, the area may feel slightly tighter, and you’ll see less contrast between the scar and surrounding skin.

Inkless tattooing should be avoided if you have:

• Keloid or raised scars

• Active inflammation

• Recently formed scars

• Open or compromised skin

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What Ingredients to Look for in a Serum

Hydration is KEY! You want to look for something water-binding that will keep tissue hydrated during the healing phase, such as Hyaluronic Acid, Glycerin, or Sodium PCA.

This is essential for collagen rebuilding.

Next, look for ingredients like Ceramides and Squalene that will provide skin barrier support and prevent TEWL (trans-epidermal water loss).

Reduce any inflammation with calming additives such as Vitamin B5, Allantoin (removes dead cells and heals sensitive skin), Centella Asiatica (a natural herb that is excellent for post-procedure care), and Aloe.

And finally, Peptides, Zinc, and Fibroblast Growth Factors (fibroblasts are a type of cell that help form connective tissues and secrete collagen. This is something you want to stimulate!) When it comes to Growth Factors, be mindful of cheaper ingredients sourced from overseas versus those developed in reputable labs.

How Many Sessions?

The good news?

You can get away with fewer treatments than you’d need with microneedling. Unfortunately, the typical treatment plan still involves 3 to 6 sessions. Results are gradual and build over time. They won’t be immediate.

The general guideline is to space sessions out every 6 to 8 weeks, as collagen rebuilding happens within its own skin cycle.

Is This Trend Worthy of the Hype?

I’d say so. Like many things in the beauty industry, this can be a powerful tool in skin restoration, but only in the right hands. It should be left to those who take the time to train, experiment with what works best, and truly perfect their technique.

If this is a service you’re interested in, seek out a consultation with an experienced professional in your area. I’m also happy to answer any questions you have along the way, as I am undergoing training to provide this treatment.

I wanted to run down a list of some little-known, but pretty important must-haves that will get you through recovery following different cosmetic procedures.

Most of these are personal recommendations, things that truly saved me that were either advised by my surgeon and surgical coordinator, or items I learned were a necessity through my own trial and error!

First, you’ll typically be provided with a list of the usuals from your doctor or surgery center:

• Hibiclens, or an antibacterial soap, to use pre-op

• Colace, softeners… something to ensure the systems continue working and you don’t end up with any issues associated with prescribed narcotics and antibiotics, like constipation.

• Soft, light, easy-to-remove clothing to wear at home and to any post-op appointments. Usually, anything front-buttoned and loose is best.

• Medical supplies: Q-tips, cold compresses, one-time use ice packs, dressings, and medical-grade tape.

Depending on your surgery, you may be told a recliner is necessary (for a tummy tuck, 100% yes), and a walker could also be incredibly helpful to navigate around when you need to get moving.

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That’s the standard list — and you absolutely need it! — but it’s not the full picture. Of course, it goes without saying, always follow your own doctor’s advice, but if you tend to prefer to be (over) prepared like me, or run into a jam at 2 a.m., here are some of my faves…

p.s. I’ll include all links to products that I can find; some are also mainstays in my Linktree!

Infected stitch or small wound? Has every other remedy failed? MediHoney saved the day for me… and it’s exactly as it sounds: medical-grade, sterile honey. With antibacterial properties, it accelerates wound healing, removes dead tissue, and reduces inflammation. I turned to this when bacitracin and changing bandages just weren’t working anymore.

Post tummy tuck with muscle repair, I could not sleep in a recliner for one more night, so I literally had this multi-piece wedge pillow set delivered by the afternoon. Total lifesaver!

Do not put stress on your scar or the hard work you just paid good money for, but you must ensure you get a good amount of sleep. That will aid in healing your body more than anything else.

I’ve also continued to use it for the additional support and relaxation.

This may sound silly, but this bed ladder pull-up device was a massive help when I was solo or didn’t quite need to pester another person to help me out of bed anymore.

It attaches easily to the bottom of the bedframe (so have it ready to use long before it’s needed!)

Personally, I’ve never seen much change with topical solutions, so this is my favorite scar tape! These silicone sheets are meant to improve the appearance of scars and are available in nude or clear. I use nude since it seems to blend in best. (Like many other things, I truly hope they offer options to accommodate all skin tones!)

I’ve gone through quite a few brands; I’ve even been in an embarrassing situation where I was at a formal event and my tape was literally falling off and hanging from my arms for much of the night. Not so fun.

This brand stays put!

Don’t rush into using this tape until your surgeon approves. I don’t care what some TikTok or Instagram reel told you, you could worsen your scar by causing infection on a wound that has not yet healed!

Arnicare Bruise Gel includes the homeopathic Arnica Montana plant, and reduces swelling and discoloration that comes with bruising post surgery, lipo, or injury.

I love the gel because it’s light, fragrance-free, and absorbs easily.

This started to really help me in the evenings when I couldn’t get comfortable from the soreness.

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Some Odds and Ends…

Juven comes highly recommended by many in the medical field. It’s a flavor packet containing amino acids, collagen peptides, vitamins, and zinc that you add to water, intending to support wound healing.

I personally used it for my previous surgery, and I was told I recovered well. My scars did appear to heal well and looked good.

Was it due to this? I can’t say for sure. I certainly wasn’t having it twice a day, and since it was pricy, I didn’t purchase more.

Diet, as always, does matter. Prioritize protein from real sources as well as fiber.

You’re going to be bored.

There’s only so much Netflix, Hulu, and other streaming services to mindlessly sit through.

I actually used a different lap table that I had purchased at a craft store, and it didn’t quite hold up. This portable desk was a much better find! Sturdy for anything from eating to laptop browsing, and enough space for crafting if you need to keep your hands and mind busy. The legs fold up for easy and convenient storage.

And while we heal, we still do our best to keep up on our skincare routines, don’t we?

I feel the easiest (and most relaxing!) way to do that is with Red Light Therapy. The added benefit is that it can promote collagen and circulation, improving the appearance of a scar, as well as reducing inflammation.

Be sure not to start this therapy too soon; scars must be healed first.

From clockwise: Shark CryoGlow LED Mask, LuxRenew Red Light Panel, and the Celluma POD Handheld Light Therapy.

These are just some suggestions and things that have helped me along the way. If you have more to add, please do so in the comments!

I’d love for everyone to experience the least amount of discomfort possible and be able to focus only on getting well and looking forward to the bodily changes they’ll see in the coming months.

First off, disclaimer: I’m not an injector. I have zero to gain from you going to your local med-spa, plastic surgeon, or dermatologist's office.

One of the largest communities centered around extensive at-home aesthetic treatments is r/DIYAesthetics, with its nearly 84,000 weekly visitors.

Their widely shared “master list,” most recently updated in 2024 (I’ve removed all discount codes), details where to purchase injectables online. Of the 18 sources listed, at least 10 have been issued warning letters from the FDA.

For those outside of the U.S., this may not raise immediate concern. But for any consumers, purchasing misbranded or unapproved injectables from mystery, unverifiable sources carries real risks. These products may be contaminated, counterfeit, improperly stored, contain inconsistent amounts of an active ingredient, or entirely different ingredients than advertised.

Quick reminder, we’re talking about a substance you inject into your face.

What I found especially curious was that the majority of the moderators of these internet communities often receive financial kickbacks tied to these source websites. Some even have their own individual resale pages to dole out products themselves.

It’s a system of advantageous education and tips and tricks that push product recommendations that line their pockets while explicitly prohibiting outsider codes. Money for me, not for thee.

Reddit mods

A similar pattern appears in another subreddit, r/DIYHEAVEN, though on a smaller scale.

Here, the overlap between personal experimentation and product promotion becomes even more apparent. Moderators will near spam the forum with discount codes for the same products they then document using — effectively “double dipping” by directing readers to view the process and follow their results in real time on websites like Rumble that allow this content to be shared.

I’ve personally noticed a lot of praise for these off-brand, overseas products, but still, many never post results. Where’s the before and after?

In my research, there was a specific user in particular, who curated heavily edited images to suggest a significant transformation… all thanks to these injectable fillers and peptides.

But interestingly enough, the tagged videos, even the second or third part of their series on jaw filler, truly showed no difference.

If there’s clear bias, if these promoters even spend their time disputing claims in other subreddits (like, for example, r/IsItBullshit? where folks can ask if “programs, products or services are legitimate”) just for the sake of making themselves money…. who is the real villain here?

Certainly not the medspas. They may be pricy, and they may try to upsell additional take-home skincare, but any reputable facility is correctly administering the authentic product you paid for.

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Too Much Confidence, Zero Credentials

But neurotoxins, fillers, and questionable fat-dissolving injections aside, we haven’t even gotten to the bad advice.

The really bad advice.

I didn’t have to dig too deep into any archives to find some examples; there are plenty from just the past two weeks.

This is a recent post on AmLactin (Ammonium Lactin/Lactate) cream, it’s an exfoliant, good for cell turnover/smoothing skin texture. There is a lower concentration (7%) available that contains Vitamin C, which is what the poster is referring to. The thing that struck me was that if your skin is burning, your skin barrier is damaged. If applying sunscreen is causing irritation of any kind, you need to chill out and give your skin a break.

Even the lower concentration option is not suitable for the person who responded and stated outright that they always have an issue with sunscreen being effective. OP, who gauges the efficacy of a product on whether or not it burns and itches, has now advised someone with sensitive skin to use an alpha-hydroxy acid that will cause UV sensitivity.

This post is speaking on TCA (trichloroacetic acid) peels. Two to three weeks is not a universal guarantee across the board.

With no professional training or knowledge, this individual is advising someone to use a melanin inhibitor and Vitamin A (retinoids) with no further commentary on the strength of the product, or when to stop these products before the peel (5 to 7 days minimum, I don’t care how tough you think your skin is).

Also worth noting, this guidance is specifically for those with darker complextions because they run a much higher risk of hyperpigmentation when applying peels to the body.

Lord, have mercy.

50% is incredibly high. As someone whose skin has been the guinea pig for many different treatments for years now, I stick to 15%, and I consider myself lucky if I can come close to finishing three passes.

This comment truly shows these members operate purely on guesswork, but have no issue putting others in harm's way with gross misinformation or encouraging escalation.

More layers do not mean higher strength. Two layers/passes of 10% are not going to equal one layer of 20%. This is a chemical that can burn your skin or permanently scar it. It’s not a math equation.

Stronger strength peels applied to parts of the body also run the risk of more complications, like uneven or prolonged healing, unpredictable results, toxicity, infection, and more. There’s also the fact that higher Fitzpatrick skin types should never use higher concentrations.

This important detail seems to be missing in these comments.

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It’s okay, everyone, he read the brochures!

OP is a mod in r/DIYHEAVEN, and this comment was a reply to someone questioning their post, where they share their usage of three different products from three different brands (possibly countries?), and of course, close with a discount code.

Here’s the thing: Ingredient overlap does not guarantee compatibility. Same ingredients do not equal the same concentrations, same stability, or safe interaction. Specific formulas are designed to function as they are, not be mixed at home like a mad scientist.

Microneedling at 0.3mm, along with this concoction, is only aiding in increasing absorption.

I also stand by, “Hit dogs will holler.” If you want to introduce and endorse (which you do when you provide a handy affiliate code) a course of treatment, the burden of proof is on you.

Alright, perhaps enough Reddit today.

It’s completely understandable if dropping hundreds or thousands of dollars is simply not an option. I respect individual choice to do what you see fit with your own body.

But if your reason is simply that you don’t trust the system, consider what you’re choosing instead: Snake oil salesmen (and women) who are simply part of a different system. One that is not regulated and offers absolutely no protection.

This small name shift better reflects the services I provide and the treatments I specialize in: Advanced skin therapy, restoration, and results-focused care.

Same mission, same passion… just with a name that captures it better.

The lab is working on a few exciting new things behind the scenes, so stay tuned!

In the meantime, make sure you subscribe…

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To access my stores and links to services - including GlyMed+, Fiverr, and my product order sheets - visit my Linktree.

Feb 2026

I’m sure you’ve seen it.

Jim Carrey is making the news rounds this week after appearing at the César Awards in Paris. Afterwards, his presence was highlighted not for being an honored recipient of the prestigious award, but for some notable changes to his face.

Cue the harshly lit side-by-side comparisons, the clone conspiracies, and the debate on the causes.

My question is: What do we expect a 64-year-old man to look like?

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More importantly, how do we expect people to respond to aging when every version of it is criticized?

Are we so conditioned by constant scrolling past filtered skin, perfectly curated lighting, and accessibility to treatments and surgeries that seeing a face change over time feels almost inconceivable? Could a star many of us grew up watching -gasp!- actually age with us?

While I have to suppress my glee that a man is at the center of this chatter for once, it does highlight the no-win situation we’ve created around aging.

Too much intervention, early intervention, or accepting the inevitable- somehow, each choice is deemed the incorrect one.

Filler: Rejuvenation or Ruin?

The reality is, we all age. Even celebrities. So, when Jim Carrey shows up looking less like he did even 10 years ago, it shouldn’t be a shock. The issue that often arises, though, is how people try to counter the signs of old age.

I’ve noticed over time that we’ve turned filler into the go-to solution. The moment a face starts to shift and sag, like a house settling, we rush to make repairs, urgently filling in lines and hollowing with injectable volume to replace what time has quietly taken.

Adding volume is easy. Sometimes a little too easy.

Restoring fat loss and filling in deeper lines, while maintaining the natural contour of your face, requires significant precision and a highly skilled professional with an understanding of facial anatomy and a filler’s composition.

Products will have differences in texture and density, making some appropriate for certain areas of the face. They’re very much not a one-size-fits-all solution that can be applied to any area lacking volume.

It’s also important to keep in mind when a temporary filler will hurt more than help, and other treatments should be pursued (more on that later…)

What causes distortion?

Ironically, filler isn’t what distorts the face. Poorly placed filler, lack of restraint, and repeated treatments can and will create this problem over time.

Aside from the much more serious risks that come along with any medical procedure, dermal fillers can cause some more common side effects like migration, hardening, and potentially worsen facial sagging (though that’s heavily debated).

There’s also the fun fact that filler doesn’t necessarily always break down on its own…

…it can remain in the body for as long as five years, with at least one case of detection after 10.

When filler is injected, there’s a healing response along that pathway. Each injection introduces minor internal scarring, and with frequent visits, that scar tissue can accumulate.

This can interfere with lymphatic drainage (aka causing fluid retention) and overall contribute to the overly-smoothed, puffy, “pillow face” effect that people instinctively react to.

Hasn’t this been the case with many celebrities? We notice and comment on their reasonably aging faces. They disappear and come back with plump, filled-in features, and then we mock the overcorrection.

So what, exactly, is the acceptable version of aging?

The answer will change from person to person, so it’s really a matter of knowing what your acceptable version is. Are you a Linda Hamilton, or are you deathly afraid of even looking your age?

If it’s the latter, you have options that won’t put you in the judgmental spotlight of public opinion like Mr. Carrey. As previously mentioned, there are other treatments besides filler if it doesn’t appeal to you or you worry about “pillow face.”

Skincare

There is no one miracle product, but consistently taking care of your skin, protecting yourself from the sun, and maintaining your barrier is always the foundation.

Invest in products that are attuned to your skin type and overall skin concerns. I can assist with ordering products with my online skincare analysis.

Biostimulators

Quickly gaining popularity, injectable biostimulators are an excellent option for those with a little patience and looking for a more gradual result. They work by triggering your body’s own natural collagen, hyaluronic acid, and elastin fiber production over the course of months.

Like traditional temporary fillers, they restore volume and smooth lines, but will also address some minor skin laxity.

You won’t walk out looking immediately refreshed, but changes unfold over three to six months, depending on your individual treatment plan.

Laser Treatments

Ablative lasers (including CO2 and Er:YAG) vaporize the top layers of the skin to reveal a new layer of healthy skin and stimulate the production of collagen. Healing and results can be quite significant. CO2 will provide the most dramatic “after”, greatly improving any texture, lines, or sun damage,

Non-ablative lasers use heat and/or light without destroying the top layers of the skin. These include Pulsed Dye and Nd:YAG. Results are more gradual, less dramatic, and healing is not as intense. Great for fine lines and milder wrinkles, along with sun spots.

Non-laser, simpler treatments worth considering include IPL and Red Light Therapy.

Aging is not a race to outrun lines or a contest of who looks the most untouched. It’s a natural part of human evolution. You can submit to it and bask in your natural beauty, or, just like Jim Carrey, take the steps to address the deflated hollowness that can occur as we age.

Just know that, regardless of whether you approach gracefully with a healthy skincare routine or turn to fillers, you’re going to draw the ire of others.

First off, let’s review…

What is LED Therapy?

Light Emitting Diode (LED) Therapy is a non-invasive, painless treatment safe for all skin types, that uses specific wavelengths of light energy to stimulate the skin at a cellular level.

First discovered by NASA in the ‘90s for wound healing, LED technology has since been extensively studied and used in medical and aesthetic settings to support skin health, reduce inflammation, and encourage collagen production.

While once reserved for in-office treatments, this very technology has been condensed to hand-held devices like Celluma’s POD S2.

With a 6 x 2.75-inch treatment area, the Celluma POD S2 is compact enough for portability while still delivering effective, targeted treatments where you need them.

Features:

• Designed for convenient, on-the-go use

• Adjustable Velcro straps for hands-free application

• Up to 10 treatments per battery charge

• 30-minute treatment sessions

Like all Celluma devices, the POD S2 is FDA-cleared for its designated treatment indications. What makes this model stand out is that it addresses four distinct conditions, offering broader versatility than many LED devices available.

I appreciate that the treatment protocols are realistic and manageable. For example, to see improvement in acne, the recommendation is to use the POD three times per week for four weeks. That’s incredibly doable!

Since the device is lightweight and portable, you can strap it on and go about your evening — watch TV, work at your computer, or handle tasks around the house. It’s very much a “set it and forget it” experience.

Contraindications

LED therapy should not be used:

• If you are taking photosensitizing medications or have recently received steroid injections

• Over the abdomen during pregnancy (facial treatments are safe)

• If you have a history of epilepsy or seizures

• Over areas of active cancer or known metastasis without physician clearance

Still rockin’ that Shark Beauty LED Mask too…

Cons?

There aren’t many specific drawbacks to this device. The main one I’d say applies to all red light therapy: it requires consistency. Results won’t happen overnight.

Additionally, the smaller surface area may be a downside for those wanting full-face or larger-area treatments in a single session. Since it’s designed for targeted use, you’ll need to move it around for broader coverage.

It’s also pricey for the size.

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I’ve been treating my neck via the aging/wrinkles mode and have seen a softer result thus far. I use it following a shower, and before I apply any of my skincare products.

Keep in mind, light therapy works best when there’s no barrier interfering with light absorption. I look forward to checking back in as I continue to use this device.

If you have any questions or want some guidance on which LED device is best for you, reach out and let’s talk about it!

Did you know: Microneedling is one of the most misunderstood skincare treatments, and also one of the most universally helpful?

Today I’m clearing up all the myths, rumors, and misconceptions about this particular procedure and giving you only the facts on what microneedling really does, who it’s for, and what you can realistically expect from your results!

Before we get to that, though:

What exactly is Microneedling?

Using a handheld device, fine needles create multiple tiny injuries to the skin at once. (It sounds more painful than it is! )

This triggers a wound healing response from the body, amping up your collagen and elastin production.

Some things to keep in mind about microneedling:

• It doesn’t involve heat, making it an appropriate treatment for just about every skin type and tone.

• Numbing agent can absolutely be used!

• Downtime is minimal, usually lasting only a few days.

• It can be combined with radiofrequency or serums to enhance results.

MYTH: “DIY Microneedling will give you the same results as a professional!”

FACT:

There are critical techniques and sanitation practices that are followed to specifically prevent scarring and infection. Most dissatisfaction with microneedling isn’t from the treatment itself, but from improper execution, poor depth control, or inadequate aftercare.

Unless you’re ordering something from overseas with minimal oversight, you likely won’t be able to purchase a reputable device that is able to go beyond a certain depth.

This is due to the fact that any depth beyond .5mm is not safe for home use, or use by an unlicensed person who has not undergone extensive training. (No, a YouTube video does not count!)

MYTH: “The deeper you can go, the better your results will be.”

FACT:

This is probably where people most commonly go wrong — assuming that if they go deeper, the results will be transformative.

While I am amongst those who say “beauty is pain,” the fact is, the pain from the wrong depth applied to the wrong area will result in more redness, prolonged healing, and potential scarring.

I’ve seen comments stating there’s no point in seeing a solo esthetician for this service, because individual state laws determine our scope of practice and can restrict the depth we can achieve.

While that second part is true, where I’m licensed (Nevada, USA) restricts me to 1.5mm while working solo and not under the supervision of a physician.

As you can see in the chart above, that still allows me to treat most areas of the face and body.

Pro tip: I also would not advise going from 0 to 2/2.5mm if you have not previously treated that specific region or skin concern!

MYTH: “Brand matters big time! AND it determines if you’re receiving a legit treatment.”

FACT:

A common misconception I see. The fact is, some brands offer both at-home models and higher-end professional devices. The primary differences come down to depth capability and features.

For example, two of the more widely recognized brands both accommodate depths up to 2.5mm. Still, I’ve come across those misinformed comments saying things like, “If I don’t see SkinPen on the table, I leave the appointment.”

That’s certainly a personal preference, but there just isn’t a clinically significant difference that supports that level of concern.

It’s also important to note that FDA clearance is not a blanket approval for an entire brand. SkinPen received FDA clearance specifically for treating acne scars and neck wrinkles. Dr. Pen has a professional line, and its most recent release obtained FDA clearance for treating facial scars and improving skin texture. Clearance applies to specific indications, not to the brand name as a whole.

I completely understand expecting transparency. If a service is advertised as one thing and you receive something else, that’s a legitimate concern. But when the deciding factor is simply the brand name displayed on the device, it typically reflects marketing influence more than clinical superiority, or a difference in outcomes.

Bottomline: You’re paying a premium for name recognition.

Ultimately, results come down to appropriate depth, proper technique, and the provider’s skill… not the logo!

MYTH: “Microneedling is only for acne scars.”

FACT:

While Microneedling is a great option for acne scars, it can treat so much more…

• Hyperpigmentation, including melasma

• Soften wrinkles and fine lines

• Rough or uneven skin texture

• Minimize the appearance of enlarged pores

• Improve or fade stretch marks and surgical scars

Did you know: You can also treat hair loss?!

Microneedling the scalp stimulates dormant follicles, releases growth factors, and can turn those struggling little hairs into thick, terminal hairs. This has become an effective treatment for those with alopecia.

Combine with serums, platelet-rich plasma (derived from your own blood!), or topical Minoxidil for the best results.

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MYTH: “Microneedling is a one-and-done treatment.”

FACT:

While you may notice improvement after a single treatment, most skin concerns require a series of 3 to 6 sessions spaced about 4 weeks apart for optimal results.

The good news? Results can last several months, with maintenance treatments recommended twice yearly to preserve collagen stimulation and overall skin health.

Microneedling is far from a passing trend. It’s a results-driven treatment performed with precision and protocol in mind. Leave it to the professionals!

Don’t rush a true skin transformation. Patience paired with consistency will always reward you in the end.

If you have any questions about this treatment or aftercare, feel free to share them.