Are you considering getting BOTOX® injections to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles? Finding the right provider is crucial to achieving the best results. But with so many options out there, how do you choose the right one?

BOTOX® has become increasingly popular as a non-invasive cosmetic treatment to improve the look of aging skin. However, not all providers are created equal, and choosing the wrong one could lead to unsatisfactory results or even potential health risks.

When choosing the best BOTOX® provider near you, it’s essential to do your research and consider various factors. From experience and qualifications to safety protocols and patient satisfaction, there are many things to consider. Here are ten tips to help you make an informed decision and find the best provider for your BOTOX® treatment.

1. Ask Around & Create an Initial List

 When looking for a BOTOX® provider, it’s always a good idea to start by asking your friends and family for recommendations. If they have had the treatment done themselves, they can provide invaluable information about the quality of their experience with various providers. This is one of the easiest ways to narrow down your choices and create an initial list of potential candidates.

2. Medical Credentials

The first step in your search for the right BOTOX practice is to verify the medical credentials of the individual who will be administering your BOTOX. This person must be properly trained and certified and, if not a physician themselves, should be working under a supervising board-certified dermatologist or plastic surgeon.

While it is common for physician assistants and other medical professionals to administer BOTOX, the supervising physician should also be available for direct consultation in case special concerns or questions come up during your appointment and their expertise is needed.

You should be able to easily find the medical credentials of doctors and staff on a practice’s website. If this information is hidden or nowhere to be found, consider it a red flag.

3. Experience

When choosing a BOTOX provider near you, you want to look for someone who has ample experience performing these injections. Because of the intricate anatomy of the face, BOTOX is as much of an art as it is a science. An excellent BOTOX provider should have extensive anatomical knowledge and an eye for aesthetics and balance, as well as the technical skill and knowledge needed to perform BOTOX injections properly.

To determine the experience level of a particular provider, take a look at before and after BOTOX photos on the practice’s website. Look for qualities such as symmetry, balance, and proportions when assessing these photos. You should also feel free to ask about a provider’s specific experience, training, and qualifications during your consultation.

4. Local Referrals and Positive Reviews

Getting a word-of-mouth referral is a great way to narrow your search for the best local BOTOX provider. If you are specifically looking for BOTOX in Boca Raton & Fort Lauderdale, for example, ask your South Florida friends and family for recommendations, then continue your research using that shortlist.

If you don’t know anyone locally who can provide recommendations, take a look at online reviews for the practices with which you’re considering working. Mostly positive, glowing reviews are always a good sign, but also make note of how (if at all) the practice responds to any negative comments that might come through.

5. Interview The Provider

Once you’ve narrowed down your list of potential providers, it’s a good idea to take the time to interview them in person. This will help you get a better understanding of their experience and qualifications, as well as get an insight into their approach and bedside manner. During the interview, ask questions about the expected results, potential side effects, recovery time, and any other queries you may have.

6. Make Sure You’re Covered

Before committing to a BOTOX® provider, ensure that the healthcare plan you have covered the treatment. Contact your insurance company and ask them about their policy regarding cosmetic procedures such as BOTOX® injections. If you don’t have health insurance or if it doesn’t cover the cost of your treatment, find out what type of payment plans the provider offers.

7. A Clean, Friendly Environment

Once you’ve narrowed your search to your top one or two picks, schedule a consultation with the BOTOX provider. When you arrive for your appointment, make note of the overall atmosphere. The practice should be clean and organized, and the doctors and staff should be friendly, welcoming, and willing to answer your questions.

When you meet with the person who will be administering your BOTOX, make sure you feel comfortable talking with him or her and confident in his or her expertise and ability to listen to your goals and create a customized injectable plan for you.

You should never feel as though you are being “upsold” anything or pressured into booking a BOTOX appointment. At the end of the day, your provider should have your best interests in mind, regardless of their bottom line.

8. A Realistic Price

There’s nothing wrong with taking advantage of a deal or discount on BOTOX or other injectables or cosmetic treatments. But don’t specifically choose a practice based purely on the price tag. As with most things, you get what you pay for when it comes to deeply discounted cosmetic treatments. If the advertised price is completely out of the ballpark of other providers, this is a red flag that something is not quite right.

Along these lines, avoid going to beauty salons, at-home “BOTOX parties,” or other non-medical clinics for injectables. While these places might offer a lower price, it could cost you in the long run in the form of serious complications or poor-quality results. Always seek a qualified medical professional for BOTOX and other in-office cosmetic treatments.

9. Multiple Treatment Options

Maybe BOTOX isn’t quite the right treatment for your cosmetic goals, but dermal fillers or a combination of both fillers and BOTOX could be a great fit. Choose a practice that offers multiple cosmetic treatment options to ensure you are able to get exactly what you need to get the results you’re looking for.

A provider that only offers BOTOX will not necessarily be the best fit for everyone, and you don’t want to waste time and money finding that out the hard way. A practice with providers experienced in many different treatment options will offer much more flexibility and a range of options to offer if BOTOX alone won’t meet your needs and goals.

10. Follow-Up Services

Finally, make sure your BOTOX provider offers follow-up services after your initial appointment. Follow-up appointments are important for several reasons: 1) to make sure you are happy with your results and 2) to ensure there are no complications in the healing process. Your provider should also be willing and available to field any phone calls or questions you might have that come up after your initial appointment.

You can ask about a practice’s typical follow-up process at your consultation. If you get the impression that you’ll be sent on your way without follow-up, consider looking elsewhere.

How to Prepare for Your BOTOX® Appointment?

Once you have found the best BOTOX® provider near you and scheduled an appointment, taking the necessary steps to prepare for your treatment is important. Here are some tips on how to get ready for your BOTOX® appointment:

• Avoid alcoholic beverages 24 hours before and after the procedure
• Refrain from taking any medication or supplements that may thin your blood
• Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing to help you relax during the treatment
• Bring a list of questions that you may have for your provider
• Plan for someone to drive you home after the procedure

Choosing the right BOTOX® provider is essential for achieving optimal results and avoiding potential health risks. 

What to Expect from a BOTOX® Appointment?

When you visit your chosen BOTOX® provider for your appointment, it’s important to have realistic expectations. The procedure is quick and relatively painless, but the results can take up to two weeks to appear. Your provider will assess your face and determine the areas that need treatment to achieve the desired results. They will then inject small amounts of BOTOX® into the targeted areas using a very thin needle. The entire procedure usually takes around 15 minutes, and you can return to your normal activities immediately afterward.

Bottom Line

The process of finding a qualified BOTOX provider in your area might seem daunting at first, but using this checklist should help you narrow down your search fairly quickly.

If you’d like to learn more about your BOTOX options in Boca Raton or to schedule a consultation with one of the certified professionals here at Sanctuary Medical Aesthetic Center, give our office a call at 561-462-0377 or fill out our secure online contact form.

You know those skincare products that you love so much, you keep their restocks on autoship so you’re never without? Yep, those “beauty empties” are the best of the best, the ones we couldn’t live without! Take an inside look into the favorite beauty empties of the team of skincare experts here at Sanctuary Medical Aesthetic Center in sunny Boca Raton & Fort Lauderdale.

Alto Skin Defense Serum and Instant Effect Eye Gel by Skin Better Science 

Andrea Parajon, Medical Aesthetician

Alto Skin Defense by SkinBetter Science is one of Medical Aesthetician Andrea Parajon’s favorites. “This is my 

third time repurchasing Alto Skin Defense Serum!” she shares. “With 19 different antioxidants, this product repairs and protects my skin and has made my skin look super glowy and healthy! This product also evens my 

skin out and calms any redness I have. I put this on in the morning to shield my skin from UV stress and damage.”

Another of Andrea’s tried-and-true beauty empties is SkinBetter’s Instant Effect Eye Gel. “A little goes a long way,” she says. “This product brightens and hydrates my under-eye. I get compliments when I’m wearing it that my under-eye looks tighter and more refreshed. I put this on morning and night.” 

Revox Line Relaxer

Elizabeth Simon-Hogan, Physician Assistant 

“One of my favorite go-to skincare products is Revox Line Relaxer,” shares Sanctuary Physician Assistant Liz.

 “It works to reduce fine lines around the eyes and mouth and has really made a huge difference with the little

crepey lines under my eyes. It works really great when used in combination with neuromodulators like BOTOX and Dysport!

“Revox is made with 8 peptides, hyaluronic acid, and arnica,” she explains. “I use it twice a day and started seeing results after just a few weeks, but really noticed a big difference after 12 weeks.”

PCA Skin Pore Refining Treatment

Cheryl Staurowsky, Medical Aesthetician

Medical Aesthetician Cheryl Staurowsky shared PCA Skin’s Pore Refining Treatment has her favorite go-to b

eauty empty. This at-home exfoliant uses three methods of exfoliation – physical, enzymatic, and cellular – to smooth and deeply cleanse the skin’s surface for a brighter and more radiant complexion. 

This product can also help subsequent products in your regimen better penetrate the skin, making them more effective.

ZO Skin Health Growth Factor Serum

Caroline Kozlowski, Advanced Registered Nurse Practitioner 

The ZO Skin Health by Dr. Zein Obagi Growth Factor Serum is among the favorite “empties” of Sanctuary’s Caroline Kozlowski, ARNP. This lightweight gel serum is a powerhouse anti-aging product that contains ingredients such as antioxidants, peptides, beta glucans, fermented red ginseng extract to minimize the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, gently hydrate the skin, and soothe and calm redness.

Although the most common form of cancer in the country — with 5 million cases diagnosed in the US each year — skin cancer is also one of the most preventable. As we head into warmer, sunnier weather once again, keep these three key skin cancer prevention strategies in mind. 

1. Protect Your Skin from UV Light

One of the most effective and easiest ways to minimize your risk of skin cancer is to keep your skin protected from UV light, including indoor tanning beds and the sun. Wear sunscreen with at least SPF 15 daily, and higher SPFs when planning to be outdoors for more than an hour. Reapply sunscreen at least every two hours, and try to seek shade during the peak sun hours of 10am and 4pm whenever possible. 

Sun-protective clothing such as wide-brimmed hats, sunglasses, and long-sleeved shirts made for warm weather are also beneficial when outdoors for long periods of time. 

2. Perform Regular Skin Exams

Get in the habit of performing regular self-exams on your skin, looking for any moles or marks that show signs of melanoma. It can also be helpful to create a mole map for yourself, indicating on a piece of paper where on your body any moles are. That way, you can reference your mole map the next time you perform a self-exam and note any changes in the appearance of existing moles, as well as the location of new moles.

Follow up with your dermatologist if you find any suspicious-looking moles. Otherwise, make a yearly appointment for a skin health checkup with your dermatologist. If you don’t already see a skincare professional, give our Boca Raton & Fort Lauderdale office a call at 561-462-0489 to schedule an appointment with one of our board-certified dermatologists.

3. Eat an Antioxidant-Rich Diet

Cellular damage that can lead to skin cancer happens when too many harmful free radicals are created than your body can neutralize with its supply of antioxidants. Adding more antioxidants to your diet can help to boost your body’s natural antioxidant supply and its ability to neutralize free radicals and prevent oxidative stress and cellular damage. 

Just some examples of foods that are high in natural antioxidants include:

• Bell peppers
• Citrus fruits
• Berries
• Sweet potatoes
• Spinach

Want to help raise awareness about skin cancer prevention and treatment in our community? In honor of Skin Cancer Awareness month, Sanctuary Medical Aesthetic Center is hosting a blood drive on Monday, May 9, 2022. 

Be one of the first 25 people to sign up to donate blood and receive a $25 gift card to Sanctuary and automatically get entered to win:

1. Two areas of BOTOX® Cosmetic
2. One syringe of RHA Filler
3. Orange Theory Fitness 8-Class Pack

Additionally, you’ll receive a gift bag and specially-made cookies, from Two Fat Cookies. A food truck will also be in attendance.

Help us stand up to skin cancer! RSVPs are required — call 561-462-0489 or email us at info@sanctuarymedical.com to register today!

Does your skin suddenly feel dry and rough? Is it breaking out more than usual or getting red and itchy? These could be signs of stress that are showing up on your skin. 

See our favorite skincare hacks to reverse these signs of stressed-out skin, plus get some tips on how to better manage stress to prevent its negative effects on your skin and entire body.

How Are Stress and Skin Related? 

When we are stressed — whether acutely, like right before a job interview, or over long periods of time — our bodies respond by releasing hormones like cortisol and adrenaline into our bloodstreams. While helpful when we are in real danger and need to rely on natural “flight or fight” instincts, these hormones can cause a cascade of negative effects on our bodies and skin.

Cortisol, for instance, leads to an increase in sebum (oil) production in the skin, which can clog pores and cause acne. When elevated for a long period of time, cortisol can also lead to premature skin aging. 

Additionally, chronic stress induces an inflammatory response, which can cause flare-ups of inflammatory skin conditions like eczema and rosacea, as well as lead to skin dryness, redness, and sensitivities. 

How to Treat Stressed-Out Skin

If signs of stress are showing up on your skin, try implementing these skincare tips into your routine:

• • Use gentle, anti-inflammatory ingredients. Now is not the time to use harsh or aggressive skincare products or treatments, since your skin is already responding to inflammation. Instead, use calming cleansers and moisturizers that contain anti-inflammatory ingredients like chamomile, feverfew, and aloe to help soothe and rebalance your skin. 

• • Use a barrier repair moisturizer to keep irritants out. Barrier repair moisturizers not only hydrate dry, dull skin, but they also create a physical barrier between your skin and the outside environment to keep irritants and allergens out. 

• • Try a relaxing in-office facial. Choose a gentle facial treatment like HydraFacial™ to help revive dull, stressed skin. We love HydraFacial for stressed-out skin because this three-step treatment gently cleanses, hydrates, and protects your skin without any harsh treatments or products.

• • Practice healthy lifestyle habits. Getting enough sleep, drinking plenty of water, and eating a healthy diet can go a long way when it comes to getting and maintaining soft, healthy skin. These habits can also do wonders for managing stress, offering preventative benefits, too!

How to Prevent Stressed Skin

The number-one way to prevent stressed skin is to take steps to better manage your response to stress. While it is impossible to avoid stress altogether, there are many ways to help your mind and body cope with life’s stressors when they inevitably come up. 

• Download a stress-relief app. There are many free and paid apps for stress-relief that you can download on your phone and tap into when you need a break or feel overwhelmed. Some of the best-rated mental health apps include Calm, Headspace, Happify, and Wysa.

• Go outside. Numerous studies have demonstrated the mental and physical benefits of being outside in nature. Make time in your schedule to get outside daily to help lower stress and boost your mood. 

• Stay active. Studies also show that physical activity profoundly reduces stress and its unwanted effects by releasing feel-good endorphins and balancing stress hormones. Pick any type of exercise that you enjoy doing, such as walking outside, doing yoga, or weight lifting, to reap the mental and physical benefits.

Still have questions about the best way to revive stress-out skin? Call our Boca Raton & Fort Lauderdale office at 561-462-0489 or get in touch with us online to book a time to talk with one of our skincare experts. 

Looking for a laser treatment that has it all — effective, yet gentle treatments that are suitable for any skin type? Look no further than MOXI, a popular laser skin treatment that can treat and prevent a range of common skin concerns, from sun damage and dark spots to wrinkles and uneven skin tone. 
 

If you’ve never heard of MOXI or are wondering if it could be right for you, take a look at these must-know facts about this popular laser treatment. 

1. MOXI Is Safe for All Skin Tones

Some lasers are known to be best for lighter skin tones because they can sometimes cause hyperpigmentation in those with dark skin. Additionally, some types of lasers are not suitable for treating melasma, as they can make this condition worse. 

MOXI, on the other hand, is safe and effective for all skin tones and types. It can also be an effective treatment option for melasma and other existing pigmentation problems, since it does not produce the high levels of heat that can trigger hyperpigmentation issues like some other types of lasers.

2. MOXI Has “Prejuvenation” Benefits

While it can be used to treat a variety of existing skin conditions such as melasma, sun damage, and wrinkles, the MOXI laser is perhaps best known as a prejuvenation tool to prevent skin problems from popping up in the future. Because MOXI is so gentle on the skin, it can be used even before lines and wrinkles show up to help keep collagen strong.

3. MOXI Doesn’t Require Extensive Recovery

This fractionated, non-ablative laser is gentle on the skin and doesn’t require downtime or extensive healing afterwards, like with ablative lasers. With MOXI, you can expect to get back to your regular routine directly after your appointment, making it easy to squeeze your laser treatment into a busy schedule.

That said, swelling and redness are common side effects with any laser treatment, so it’s best not to plan your treatment the day of an important event.

4. MOXI Plays Well With Other Treatments

MOXI results can be very nicely complemented by other skin treatments such as BBL photofacials. During your consultation, your skincare provider will discuss your unique needs and goals with you to determine if you might see the best and fastest results by pairing MOXI with other cosmetic treatments.

If you would like to learn more about how MOXI works or to schedule a consultation to see if it could be right for you, call our Boca Raton office at 561-247-2958 or book your consultation online today!
  

If the fresh spring air and warmer, longer days have you in the mood for a spring refresh, you might want to think about adding a few skin treatments to your to-do this season. In fact, spring is one of the best times of year to get laser hair removal before the summer sunshine arrives. Here’s why.

1. You’ll See the Best Results before a Summer Tan

Laser hair removal works by targeting and disabling hair follicles in their growth phase. Because it is actually the pigment in the hair follicle that the laser targets, you will see the best results when you have the greatest contrast between your skin tone and the color of your hair.

As we are coming out of winter and into early spring, our skin is typically at its lightest shade, which will help the laser energy target the contrasting hair follicles. On the other hand, if you wait until you have a summer tan, the laser energy will have a more difficult time distinguishing between the pigment in your skin and hair.

Note that advanced laser technology has made it possible for people with dark skin and dark hair and light skin and light hair combinations to have successful laser hair removal treatments. Just be sure to choose a reputable provider with access to the latest laser technology.

2. Laser Hair Removal Prep Is Easier in the Spring

In preparation for laser hair removal treatments, you’ll need to stop waxing or plucking your hair several weeks before your appointment. These types of traditional hair removal leave nothing behind for the laser energy to target, which would render your treatment ineffective.

Most people find that it’s easier to forgo waxing and plucking in the springtime, when they can cover up in leggings and a hoodie anyway. If you wait until bikini season is in full swing to start LHR treatments, on the other hand, it might be more of a challenge to put a pause on waxing and plucking.

3. Caring for Your Skin after LHR Is Simpler in Spring

Finally, you’ll need to stay out of the sun in between your laser hair removal sessions to get the best results and minimize the risk of complications like hyperpigmentation. This is usually much easier to do in the cooler spring months before the summer sunshine starts calling your name.

Because LHR works by targeting hair follicles that are in the growth phase at any given moment, you will need to schedule several sessions, each spaced a few weeks apart, in order to treat all of the hair in the area. So starting your first laser hair removal treatment now will help you be well on your way to getting smooth, carefree skin for the summer.

Ready to take the first step toward getting smoother skin with a simpler hair removal routine? Schedule your consultation today by calling us at 561-454-8002 or getting in touch online.

With warmer, sunnier days ahead, it’s time to start spring cleaning — but we’re not talking about mopping and dusting. We’re talking cleaning out your beauty bag and upgrading your skincare routine for healthier, happier skin all year long. Here are our four top tips to “spring clean” your beauty routine.

1. Clean or Replace Makeup Brushes

Though often overlooked, clean makeup brushes and other beauty tools are a staple to any beauty regimen. Makeup brushes, beauty blenders, and other tools should be cleaned at least every two weeks. Otherwise, dirt, oil, and old makeup will stay trapped inside the brushes and will end up on your face the next time you use them — yuck! And if you’ve had the same brushes for decades, it might be time to replace them altogether. 

While we’re on the subject of cleaning, it’s a good idea to clean your pillowcase and sheets on the same schedule — at least every two weeks. That way, your face lies against a clean surface every night, keeping unwanted bacteria away.

2. Toss Out Expired Products

Yes, makeup and skincare products do expire! Spring is an excellent time to sort through your beauty bag and throw away any products that are well past their expiration dates. Over time, the active ingredients in your skincare products break down and thus lose their effectiveness. This is especially true of products that contain vitamin C, as this ingredient can break down quickly if not stored in a dark, cool place. 

Sunscreen is another important product to replace if it is past its expiration date or if it has been kept out in the sun. Using expired SPF can leave your skin susceptible to UV damage, as the product is likely no longer as effective as it should be.

3. Switch to a Lighter Moisturizer

If you tend to get drier skin in the cooler winter months, you might have switched to a heavier moisturizer for extra hydration. Spring is generally the time to break out your lighter-weight moisturizer again, unless you have very dry skin all year-round. For many people, however, a lighter moisturizer is enough to keep their skin properly hydrated during the spring and summer seasons. 

4. Reevaluate Your Skincare Regimen

Have you been using the same cleanser or serums for years just because, without really looking into their ingredients and whether or not those products are right for your skin type? Take stock of your current skincare regimen and make sure each product is a match for you. Not sure where to start? Schedule an appointment with a dermatologist to help you revamp your skincare regimen and ensure the products you’re using are pulling their weight for your skin and not sabotaging your efforts!

Don’t have a dermatologist? Call our Boca Raton & Fort Lauderdale office today at 561-462-0489 or get in touch online to schedule an appointment with one of our board-certified dermatologists to discuss your unique skincare needs.

Over time, your skin begins to age and show signs of wear that you don’t necessarily want to show off. Laser skin treatments can help reverse these issues and provide you with a clear complexion and a new, fresh layer of skin. At Sanctuary Medical Aesthetic Center, we offer a few different types of laser treatments, including MOXI™, Halo™, BBL®, Sofwave™, Sciton® NanoLaserPeel™, and Genius™ RF Microneedling to correct these unwanted blemishes from the skin.

Should I Undergo a Laser Treatment?

If you are contemplating undergoing laser treatment, then you should probably come in for a consultation to find out if you are a candidate. During your consultation, you will be able to discuss your goals and desires and determine which laser service is the best one for you at this time. Most laser treatment patients present with hyperpigmentation, age spots, wrinkles, and facial veins.

How Do Laser Skin Treatments Help?

Laser skin treatments help rid the skin of age spots and unsightly facial veins, leaving the skin:

• Tighter
• Firmer
• Moister
• More glowing
• More evenly toned

What Lasers Are Offered?

At Sanctuary Medical Aesthetic Center, we offer MOXI™, Halo™, BBL®, Sofwave™, Sciton® NanoLaserPeel™, and Genius™ RF Microneedling. Although these lasers are similar in nature, they do treat different skin conditions.

• MOXI™: sun damage and aging
• Halo™: discoloration, sun damage, enlarged pores
• BBL®: age spots, sun-induced freckles, redness from rosacea
• Sofwave™: lines and wrinkles
• Sciton® NanoLaserPeel™: scarring, aging, dull appearance
• Genius™ RF Microneedling: acne scarring

No matter what type of skin imperfection or blemish you may have, our lasers can help you create a fresh, rejuvenated facial appearance and have you glowing in no time!

When Will My Results Be Noticeable?

After your laser skin treatment, your results will start to become noticeable almost immediately. You may experience red or pink skin in the treatment area for a few days, but that should dissipate over time. Brown or age spots that are treated may dry up and flake off for a few weeks, but a new, fresh layer of skin will be revealed. As the new skin is regenerated over a few months, you will notice that your skin looks and feels firmer and healthier, and it will also have a healthy, youthful glow.

For more information about laser skin treatments at Sanctuary Medical Aesthetic Center, please call our office at 561-234-4026 or fill out our online contact form.

To celebrate International Women’s Day, we caught up with some of the women here at Sanctuary Medical Aesthetic Center in Boca Raton & Fort Lauderdale to hear their thoughts on how both men and women can continue to support women who are just starting out in their careers, as well as those who may be balancing careers, family life, and personal goals.

First up, we spoke with Co-Chief Executive Officer of Sanctuary Medical Aesthetic Center, Courtney Ellenbogen. Courtney holds her MBA from Harvard Business School and is also the Co-Founder of Aesthetic Partners. Courtney has also competed in several US Opens and Ladies Professional Golf Association (LPGA) events while earning her BS in Economics from Duke University. 

We asked Courtney to weigh in on how we can inspire and support women to pursue their own business initiatives and provide some insight into her own inspirations along her path to success. Here’s what she had to say: 

Q: What advice would you give to women who aspire to launch their own companies?

Courtney: Go out there and do it! It can seem very “risky” to start something on your own, but it can be even riskier to work a job that you’re not passionate about. Big companies and return jobs will always be there for smart and driven people, regardless of how successful your venture is, so there isn’t a need to create a unicorn on the first go.

Q: How can we encourage women to pursue entrepreneurship or senior leadership roles?

Courtney: Remember and promote the fact that companies (statistically!) perform better when they have diverse leadership. Businesses need us. I try to internalize the mantra that you can have it all, just not at the same time. There are always going to be times where different priorities will be important – whether it’s career, personal, family, or something totally different. It’s fine to put your priorities first and pursue your career goals at a time that’s right.

Q: Is there anyone who inspires you in your career?

Courtney: My girlfriends. I’ve been lucky enough to have women surrounding me who are driven and passionate about what they do – regardless of whether it’s their careers or their hobbies or families. Being able to set aside time for a morning run or weekly happy hour with them has helped me immensely in my career. I can always bounce ideas or problems off of them, and I come out feeling better about addressing the challenges that come up every day at the business.

We also had a chance to hear from Sanctuary Medical Aesthetic Center expert: Cheryl Staurowsky, Licensed Medical Aesthetician with over 30 years of experience. 

Q: How has the support of other women helped you achieve your career goals?

Cheryl: Words of encouragement are always the best way to grow one’s confidence! When this comes from other female professionals who have years of experience, especially if they are your co-workers, it’s the ULTIMATE strength to continue on your path to success. 

Q: What does International Women’s Day mean to you, and why is it important that we recognize it?

International Women’s Day is an opportunity for strong, liberated women to be celebrated for their accomplishments in paving the way for all women to push forward in their careers. The comment, “You do well enough…” should never be said or heard again. No limits or bias should be placed on any human based upon their sex, age, title, or job position. Everyone should have the opportunity for growth if they strive for it!

We hope these words of wisdom from some of the women behind Sanctuary Medical Aesthetic Center’s success can be a source of inspiration and encouragement for other women setting out to achieve their goals. To learn more about the amazing female doctors and staff here at Sanctuary Medical Aesthetic Center, view the dedicated “about” page on our website.

Getting smooth, soft, lips doesn’t have to add hours to your beauty routine. Check out these six easy tips to get a glam lip look in practically no time at all!

1. Choose the Right Balm

Look for lip balms that contain both humectants and occlusives so your lips don’t dry out. Humectant ingredients like hyaluronic acid, glycerin, and allantoin work by drawing in moisture from their environment. However, if the air around you is dry, these ingredients can end up pulling in moisture from your lips, which can then evaporate into the atmosphere and make dryness worse.

To prevent this, humectants should be paired with occlusive ingredients like beeswax, jojoba oil, and petrolatum, which act as a barrier between your skin and the outside environment. Thus, the moisture that humectants pull in can’t escape and dry out your lips.

Additionally, choose lip balms that contain SPF to protect your lips from damage caused by the sun’s UV rays. And if you live in a sunny climate like Florida, choose matte lip products instead of shiny glosses, since UV rays are intensified when reflected off of shiny surfaces.

2. Try a DIY Lip Scrub

Exfoliating your lips is one of the best ways to keep them smooth and soft. While there are plenty of lip scrubs on the market that you can buy, you can also easily make a DIY scrub with ingredients that you probably already have in your kitchen. Brown sugar and coconut oil make a great combination, as well as sugar and honey.

When exfoliating your lips, work in gentle circular motions and avoid vigorous scrubbing. The skin on your lips is thinner than in other areas and is therefore more susceptible to damage.

3. Fragrances and Flavors Aren’t Your Friends

As tempting as flavored balms and glosses might be, these products are not usually the best picks for your lips. Added flavors and fragrances in lip products may cause irritation or signs of contact dermatitis such as redness, itching and blisters. Whenever possible, going fragrance- and flavor-free is the best bet for getting smooth, kissable lips.

4. Resist the Urge to Lick or Pick at Chapped Lips

When your lips are dry and chapped, our first instinct is to lick our lips or even pick at flakes of skin in the hopes of making them smoother and more comfortable. However, both licking and picking at your lips will make matters worse.

Instead, apply a moisturizing lip balm (ideally one with humectants and occlusives!) that contains soothing ingredients such as vitamin E, shea butter, and coconut oil to help rehydrate your lips and calm irritation.

5. Drink Enough Water

We know what you’re thinking: Every beauty/health/fitness blog suggests drinking water. But there’s a reason adding more water intake to your day is suggested as a fix for so many skin and health concerns — it works! Can’t seem to cure chapped lips? Bingo. You might not be drinking enough water to stay properly hydrated.

6. Go for Fillers Over Plumping Products

Most lip plumping products contain mild irritants like capsaicin to cause temporary swelling and redness, giving you the illusion of fuller lips. However, not only do these products offer very short-lived results, but they can also cause unwanted signs of lip irritation, especially if you have sensitive skin.

Instead, consider getting lip fillers from a professional for longer-lasting results that don’t rely on irritants to give you a prettier pout. Hyaluronic acid fillers can also help to plump and hydrate your lips, giving you an overall smoother, softer, and fuller look.

Still have questions about lip care or fillers, or would like to schedule a consultation? Call our Boca Raton & Fort Lauderdale office at 561-454-8002 or get in touch online today!