We are all very familiar with the use of cosmetic fillers in areas like the cheeks to restore lost volume and create a more contoured effect or even the lips to achieve the ideal pout. But there are many other uses for dermal fillers to help patients achieve a more desirable appearance and regain self-confidence.

Here are 5 uses for filler you didn’t know about:

I wanted to have a Viveve treatment for one main reason – actually, two—twins!! With my double blessings came double trouble in the form of vaginal concerns, namely changes in the muscles of the vagina and surrounding tissues. Stress urinary incontinence was a big issue for me, where I was unable to sneeze, cough, laugh, or blow my nose without leakage. It was embarrassing! And seeing as I’m no spring chicken, I had some vaginal dryness, not to mention decreased sexual sensation and enjoyment, which bothered me as well.

Many of us felt fortunate to view the solar eclipse this week – either here in Charlotte or nearby areas that experienced 100% eclipse. The sight was amazing indeed. American Indian tribes across the country observe the eclipse in quiet contemplation as they anticipate renewal that this unique event is believed to bring. Many believe that the eclipse represents the sun dying and then coming back to life thus eclipse time is a time of renewal.

In honor of the eclipse, this week’s blog will discuss renewal for your skin. And for many - after a summer of sun filled days – a renewal is indeed desired:

All acne lesions start with what is called the micro-comedome which goes on to be a comedome or clogged pore. Comedomes form from upper skin cell layers sticking together and not sloughing off, thus blocking the pore and causing build up of oil and debris in the pore. These build ups can be "open comedomes" which often have a black surface and are known as blackheads, or they can be "closed comedomes" which look like tiny pimples that do not have a whitehead on them - like tiny, under the skin bumps. Until comedomes are treated and prevented, acne will persist.

The single best thing you can do for your skin is protect it from excessive sun exposure. For a day at the tournament I would recommend a minimum SPF of 30 – but not all sun blocks are created equal.

Looking for last minute Father’s Day gift ideas? Skip your typical “go-to” (golf gloves, world’s best dad mug) this year and celebrate the important men in your life with one of the unique options below that he’ll be sure to love!

Is your skin lacking a holiday glow? Not quite ready to put your best face forward for the holidays? Here are 5 easy things you can do to brighten your skin and look your best for all those holiday parties and festivities.

Introducing Venus Legacy™ by Venus Concepts; Charlotte Skin and Laser’s newest addition in skin tightening and cellulite reduction. The Legacy delivers 100% safe, painless treatments, is suitable for all skin types and in just one treatment, patients will experience an immediate lift and radiant glow.

Elizabeth Arden's words to live by are "to be beautiful and natural is the birthright of every woman."  I love that quote, but not everyone has that natural, flawless glow when they wake up in the morning, some of us have to work for it.

With the skin care market growing out of control, patients are constantly faced with the decision of where to purchase their skin care products.  Is there a difference between the products your dermatologist recommends and the ones at the beauty store and online? The answer is yes, and here are 5 reasons why physician grade products are the way to go.