Lumenis: New Technique for Wrinkles and Skin LaxityLumenis has introduced its Aluma system with FACES technology for treating fine lines, wrinkles and skin laxity. The system utilizes the company’s FACES technology, which stands for functional aspiration controlled electrothermal stimulation. Delivered via a vacuum-assisted handpiece, FACES technology delivers vacuum-assisted bipolar radiofrequency energy deep into the dermis.According to Michael Gold, M.D., in a prepared statement from Lumenis, Aluma has garnered substantial results in his patients. This procedure, he says, “results in a virtually pain-free and minimal-risk procedure.” In addition, Dr. Gold explains the he has achieved “90% patient satisfaction and greater than 40% improvement of wrinkles around the eyes and mouth. This is fantastic by today’s standards.” This treatment is administered over time in four to six treatment sessions.Some of the advantages of this technology, according to Lumenis, is that there is no prolonged recovery time, anesthesia is seldom required, treatment takes only 15 minutes, and patients can return to work or normal activities immediately. For more information about this product, log onto www.lumenis.com.New Glycolic Peel SystemDermatologic Cosmetic Laboratories introduces a new glycolic peel system designed to offer dermatologists a more effective, efficient and predictable way to administer professional in-office glycolic peels. This new system, named the Epi-Peel System, is available in two formulations: Level 1 and Level 2. 1. Level 1 (40% active). This formulation incorporates a clinically active level of willowherb extract, which helps soothe and calm the skin. The formula, which has the consistency of a gel, was designed for easier spreadability and even application.2. Level 2 (70% active). This formulation includes the most effective topical anti-oxidant, Vitamin C, in a highly stable water soluble form — magnesium ascorbyl phosphate. This ingredient helps even the skin tone and maximize efficacy of the glycolic peel. Both Level 1 and Level 2 systems are available in a kit that includes 50 applications. Dose, concentration and timing are controlled to provide reproducible and consistent results. The 3-step systems each come with clear, easy-to-follow directions to “prep, peel and neutralize” measured amounts of glycolic solution with detailed treatment durations and recommended intervals. For more information about the Epi-Peel System, Level 1 and Level 2, visit the company’s Web site at www.dclskincare.com or call (800) 552-5060.New Easy-to-Use Sunscreen TubeBlue Lizard Australian Suncream SPF 30+ is now available packaged in an easy-to-use flip-top tube. The tube, available in a 3-ounce size, incorporates the “Smart Bottle” technology — the lid changes from clear to blue when UVA/UVB rays are present.The 3-ounce size sunscreen is available in regular, sport, kids and chemical free baby and sensitive formulas. For more information, visit www.bluelizard.net, or call (800) 877-8869.New Compact LED Device for Wrinkle ReductionLight BioScience, the manufacturer of the light-emitting diode technology device known as GentleWaves, now introduces its newest device, the GentleWaves Select. This compact unit incorporates patented LED Photomodulation’s non-thermal, pulsing technology that enables the user to alter collagen formation without heat and without causing cellular injury. The GentleWaves Select has a portable design and easy-to-use hand piece, which enables patients to be treated while they’re on the exam table. Also, because the unit doesn’t require patients to sit in front of the panels, the Select unit is designed for treating skin on any area of the body.GentleWaves Select is the perfect compliment to any and all in-office anti-aging procedures, ranging from microdermabrasion to Botox injections, laser treatments to dermal fillers. The LED Photomodulation session speeds healing times after these procedures. Patients will see an immediate decrease in redness and an overall lessening of skin irritation, according to the company. In addition, GentleWaves is effective on all skin tones and types. The system is programmable with higher light intensities to safely and effectively penetrate deeper skin colors.The GentleWaves Select’s precurser system, the GentleWaves LED Photomodulation System, was cleared by the FDA in January 2005 for the treatment of periorbital (eye area) wrinkles and rhytids. It was the first LED device to receive federal marketing clearance for a medical claim associated with wrinkle reduction. For more information, log onto the company’s Web site at www.lightbioscience.com, or call them at (888) 647-6219. Larger-Size Tube of MetroGel 1% Available Galderma Laboratories now has a larger size of its (metronidazole gel, 1%) (MetroGel 1%) available. Previously, this prescription therapy was available in a 45-gram tube; the company has increased the size of the tube to 60 grams, providing patients with a lower cost per gram and fewer refills. MetroGel 1% incorporates a higher concentration of metronidazole and a reduced dosage of once-daily versus twice-daily use (as compared to the previously available MetroGel 0.75%). The new, technologically advanced vehicle incorporates HSA-3, a combination of niacinamide, betadex, and propylene glycol. The vehicle is a water-based formulation that contains no alcohol.For more information about MetroGel, visit www.metrogel.com.  Niacin-Based Product for Treating Sun-Damaged SkinNiadyne Inc., has launched NIA 24, a niacin-powered skin therapy, to help patients treat sun damaged skin. Niadyne Inc., developed a patented Pro-Niacin molecule that is so effective it has been chosen by the National Cancer Institute for development as a potential skin cancer prevention agent. This niacin molecule strengthens the lipid bi-layer and improves the look and performance of the skin. The NIA 24 products help repair the effects of sun exposure, counteract hyperpigmentation, improve skin tone and texture, add new firmness, improve the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, and protect against further assault.Available exclusively in the physician’s office and in select medi-spas, this new product line includes the NIA 24 Skin Strengthening Complex, NIA 24 Physical Cleansing Scrub and NIA 24 Sun Damage Prevention 100% Mineral Sunscreen SPF 30. For more information, visit www.NIA24.com.