When you’re trying to turn back the clock, you want the latest in aesthetic innovation. The most accurate delivery systems, the most hard-working devices, and the best treatment combinations are at your fingertips with our expert-curated look into what’s new, what’s trending and what’s recommended for your skin.
From your own plasma to the safe-for-all-skin laser she loves the most, we spoke with Southlake, TX and Monroe, LA dermatologist, Janine Hopkins, MD to discover the latest in precision aesthetic treatments.
Microneedling with PRP Injection
Since the early 1900s, microneedling has been a dermatologist-favorite among treatments for its ability to treat scars, birthmarks and hyperpigmentation.
“I describe microneedling as a procedure that is like cleaning out your closet,” Dr. Hopkins explains. “Think ‘out with the old, in with the new.’”
The idea is to use minor wounding to stimulate your skin.
“Microneedling is performed using devices with tiny, sterile needles that quickly penetrate the skin to create controlled and precise wounding benefits in the skin by rejuvenating both the outer epidermal layer of the skin as well as the dermal layer,” Dr. Hopkins says. “By purposefully creating wounding in the outer epidermal layer, the skin heals with a smooth, more even complexion benefiting people with melasma, sun damage and dull, blotchy complexions. The treatment also helps rebuild collagen in the dermis to reduce fine lines and wrinkles, stretch marks and even acne scars.”
Then came the introduction of PRP. Platelet-rich plasma kicks microneedling results into high gear, and it can be applied topically and via injection.“
In my dermatology practice, I often combine topical application and injection of platelet-rich plasma to speed the healing and enhance the results of microneedling.” Dr. Hopkins explains. “Using the patient’s own PRP, I inject directly into acne scars to help build a deeper layer of collagen and elastin. For the lower eyelid tear trough and verticals lip lines, I have found that PRP injected into these areas using a microcannula really helps to create a smoother surface without the risks of over filling which can occur with HA fillers.
It also appeals to patients for another reason: PRP is a product of their own bodies.
“Patients also like the fact that this PRP injection is their body’s own regenerative tissue, not a product from a lab,” Dr. Hopkins says.
Contributing to Aesthetic Innovation
Dr. Hopkins doesn’t just have her finger on the pulse of aesthetic innovation, she actively contributes to it. In 2021, Dr. Hopkins launched the CuraCator, designed to improve the accuracy and precision of topical applications.
“I created the CuraCator device to meet the unmet need for a hands-free, drip-free application technique for applying PRP and other serums to the skin following microneedling and laser resurfacing,” Dr. Hopkins explains. “The technique of dripping the products onto the skin from syringes with needles carries a high risk of needle stick. Dripping the products from open ended syringes is commonly performed and has high risks of splatter. Both uncontrolled techniques waste product and involve spreading the PRP onto the patient, which is messy, uncomfortable for the patient and has a risk of skin contamination.”
The CuraCator attaches to a syringe just like a needle would, with an applicator shaped almost like a shower head. The flat disk with several small exit points allows for the controlled, precise application of expensive treatments. Ensuring all the product ends up on the patient’s face, the CuraCator allows your practitioner to more accurately deliver these treatments to your skin.
And it isn’t just for your practitioner.
“CuraCator device currently attaches to any universal Luer lock syringe for the controlled application of serums such as PRP, exosomes and stem cells, as well as creams, gels or ointments to the skin,” Dr. Hopkins says. “I often give my patients a syringe filled with their post-procedure products along with a CuraCator and instruct them to use this device to apply their products for the first 48 hours of healing assuring that the patients are not having to touch theirwounded skin with their hands for the first two days of healing.”
Exciting Energy Advances
Second to microneedling, laser resurfacing is one of the most popular rejuvenation treatments Dr. Hopkins provides. And in the world of lasers, your practitioner has a lot of options. From CO2lasers to IPL, there are options for different skin types and skin concerns. But in Dr. Hopkins’ office, there’s one laser that reigns above them all.
“The Fotona laser, which I have been using in my dermatology practice since 2015 is truly a work horse,” Dr. Hopkins explains. “This innovative laser is used to perform over 12 unique procedures by combining two different wavelengths, multiple hand pieces and computer-generated changes in pulse width and pulse duration. The laser allows me to offer treatments for common dermatologic concerns such as treatment of benign skin lesions, vascular lesions and even warts.”
The Fotona’s ability to multitask isn’t its only benefit. It also has remarkably little downtime for a laser resurfacing treatment.
“The Fotona SP Dynamis is revolutionary by providing a no-downtime ‘laser lift’ known as the 4D,” Dr. Hopkins says. “This laser works on men and women of all skin types by tightening collagen and building full thickness dermal collagen and elastin, combined with setting that ‘polish’ the epidermal layer of the skin. This treatment is used not only on the face and neck, but on any areas of the body.”
And the Fotona laser is also trending in popularity due to its lifting effect on the eyelids.
“One of the most popular Fotona laser treatments in my practices is the non-surgical EyeLase procedure,” Dr. Hopkins explains. “We directly treat both the upper and lower eyelid skin for reduction of eyelid skin laxity and holding that occurs with age and genetics.”
