Dr Sarah Kate Quinlivan Dr Sarah Kate Quinlivan

Introducing Lumecca Photorejuvenation

Lumecca is the most powerful intense pulsed light (IPL) to treat pigmented and vascular lesions. After just one use, patients notice significant improvements in the complexion and clarity of their skin.

It is particulary successful in removing age spots (red/brown pigmentation) sun damage, vascular legions, rosacea, freckles, acne scarring, and melasma. Lumecca can be used on any part of the body with excellent results.

Introducing Lumecca: Your Perfect Autumn Glow Treatment

As the balmy summer holidays become memories and the crisp days of autumn arrive, it's the ideal time to rejuvenate and refresh your skin after months of sun exposure. I’m excited to introduce Lumecca, the latest breakthrough in skin rejuvenation now available at SK/N D6. This cutting-edge IPL (Intense Pulsed Light) treatment is designed to target sun damage, age spots, pigmentation, and uneven skin tone, leaving you with a radiant, even complexion just in time for the cozy fall season.

Lumecca is a specific type of intense pulsed light (IPL) technology that is often highlighted for its effectiveness in treating various skin conditions, including pigmentation issues, vascular lesions, and overall skin tone improvements. One of its key features is the use of a higher energy output compared to traditional IPL devices. This allows for more efficient treatment with fewer sessions, potentially making Lumecca stronger than other IPL devices in terms of results and efficacy.

Autumn is the perfect time to begin Lumecca treatments, as it allows your skin to heal and glow without the intense summer sun. With just one to three sessions, you’ll notice a remarkable difference in your skin’s clarity and brightness, helping you step into the new season with confidence. Whether you're looking to reduce signs of sun damage or simply maintain a healthy, youthful appearance, Lumecca is the ultimate solution.

The procedure typically lasts about 30 to 45 minutes and can be performed on various areas of the body, including the face, neck, chest, and hands. Patients generally experience minimal discomfort during the session, often described as a warming sensation, and no downtime is required, allowing individuals to resume their daily activities immediately afterwards.

Lumecca is an advanced IPL treatment designed to improve the appearance of skin by targeting various skin concerns, such as age spots, sun damage, rosacea, and overall skin tone irregularities. This treatment utilizes intense pulsed light (IPL) to deliver precise energy to the deeper layers of the skin, stimulating collagen production and promoting a more uniform complexion.

It can be employed for various skin concerns, including:

  1. Hyperpigmentation: Lumecca effectively targets dark spots and uneven skin tone associated with sun damage, age spots, and melasma.

  2. Vascular Lesions: It can treat conditions such as spider veins and broken capillaries by reducing redness and improving overall skin appearance.

  3. Photodamage: Lumecca helps in the reduction of fine lines and wrinkles by stimulating collagen production, improving skin texture, and elasticity.

  4. Acne Scarring: The therapy can diminish the appearance of acne scars, promoting a more uniform skin surface.

  5. Rosacea: Lumecca may assist in managing rosacea symptoms, such as persistent redness and flushing.

  6. Overall Skin Tone: It enhances the overall complexion, providing a brighter and more youthful look.

Results can be seen even after just one session, with optimal outcomes usually visible after a series of treatments spaced a few weeks apart. Common post-treatment effects may include mild redness and slight swelling, which typically subside within a few hours to a couple of days.

It is always advisable to have a consultation before undergoing this procedure. This personalized evaluation helps determine if Lumecca is suitable for you and whether any precautions, including a patch test, should be considered. If you have had recent sun exposore, or are planning a sunny trip abroad I recommend leaving a minimum of 3-4 weeks before undergoing your treatment to avoid any adverse effects.

If you wish to proceed, you can book a consultation and patch test directly through the online booking link below and start your IPL journey this autumn.

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Dr Sarah Kate Quinlivan Dr Sarah Kate Quinlivan

Autumn skincare changes

As autumn approaches, it’s important to adjust your skincare routine to accommodate the cooler, drier weather and the after-effects of summer sun exposure. Here are some key skincare changes to introduce for autumn:

As autumn approaches, it’s important to adjust your skincare routine to accommodate the cooler, drier weather and the after-effects of summer sun exposure. Here are some key skincare changes to introduce for autumn:

1. Switch to a More Hydrating Cleanser

In cooler weather, your skin tends to produce less oil, which can lead to dryness. Replace lightweight or gel cleansers with a gentle, hydrating cleanser that will cleanse without stripping away your skin’s natural oils. Look for cream-based or oil-based formulas that help maintain moisture balance. There are lovely pharmacy options like La Roche Posay, and Cetaphil. In clinic I love the ZO hydrating cleanser. There are some gorgeous cleansing balms out there from Elemis and Emma Hardie which are a great add at this time of year.

2. Introduce a Richer Moisturizer

As humidity decreases, your skin may need more hydration. Switch to a richer, more emollient moisturizer to protect your skin from the drying effects of cold air. Ingredients like ceramides, hyaluronic acid, and glycerin can help lock in moisture and repair the skin barrier. I love adding the ZO Recovery Crème for its nourishing benefits in the winter months. This is clinically tested on both face and neck, and can be used AM and PM. This is available in clinic. Another lovely option for hydration is Kiehls Ultrafacial Cream which is always on my skincare shelf.

3. Exfoliate Regularly (But Gently)

Autumn is a great time to slough off dead skin cells accumulated during summer and renew your complexion. Use a gentle chemical exfoliant, like AHAs (glycolic or lactic acid) or BHAs (salicylic acid), to remove dead skin cells and promote skin renewal. However, avoid over-exfoliating, as skin may be more sensitive during cooler months. The ZO skinhealth Complexion renewal pads, or the Oil control pads if you have oilier skin are always on my shelf!

4. Reintroduce Retinoids

If you paused using retinoids during the summer to avoid sun sensitivity, autumn is a good time to gradually reintroduce them into your routine. Retinoids help with skin cell turnover, smooth texture, reduce pigmentation, and keep fine lines at bay. Start slow to avoid irritation and build up as your skin adjusts. My favourite Retinoids are the ZO wrinkle and texture repair, and Skinbetter Science Alpharet Overnight serum. Both pack a punch without being to aggressive to the skin barrier, so results without all the downsides.

5. Incorporate Hydrating Serums

Consider adding a hydrating serum, such as those containing hyaluronic acid or niacinamide, to help retain moisture and strengthen the skin barrier. These serums work well under your moisturizer and provide an extra layer of hydration to combat the dryness that often accompanies autumn.

6. Continue Using Sunscreen

Even though the sun may not feel as intense, UV rays are still present year-round. Continue using broad-spectrum sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher) daily to protect your skin from sun damage, prevent premature aging, and maintain the results of summer treatments like Lumecca or chemical peels. My favourite is the Synergy 6 factor 50 from Intradermology which is packed full of skincare ingredients also, yet sits lightly on the skin.

7. Focus on Repairing Sun Damage

After months of sun exposure, autumn is the perfect time to repair any damage. Consider treatments and products that target hyperpigmentation, such as vitamin C serums, azelaic acid, or kojic acid to help fade sunspots and even out your complexion. Look to medical grade products for your Vitamin C as formulation really matters. ZO, Skinceuticals and Skinbetter Science are my go to’s here.

8. Add a Nourishing Face Oil

To give your skin an extra hydration boost, especially if you have dry or combination skin, consider adding a face oil to your routine. Oils like rosehip, jojoba, or marula can provide deep nourishment, lock in moisture, and give your skin a healthy glow.

9. Care for Your Lips and Hands

The cooler weather often leads to dry, chapped lips and hands. Use a hydrating lip balm with ingredients like shea butter or beeswax, and keep your hands moisturized with a thick hand cream containing shea butter or urea to prevent dryness and cracking. I adore the Albus and Flora lip balms which are deeply hydrating and contain factor 30 SPF. These come in a variety of tints and I stock them online,

10. Use a Humidifier

Indoor heating during autumn and winter can dry out your skin. Using a humidifier in your bedroom or living space helps add moisture to the air, preventing your skin from becoming excessively dry and flaky.

11. Consider Skin-Rejuvenating Treatments

Autumn is the ideal time to invest in skin-rejuvenating treatments such as chemical peels, radiofrequency microneedling (like Morpheus8), or laser/IPL treatments (like Lumecca) to address sun damage and other skin concerns accumulated over summer.

By adjusting your skincare routine to suit the seasonal changes, you can maintain healthy, hydrated skin throughout the fall and prepare it for the colder months ahead.

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Dr Sarah Kate Quinlivan Dr Sarah Kate Quinlivan

Introducing Morpheus8

Introducing Morpheus8: The Future of Non-Surgical Skin Rejuvenation

In the ever-evolving world of aesthetic treatments, staying ahead of the curve means embracing innovations that offer remarkable results with minimal downtime.

Enter Morpheus8, the latest breakthrough in non-surgical skin rejuvenation. Combining the power of microneedling and radiofrequency (RF) energy, Morpheus8 is revolutionizing the way we approach skin tightening, contouring, and overall facial rejuvenation.

Introducing Morpheus8: The Future of Non-Surgical Skin Rejuvenation

In the ever-evolving world of aesthetic treatments, staying ahead of the curve means embracing innovations that offer remarkable results with minimal downtime.

Enter Morpheus8, the latest breakthrough in non-surgical skin rejuvenation.

Combining the power of micro-needling and radio-frequency (RF) energy, Morpheus8 is revolutionising the way we approach skin tightening, contouring, and overall facial rejuvenation.


What is Morpheus8?

Morpheus8 is an advanced fractional skin treatment that stimulates collagen production of the underlying layers of the dermis. By targeting the deeper layers of the skin, tissues of the face and body can be remodeled to reveal a more radiant, youthful appearance. Unlike traditional microneedling, Morpheus8 delivers RF energy deep into the skin, enhancing the production of collagen and elastin for firmer, smoother skin.

How Does Morpheus8 Work?

The Morpheus8 device utilises a matrix of gold coated micro pins to renew deeper layers of the skin with almost no patient downtime. This minimally invasive treatment can be used on any area that can benefit from sub-dermal renewal. Commonly treated areas include the face, periorbital area, abdomen, thighs, legs, and buttocks. The combination of microneedling and RF energy promotes collagen restructuring, reduces wrinkles, and tightens the skin, offering a comprehensive approach to rejuvenation.

Benefits of Morpheus8

  • Deep and Safe Treatment: Morpheus8 delivers RF energy deep into the skin, making it more effective than traditional microneedling.

  • Minimal Downtime: Patients can expect little to no downtime, making it a convenient option for those with busy schedules.

  • Versatility: Suitable for all skin types, Morpheus8 can address a variety of concerns, from fine lines and wrinkles to acne scars and skin laxity.

  • Long-Lasting Results: By stimulating collagen production, the results of Morpheus8 can improve over time, offering a long-term solution to aging skin.

Who is Morpheus8 For?

Morpheus8 is ideal for individuals looking to improve the appearance of their skin without undergoing invasive surgery. Whether you're dealing with the early signs of aging, uneven skin tone, or a desire for a more defined contour, Morpheus8 can help you achieve your aesthetic goals.

Experience the Future of Skin Rejuvenation

Ready to transform your skin and enhance your natural beauty? Discover the benefits of Morpheus8 and experience the future of non-surgical skin rejuvenation. Book your consultation today and take the first step towards a more youthful, radiant you.

Why Choose Morpheus8?

Transform Your Skin with Confidence

When it comes to enhancing your skin's appearance and reversing the signs of aging, the options can be overwhelming.

With advancements in non-surgical treatments, finding a solution that is both effective and minimally invasive is key.

Morpheus8 stands out as a top choice for those seeking significant results without the need for surgery.

Here’s why you should consider Morpheus8 for your skin rejuvenation needs:

1. Comprehensive Skin Remodeling

Morpheus8 offers a unique combination of microneedling and radiofrequency (RF) energy, allowing it to penetrate deep into the skin layers. This powerful duo promotes collagen and elastin production, leading to firmer, smoother, and more youthful-looking skin. Whether you're dealing with fine lines, wrinkles, or sagging skin, Morpheus8 provides comprehensive rejuvenation.

2. Minimally Invasive with Minimal Downtime

One of the biggest advantages of Morpheus8 is its minimally invasive nature. Unlike surgical procedures, Morpheus8 requires little to no downtime, making it an excellent option for those with busy lifestyles. You can return to your daily activities shortly after the treatment, with only minor redness or swelling that typically resolves quickly.

3. Versatility Across Treatment Areas

Morpheus8 is incredibly versatile, suitable for use on various areas of the face and body. Commonly treated areas include the face, neck, abdomen, thighs, and buttocks. This versatility means you can address multiple concerns with a single treatment, from facial wrinkles to body contouring and skin tightening.

4. Safe for All Skin Types

Unlike some laser treatments that are limited by skin type, Morpheus8 is safe and effective for all skin tones. Its advanced technology allows for precise energy delivery, minimizing the risk of pigmentation issues and ensuring a safe treatment for everyone.

5. Long-Lasting, Natural Results

By stimulating the body’s natural collagen production, Morpheus8 provides results that continue to improve over time. The gradual enhancement leads to natural-looking outcomes, avoiding the "overdone" appearance that can sometimes result from more aggressive treatments.

6. Customized Treatment Plans

Every individual's skin is unique, and Morpheus8 treatments can be tailored to meet your specific needs. During your consultation, a skilled practitioner will assess your skin concerns and develop a customized plan to achieve your desired results, ensuring a personalized and effective treatment experience.

7. Proven Efficacy and Safety

Morpheus8 is backed by extensive research and clinical studies, demonstrating its efficacy and safety. With a track record of successful treatments and satisfied patients, you can trust Morpheus8 to deliver on its promises.

Choose Morpheus8 for a Radiant Future

Choosing Morpheus8 means investing in a cutting-edge technology that offers profound skin rejuvenation with minimal disruption to your life. If you're ready to take the next step towards achieving your aesthetic goals and revitalizing your skin, Morpheus8 is the smart choice. Book a consultation today and discover how Morpheus8 can help you look and feel your best.

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Dr Sarah Kate Quinlivan Dr Sarah Kate Quinlivan

Spring skincare update

A little product update for Spring? Read on…

“Because in February the days were really getting longer and you could see it, if you really looked. You could see how at the end of each day the world seemed cracked open and the extra light made its way across the stark trees, and promised. It promised, that light, and what a thing that was”

Elizabeth Strout

The cold winter months can leave your skin feeling drier, lacking in moisture and rougher in texture. Not ideal! These changes occur partly due to the colder temperatures and also the increased central heating, which combine to strip your skin of its natural lipids and moisture.

Spring time across most of the world gives some respite with warmer temperatures and less harsh conditions. Unfortunately we live in Ireland, so there is not as much of a change as we would like to see! But longer days and hopefully some sunshine are around the corner (eventually) so this is a good time to re-evaluate and update your skincare routine. Also a lot of people are planning mini breaks for half term, and ski trips so the following product guide will hopefully be of some use.

Because the colder weather can strip your skin of moisture, you often need to lock in those vital lipids to keep the moisture in your skin - classically heavier, more emulsive, richer products help to do this for you. As the temperatures warm up slightly your skin produces more of those natural lipids helping it to maintain that moisture within, therefore reducing the need for some of those richer products.

A spring skincare update involves opting for gentler or lighter cleansers, serums and moisturisers. The lightweight textures feel more comfortable on the skin and you won’t need to lock in that moisture as much as in the wintertime. You can also look at gradually reintroducing some exfoliation to your regime, building back up your tolerance. Maintain your antioxidant support on the skin - the constant weather variables mean your skin needs to be supported. Now is the time to power charge your Vitamin A game - great summer skin is created now so if you have not started a retinol regime there’s no time like the present! Remember active ingredients are different to a moisturiser and take time to have their best effect, from 6 weeks to 6 months,

I have suggested a few of my favourite skincare options below. Where possible I have given budget / midrange / luxury options. Most if not all products I either stock in clinic or on my online shop with Get Harley.

These are products I love and genuinely use myself on a regular basis. It is important to remember that there is no one size fits all in terms of skin care products, but I like to keep the corner stones of a regime consistent. A consultation helps refine and customise a regime so you maximise the benefits.

If you wish to arrange a skin care consultation or review, click the link below to book directly.

And if you’re lucky enough to be heading either to the sun or the slopes - look at my SPF and lip recommendations and please wear them!

Cleansers - keep it gentle

〰️

Cleansers - keep it gentle 〰️

  • The cleanser is available in any good pharmacy. A good basics brand.

  • This cleanser contains hyaluronic acid and ceramides so won’t strip your skin.

Mid Range -

  • Exuviance Gentle cleansing lotion

  • Available through my online skincare partner GetHarley.

  • This is a beautiful milky cleanser which feels wonderfully luxurious on the skin.

  • Contains Glyconalactone a PHA for extra hydration along with skin conditioners and botanicals.

Luxury -

  • Revision Skincare Gentle cleansing lotion

  • Available through my online shop with GetHarley

  • Cleanses without damaging the skin’s delicate moisture balance or stripping the natural moisture barrier

  • Boosts skin health with the power of marine-derived Red and Brown Algae, and naturally derived cleansing agents including antioxidant-rich Apple Amino Acids

Exfoliation - reintroduce slowly

〰️

Exfoliation - reintroduce slowly 〰️

Sensitive skin

  • Neostrata PHA renewal pads

  • Available through my online shop with GetHarley

  • Contains 4% Gluconolactone (PHA) which gentlyexfoliates dull skin buildup to uncover healthier looking skin, revealing a more even skin tone and texture. Supports the skin’s natural moisture barrier.

  • Green Tea And Cucumber Extracts help to hydrate and soothe dry, stressed skin.

Normal or oily skin

  • ZO skin health complexion renewal pads or Oil control pads

  • Stocked in clinic or online

  • Dual action exfoliation removes dead skin cells to prevent clogged pores

  • Reduces oiliness and minimises surface oil

  • Calms and soothes irritated skin

  • Can opt for Oil Control Pads for Oily skin types

AntiOxidants / Vitamin Cs - a year round essential

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AntiOxidants / Vitamin Cs - a year round essential 〰️

Budget

  • Medik8 C Tetra cream

  • Available on my online store with Get Harley

  • Contains a soluble form of Vitamin C Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate, along with Vitamin E & Hyaluronic Acid and Glycerin for hydration.

Mid Range -

  • ZO 10% Vitamin C self activating

  • Available in clinic or online.

  • Contains 10% ascorbic acid to help brighten and redefine skin, along with stable vitamin C derivative tetrahexyldecyl ascorbate which is proven to help prevent the appearance of new dark spots

  • Also contains Vitamin E tocopheryl acetate and coenzyme-Q10, which provide multiple antioxidant protection.

  • Added Squalene for a boost of additional hydration.

Luxury -

  • Skin Ceuticals CE Ferulic

  • Available through my online store with Get Harley.

  • A cult product for a reason!

  • 15% pure vitamin C (L-ascorbic acid), 1% vitamin E (alpha tocopherol), and 0.5% ferulic acid to enhance protection against environmental damage caused by free radicals that can contribute to atmospheric aging. A GOAT when it comes to antiageing antioxidants!

SPF - another year round essential

〰️

SPF - another year round essential 〰️

Budget -

  • Heliocare 360 range

  • Factor 50, Protects against the 4 types of radiation (UVB, UVA, Visible and Infrared).

  • No white cast on skin.

Mid Range -

  • Interdermology Synergy 6

  • Available on my online store with Get Harley

  • This is a holy grail SPF - feels beautiful on the skin, light tint which blends out on application, gives max factor 50 broadspectrum protection, adds hydration, contains peptides and a host of other skincare ingredients.

  • Can be used alone or as a make up primer.

Luxury -

  • ZO broadspectrum factor 50

  • Available in clinic or online.

  • ZO SPFs are industry leaders in sun protection.

  • Provides daily broad-spectrum sun protection against harmful, skin-aging UVA rays and skin burning UVB rays, while fractionated melanin helps shield the skin against the ageing effects of HEV light.

  • An exclusive 12-hour time-release antioxidant complex in this SPF 50 provides continuous protection against free radical damage and the harmful effects of IR-A rays.

Retinols / Vitamin A - now is the time to build

〰️

Retinols / Vitamin A - now is the time to build 〰️

My go to Vitamin A

  • Skinbetter science Alpharet overnight cream

  • Available via consultation on my online store with Get Harley

  • Combines two gold standard skin rejuvenation ingredients— a retinoid and lactic acid—to create a revolutionary double-conjugated retinoid.

  • An ultra hydrating blend of squalane, niacinamide, ceramides and fatty acids provides deep moisture to help counteract the dryness associated with traditional retinol-based products.

  • A potent blend of antioxidants (Vitamin C, Hyaluronic Acid & CoEnzyme Q10) helps protect against free radicals and provides skin brightening benefits.

Hydration is still important

〰️

Hydration is still important 〰️

Budget -

  • Neostrata Bionic facial cream

  • Stocked online via Get Harley.

  • Super rich, balm-like cream with a silky finish provides intense hydration to soothe and comfort the look of stressed skin.

  • A great option if you need deep hydration.

Luxury -

  • ZO Skin health Recovery Creme

  • Stocked in clinic or online

  • This is my ultimate for distressed skin - A luxuriously rich hydrator for moderate dryness + redness, clinically proven to rejuvenate the appearance of fragile skin, including neck aging.

  • Full of active ingredients and visible differences can be seen on the skin very quickly.

Lets not forget about the lips!

〰️

Lets not forget about the lips! 〰️

Highly recommend these Lip SPF sticks from Albus and Flora.

  • Stocked online via Get Harley.

  • SPF for the lips with varying tints and deep hydration. These are a daily essential for me. They give a lovely light coverage, completely non gloopy and are longlasting.

This is also a fantastic lip product from PCAskin - their Hyaluronic acid lip booster.

An advanced lip product that instantly moisturizes while improving long-term lip volume, hydration, and softness.

  • Instantly hydrates and plumps the lips

  • Powerful peptides stimulate collagen production to reduce lip lines

  • An advanced ingredient blend improves long-term lip hydration, volume, and softness

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Dr Sarah Kate Quinlivan Dr Sarah Kate Quinlivan

HarmonyCa™ - the first Hybrid Filler - Tell me more :

HArmonyCa - what is this novel hybrid filler? An introduction

Hybrid Dermal filler

HArmonyCa® is a double ingredient, hybrid dermal filler; the latest to complement Allergan’s Juvéderm filler range. Combining the instant lift of a Dermal Filler and the increased collagen synthesis of a biostimulator, this innovative product is already a firm favourite in the clinic.

The Role Of Fibroblasts In Ageing

A fibroblast is a cell found in connective tissue that supports and connects other tissues or organs in the body. The specialised cells secrete collagen proteins that provide your skin with a structural framework. Fibroblasts naturally decline both in number and activity over time, resulting in some of the visual signs of ageing. As the fibroblast cells slowly lose their regenerative capabilities, less collagen is produced as a result with your skin losing its’ elasticity and youthful integrity. Fine lines and sagging skin develop, causing features such as the cheeks and jawline to lose definition. HArmonyCa™ can help to slow down or reverse some of the signs of ageing by working as a biostimulator, activating fibroblast receptors thereby stimulating collagen production. 

A Powerful Dual-Action Hybrid Dermal Filler 

HArmonyCa™ contains a high molecular weight cross-linked HA Dermal filler solution that adds instant soft volume to sunken facial features. Linking HA molecules in this way makes the substance more challenging to break down, thus prolonging its contouring effect. HArmonyCa™ can be utilised in the mid to lower face, to subtly enhance and help restore firmness, providing subtle definition where features have softened due to the increase in skin laxity and resultant sagging skin. 

 

The addition of Calcium Hydroxyapatite provides a secondary anti-ageing benefit. CaHa microspheres directly activate fibroblast cells. This induces neocollagenesis, which improves the structural support within connective tissue. As collagen levels rise, fine lines appear reduced and the complexion feels supple and lifted. Therefore, this powerful hybrid Dermal Filler provides instant results that improve in line with rising collagen levels.  

 Is HArmonyCa™ The Right Treatment For Me?

HArmonyCa™ is an ideal treatment if you’re seeking to reestablish youthful contours in the mid to lower face. Cheeks can be recontoured, jawlines sharpened and chins sculpted, but the product is not suitable in other areas. It is not suitable for issues line lip lines or around the thin delicate eye skin. If your aim is to freshen your eye area I would look towards tear trough filler where suitable, or Polynucleotide treatments. For lip lines there are very light dernal fillers like RHA 1 from Teoxane which are suitable to improve this area, sometimes conbined with skin boosters like Redensity 1 to improve skin quality. This would be discussed in detail at consultation in clinic.

 How long do results last with this treatment?

With two active ingredients providing dual-action anti-ageing effects, HArmonyCa™ treatments typically last between 12-18 months. This makes this hybrid Dermal Filler one of the more enduring solutions on the market. I recommend normally a maintenance session annually to maintain your results.

Is the treatment comfortable?

A small amount of lidocaine (a numbing local anaesthetic) is present in the product to minimise patient discomfort. Swelling, redness or bruising may occur at injection sites, but these effects quickly subside.  

HarmonyCa is introduced under the tissue using a cannula, which is a long blunt needle. A cannula is generally quite comfortable for the patient, albeit a bit of a strange sensation initially. This means less downtime for you the patient, less chance of bruising and swelling, and a smoother initial result. it also means less actual injection points, with only 2-4 points used for the entire treatment process. These acces points are pre numbed using a topical cream meaning it is not painful.

How is HArmonyCA different to other products?

  • HArmonyCa vs Dermal fillers

    Regular Dermal fillers consist solely of cross linked hyaluronic acid molecules, whilst HArmonyCa has an additional ingredient called calcium hydroxyapatite, making it a hybrid filler. The addition of Calcium Hydroyapetite helps stimulates collagen meaning the effect lasts longer and also improves skin quality and tightness.

  • HArmonyCa vs Ellanse/Sculptra/Lanluma or Radiesse
    HarmonyCa is a new type of filler called hybrid filler that has benefits of both dissolvable dermal fillers and calcium hydroxyapatite which is known for biostimulation of collagen.  Ellanse / Sculptra / Lanluma are different formulations made up with varieties of Poly Lactic Acid that also stimulate collagen but don’t have any immediate lifting effects. Radiesse is the most similar to HarmonyCa, as it is also CaHa based. The cellulose carrier in Radiesse itself is reabsorbed more quickly than the hyaluronic acid meaning the contouring effect of HarmonyCa is more longlasting.

  • HArmonyCa vs Profhilo
    Profilho works to deeply hydrate the tissues, smoothing lines and wrinkles and improving the quality of the skin over time but only lasts for 4-6 months as it is not a cross linked hyaluronic acid. HArmonyCa not only hydrates with skin with hyaluronic acid but its additional ingredient of calcium hydroxyapatite means the results last longer and your skin as more of a lift also.

If you are interested in this procedure, or others mentioned here I would always advise a consultation first. Not everyone is suitable for every treatment, so a full medical consultation is required prior to proceeding in clinic to assess your skin quality, what is bothering you and see if this is a good solution for you.

Book this treatment

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Dr Sarah Kate Quinlivan Dr Sarah Kate Quinlivan

Polynucleotides - the new buzz word in Injectables:

The lowdown on Polynucleotide treatments…what are they, how do they work, and are they suitable for me?

Polynucleotide (PN) treatments, specifically Polydeoxyribonucleotide (PDRN), have been explored and studied extensively for their potential applications in skin rejuvenation and wound healing. The regenerative properties of nucleotides, which are the building blocks of nucleic acids like DNA help promote tissue repair, stimulate collagen production, and improve skin elasticity.

PDRN is commonly derived from salmon DNA fractions. Utilising highly specialised clinical filtration and ultra-purification process, there is no ‘matter’ remaining, just filtered, ultra purified and sterilised natural DNA fractions. It is so purified even those with allergies to fish are noted to be safe to use polynucleotides, with clinical trials reporting NO allergic reactions to date. We should also note that the salmon are not killed to obtain their DNA.

They have been used extensively in general medicine for over 35 years, with over 100 clinical studies demonstrating the benefits of Polynucleotide treatments for aiding skin health and repair. More recently, they have been utilised in the aesthetic medicine field with impressive results. Studies have shown that by upregulating your body’s natural fibroblast production, it can result in increased collagen (47% in 23 days) and a thicker, healthier epidermis (52% in 23 days).

The use of PDRN in dermatology and aesthetic medicine is associated with its potential to stimulate collagen production, enhance wound healing, and improve the overall quality of the skin. The idea is that by introducing PDRN to the skin, it may support cellular processes that contribute to tissue regeneration and skin rejuvenation.

Here are some potential aspects of polynucleotide treatments for the skin:

  1. Wound Healing and Tissue Repair:

    • Studies show that PDRN has positive effects on wound healing and tissue repair by promoting cell proliferation and migration. This property can be beneficial for addressing skin damage, including scars and other imperfections.

  2. Anti-Inflammatory Properties:

    • PDRN has been investigated extensively for its potential anti-inflammatory properties, which can be very beneficial for conditions involving skin inflammation. At the same time, they scavenge up free radicals [unstable molecules which accelerate ageing processes in the skin] and help build up the extra-cellular matrix.

  3. Collagen Stimulation:

    • Some research has explored the ability of PDRN to stimulate the production of collagen, a key protein that provides structure and firmness to the skin, contributes to skin texture and elasticity. Improved collagen levels can contribute to a more youthful and resilient complexion.

  4. Skin Rejuvenation:

    • PDRN treatments have been proposed for skin rejuvenation, aiming to improve skin texture, reduce fine lines, and enhance overall skin quality.

  5. Moisturization:

    • PDRN has moisturizing properties, contributing to improved skin hydration.

When and how often should I have treatment?

Polynucleotides are suitable at any age, at any time of year. I generally recommend them when you are starting to see the visual signs of skin ageing, namely crepey thinning skin which is lacking hydration, and lines starting to settle in.

Whilst there is a benefit to having even one syringe of polynucleotides, I recommend a course of at least 2-3, each spaced 2-4 weeks apart.

Polynucleotides can also be incorporated into other skin booster treatments such as Profhilo and Sunekos, and many more of the treatments I offer including anti wrinkle treatments. At your consultation I will be able to guide you through how and when to introduce a protocol.

When will I see results?

The first signs of improvement often begin around 7-10 days after your first treatment, with the full effects visible at around 3-4 weeks and improving for several months afterwards. The product itself is quickly resorbed, within 2-3 weeks. This is when I normally recommend your second, and subsequent treatments to take place. By doing so, we can maintain continued, active stimulation of fibroblast production, maximising short and long-term results.

How long does the effect last?

Polynucleotides differ from other, hyaluronic-based skin boosters and dermal fillers. Rather than giving skin a surge in collagen and elastin, or ‘plumping’ the skin with carefully placed temporary products, polynucleotides are catalysts in the regeneration of fibroblasts – the main cells within the skin’s structure.

The product itself is absorbed by the body fairly rapidly, having activated new cell production. Of course, we continue to age, but the clock has quite literally been turned back in your treated areas.

I recommend maintaining your treatment result by re treating about 9-12 months after your course.

Are polynucleotides safe?

Polynucleotides are generally very well-tolerated.

The main potential side effects relate to the site of the injection i.e. redness, swelling, bruising. More serious side effects, such as allergic reactions, are exceptionally rare.

Mostly after a treatment you may feel slightly numb (if a numbing agent has been used), and will have little bumps and raised reddish areas on the treated area. In some areas these will be hardly noticeable, whilst in others you may have a little more redness and inflammation at the site of treatment. The small bumps can linger for up to 4-5 days after the treatment for eg in the neck area but in most cases they are discreet and by the next day you are completely back to your normal activities.

Any pre-treatment consultation will fully assess and explain any risks for the individual patient.

What areas can I treat with this treatment?

Because the product comes in differing concentrations, we have products suitable for different skin areas and thicknesses. This makes this product incredibly versatile, as it can be used almost anywhere we have crepey ageing skin.

I particularly love this product for use around the eyes, particularly for patients who aren’t suitable for tear trough filler, or who might have a tendency to go puffy if treated with a hyaluronic-acid based products. They are also fantastic for improving the appearance of undereye dark circles.

Are there any contraindications for the treatment?

People with: circulatory disorders, ongoing dermatitis, diabetes, active herpes, autoimmune disease. may be contraindicated for this treatment. This will be discussed at the consultation stage. These treatments like many are also not appropriate for pregnancy or breastfeeding.

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