Fixing Undereye Bags

We all know that the skin underneath the eyes is thin and weak. That's why there is such a massive market of products available targeting this area, treating common problems as those dark purplish/bluish circles that appear when we're tired, bloated, or stressed (caused by visible and weakened blood vessels), and wrinkling. The fact that the skin is so fragile in this area also explains why one of the earliest cosmetic problems caused by aging is the development of under eye bags.

Eyelid surgery has long been the most effective way to eliminate undereye bags. However, with advances in cosmetic medicine, there is now a nonsurgical method to eliminate sagginess.

Undereye bags can be eliminated with injectable fillers. Also known as dermal fillers, hyaluronic acid-based products such as Juvederm and Restylane can be injected into the area to smooth out bagginess.

Injectable fillers may be a temporary solution, but it provides a great alternative to individuals who just can't afford the time and commitment surgery involves.

Inner Rim Eyeliner

There's nothing that achieves more definition than lining the inner rims of the eyes. Black or brown set against the whiteness of the sclera (the white part of the eye), it creates a dramatic effect that is incredibly sexy.

Unfortunately, this part of your makeup routine can cause several problems to the eye. It is unhygienic, can cause infection, sties, and even put you at risk of damaging your cornea if you don't have the steadiest of hands.

If you want to achieve the same dramatic effect, play it safe. Keep the eyeliner to the lids right where the eyelashes grow. where the

Latisse Approved by FDA

Okay, so for anyone who's been following news about Latisse (a drug that makes your eyelashes grow thicker and longer), you probably already know that it was approved by the FDA in December 2008. It's now being offered all over the US, only available at certified medical clinics since it's a drug that requires a prescription and the assistance of a medical professional.

Prices vary, ranging from about $100 to $130 for one month's worth.

Unfortunately, it's not available in Canada since Health Canada is still reviewing it.

Scarring after Blepharoplasty

In most cases, the incision during upper eyelid blepharoplasty is placed in a natural crease thereby resulting in a scar that is barely visible. However, in some cases, the incision may not heal properly or it may extend beyond the natural crease, making it visible whether the eye is open or closed. A visible scar may also be due to its width.

Cosmetics may provide adequate camoflauge if it is undesirable. Scar revision, a cosmetic procedure to minimize the appearance of scarring, may also be performed.

The Ideal Eyelid

Did you know that there is an "ideal" eyelid? Considered to be the most aesthetically pleasing, the "ideal" eyelid is one that is positioned just below the iris, at the top, while the lower lid should rest just above the bottom of the coloured part of the eye. While looking straight ahead, no white should be seen above or below the iris.

Sagging upper eyelids tend to cover too much of the top part of the iris, and sagging lower lids tend to show a little white.

Eyelash Lengthener

Lush eyelashes are the ultimate fashion statement. Youthful, flirty, and sexy, it's no wonder that for women, mascara is the most used cosmetic product. But it can be tiring to put on everyday, making sure it's clump and smudge free. Gunky lashes are a definite turn off, but how else can you get that long and thick fringe?

Don't go for the falsies. Try MD Lash Factor, an eyelash conditioner that has proven to make the appearance of your eyelashes thicker, lusher and fuller. A lit bit on the eyelash line once a day, and you'll have beautiful lashes in a month.

MD Lash Factor is available now at Toronto Cosmetic Clinic. Drop by or order online to purchase.

A Little History

Blepharoplasty has been around for a long time. In fact, surgical treatment of the eyelids has been around since Ancient Rome. In the first century, there are records of surgery performed by the Roman, Aulus Cornelius Celus, who attempted to relax the upper eyelids.

Today, blepharoplasty is the technical term for surgery targeting defects of the eyelids, whether it be cosmetic or functional. Excesses of fat or muscle may also be targeted, as long as they are related to the appearance or functionality of the eyelids.