Category Beauty

Dark circles can affect people of all ages. They make you look stressed, tired, and much older than you are. People who are impacted by dark circles will often do anything to get rid of them and instead have a more wakeful and youthful-looking appearance. In some cases, dark circles are genetic and require dark circle removal. However, certain lifestyle factors can reduce the appearance of dark circles. Below, you will find tips for incorporating lifestyle changes to reduce dark circles.

 

Lifestyle Changes to Reduce Dark Circles

Despite being a common issue, dark circles can have a profound negative impact on the way people feel about their facial appearance. Luckily, there are treatment options available, including surgery at a top cosmetic eye care center. If you are less inclined toward surgery for dark spot removal, consider incorporating the following lifestyle changes to reduce the presence of your dark circles.

 

Eat a Balanced Diet

Nutrition has a substantial influence on your mental and physical health as well as your appearance.  A well-balanced diet can offer many benefits, including a slimmer waistline, clearer, smoother skin, and more energy. When attempting to reduce dark circles, create a diet that prioritizes foods rich in vitamin C, vitamin E, and iron. Vitamin C is an antioxidant that promotes collagen; vitamin E aids in moisture retention; and iron reduces the appearance of dark circles and pale skin. A nutrient-rich diet can help improve your skin and health.

 

Stay Hydrated All Day

We understand life can get busy, and drinking water is not always a leading priority. Unfortunately, neglecting the need for significant water intake can seriously impact the look of your skin. Dehydration can result in dull skin and dark circles, along with a host of other unwanted issues like constipation, fatigue, and poor mood. Aim for 8 to 10 glasses of water (approximately 3.2 liters) each day. If you struggle to remember to drink water, add reminders on your phone to alert you. Carry a water bottle around until you get into the habit of drinking enough water.

 

Protect Your Skin

Sun exposure can lead to hyperpigmentation, which commonly impacts the area under your eyes. You should wear sunscreen on a daily basis, even if you do not go outdoors. Even indirect sunlight, through windows, for example, can still impact your skin. Opt for sunscreen of at least SPF 30 for optimal protection. In addition to wearing sunscreen, stay inside during peak sun hours. If you need to go outside, apply sunscreen and wear sunglasses that have UV protection, a wide-brimmed hat, and protective clothing.

 

Avoid Consuming Certain Substances

Drinking alcohol and smoking can impact your skin and overall health in numerous ways. Even moderate substance use can contribute to the appearance of dark circles, so always engage in moderation for the sake of your health and appearance. Alcohol is known for causing dehydration, which can make dark circles more pronounced. Smoking causes premature aging by damaging chromosomes in the white blood cells and negatively impacts the look of your skin.

 

Focus on Getting Good Rest

One of the most common causes of dark circles is poor sleep, whether that is difficulty falling or difficulty staying asleep. Not getting enough sleep or getting poor quality sleep not only impacts your appearance but also your physical and mental health. Aim for at least 7 to 9 hours of sleep each night. Take the time to find a healthy sleep hygiene routine that works for you so you can get the sleep you need.

 

Cosmetic Eye Care Center

If you have incorporated lifestyle changes that have not helped your dark circles, contact the team at Nevada Eye Plastic Surgery to schedule a consultation!  

While practicing skincare is not new to the modern age, it has become increasingly popular in recent years. As the practice becomes more popular, the available treatment options become more numerous and widespread. Naturally, this also leads to the rise of unexpected treatments. One such treatment is the Kim Kardashian-approved Salmon Sperm Facial.

Bustle recently spoke with Beverly Hills Plastic Surgery Inc.’s own Dr. Gabriel Chiu about the Salmon Sperm Facial. We recap their discussion below.

Is It Actually Sperm?

The name Salmon Sperm Facial is not exactly a misnomer, but it does simplify the reality of the facial. The facial is performed by injecting Rejuran under a patient’s skin to improve their skin elasticity and give their complexion a smoother and more youthful appearance. The main ingredient in Rejuran is PDRN, which scientists extract from salmon milt, the sperm-containing fluid in male fish. This means that while the Salmon Sperm Facial does not directly use salmon sperm for treatment, it does utilize components from the same source.

The History of Salmon Sperm in Skincare

Though the use of salmon sperm as a skincare tool may seem contemporary, Dr. Chiu explained to the team at Bustle that salmon sperm has had a use in skincare for many years. In fact, he said that salmon milt has been used in skincare since the 1980s and has been used as a bio-stimulator “for about 15 years.” Additionally, Bustle says that the modern version of the Salmon Sperm Facial has been around for about nine years.

What is the Process?

Dr. Chiu describes the facial as “the injection of Rejuran in microdroplets under the skin of the face and neck.” In this way, it is similar to other dermal filler procedures, which involve injecting patients under the skin for the desired effect.

Benefits of Salmon Sperm Facial

The idea of the facial can initially be challenging to get behind. Nonetheless, the procedure has some truly incredible benefits. Dr. Chiu describes some of the benefits himself in his interview with Bustle, saying, “Some of the most notable benefits of the salmon sperm facial are that it smooths the texture of the skin, shrinks pores, reduces acne scars, improves skin hydration, promotes collagen production, improves fine lines, and reverses signs of aging.”

Even better, Dr. Chiu also stated to Bustle that “any skin type can benefit from the treatment,” so anyone interested in the Salmojn Sperm Facial can undergo it. Like most skincare treatments, though, it is best for older patients. Dr. Chiu specifically stated that “those with skin damage from sun exposure and aging are likely to see the most [results]” from the procedure.

That said, the treatment’s incredible benefits should not be a huge surprise, as there are many studied benefits of fish oil and fish-heavy diets. Still, just as there are benefits to the Salmon Sperm Facial, there are risks to be aware of.

Risks of Salmon Sperm Facial

As with all cosmetic procedures, the Salmon Sperm Facial has some risks. These include injection site reactions, such as swelling, bruising, and redness, though these symptoms should disappear a few days after treatment. A more serious reaction would occur if a patient is allergic to PDRN. This is unlikely but not impossible, so it is essential to speak with a doctor if considering this facial.

Chiu’s Final Thoughts on the Facial

Dr. Chiu concluded his discussion with Bustle by summarizing his thoughts on the procedure: “Only time will tell if the Salmon Sperm Facial will actually gain FDA approval in the US. I’m sure that there are many who will jump on the bandwagon to exploit the latest trends, but from what I have reviewed about its claims versus actual results, I won’t be jumping on just yet.”

Stretch marks are an unfortunate physical trait that can be an eyesore for those who have them. Getting rid of them can be somewhat aggravating, as they tend to arise suddenly or after events out of a patient’s control. However, there are steps an individual can take to stop stretch marks from forming in the first place. These preventative measures can save a patient a large amount of time and money in the long run. If you have stretch marks or are worried that you may be vulnerable to developing them, this guide describes how stretch marks can be prevented.

What are Stretch Marks?

Stretch marks, also known as striae, are indented streaks that appear on various parts of the body when the skin is stretched beyond its comfort zone.

Stretch marks are not of medical concern but can be aesthetically bothersome. Often, stretch marks fade naturally over time. However, some stretch marks tend to linger and require professional intervention to resolve. Long-lasting stretch marks have the potential to worsen one’s well-being by diminishing self-esteem and one’s self-image. Therefore, if a person has the ability and resources to get rid of their stretch marks, they will likely see the payoff in the long run.

What are the Symptoms of Stretch Marks?

Stretch marks can appear in many different forms. That said, there are many easy-to-identify signs of stretch marks, such as:

• Itchiness
• Irritation
• Discoloration on the skin
• Sunken lines under the skin
• Glossy-looking skin

Of course, stretch marks will appear and function differently for each person, and it never hurts to have an expert assess your stretch marks to determine their severity.

Risk Factors for Stretch Marks

Several factors can increase the likelihood that an individual develops stretch marks. Being aware of these factors can help you prepare for and take more active steps to treat stretch marks. Qualities that increase the chance of one developing stretch marks are:

• Being overweight
• Being pregnant
• Using corticosteroids
• Undergoing breast augmentation
• Having certain genetic disorders
• Having a family history of stretch marks

Can Stretch Marks Be Prevented?

Luckily, stretch marks can be prevented. There are several methods for preventing stretch marks, and finding out which ones best suit your routine can help provide a sense of security that you will be able to prevent their development. Those interested in preventing stretch marks should consider adhering to the following:

• Drink enough water: Hydration is one of the best lines of defense for the body in general and can help prevent the development of stretch marks.
• Eat plenty of Vitamin C: Vitamin C is one of the best compounds for skin health and is doubly useful for preventing stretch marks. Including a healthy amount in your diet can help you prevent the development of stretch marks.
• Control your weight: Dramatic weight loss or gain is one of the most common causes of stretch marks. Making more modest and gradual weight gains can help prevent the development of stretch marks.
• Eat plenty of nutrients: Eating a well-balanced diet high in nutrients can maintain the presence of collagen and elastin fibers in your skin, making it less susceptible to stretch marks.
• Keep track of when they appear: It is easier to treat stretch marks that have recently appeared than those that have been left to linger. Making an appointment with a dermatologist sooner rather than later can help you resolve this issue before it becomes too severe.
• Get plenty of sun: Vitamin D is another compound essential for skin health. Fortunately, the sun is a plentiful source of Vitamin D. Getting some healthy sun on the parts of your skin that you often cover can help prevent the development of stretch marks. If you are sensitive to the sun, consider taking a vitamin D supplement.

Your Cosmetic Resource in Beverly Hills

Epione Plastic Surgery offers a full suite of resources to aid patients in fading their stretch marks or preventing their development. If you would like to discuss stretch marks with a cosmetic dermatologist in Beverly Hills, contact our office today to schedule a consultation.

Hands are one of the most visible and exposed parts of the body. Given their vast set of utilitarian purposes, it shouldn’t surprise that these appendages are some of the most vulnerable parts of the body to the affects of aging. Why do hands age so quickly?

Why Do Hands Age So Quickly?

Many people would implement higher levels of hand care if they knew the best way to approach this type of care. If you’re concerned about trying to keep the effects of aging away from your hands, then take a look at this overview of the subject with relation to cosmetic dermatology.  

Differences in the Skin

The skin of the hands is much more delicate than the skin on our faces. However, the hands receive almost as much sun exposure as our faces, and we feel the effects of this exposure much more severely than the latter body part.

Age spots, fine lines and wrinkles can all start to appear on the skin of one’s hands much more quickly than on other parts of the body. For this reason, the hands can oftentimes appear older than the rest of an individual.

Sun Damage

The hands are a part of the body that is prone to sun damage. This is partially because individuals have a tendency to neglect to protect this part of the body from solar rays with sunblock and the like. Over time, the sun wil definitely impact the appearance and health of the skin of your hands.

Vigorous application of SPF sunblock is one way to protect your hands against the harmful rays of the sun. Reapplying sunblock to your hands after they get wet will help to apply continual protection to them.

Weathering the Elements

Constant exposure to the elements can make the skin of one’s hands appearance – well, weathered after some time. The hands are one of the parts of the body most exposed to this type of problem.

Cold temperatures, strong winds, ice, and snow, as well as artificial weather-producing conditions such as air conditioning and central heating, can all impact the health of the skin of the hands. Small steps such as wearing gloves when outside can make a difference, as can applying moisturizer frequently.

Excessive Movement

On the face, expressions such as frowning and smiling can eventually produce fine lines and wrinkles on one’s appearance over time. The hands are also prone to such sensitivities, though from a much different range of motions.

Typing, gripping, lifting and shaking are tend to impact the hands more and more as time goes on. These types of aging indications tend to increase as time goes on, and one age in another way. This is partially due to the fact that the skin loses much of its elasticity and ability to recuperate from this type of gradual wear and tear.

Day to Day Wear and Tear

Even outside of the stresses taken on by the hands by day-to-day movements, these appendages are prone to other types of stressors as time goes on. The skin of the hands is exposed to large amounts of chemical and substantive materials over the course of the day. This includes things like handwashes, sanitizers, and other materials that are applied to the skin.

Even regular application of soap can dry the skin of the hands and make things like fine lines and the like appear more prominent. Being diligent about applying moisturizer and other skincare products while performing household chores can help you stay on top of these types of subtle changes in your appearance.

Insufficient Skincare

The skin needs to be cared for, otherwise it will inevitably suffer in some form or fashion. Usually, the skin of our faces is given the most attention, with copious amounts of beauty products being directed at preserving the vivacity of this part of the body.

There are plenty of beauty products for the hands, but due to the excessive wear and tear that can be applied to the hands, as well as the amount of washing that is applied to them over the course of the day, means that these can often be washed away accidentally. For this reason, it’s important to stay mindful of where and how you’re giving your hands the care they need.

The Best Plastic Surgeon in Beverly Hills

Epione Plastic Surgeon is one of the best resources for plastic surgery for discerning clients in LA. If you’re interested in receiving a consultation to see how you can improve the appearance of the skin of your hands with non-surgical hand rejuvenation, contact us today in order to schedule a consultation.

I’ve attended many weddings. Big ones. Small ones. Formal ballroom events and backyard celebrations under the stars. And I’ve learned something: the most memorable weddings aren’t always the fanciest.

They’re the ones with a little spark of fun. A surprise. A personal twist. Something that makes people lean in and say, *“This is so them.”*

As a live wedding painter, I get to stand off to the side and take it all in. I see what guests love. I see what they photograph. What they talk about. What they remember.

Here are ten fun wedding ideas that always leave an impression—plus one you might not have thought of yet.

1. Live Wedding Painting (Yes, I’m Biased—but It’s True)

When I start painting at a wedding, I usually go unnoticed at first. Then people see the canvas. They realize I’m painting the couple live, in real time. That’s when the buzz starts.

Guests love watching the painting unfold. It gives them something to talk about, reevaluate, and photograph. It’s entertainment, art, and storytelling in one.

And for the couple? They walk away with a one-of-a-kind keepsake. Something more personal than a photo. A moment frozen in brushstrokes.

I’ve had guests tear up watching the final reveal. I’ve seen people bring their kids over to watch and explain what I’m doing. It’s not just a painting—it becomes part of the wedding itself.

2. Late-Night Snacks That Hit the Spot

Dinner might be amazing. But at 10 p.m., when the drinks are flowing and feet are sore from dancing, nothing beats a late-night snack station.

Think: sliders, tacos, donut walls, or a build-your-own mac and cheese bar.

One couple I painted had a food truck roll up with grilled cheese sandwiches and tomato soup shots. People were lined up like it was a festival. It was cozy, nostalgic, and fun.

3. A DIY Cocktail or Mocktail Bar

Guests love a chance to customize something. That’s why build-your-own drink bars are such a hit.

Set out fresh herbs, flavored syrups, fruit, and mixers. Let people get creative with their cocktails or mocktails.

At one wedding I attended, there was a “Pimp Your Prosecco” table. Berries, edible flowers, peach purée… it was elegant and interactive.

4. Audio Guest Books (Way More Fun Than Just Signing)

The old guest book? It’s fine. But an audio guest book? That’s fun.

Picture a vintage rotary phone sitting on a table. Guests pick it up, leave you a message, and hang up. Later, you get a collection of recordings, sweet, funny, sometimes tipsy, capturing the vibe of the night.

It’s modern nostalgia. And it feels alive.

5. Live Music with Personality

A DJ can keep the party going, but a live band brings soul. Even better? Bands that mix it up.

I once painted a wedding where the band switched between jazz, Motown, and 90s throwbacks. The energy in the room was electric. People who never dance were out there showing off moves they hadn’t used in years.

Want a twist? Try a string quartet that plays Beyoncé. Or a roaming acoustic guitarist during cocktail hour.

6. Unexpected Ceremony Surprises

The ceremony doesn’t have to be serious from start to finish. Add one fun element to surprise your guests.

I’ve seen flower grandmothers tossing petals down the aisle. A couple who walked out to a marching band. A dog as the ring bearer wearing a tiny tux.

These little moments break the ice. They make the ceremony feel like yours, not just a script.

7. Interactive Guest Activities

Give people something to do between events or during cocktail hour.

Ideas I’ve seen work well:

• Lawn games (giant Jenga, cornhole)
• A wedding-themed crossword on each table
• A mini portrait station (yes, sometimes I bring a friend who paints guests too!)
• Polaroid photo walls with clips and string

These little extras help fill gaps in the schedule and get people mingling.

8. Custom Dance Floor Props

This one’s simple but so fun.

Glow sticks. Light-up foam batons. Sunglasses with your wedding hashtag. Cowboy hats. Whatever fits your vibe.

As soon as the dance floor opens, bring out the props. I’ve seen guests turn into backup dancers, boy bands, and line-dancing pros in seconds.

It’s a small touch with big energy.

9. A Signature Scent or Candle Favor

This is a trend that’s catching on, and I love it.

One couple had a custom candle made that matched the scent of their venue. Guests took one home as a favor. Now, every time they light it, they remember the wedding.

It’s sensory, personal, and feels a little luxurious.

10. Themed Dress Code or Color Pop

Give guests something playful to wear. Maybe it’s “a touch of tropical” or “wear something red.” It doesn’t have to be a costume party—just a theme that ties everyone together visually.

I once painted a wedding where everyone wore shades of green. The photos were stunning. The energy was unified. And people *loved* being part of the design.

Just Make It Fun!

You don’t need to plan a circus to have fun. Just one or two personal, joyful touches can take your wedding from expected to unforgettable.

Guests remember how they felt. What made them laugh? The details that show your personality.

Whether it’s a painting unfolding in real time… a donut wall at midnight… or your grandma tossing petals down the aisle—those are the stories they’ll tell.

And as someone lucky enough to witness dozens of these moments up close, I can tell you: the fun stuff sticks.

So don’t be afraid to make it yours. Make it fun. And make it unforgettable.