It’s a common concern, and the fix isn’t always another serum or supplement.

BBL can help, but results are gradual and best with regular treatments. HALO delivers dramatic changes, but it comes with downtime – and not everyone has a few days to spare for recovery.

That’s exactly why we brought in SkinVive (skin-veev).

It’s the missing piece, a bridge between light facials and more intensive laser treatments. SkinVive an injectable that doesn’t change your face shape, offers immediate hydration, and fits easily into a busy schedule. Most patients are in and out in about two hours, and the smooth and hydrated skin lasts up to nine months.

(Why two hours? One hour for numbing cream, one for treatment. Then you’re back to your day.)

Minimal downtime. Subtle glow. Real results — lasting up to 9 months.

SkinVive is based on hyaluronic acid – the same ingredient found in your favorite serum, but it’s delivered in microdroplets deep into the skin where no topical can reach. It takes precision. That’s why it matters that our Aesthetic Nurse Injector, Alyssa, is trained specifically in the microdroplet technique required for SkinVive.

Skin looks smoother. Texture softens. That dull, tired look fades. And the glow finally comes back – not fake and shiny, just healthy and hydrated.

The key thing about SkinVive is that it doesn’t add volume or change your features. It’s subtle and low-key, the kind of treatment that makes people say

“You look amazing”

…without being able to put their finger on why.

And if the cost is holding you back, we’ve got options. Synergy is a Gold Tier BeautiFi provider, which means our patients get access to preferred rates and flexible financing.

Most SkinVive treatments can be financed over 12 months — that’s around $120 to $155/month. Weekly and biweekly plans are also available if that’s a better fit.

The post SkinVive Is Here: A Real Fix for Tired, Thirsty Skin appeared first on Synergy Medical BC.

We’re excited to introduce Alyssa Huth, LPN, our newest Certified Aesthetic Injector at Synergy!

Alyssa brings over a decade of nursing expertise, with the last six years dedicated to hands-on clinical work in family practice. Her passion for aesthetics, however, began much earlier in her career as a cosmetologist, where she developed a love for skincare and makeup artistry.

When the opportunity arose to advance her career as a nurse injector, Alyssa embraced it with enthusiasm. Her approach to injectables is all about creating subtle, natural-looking yet meaningful enhancements. Alyssa takes great care in using precisely placed products to achieve refreshed, balanced results that leave you looking and feeling your best.

The post Meet Our New Injector for Expert Botox & Filler Treatments in Nanaimo appeared first on Synergy Medical BC.

The Power of a Smile (Even a Fake One)

We’ve all heard the advice to “fake it till you make it”, especially when it comes to putting on a smile even when you’re not feeling particularly cheerful. But did you know there’s real science behind that advice? It’s called the facial feedback hypothesis, and it suggests that the act of smiling can actually trick your brain into feeling happier. The idea is that our facial expressions send signals to our brain, influencing our emotions. So when you force a smile, you might just find yourself feeling a little bit better.

Now, let’s flip that idea on its head. If smiling can make you feel happier, what happens when you’re constantly frowning or furrowing your brow? Spoiler alert: it can reinforce negative emotions. This is where Botox steps in like the hero we never knew we needed. By relaxing the muscles that create those frown lines, Botox might help break the cycle of negative emotions, giving your mood a much-needed boost.

Botox vs. the Blues

The idea that Botox could help with depression might sound far-fetched at first, but it’s actually backed by some pretty solid research. Back in 2012, a study published in the Journal of Psychiatric Research found that Botox injections in the frown lines between the eyebrows (the glabellar region, if we’re getting technical, see the picture below) led to significant improvements in depressive symptoms. And this wasn’t just a one-off finding — multiple other studies have since found similar results.

So, what’s going on here? One theory is that by blocking the ability to frown, Botox disrupts the brain’s feedback loop that reinforces feelings of sadness or stress. Think of it as cutting off the brain’s negative reinforcement at the source. Instead of sending those “I’m stressed” signals to your brain every time you furrow your brow, Botox helps keep those signals in check, giving you a little extra emotional breathing room.

Botox for Mental Wellness in Nanaimo

Let’s be clear: Botox isn’t a cure for depression, and it’s definitely not a replacement for therapy or medication. But for some people, especially those who haven’t found relief with traditional treatments, Botox could offer a little extra help in managing their symptoms. And the benefits might go beyond just reducing wrinkles — patients who get Botox for cosmetic reasons often report feeling less anxious and more confident, which suggests that Botox could have a broader impact on mental wellness.

It’s kind of amazing when you think about it: a treatment that’s known for freezing time on your face might also help melt away some of your emotional stress. While the idea of using Botox for mental health is still relatively new, it’s gaining traction, and the results so far are pretty exciting.

As research continues to explore the connection between Botox and mental health, we might start to see this treatment in a whole new light. Sure, Botox will probably always be most famous for its wrinkle-smoothing abilities, but its potential to improve mental wellness adds an intriguing new dimension to this popular procedure. Who knew that a quick visit to your aesthetician could leave you looking — and feeling — better than ever?

The mind-body connection is a powerful thing, and Botox’s ability to influence both our appearance and our emotions offers a fascinating glimpse into how interconnected we really are. Whether you’re considering Botox for cosmetic reasons, or you’re intrigued by its potential mental health benefits, one thing is clear: this treatment is about more than just looks. It’s about feeling good, inside and out.

So, Should You Give Botox a Try?

If you’re curious about how Botox might help you — whether it’s smoothing out wrinkles, boosting your mood, or both — it’s worth having a conversation with a professional. At Synergy Medical Aesthetics in Lantzville, we’re here to help you explore all the options and find the right injectable treatment for you.

The post Botox for Mental Health: How “Fake It Till You Make It” Takes on a Whole New Meaning appeared first on Synergy Medical BC.

When most people hear “Botox,” they immediately think of smoothing out wrinkles and fine lines on the face. While Botox is indeed popular for achieving youthful, smooth skin, its uses extend far beyond just wrinkle reduction. At Synergy in Nanaimo, we utilize Botox in several innovative ways that can enhance your appearance and significantly improve your quality of life. Here are some surprising and beneficial uses of Botox that you might not know about.

Smooth Out Neck and Jaw

You know those neck bands that are most visible when we speak or laugh? Botox can be used to relax muscles in the neck, reducing tension and the appearance of neck bands for a smoother, more contoured neck and jawline. This subtle change can make a significant difference, providing a more refined and youthful profile.

More about Botox at Synergy

Reduce or Eliminate Excessive Sweating

Hyperhidrosis, or excessive sweating, can affect any part of the body, including the hands, feet, underarms, and face. Botox can be used to temporarily block the sweat glands and effectively reduce excessive sweating, so you can feel comfortable and confident in any situation. Imagine going through your day without worrying about sweat stains or damp palms — just comfort and ease.

Explore Botox for Hyperhidrosis

Reduce Frequency and Severity of Migraines

For those who suffer from chronic migraines, the pain can be debilitating. By injecting Botox into specific areas of the head and neck, we can help reduce the frequency and severity of migraine attacks, providing significant relief for sufferers. This treatment can offer a new lease on life for migraine sufferers, allowing them to engage more fully in their daily activities without the constant fear of an impending headache.

Explore Botox for Migraines

Botox Lip Flip – Fuller Look Without Fillers

Dreaming of fuller, more defined lips but not quite ready for fillers? The Botox Lip Flip might be the perfect solution for you. This technique involves injecting Botox into the muscles around the lips, causing them to relax and the upper lip to flip slightly upward. This creates the appearance of a fuller, more defined lip without altering the natural texture of your lips. It’s a subtle yet effective way to enhance your smile.

All about Botox Lip Flip

The Versatility of Botox

Botox is not just a one-trick pony. Its versatility makes it a valuable staple in our toolbox of aesthetic treatments. Whether you’re looking to refine your neck and jawline, reduce excessive sweating, find relief from migraines, or enhance your lips, Botox offers a solution that can significantly enhance your confidence and simplify your lifestyle.

Book Your Consultation Today

At Synergy Medical Aesthetics, we are dedicated to helping you discover the full potential of Botox and other treatments to enhance your appearance and improve your quality of life. Our experienced team is here to guide you through the options and create a personalized treatment plan tailored to your needs. Book a complimentary consultation with us today and find out how Botox can work wonders for you.

The post Four Unusual Ways We Use Botox appeared first on Synergy Medical BC.

Are you thinking about combining treatments on the same day to maximize your time? It’s now more common to pair injectables like Botox with facial treatments for enhanced results. But when is it safe, and what combinations offer the most benefit? Here are some tips for those looking to streamline their aesthetic care without compromising on safety or results.

✅ Botox and BBL “Forever Young” Photofacial

The Broad-band Light Forever Young treatment is a phototherapy procedure (it’s light, not laser) designed to target signs of aging and sun damage, delivering a refreshed and youthful skin appearance. We will typically administer Botox on the same treatment day but only after a BBL treatment, not before. This gives patients the dual benefits of enhanced skin texture and tone, with reduced muscle activity that leads to wrinkles.

✅ Botox and BelaMD Hydrofacial

The BelaMD Hydro Facial is known for its gentle exfoliation and deep hydration, making it an excellent base treatment for Botox injections. We perform the hydrofacial first to prepare the skin, followed by Botox injections. This order of treatments ensures that the skin is in an optimal state for Botox to be administered, providing an immediate boost in skin quality with the long-term benefit of reduced lines and wrinkles.

⚠️ Botox and Microcurrent aka Electroporation

A word of caution about microcurrent. Typically, one of the steps in a BelaMD treatment is electroporation, or microcurrent. Microcurrent devices are designed to open up the pores for better absorption of skincare products and stimulate your facial muscles. If you’ve recently had Botox, be sure to tell your aesthetician about it and point out the areas where you had Botox injections, even if it’s been a few weeks since your treatment. Our medical aestheticians will then steer clear of treating affected areas with the microcurrent device. The reason for avoiding Botox-treated areas is that the microcurrents can temporarily intensify muscle activity, which might speed up Botox breakdown, shortening its effect.

That said, if it’s been 3 to 4 months since your last injection and you’re getting ready to “top up” soon, then this is no longer a concern and the microcurrent device can be used on those areas that you normally get treated with Botox.

✅ Botox and Chemical Peels or Microneedling

When combining Botox with other facial treatments, it’s important to consider the type of facial and the mechanisms at play. For example, treatments that involve significant manipulation of the skin or deeper exfoliation, like chemical peels or microneedling, may require a waiting period before or after Botox injections to ensure the best results and to reduce the risk of spreading the botulinum toxin beyond the desired area.

In all cases, the golden rule is to consult with a our aesthetic professionals. A consultation can help determine the best treatment plan, tailored to individual needs and taking into account the most current clinical guidelines. This personalized approach ensures that you can safely enjoy the compounded benefits of these advanced skincare treatments while saving time.

The post Can you have Botox on the same day as your facial? appeared first on Synergy Medical BC.

How Does BOTOX Work?

Wrinkles and lines on the face are the result of muscle activity below the skin. A smile is the sign of a happy person, but all that smiling has the unfortunate side effect of forming creases known as “dynamic wrinkles.”

BOTOX diminishes muscle activity in the area where wrinkles are most prominent, such as:

• The forehead
• Between the eyebrows
• The corners of the eyes
• Around the nose

Careful injections of BOTOX Cosmetic arrest the facial muscles and smooth fine lines and wrinkles, resulting in a younger appearance.

What Should I Expect from BOTOX Treatment?

BOTOX injections are an in-office procedure. They generally take no longer than 20 minutes to administer.

Results from BOTOX® Cosmetic can take up to two weeks to become fully apparent. Side effects such as swelling at the injection site and localized bruising are possible, but these are usually short-lived.

Is BOTOX Right for Me?

The best way to find out if you are a BOTOX candidate is to contact Synergy Medical Aesthetics for an evaluation. Our doctors will discuss your goals for cosmetic rejuvenation and help you find the best treatment option for your needs.

BOTOX is suitable for women and men, although women who are pregnant or breastfeeding should forgo treatment.

It’s important to understand that BOTOX® Cosmetic is not a permanent solution. The effects of BOTOX wear off after several months, and followup treatments may be necessary to recapture results. Patients who undergo repeat treatment may find that results last longer with subsequent use.

How Much Does BOTOX Cost?

When you search for nearby BOTOX providers, you will likely find differences in prices. Two factors have a major influence on the price of BOTOX treatment: the number of units required, and the skill and experience of the provider.

Treatment requires multiple units, with the number varying based on the area receiving the injection and other individual factors. Doctors at Synergy Medical Aesthetics personalize BOTOX treatments for your needs, so you will know upfront how many units are required and what the injections will cost.

Many different practices offer BOTOX Cosmetic, with some businesses advertising low or discounted pricing. However, for best results, it is vitally important to choose a qualified, experienced provider.

Does BOTOX Only Have Cosmetic Benefits?

No! At Synergy Medical Aesthetics, we also provide BOTOX for patients who suffer from chronic migraines. Much like BOTOX Cosmetic injections for facial wrinkles, strategic injections can also neutralize muscles in the face and head that contribute to migraine headaches.

In addition, BOTOX is also an option for patients who suffer from excess sweating, or hyperhidrosis.

Find out if BOTOX® is right for you. Contact Synergy Medical Aesthetics by calling 250-591-1566 today. We serve patients all over Vancouver Island, including Nanaimo, Victoria, and nearby areas of British Columbia.

The post Common Questions about BOTOX appeared first on Synergy Medical BC.

Botox Injecton Area for TMJ

Bulky muscle mass or “square” face are also common in people who clench and/or grind their teeth on a regular basis. Botulism protein can soften the bulky muscle mass of the face and, in many cases, help reshape the musculature of the jawline.

These injections can be a fast and effective treatment for patients with enlarged muscle mass on their jawline or for those patients suffering from TMJ disorders and tension headaches, thus improving their quality of life.

At Synergy Medical Aesthetics, patients count on our expertise for sound evidence-based recommendations on how to best slow the signs of aging.  Contact us for consultation with our trained staff and board certified specialists.  250-591-1566

The post What is TMJ Disorder and How Can Botox Injections Help to Relieve the Associated Symptoms appeared first on Synergy Medical BC.

Which One Should You Choose?

The botulism protein injections offered at Synergy may have different results for each patient. Trying one over the over will help you decide which is most effective for you. Observations to consider as you choose include:

• You may see different or better effects with one or the other
• The injectables do not differ in longevity of results
• The injectables do not differ in how rapidly they work

Injectables will soften forehead lines for up to four months. You can try one after the other wears off, to see if you notice a difference in effect. Overall, they will provide similar results in a similar manner.

Seek Customized Recommendations

At Synergy Medical Aesthetics, we want to make sure you know all of your options for achieving the effect you want. If you are interested in a neuromodulator, it is great for treating wrinkles caused by repeated facial expressions:

• Glabellar lines (vertical lines between the eyebrows, which are also called “frown lines”)
• Horizontal forehead lines
• Crow’s feet at the outer corners of the eyes
• Lines on either side of the nose, which are sometimes lovingly referred to as “bunny lines”

Either one of the wrinkle-relaxing injectables can be applied to these areas. When injected into the underlying muscle, neuromodulators relax the contractions and activity of the targeted area, allowing the skin to smooth out.

After meeting with you in a one-on-one consultation, Dr. Barnsley can determine whether a wrinkle relaxer, dermal filler or a surgical procedure may be the best fit for your goals. Neuromodulator injections are specific in that they treat wrinkles formed by repeated muscle activity. Other wrinkles are formed by the loss of fat beneath the skin, which creates a fold where the volume is deficient. These volume-based wrinkles are better treated with a filler like Juvederm, and not a neuromodulator.

Arrange Your Consultation in Nanaimo

To schedule your consultation with our experienced physicians, please call Synergy Medical Aesthetics at 250-591-1566. Our guests visit us from across the surrounding region of British Columbia. We look forward to helping you decide if Neuromodulators may be right for you.

The post Injection Brands for Wrinkle Reduction appeared first on Synergy Medical BC.

To learn more about our non-surgical facial rejuvenation treatments in Nanaimo, BC, please call Synergy Medical Aesthetics at 250-591-1566.

Why Consider Fillers?

Fillers are injections of smooth gel that tackle some of the most common signs of aging. They address the following issues:

• Fine lines and wrinkles
• Loss of natural volume beneath the skin
• Provide lift to hollow areas such as the cheeks and below the eyes
• Sculpt the contours and overall shape of the face

As you age, the supportive structures beneath your skin diminish. These structures include collagen, fat, elastin and hyaluronic acid. These three components are largely responsible for the plump, hydrated, smooth appearance of young skin. Fillers restore lost volume and thereby provide more youthful-looking skin.

Additionally, fillers can plump and enhance the lips. Lip augmentation is in fact one of the most popular uses of cosmetic injectables. The overall shape of the lips is sculpted to ideal contours, and adding volume creates an attractive pout.

Benefits of Dermal Fillers

These injections continue to gain popularity across British Columbia. And for good reason! Consider some of the benefits of fillers:

• Non-surgical
• Little to no downtime following treatment
• Completed in one appointment
• Do not require anesthesia to administer
• Relatively low upfront cost compared to surgery
• Arrange an appointment with us to find out if they will benefit you.

Dermal Fillers at Synergy Medical Aesthetics

At our Nanaimo practice, we offer the following fillers:

Restylane Skinboosters™, which is composed of tiny, micro-sized droplets of hyaluronic acid. A natural form of HA exists in your skin, so results from HA fillers look and feel like the real thing. It can be used on the hands or the face, both of which begin to look aged and hollow as natural HA diminishes. Restylane Skinboosters™ restore firm, smooth skin that looks hydrated and luminous.

Juvederm® and Restylane® also use hyaluronic acid to soften wrinkles and folds across the face. These fillers address deep folds extending from the nose down to the corners of your mouth. They restore youthful volume to sunken cheeks, enhance the lips and soften the appearance of small lines around your lips.

When you visit us for a consultation, Dr. Philip Barnsley will be able to determine if one of these injectable fillers will work for your goals. Dr. Barnsley is an experienced specialist who understands conditions affecting the skin and can determine the appropriate treatments. They will examine your face for the signs of aging you are experiencing, and let you know if one of these fillers will be appropriate.

Find Out If Injectable Fillers Are Right For You

If you are interested in non-surgical facial rejuvenation in Nanaimo or the surrounding areas of British Columbia, please call Synergy Medical Aesthetics at 250-591-1566. Our filler and injectable treatments are tailored to your unique goals.

The post A Complete Guide to Fillers appeared first on Synergy Medical BC.