The evolution of beauty developments and aesthetic medicine has been astonishing in the last decade. Previously, in order to remove hair, a woman’s only option was a razor, painful electrolysis, or waxing. Nowadays everyone knows about laser hair removal. If we suffered from acne, women were relegated to topical treatments, facials and anti-biotics. Now we have high tech options such as Isolaz. Solutions for anti-aging and other beauty problems have evolved from being available only in a physician’s office, then to spas and now to our own homes! Just how effective are these at home treatments and devices? We asked Dr. Sandra Lee, an Upland, California Dermatologist for her input. As a female board certified dermatologist she is in a unique position to understand how alluring these products can be. Are they helpful or just hype?

TRIA Laser Hair Removal System ($395, Triabeauty.com)

What it is: With looks that conjure a hand-held retro sci-fi weapon, this laser takes aim at unwanted body hair by targeting the hair's dark pigment and using heat to disable the follicle so hair doesn't grow back. The device is designed to work only on fair to medium skin tones (there's a skin color chart on the site) because if skin is too dark, a laser potentially could burn. And it doesn't work on gray, blond, or red hair. The TRIA website states that the device is not to be used on neck, face or genitalia.

The claim: "The TRIA Laser Hair Removal System is the only FDA-cleared at home laser hair removal system that provides permanent, hair-free results."

Dr. Lee’s Verdict: Dr. Lee has mixed feelings regarding this system. “My concern is that at physician’s offices and spas there are already an alarmingly high incidence of untoward side effects from laser hair removal- even when treatment is done by a professional. We have seen burns on the skin, which can lead to permanent scarring. If you use this device, use it wisely and don't ignore the warnings. Dr. Lee does caution that, I can't imagine that this device is as strong and effective as a $100,000 laser at a physician's office. There is a wider range of people that would respond to the professional laser. I think this device would be most useful as a supplement to professional laser hair removal, although it may be useful in getting rid of the "straggler" hairs that still remain because they may have been missed when treated professionally.

Palovia Skin Renewing Laser ($499, Palovia.com)

What it is: An at-home anti-aging system with a device that pulses laser light into skin around the eyes. The user applies a gel, and then holds the laser device to the skin around each eye briefly.

The claim: "The first FDA-cleared, at-home laser clinically proven to reduce fine lines and wrinkles around the eyes."

Dr. Lee’s Verdict: The before and after pictures on their website are impressive, but no where on the website can a physician or consumer learn what laser wavelength this device uses. After some extensive searching, Dr. Lee finally found the laser specifications at the end of the instruction booklet. This laser is called a "non-ablative fractional laser" which means it is not supposed to damage the surface of the skin (i.e. no downtime) and only treats a portion of the skin. Dr. Lee explains that, “Non ablative fractional lasers are supposed to heat small columns of the deeper skin layers to promote new collagen production, plump the skin and minimize wrinkles. At 1410 nm wavelength which is in the infrared part of the spectrum, this laser is essentially generating heat in an area, with the hope of triggering collagen formation. Dr. Lee surmises that, “Heat is causing a little swelling and increased blood flow to the area causing the wrinkles to improve temporarily.” Although the skin may appear more radiant, Dr. Lee is doubtful if this is having any long term or permanent effects.

The Tanda Regenerate Anti-Aging Starter Kit or Acne Kit ($250, Sephora.com)

What it is: An FDA-cleared New-Age-looking light therapy device that glows red if you buy the anti-aging kit, blue for the acne kit. After you cover your face with the serum or gel, you hold the device for three minutes over each targeted area.

The claim: "A light therapy device combining proven light therapy and botanically-based, light-optimized topicals to provide natural, non-invasive, scientifically proven solutions for common unwanted skin conditions."

What it is: Utilizing LED light therapy, a blue laser light activates porphyry in our skin which leads to the increased destruction of P. acnes, a bacteria that inhabits our acne. By killing these bacteria within the acne it may resolve acne spots sooner. Dr. Lee is quick to point out that, “If you are acne prone, seeing a dermatologist will enable you to get a prescription to lessen the chance of acne break outs in the first place.”

Dr. Lee’s Verdict: Dr. Lee has mixed feelings regarding this system. “My concern is that at physician’s offices and spas there are already an alarmingly high incidence of untoward side effects from laser hair removal- even when treatment is done by a professional. We have seen burns on the skin, which can lead to permanent scarring. If you use this device, use it wisely and don't ignore the warnings. Dr. Lee does caution that, “I can't imagine that this device is as strong and effective as a $100,000 laser at a physician's office. There is a wider range of people that would respond to the professional laser. I think this device would be most useful as a supplement to professional laser hair removal, that it may be most useful in getting rid of the "straggler" hairs that still remain because professional laser hair removal may have been missed a few.”

Clarisonic Opal Sonic Infusion System ($185, Clarisonic.com)

What it is: The makers of the popular Classic and Mia cleansing tools branch out with their Opal Sonic Infusion System, a tool that massages serum directly into the skin.

The claim: "The Opal is specially designed to help build skin's resilience over time and prevent future damage around the eyes."

Dr. Lee’s Verdict: “I have actually used this before, and I questioned the use of "marine botanicals" which sounds like a vague, yet exotic description for ingredients that likely do not remove wrinkles. The devise does vibrate and after treatment you still have this vibration / tingling sensation which may make you think that it is working. If I had this product at home, I would rather apply a retinol to the skin and use this device over it, hoping that the vibration may increase the penetration of a topical that I know has anti-aging properties.”

Information courtesy of Upland, California board certified dermatologist Dr.Sandra Lee

Filling your beach bag with your favorite summer skincare products puts you at ease for a day out, basking in the sun. BUT, are you really protecting your skin? The right products are only part of the process to insure proper protection from harmful summer rays. Are you covering all the bases? Sunburn does not only affect common areas—it “burns” its mark where you least expect it.

Dr. Sandra Lee, a board certified dermatologist and member of the American Academy of Dermatology, the American Academy of Cosmetic Surgery, the American Society for Dermatologic Surgery and the American Society for Mohs Surgery, put together a list of the top six areas people tend to neglect when prepping for the sun.

6. Feet

Though perfectly manicured toes are important, sunburned feet can leave you “sole”-less. With painful sunburn on your tootsies, pairing your dress with those perfect summer heels may not be an option. Make sure to apply sunscreen to all areas of your feet to avoid any complications.

5. Back of Hands

Hydrating your hands with lotion, during your weekly manicures, is not all it takes to protect them from becoming dry. It is vital to protect your hands during the summertime, an area you may forget to tend to when stepping out into the sun. Opt for a lotion that contains SPF 15 to 30 to protect and hydrate your hands.

4. Ears

Don’t forget to protect your ears, when applying sunscreen to your face. The skin on your ears is both sensitive and delicate, and the tops of your ears are particularly exposed to the sun’s rays. Throw on a wide-brimmed hat that is both fashionable and can help to protect your face and ears.

3. Chest and Neck

You don’t want “breases”, the vertical creases that can occur on your chest from sun damage and excess sun exposure. The skin on your neck and chest is exposed to the same amount of sun as your face, and in order to prevent any damage, it needs just as much attention. The skin on your neck and chest is thin, so generously apply sunscreen in those two often-ignored areas. Sunburn in the chest/neck is not only painful, but unappealing when dressed in your favorite summer wardrobe.

2. Lips

Summer is not all about glossy lips. Before applying your favorite lip gloss, be sure to apply lipstick containing SPF 15 or above to protect the lips. Slip the lipstick in your bag and apply regularly throughout the day to avoid sun damage.

1. Scalp

As the sun beams down over your head, it is an important to note the #1 overlooked area that requires protection from the sun—your scalp. Have you ever ended up leaving the beach and feeling like your head was on fire? Since you don’t want to pile on sunscreen over your hair and a hat may not be your favorite option, grab your favorite scarf and tie it around your head like a bandana. Another option would be to use a sunscreen spray and spray it on your fingertips and use your fingers to apply this liquid to your part in your hair, the area of your scalp most susceptible to sunburn.