Client Satisfaction
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Clients First: Our Kind of Success!

Clients First: Informed, Accommodated, And Satisfied!

There are so many important elements that go into our treatments: educated staff, up to date technology and equipment, quality products. To us, the most important aspect of any of our work is the people. Our guests are always top of mind! We want our guests to feel informed, accommodated, and satisfied with their results. Our staff is always available for questions and consultations to ensure you are finding treatments best suited to your needs.
It makes us so happy to receive feedback like the review below, we wanted to share it! Marianne’s experience is exactly what we want everyone who walks in our front doors to experience. Thank you Marianne!

Testimonial from Marianne Stoody
“I have been coming to Urban Body Laser for YEARS. The first treatment I booked was underarm laser hair removal (very conveniently booked with their payment plan which is amazing). After only a few sessions, I noticed incredible results.  I believe I had 8 sessions on my underarms (usually 8-12 is recommended depending on your hair and your skin tone).  I had no idea it was possible to get the results I received.  I was shaving my underarms sometimes twice a day, I barely grow hair there now, my skin tone is clear and lighter – in the summer people constantly ask me if I’ve had laser/where I go.  I highly recommend this place and have sent family/friends and coworkers here and will continue to do so.
I did a bit of shopping around before purchasing my first laser package –  yes, you will find there are cheaper places in the city but there is a reason Urban Body is a tad more expensive – the place itself feels like a spa and you are treated as if you are at a spa. Staff is professional, knowledgeable, educated, friendly and truly care about your results. Lasers and equipment are top notch. They constantly have deals and specials that they always make sure their customers know about (one of my favorite things about this place is that they always want their customers to get a good deal – if they have a special on or coming up – they make sure you know about it and provide you with all the information as well as offer payment plans to work with you and what you can afford at the time).  Easy text and email reminders of appointments. Customer service also top notch – always work with you and your schedule to get you an appointment that works best for you (even if you end up changing it a million times).  
I was so happy with my underarms results that I booked Brazilian and half leg. Again, could not be happier with my results and it has been an amazing investment – barely have hair these areas anymore whatsoever. summer time is so easy, vacations are so easy – no more shaving constantly or spending money on waxing. skin itself is nicer, smoother, lighter, no ingrowns – almost looks airbrushed! very sparse re-growth. can go weeks without shaving anywhere now 🙂
I have had friends go other places, to save money and go the cheaper route – they have NOT had the same results.  My friend started laser the exact time I did, at a cheaper place in Vancouver – after chatting and comparing appointments she realized they were not turning up the laser after each session (something that should be done). She had 6 sessions and wasted hundreds of dollars.  I told her she should have spent a bit more, like me, to get best possible results. You get what you pay for.
I have also had a microdermabrasion facial here (which they put on my account for free – usually a treatment upwards of $200, as I had to wait a few minutes longer to get in one day – not a big deal, did not affect me at all and next thing I knew I had a free facial on my account).
I recently purchased 5 BBL laser facials and very excited to have my first appointment.  My favourite technician (Janelle) made sure I knew they had a special coming up and spent the time planning a payment plan that would work for me.  She always goes the extra mile. I fully trust her recommendations and advice.  She truly believes in the services she provides, as she has had many of the treatments herself and I think that is a very important element which the technicians here exhibit – they speak from experience and from a place of truly caring about you and your skin.   
By far, the best place in Vancouver to go for laser hair removal – the friends/family/coworkers I have sent here will tell you the same thing as they constantly thank me for sending them here too! Can’t wait for my further appointments and to start my IPL – always look forward to going in.
This review is long overdue. Thank you Urban Body!”

Contact:
Urban Body Laser
777 Hornby St #860, Vancouver, BC V6Z 2G3
(604) 696-5506

Leaves
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Microdermabrasion For Fall

Summer rays are fading and with them, our sun-kissed glows. That’s not the only thing about our skin that will change with the coming of Autumn. As much as we want to hang on to our tans, earning them will have left our skin drier than we would like. Combine that with lower moisture in the air and our skin will soon be gasping with thirst!
Coming into Fall, your skincare routine should be all about repairing and rehydrating. To combat sun damage from the summer months and deter flakey patches, we need moisture and rejuvenation. The latter can be achieved with our Microdermabrasion treatments. Microdermabrasion gently removes dead skin cells with non-invasive exfoliation to clear congested skin.
The treatment focuses on the topmost layer of skin where toxins, fines lines and wrinkles, blemishes, and discoloration lives. Using the Pristine Precision Diamond Peel System, we target problem areas and buff away the surface layer of skin without scratching. This helps increase circulation, encouraging toxins to leave more quickly and absorb nutrients faster, taking in more of the active ingredients in your skin care.
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Your skin is left smoother and refreshed. Make-up will be applied more evenly. Your skin will glow from the lack of dead skin cells that leave your skin dull and matte. It is like a wake up call for your skin cells!
To combat the temporary rosy complexion left by the densely packed diamonds of our tool, every Microdermabrasion client leaves with a customized Colorescience application. We want all our guests to feel the full benefits of each treatment without looking like you have had one done!

Smoother, clearer skin can make a world of difference in our everyday confidence. As much as we can control what we put in our bodies and on our skin, things like impurities in the air, seasonal moisture, and sunny weather are not things we can always avoid. Sometimes we need that extra bit of defense to keep our skin happy and healthy.
Book your appointment today!
Contact:
Urban Body Laser
777 Hornby St #860, Vancouver, BC V6Z 2G3
(604) 696-5506

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R3 Derma Health Aloe to the Rescue!

Getting outside and taking advantage of life’s small adventures is absolutely something we encourage. Just like too much sun exposure, there are other risks that come with being bold. Case in point: When one of our daughters recently set out to play on her long board, she experienced an unfortunate meeting between pavement and forehead. The result: a big, sticky scrape across her face in the middle of a hot summer. Poor girl!

In a moment of inspiration, we realized that we had the perfect product right at our fingertips to take care of this dilemma. In our R3 Derma Health line we have an amazing Organic Aloe Gel that harnesses the healing powers of aloe for so many different uses. We figured, why not try it on a scrape! The effects couldn’t have been better. The gel was applied to the wound every day 4-6 times, and on day 6, her scab came clean off to reveal healed skin. So quick!

This gel is made from our own formulations and tested by our team. We are so happy with it’s results! Used regularly, this lightweight gel hydrates and softens skin. It can reduce redness and swelling due to sun exposure, windburn, razor burn, bug bites, and hypersensitivity reactions, among other applications. Users with sensitive, acne prone, and combination skin re-purchase this gel as they find it doesn’t clog sensitive pores or cause breakouts, even reducing the frequency of blemishes.

Aloe straight from the plant is protective, restorative, anti-inflammatory, healing, and so much more. It is one of the best things to have on hand for at home remedies. Our formulation packs in 200x concentrate, meaning you just need a small amount per application to enjoy an impactful dose of the medicinal properties of straight aloe. Included is a select blend of essential oils to provide additional anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antibacterial benefits.
Our team loves to see the products we create making a difference in the world. We’re not the only ones who have been singing this product’s praises. See for yourself!

Consumer Reviews (Amazon.com)
“I wasn’t sure what to expect especially because I’ve tried so many expensive products and am now moving into the holistic approach for better skincare solutions. Your product has actually helped to heal a couple stubborn face issues I’ve been struggling with. Within 24 hrs, I could actually see the scar that wouldn’t go away actually dissolve from my face. I am using your product everyday and can’t wait to see what else it helps my skin with. I know aloe vera itself is healing, I’ve been using it directly from my plants. But your product was even more concentrated and made a big difference. Please keep up the good work!! Thank you!!!!” – Truth411 CN

“This product is perfect. It’s just the right consistency. Not too runny and not too thick. It has a very light, pleasant smell that goes away quickly. I use it on my face, neck and hands when I want something light and penetrating that has all of the benefits that Aloe Vera offers. I’ve used several types of Aloe Vera. This will definitely be the one I reorder.” – Kathy K

“I was super nervous about trying something new on my face being as it is so sensitive and every little things breaks it out, but this aloe gel is everything!!!! My face is softer & doesn’t seem to break out as much as before, I will definitely be repurchasing.” – Chelsea Davis

Contact:
Urban Body Laser
777 Hornby St #860, Vancouver, BC V6Z 2G3
(604) 696-5506

Sunset
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Sun Safety: Prevent and Repair

When it comes to sun safety, there are the basics that we can all agree on: cover up with a hat or tightly knit clothing, wear sunglasses to protect your eyes, and avoid long-term exposure. Surprisingly, even on a National level other major protocols that we would think would be agreed upon across the board, are still debated by professionals like pharmacists, dermatologists, and oncologists.
Last year, the Canadian Sun Safety Guidelines got their first update in 20 years. The updates covered things like avoiding the sun at it’s hottest, and what time that is in Canada with climate change accounted for; what type of fabrics are best suited as a protective layer; and a discussion of the appropriate SPF to use. While we are pleased that many respected associations had input in these updates, and that the topic is getting well-deserved attention, we are disappointed with the lack of discussion on many key prevention techniques.
Here are the mains reasons why we feel these updates need another look:

  • No mention of Chemical vs Physical Sunscreen: In a recent post, we discussed the benefits and risks between chemical and physical sunscreens. We feel it is best to avoid the toxic chemical sunscreens, and rely on physical blockers. Ingredients in chemical sunscreens have been linked to multiple cancers and hormone interference. The dangers of chemical sunscreen should be highlighted in our National guidelines and physical sunscreens should be encouraged.
  • Reapplication: While the guidelines do encourage the public to reapply often and “use lots”, they do not specify an actual timeline. “Often” is too subjective and leaves room for error, which could result in damaging consequences. A reapplication every 90 minutes is necessary when directly exposed to the heat, a metric which should be included.
  • Seasonal weather: The intro to the Sun Safety Basics talks about “sunny days”, when really, guidelines should cover year-round sun exposure. Even in a seasonal climate like Canada, the sun’s rays are on us no matter what the weather. Damaging rays can make it through clouds, and even in the shade, reflections off of sand, surfaces, and even snow can be harmful (goggles tan anyone?!).

As the article announcing the changes says, “…it’s kind of confusing if you hear one message from one group that doesn’t exactly fit with the message from another.” These changes are a step in the right direction, and bring light to very important health concerns, but we feel that they still have a long way to go to properly educate our country.

Image Source: imgur

*Sixty nine year old male, truck driver for 28 years. Approximate age difference from one side of the face to the other is 20 years.
While prevention is the number one step towards staying safe from the sun’s harsh rays, repairing damage already done is another important step. Everyone can tell when they get a nasty burn, but there is so much unseen damage happening to our skin just from our everyday lifestyles.
We have in our arsenal a few favourite products that assist in revitalizing and repairing your sun-exposed skin.

  • Aox + Serum: Cascading Antioxidant Serum is a high potency multi-C cocktail that drenches skin in an infusion of powerful anti-oxidants. Stable Sodium Ascorbyl Phosphate and superior ORAC scoring Kakadu Plum, Astaxanthin, Ferulic Acid and Vitamin E offer advanced protection from photo-aging and dermal instability caused by free radical aggression. This fast penetrating formula combats UVA /UVB damage while delivering intensive levels of skin revitalizing and collagen synthesizing nourishment.
  • Restore: Correctinol Creme with Argan, Alpine Rose and Grape Skin Plant Stem Cells offers a unique solution for those with mature skin looking for mild daily exfoliation and exceptional hydration. Infused with a cocktail of anti-oxidants such as Resveratrol, Vitamin C, Vitamin E, Ferulic Acid and Argan Oil, moisture is delivered to the skin via water based humectants which leave skin feel smooth as silk. Mild Flower Acids improve the barrier function and hydration of the skin resulting in smoothing, improved clarity, and uniformity of tone.
  • Rejuvenate+: Experience the unbelievable rejuvenating benefits of Plant sourced Epidermal Growth Factors which encourage the process of cellular renewal while boosting the vibrancy of Elastin, Collagen, and Hyaluronic Acid in the epidermis. This serum contains five natural source growth factors plus powerful plant-derived extracts which fortify and support the dermal matrix. Passionfruit and Lemon Fruit Acids gently encourage cellular turnover resulting in a more youthful appearance.


As we wind down from summer, it is important to evaluate how much exposure your skin has suffered in the brightest months and how to care for your sun-kissed cells. Our team of medical estheticians is passionate about keeping your skin safe. Talk to us to learn what treatments and products are best suited to your lifestyle to keep compounding damage to a minimum.
Sources:
http://globalnews.ca/news/2744139/heres-a-list-of-changes-to-canadas-sun-safety-guidelines-the-first-update-in-20-years/
https://www.canada.ca/en/health-canada/services/healthy-living/sun-safety.html
Contact:
Urban Body Laser
777 Hornby St #860, Vancouver, BC V6Z 2G3
(604) 696-5506

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Positive Thought Power

The power of positive thought has been studied and speculated about in many different forms. There seems to be professionals from varying fields (scientists, psychologists, etc.) with experts for and against the current research. Some believe that experiments of this nature can’t be fully controlled, despite physical evidence showing that positive thinking is very influential, and therefore we can never be sure what the effects of these ideas really are. Both sides have valid points.

Our team wanted to put these beliefs to the test. We gathered a group of our staff and tried a form of Energy Muscle Testing that is inline with this stream of thought. We wrote a positive word (Love) and a negative word (Hate) down on two different pieces of paper and crumpled them up. Each of us took turns holding the papers in our hands and pushing down on each other’s outstretched arms. Sometimes the resistance was strong, sometimes it was weak. When we checked the papers, every time one of us felt weak, it was when we were holding the ball with a negative word. It was amazing to see first hand what effect such a simple exercise had on us! We got thinking: if that was just one simple word, what would happen if for years we beat ourselves down with negative thoughts? The results must be devastating!

This experiment reminded us of the research of Dr. Masaru Emoto. His research looked specifically at what the power of positive and negative influences such as music, words, and thoughts, had on water. After exposing water samples to these influences, he would freeze it and study the crystals formed in the ice. He claimed that in water from clear mountain streams or water subjected to calming music, you could see beautiful, snowflake-like crystals, whereas the crystals found in polluted water came out ugly and distorted. He shared these photos and you can really see the beauty that emerges from purely sourced and/or positively influenced water.

Image Source: Masaru-Emoto

Water is everywhere. Over 50% of the make-up of a human adult is comprised of water. By Dr. Emoto’s logic, anything that effects water, effects us. Whether it be words, images, or music, the intention behind them can have a positive or negative effect on water, and therefore on us.

This effect isn’t specific to water though. Inspired by Dr. Emoto’s findings, people have tried things like the Cooked Rice Test , where rice is put in two jars, one with the word Love and one with the word Hate on it, and left for days. This may not be a scientifically controlled experiment, but the results do show that the jar with the positive affirmation does much better than the latter.

At Urban Body Laser, we want every aspect of your experience to be positively affirming, including the products we carry. Nearly every item in our R3 Derma Skin Care line has positive words printed on the outside of every bottle. Things like Boost, Calming, Detoxifying, Cleanse, Awaken, and Balance. According to Dr. Emoto’s research, these words are having a positive effect on the ingredients in these bottles. This paraben free skin care line is rejuvenating and balancing for your skin, and we now realize is being influenced by the power of their positive names!
Being conscious of the thoughts and energy you are directing towards yourself, and to others, is paramount to achieving a positive, balanced life. So is being conscious of the products you use on your skin. Talk to our expert team today to bring more positivity to your life!

Image Source: Allison Fallon

Contact:
Urban Body Laser
777 Hornby St #860, Vancouver, BC V6Z 2G3
(604) 696-5506

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Photorejuvenation Treatment – Turning Back the Clock

Imagine a treatment that slows down the clock on your skin and gives you the fresh, summer-ready look you want. Stop imagining, and keep reading!
Our Photorejuvenation treatment can erase damage done from years past and give your skin new life. Dark spots, sun damage, broken capillaries, fine lines, redness and more can all be addressed with the Sciton BBL. This tool uses Intense Pulsed Light technology, producing a broad spectrum of light in a range of wavelengths to repair and revive your skin. The wavelengths can be adjusted to suit your specific skin type and the results you are looking for. During treatment, collagen production is also stimulated, resulting in smoother, rejuvenated skin.
The best way for us to explain the benefits of this treatment is to show you! After years of feeling self-conscious about unwanted pigmentation, Donna took the plunge and couldn’t have been happier she did. Let Donna’s experience inspire you to take the leap and book the appointment you have been waiting for.
“I am finally getting it done! After years of not wearing dresses and skirts I am finally getting those nasty brown spots on my legs taken care of!! I’m so excited to begin. I look forward to the transformation from looking old to younger once again!”
BEFORE
    
    
Her first treatment went very well, with minimal discomfort and an excellent technician experience. After her first treatment, Donna noticed that her skin was tender and hot, but this feeling subsided quickly.
After four treatments, Donna was excited and appreciative.
“Wow! Great results. So happy to have experienced such fantastic results at Urban Laser!! Can’t wait to see even more results after my 5th treatment. Now I can finally wear dresses and skirts without nylons!! I even decided to have my neck done too because I want it to look as good as my chest and face!”
Donna’s final results speak for themselves!
AFTER
    
    
This treatment really can change your life. In an average of 5 treatments, our clients do away with their insecurities and find the confidence they have been missing. To learn more about this treatment, visit our services page.
Book your first appointment online now!
Contact:
Urban Body Laser
777 Hornby St #860, Vancouver, BC V6Z 2G3
(604) 696-5506

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Safe Summer Treatment: Nd YAG Laser

With summer on our doorstep, more skin is out in the open, which means more spots that you don’t normally show are making an appearance. This is the time you want those bikini lines and back patches gone more than ever! You have probably heard that once you get your tan on, you have to stop any sort of hair removal treatment, which for safety reasons, can be the case. We have a solution for you!

We use the best in up to date laser removal technology and offer a variety of treatments. The Sciton Long Pulsed 1064 NdYag is a high powered technically advanced Laser Hair Removal System among our options. This system delivers a unique combination of laser parameters and contact cooling protection. The depth of the laser gives clients of all skin types an extremely safe and effective treatment.

Laser Hair Removal uses precise wavelengths that can focus on the melanin pigment and target it. These wavelengths are able to focus on the pigment while avoiding damage to the surrounding skin. When laser hair removal first started, the lasers used did not have a great ability to focus wavelengths and, the darker your skin, the harder it was to remove the hair.

The longer pulse of the NdYag targets the deeper pigment of the the hair follicles below the melanin pigment, making it safer for darker skin tones and more effective. The right wavelength reaches even the deepest hair roots, which can be 4-6 mm below the surface of the skin in some cases. There is less heat build up within the skin using the NdYag, and the contact chilled plate cools the skin off providing more protection and comfort during treatment.

Therefore, it is a safe treatment to use all year round. Even if you have been sunning yourself, you can continue your hair removal process and not have to worry. We do recommend that you still avoid tanning 1 week prior to treatment, just in case.

Come in to talk with our medical estheticians about the right treatments for your skin types. We have your stress-free solutions to get ready for summer!

Contact:
Urban Body Laser
777 Hornby St #860, Vancouver, BC V6Z 2G3
(604) 696-5506

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Physical vs. Chemical Sunscreen

Our skin is precious and we need to protect it. Every year, the summer rays get us thinking that maybe we need to update our sun defense regime. The thing is, we should be shielding ourselves all year round. Every time we walk outside we are exposed to harmful UVA and UVB rays. In our hotter months, higher heats make covering up uncomfortable, and a wide brimmed hat isn’t always practical.

So what are our options? Most of us are overwhelmed by what the drugstore aisle offers to shade our skin. The thing is, the best options aren’t always sitting on those shelves. There is a big difference between the protection offered by a physical sunscreen versus a chemical sunscreen, which is what most common drugstore options will be. Let us explain:
Physical Sunscreen
Physical sunscreen, or physical blockers, are non-toxic substances that use ingredients such as zinc oxide and titanium dioxide. These are natural minerals that have been ground into fine powders. Physical sunscreen works by deflecting the sun and blocking those harsh UV rays from damaging your skin. You know how on a hot, dry day at the beach, it is still moist and cool under the rocks? That’s how physical sunscreen works. It is essentially crushed, powdered rock keeping the sun’s heat away from your skin and locking in the moisture. That means that there is no waiting for anything to sink in, it starts protecting immediately after application. It is also better for sensitive and heat activated skin types.
Chemical Sunscreen
This type of formula is combined with 12 different chemicals, some of which have not been FDA approved. Some chemical sunscreens can produce free radicals that can cause irritation and damage to the skin. They’ve been proven to interfere with hormones such as estrogen, progesterone, and thyroid, which have been linked to breast, ovarian and prostate cancer. It is also more likely to irritate sensitive skin types and clog pores.


For our medical estheticians, the non-toxic physical sunscreens are their top choice. Physical sunscreen is less irritating, has a longer shelf life, and lasts longer in direct UV light.
To take care of our faces, we rely on the the Sunforgettable line by Colorescience, a skin care collection that’s infused with physical blockers designed to make using sun protection part of your daily routine. The Sunforgettable Brush comes in multiple shades, is easy to to re-apply, and is a chemical and fragrance free option that you can barely tell you have on. Or try the Tint du Soleil from Colorscience, a SPF 30 foundation in a creamy, hydrating formula, designed to feel like bare skin. If an everyday foundation isn’t for you, try adding a small amount of physical sunscreen into your moisturizer to easily incorporate it into your morning ritual and ensure your skin is protected. Being that physical sunscreen is so pure, only a little amount is needed for you to get the right amount of protection.

Even when we feel like we haven’t seen it for months, that sunshine is up there. We need to be protecting your skin from head to toe all year round. With shorter sleeves and high hems in our near future, we need to be especially vigilant. Our staff have a wealth of knowledge on the topic. Send your questions our way or come for a visit!
Contact:
Urban Body Laser
777 Hornby St #860, Vancouver, BC V6Z 2G3
(604) 696-5506
References:
http://blog.reneerouleau.com/chemical-vs-physical-sunscreens-pros-cons/
http://www.skinacea.com/sunscreen/physical-vs-chemical-sunscreen.html#.WSTGJFPyvBI
https://www.colorescience.com/

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Coats for Kids Charity Event at Urban Body Laser

Now that we’ve packed away the pumpkins and turned back the clocks, the highly anticipated holiday season can officially begin. It’s no secret that December is all about giving, and while it’s easy to get wrapped up in expensive gifts to impress your loved ones, it’s important to remember that this season is also about giving to those who need it most. That’s why every year, we host our Coats for Kids charity event, and this year is no exception.
Now in its sixth year, we’re switching things up and inviting everyone to join us on Friday, December 2nd from 4-8pm. We’ll be serving complimentary wine and delicious eats, perfect to pregame before your next Holiday party! All you have to do is bring coats, toys, and/or monetary donations that will go directly to children in our community.

Coats for Kids is a United Way initiative that began in 1992 due to overwhelming requests from families who were in need of winter jackets. As our city’s real estate has reached all-time highs, many families have a difficult time affording living expenses and simply don’t have the means to purchase the clothing needed to stay warm. That’s why we host this event every year, as a simple coat can go a long way in a child’s development.

A few highlights from Coats for Kids 2015!

Coats for Kids: Items to Donate

  • Children’s winter coats
  • Toques/ mitts and scarves
  • Snow pants
  • Winter Boots

Just by donating you’ll be entered to win some fabulous prizes, including a Colorescience Gift basket (a $350 value), an R3 Derma Health Basket (valued at $300), and a $500 gift card for any of our services at Urban Body Laser! Plus the first 25 guests will receive complimentary gift bags –valued at $200!

So save the date and come join us! Please RSVP and let us know if you and any guests are coming by emailing info@urbanbodylaser.com or call 604-696-5506 (that way we know how many wine bottles to order ;).

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R3 Derma Pro Skin Care

R3 Derma Pro is an intensive medical grade collection that delivers multi-layer strengthening to the skin. Our collection contains the highest concentration of active ingredients and visual improvement as a result of synergistically blending powerful peptides and cutting edge skin conditioners.

Our Aloe Gel reduces redness and swelling due to sun exposure, windburn, razor burn, bug bites, hypersensitivity reactions and many other causes.

Our Calming Cleanser gently removes impurities from sensitized skin with an anti-inflammatory cleanser to calm and cool irritation.

Experience Boost – remarkable rejuvenating and age defying properties of Argan, Alpine Rose and Grape Skin Stem Cells which revitalize and protect skin on a deep cellular level.

This collection is best suited for our guests who desire faster results and higher activity levels from the ingredients in the products we carry.

R3 Derma Health Pro Products

The service the girls provide here is amazing. Nicola always goes above and beyond to take care of my and make sure I’m comfortable for my treatments. They also have amazing skincare products and have great advice for advancing your skincare routine. – Annie D.

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Fall Skincare Tips with Urban Body Laser

Another beautiful summer in Vancouver has come and gone. Patio lunches, seawall bike rides, and lounging at Third Beach may all seem like sweet distant memories. However, despite that the temperature has dropped and the days have grown shorter, there may be a few parts of summer that continue to linger…on your skin. That’s why Fall skincare treatments and products are critical for reversing those summer lovin’ days.

Even with the best physical sunscreen and an endless array of floppy hats, you may not have been able to completely dodge the after effects of harmful ultraviolet rays. So now that the tan has faded and you’ve traded swimsuits for wool scarves, the damage may be coming to the surface. However, not all is lost; the good news is that it’s not too late to do something about it.
From visible dark spots to rough patches on your skin, there are many ways that UV rays have wreaked havoc on your epidermis. Even if you can’t spot a few extra sun spots or moles, there are long-term effects that could haunt you later, as we know all too well how the sun can cause premature aging in the form of wrinkles, sagging skin, and fine lines.
The good news (yes, there’s more good news!) is that we offer a number of services that can combat these after effects. Here are Urban Body Laser’s favourite Fall skincare tips.

Best Fall Skincare Treatments

Microneedling
Don’t be intimidated by the name. This amazing treatment helps with product absorption as well as increases collagen, elastin, and circulation to your skin by providing tiny punctures to epidermis. These “micro-injuries” tell your brain to kick into repair mode, prompting more collagen to be produced and repair any damaged areas.

Whether you come to Urban Body Laser for treatments or we set you up with an at-home regime, this is an excellent post-summer treatment when paired with high quality skin care because it allows for better absorption of nutrients.

Photorejuvenation
Are you noticing new liver spots? Fine lines? Unwanted freckles?

Then we highly recommend booking Photorejuvenation treatments. It uses light (in a good way) to repair and revive your skin. Non-invasive and highly effective, these can be done over your lunch hour. After a series of treatments, you’ll notice a significant reduction of unwanted pigmentation and the appearance of smoother, revitalized skin.

Microdermabrasion
You know that feeling after you’ve just vacuumed your living room, or dusted your home? All of those micro particles are gone, revealing the true nature of your surfaces and leaving a sparkling finish.

Well, your skin is no different. It too needs a little help to remove the built-up waste, dust, and outdoor elements that prevent its true beauty from shining through. Enter Microdermabrasion. Compared to the texture of your cat’s tongue, this treatment is a favourite of celebs like Gwenyth Paltrow and Kim Kardashian, and gently removes the outer layer of the epidermis, stimulates collagen and elastin production, and improves blood flow for firmer, healthier looking skin.
If you’re starting to see the consequences of too much fun in the sun, don’t fret. Because everyone’s skin care needs are different, our medical estheticians can provide a consultation on which products and services are right for you.

Quality Skincare
While the services we just listed will do wonders for reversing the damaging effects of the sun, they’re only going to be truly effective if you pair them with high-quality skincare that’s free of harmful chemicals and toxins. The only brands we use are Osmosis, Colorescience, and Pro-Derm. Not only are they known for their incredible anti-aging properties, but they’re also infused with nutrients that help with the repair process.

If you’re starting to see the consequences of too much fun in the sun, don’t fret. Because everyone’s skin care needs are different, our medical estheticians can provide a consultation on which Fall skincare products and services are right for you.

Microdermabrasion Vs Dermaplaning - Microdermabrasion 596x311Urban Body Laser Vancouver
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The Peak FM’s Casey-Jo on Microdermabrasion

If you’re a regular listener to The Peak FM like us, then Casey-Jo needs no introduction. Hosting the mid-day show, this adventurous Vancouverite knows a thing or two about music — and Microdermabrasion.

In fact, she’s been sharing all of her fabulous self care rituals to feeling healthy and beautiful from the inside out — with a little help from Urban Body Laser.

The Peak FM and Microdermabrasion

Recently, she shared her experience after receiving Microdermabrasion at our medical spa on The Peak FM’s blog. After her first appointment with our amazing medical esthetician Janelle, she realized just how much stress, lack of sleep, and the environment were affecting her skin.
If you’re unfamiliar with this procedure, we’ll quickly bring you up to speed. With celebrity fans like Gwenyth Paltrow, Gisele Bundchen, and Penelope Cruz, this virtually painless treatment gently rejuvenates the skin by non-invasive exfoliation. By removing the outermost layer of dead skin cells, Microdermabrasion leaves the skin feeling smoother and dare we say, younger. Our clients have found that Microdermabrasion effectively treats and minimizes a wide range of skin conditions including fine lines and wrinkles, discoloured and congested skin, and even ingrown hairs.
Using the state-of-the-art Pristine Precision Diamond Peel System, the densely packed diamonds gently remove top layers of the epidermis, stimulates collagen and elastin production, and improves blood flow for firmer, healthier looking skin. Best of all it’s easily customizable for all skin types and for the full range of body areas. To learn more, watch our video to see how it works.
Just a few days after her second Microdermabrasion appointment, Casey-Jo said that her makeup is smoother and more comfortable to wear, plus her pores were nowhere in sight. What else did she have to say? Find out by reading her latest blog post!

“Self care is one of the most important things, because if you’re no good to yourself, then you’re not good for anyone.” ~ Casey-Jo

Learn more about how Microdermabrasion can help your skin or book a free consultation.

Colorescience
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Sunforgettable Summer with Colorescience

If you’ve ever followed Urban Body Laser on Instagram, visited our medi-spa, or perused through our blog, then you’ve probably heard us say once (or maybe a 100 times) how important daily application of sunscreen is for anti-aging. Not only does it prevent wrinkles, fine lines, and sunspots from prematurely forming, but it also protects you from more serious conditions like severe burns, cancer, or myositis, an autoimmune disease.

So now that Spring is in full swing and summer is on the horizon, this time of year is when many can’t wait to escape from hibernation and head into the great outdoors. Whether it’s Kits Beach or Stanley Park, Vancouver is an oasis for heading out and kicking back. However, with that comes an even greater reasonability to protect your skin.
With so many products out there, we know it can get confusing. Plus, not all sunscreens are created equal, an issue that we blogged about before. To avoid adding toxic chemicals to your delicate epidermis but also gain the protection you want, look no further than Colorescience’s Sunforgettable Mineral Sunscreen.

This little magical wand makes application easier than ever. Not only is it an all natural, non-irritating, and portable product, but it also protects against Broad Spectrum UVA/UVB rays and offers up to 80 minutes of water-resistance. Forget having to apply greasy lotions, the Sunforgettable Wand is safe to use on all skin-types, including kids. And guys don’t worry; it may look like make-up, but we promise it’s completely fella-friendly.
Here’s how easy it is:

  1. Remove rubber band and prime brush in circular motion on top of hand until minerals begin to flow.
  2. Sweep brush over entire face and neck in circular motions to release powder.
  3. Apply liberally and evenly before sun exposure; reapply every two hours throughout the day for continued water resistant protection.
  4. Can be used on head, face, neck, chest and back of hands.
  5. For a full step-by-step process, watch this video on Colorescience!

There are a wide variety of colours that will match any skin tone, including a new ‘Deep’ shade. And incase you need another reason, get 20% off this month for all Sunforgettable products at Urban Body Laser! To find out which colour you should choose, visit our medical estheticians for a free consultation.

Teen Acne
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9 Skincare Lessons from Urban Body Laser

After years of helping people with their skin, we can safely say we’ve seen just about everything. From dry to oily, young to mature, our medical estheticians have worked with hundreds of people from all corners of Greater Vancouver to help them achieve healthy, glowing, and flawless complexions.
Throughout the years, we’ve learned a thing (or nine) about how to the body’s largest organ. And lucky for you, we’re giving you the inside scoop by sharing our top 9 skincare lessons that will help your skin from the inside, out.
1. Cleanse. We’ve all had those mornings where we’ve woken up with raccoon eyes from last night’s mascara and our foundation strewn across the pillow (yuck!). We know life gets busy, but if there’s one thing you absolutely must do, it’s cleanse before you hit the sack. Here are a few of our faves:

2. Sunscreen. Don’t let Raincouver fool you; those grey clouds aren’t enough to fight off the sun’s harmful rays, causing premature aging and upping your chance of developing skin cancer. Applying sunscreen should be part of your all-day routine, no matter what time of year it is.

And not all sunscreens are created equal; as we’ve mentioned, you need to opt for Physical sunscreen, which protects your skin from the sun by deflecting or blocking the sun’s rays. It uses non-toxic, mineral-based ingredients like titanium dioxide (a naturally occurring mineral) and zinc to block the sun’s entire spectrum of UVA and UVB rays. This differs from the typical chemical forms you find at the drugstore, and are made up of more than 12 different chemicals, many of which have not been FDA approved. These are then absorbed into the skin and can interfere with the normal function of hormones like estrogen, progesterone, testosterone, and thyroid.Our go-to physical sunscreen is anything in the Sunforgettable Collection by Colorescience. Pack in your purse and reapply any time of day for easy-peasy application.

3. Ditch the Drugstore. Here’s why: they’re filled with chemicals that will only harm your skin. Better to make life simple and go for the natural, holistic, and scientifically proven good stuff:  Colorescience and R3Derma.

4. Moisturize. Yes, that includes people with oily skin. No matter what skin type you have, moisturizer should always be in your arsenal. Here are our faves.

5. Wash Up. And not just your face. We’re talking about your brushes, pillowcases, and face cloths; anything that touches your face on the reg, as these materials can easily absorb and pass on bacteria that can clog pores.

6. Don’t Pick! Whether it’s pimples, whiteheads, or blackheads, keep your hands off and away from your face, as you’ll likely only do more damage. Suffering from scars? Our Foto-Facials will do wonders to remove discoloration.

7. Easy on the Exfoliation. Rule of thumb: you should be exfoliating gently and no more than twice a week. Your skin is sensitive, and while exfoliation is vital for removing dead skin cells and other pollutants, there’s no need to sand it down completely. These exfoliators and masks from Osmosis and Pro-Derm are gentle yet incredibly effective.

8. Ban the Tan. Baking in ultraviolet rays, whether it’s the tanning bed or on the beach, needs to stop immediately. Premature aging, wrinkles, fine-lines, pigmentation, cancer – you name it; it’s all caused by tanning.

9. Bar the Bar. Using a bar of drugstore soap to cleanse is one of the worst things you can do, as it strips our skin of natural oils and causes a PH imbalance, resulting in dry, oily or acneic skin. Do yourself a favour and try R3Derma Cleansers that deeply clean the skin and thoroughly remove dirt, make-up, and environmental toxins.

Now that you have our skincare secrets, feel free to contact us if you have any questions about our tips, recommendations, and products. We’re happy to help!

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I Let Urban Body Laser have their way with me….

I Let Urban Body Laser have their way with me….

and I think I like it…..

I have always been content with the way I appear on the outside.  I’m no beauty queen, but I’m happy about how I look.

Also, I have never been caught up with getting older.  Some of the most beautiful humans I have ever laid eyes on are in their 80’s.

So, I had never really thought of facial rejuvenation as something I’d be into.  I heard the ads that my friends from Urban Body Laser ran on the PEAK pretty much ever since we went on air.  But, I always thought they were talking to someone else.

Then, recently, I started noticing the effects my love for the sun has had on my skin.  I had so many crazy sunburns on my face, one so bad I had to be hospitalized.  And it realized that my careless ways with the sun were catching up with me.

When I heard the Urban Body Laser ads about Photorejuvenation I started to pay attention.  The idea that maybe some of the spotting and redness on my face can be removed with light therapy began to appeal to me.

So I talked to my friend Janiece at Urban Body Laser.   I had my first photorejuvenation and skin tightening treatment just before the holidays.  I was a little freaked out. I was afraid it would hurt like crazy ( it hurt a tiny bit ).   I was afraid there might be scarring ( there was none – in fact, Janiece made me look better when I left than I did when I walked in thanks to the Colorscience  mineral makeup she hooked me up with ). Mostly, I felt refreshed and relaxed and like I’d been pampered.

The treatment comes with a excellent skin care line for use after to help nourish and protect the skin.  I love it.

I didn’t really notice a difference, but my friends did.  I have already started getting compliments on how great my skin looks.  After one treatment.  Crazy.

Next step, microdermabrasion.  It’s happening soon.  I’ll let you know how it goes.

We’ll be posting the before and after pics of me after I’ve had all the treatments.  But from what I’ve experienced so far, it’s working.

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Best Before and Afters of 2015

Urban Body Laser’s Best Before and Afters

There’s nothing we love more than a good ‘Best before and afters’ story, especially when we’re in charge! At Urban Body Laser in Vancouver, our trusted medical estheticians work day in and day out helping people change, correct, and revamp the way they look and feel about themselves. From pigmentation to acne scars, there’s nothing better than seeing the look on someone’s face when you’ve removed something that was causing them embarrassment, insecurity, or even shame.

If you’ve been following us on Instagram, then you may have caught a few of our favourite before and after shots of recent clients. In case you missed it, here are just a few of the best Urban Body Laser makeovers of 2015!

Rachel came to us this past fall after suffering from extensive sun damage. The sun’s rays are amongst the most harmful contributors to aging, leaving sunspots and fine lines on the skin, as evident on her chest. FotoFacial®-AgeDelay™ is one of our most effective methods to reduce this damage, just check out Rachel’s results after just three treatments! Because you can’t be exposed to the sun after receiving FotoFacial®-AgeDelay™, fall and winter are the best times to get started.

We all suffer from the occasional pimple, but before you start layering on concealer, please check the ingredients. Most conventional make-up you find at the drugstore is filled with chemicals, fragrances, and toxins that clog your pores and aggravate the skin, often causing more breakouts. Pictured above is a client who contacted us for a Colorescience application, a luxury make-up line that uses natural ingredients that not only covers those pesky pimples, but also nourishes the skin. Interested? Call us to book a skin analysis!

Do you suffer from skin discoloration from birthmarks or scars? Photorejuvenation may be the answer you’re looking for. We use Sciton’s BBL, a safe and effective system that specializes in darker skin tones. After just one treatment, our client’s knee is looking shades lighter! We’ll be sure to update you once she’s finished her program.

Did you know that laser hair removal for your underarms not only reduces the hair, but also decreases sweat? We call that a #winwin. If you find your light shirts discolor from sweating, or the constant shaving has caused thick hair you can’t seem to rid of, ask our medical estheticians for a custom laser hair removal program.

Interested in these or more of our services and products? Contact us and start the New Year as a new you.

October Special: 50% Off Your First Treatment!

It seems like just yesterday we were planning weekend camping trips, evening beach visits, and wearing summer dresses as our daily uniform. Now it’s all about Hunter boots and umbrellas. And while we’re not complaining, the adjustment of shorter days and longer nights can leave some feeling a little gloomy now that Fall is underway. Sound familiar? Try laser hair removal, microdermabrasion, Photorejuvenation, or a variety of other luxury services.

Part of why we love our job so much is seeing how our services can literally change someone’s self-esteem and confidence levels. With every physical transformation, there is an emotional change that accompanies it. For example, when this client first came in, she would never wear shorts, skirts, and dresses. She was too self-conscious of the stubble still showing even after she had a fresh shave. As you can see by her beautifully tanned legs, this is no longer an issue thanks to laser hair removal.

When someone is self-conscious about their appearance, it can have a profound effect on their mood, personality, and relationships, even stopping them from living a more fulfilling life. For some it’s their hair, while for others it’s pigmentation, sun damage, large pores, acne scars, and rosacea. Thankfully there’s an answer: Photorejuvenation. Using our top-of-the-line BBL System, our clients see a significant reduction of unwanted pigmentation and the appearance of smoother, revitalized skin after our custom-designed treatment series.

Another popular service is microdermabrasion. We all want to feel young from the inside out. So if you’re forming premature wrinkles and fine lines, consider microdermasion a skincare essential. By gently removing the outermost layer of dead skin cells, this non-invasive treatment leaves skin feeling smoother with a youthful glow. Our clients have found that microdermabrasion also effectively treats and minimizes discolored and congested skin as well as ingrown hairs (fellas, this one’s great to rejuvenate after facial shaving).

While these are our most popular services, we offer a variety of treatments all designed to make you look beautiful and feel confident. Contact us at Urban Body Laser.

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Fall For Smooth Skin: Why Autumn Is The Perfect Time To Start Laser Hair Removal

**20% off all moisturizers for the month of October. Contact us for details!**

Though it’s officially Fall, it’s not quite time to completely forget about the shorts-weather season. Why? Because as the colder weather starts to creep in, it’s the perfect time to start your laser hair removal treatments.

It’s a common misconception that laser only needs to be done when the weather requires barely-there clothing. However, this could not be further from the truth. Most of our treatment systems require that you have minimal sun exposure for one month, which makes Fall the perfect time to start your custom-designed laser hair removal program.

Rather than pulling the hair out by the root or shaving it off at the skin, laser hair removal stops it at the source by destroying the hair follicle, preventing any new hair growth one hair at a time. Because only a small percentage of hair is in the growing phase at any given time, multiple treatments are required for long-lasting smoothness.  These treatments are between 7-11 weeks for torso and 5-9 weeks for the face/neck.

Our state-of-the-art systems are able to treat areas like underarms, face, chest, bikini line, legs, back, head and our signature Balls n All ™. Designed after clients’ requests, this program removes all hair on a male’s private parts, including the shaft and base of the penis, the testicles, the area between the anus and the testicles, as well as the area between the bum cheeks.

Excess hair can affect visual appearance, personal hygiene, and self-esteem, so we completely understand if there are certain areas you never want to see hair growth again. Before you have to break out that bikini, contact us for more information so you can stay smooth and sleek for Summer ’16 – and be sure to ask us about our October special, 20% off all moisturizers!

Pretty Eye
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Post-Summer Skincare Treatments

Summertime means sun, shorts, and sandals. But with that beach hair and bronzed skin also comes sun damage. While prevention is the first line of defense, no one (and no sunscreen) is perfect. We’ve listed our top treatments for after-sun care to keep your skin healthy and glowing.

Microdermabrasion:
Exposure to sun, chlorine and salt water can dry out your skin, causing it to peel and flake. The buildup of dead skin can make skin appear dull, blotchy and uneven. Exfoliation is crucial to help remove sun damage and rejuvenate the skin, leaving it softer and brighter.
Our microdermabrasion treatments gently rejuvenate the skin with non-invasive exfoliation. By removing the outermost layer of dead skin cells, microdermabrasion leaves the skin feeling smoother and dare we say, younger. We use the Pristine Precision Diamond Peel System because we love how the densely packed diamonds gently remove top layers of the epidermis, stimulating collagen and elastin production and improving blood flow. Microdermabrasion treatments are recommended for all skin types, including sensitive skin.

Photorejuvenation:
The main cause of sunspots is prolonged exposure to UV rays from the sun. While increased sun exposure can cause fair-skinned faces to freckle, darker complexions are also vulnerable to uneven pigmentation. In fact, many of us may have a veil of pigment on our skin that we don’t even know is there.

To counteract this, we highly recommend Photorejuventation. Whether on your face, hands, neck, chest or back, Photorejuvenation can make you look like you’ve turned back time. This treatment pulses light into the skin, heating it to target and remove the unwanted brown and red marks from the sun to deliver a more even skin tone and overall glow. It uses light (in a good way!) to repair and revive your skin in an effective and non-invasive system. These treatments are done in a timely matter and can even be done over your lunch hour.

Summer isn’t the only time to be worried about harmful UV rays, as we are exposed to the sun all year round. Therefore, sun protection is essential no matter what season you are in. Keep an eye out for our next blog, where we’ll be sharing our favourite after-sun skincare products that are perfect for recovering from the sunny season.
If you have any questions about summer skincare or any other services we offer, our medical estheticians are a helpful guide for finding the best products for your skin type, so contact us any time. We’re happy to help!

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Get Up and Get Out! Summer Outdoor Workouts in Vancouver

Now that we’re halfway through summer, there are just a few weeks left to take advantage of these beautiful sunny days. While we all know the mood-boosting benefits of exercise, it only gets better when you move those endorphin-pumping activities to the great outdoors. In fact, a study shows that just 5 minutes of exercise in a green space can wake up your body and mind, making you feel happier and less stressed.

The Urban Body Laser team can attest that there’s nothing like heading outside for fresh air and fitness. Thankfully we live in such a beautiful city that there’s plenty of ways to stay active, whether it’s with a group of friends or that all-important ‘me time’. We polled the Urban Body Laser team to see how they love to get their heart rate up while also soaking up the sunshine (with plenty of sunscreen, of course!). The best part? No treadmill or stair climber required.

Beach Jogging
By taking your run to the beach, you’re getting a lot more than just better scenery. Landing on soft sand decreases the amount of stress that hard surfaces put on your feet, and the resistance naturally works your muscles better than the treadmill. The calming atmosphere of the beach sure doesn’t hurt either! Head to Jericho Beach to clock in those kilometres, and then after your run, the Hydrating Spritzer is a must, as it rejuvenates the skin after a sweaty workout.

Hiking
Not only does hiking offer a physical challenge, but as we mentioned, being in nature is a serious mood-booster. The beautiful scenery and changing terrain shifts your focus to your movements and surroundings, taking your mind off of exercising and providing a sense of calm. Grab a friend and hit the trails for an all-day trek through nature’s playground (just don’t forget to pack plenty of water and sun protection). For the more advanced hikers, the Grouse Grind, Chief, or Sea to Summit are very challenging trails with views that can’t be beat. If you’re looking for something more leisurely, Quarry Rock or Lynn Canyon are also two of our faves.

Stand Up Paddle Boarding
A great exercise for balance and strength, stand up paddle boarding is also fun! Ideal for strengthening your core, it’s a relaxing activity where you can go at your own pace and enjoy Vancouver’s beautiful backdrop. By tuning in to the gentle rhythms of the water, a calm sense of awareness can be achieved. Head to False Creek and get paddling!

Biking
It may have been years since you last pulled out your bike, but it’s never too late to hop on two wheels again. The physical and mental benefits of cycling outdoors greatly surpass riding a stationary bike because you have to balance, steer, and respond to changing terrain. Trouble sleeping? Try going for morning rides along the Seawall, as the daylight exposure will help get your circadian rhythm back in sync and rid your body of cortisol, leading to a longer and more regenerative sleep. Just don’t forget your helmet!
These are just a few ways to stay active while also exploring your backyard. So skip the gym, grab your gear, and head out!

What’s your favourite summer outdoor workouts in Vancouver? Tweet @urbanbodylaser and let us know, and you’ll be entered to win a FREE Sunforgettable Brush, valued at $88!