Electrolysis News 2002 & Prior
December 2002
	Wyeth’s stock suffers side-effects from HRT drugs Progestin not estrogen is link to cancer, study says Gene leaves clues that may lead to hope for the hairless Yes, we’ve got hair to spare, do we hear any more bids? 2-year-old Vaniqa tops one million in prescription sales
September 2002
	Hormone trial halted due to cancer, heart Risk Drug maker amends hormone therapy (HRT) ASDS warns against cosmetic surgery by non-physicians BAE Master Class presents — Will that be One Hand or Two? Pioneer electrologist Ruth Young Block dies at 101 FDA clears first light-based do-it-yourself-at-home device for superfluous hair removal Palomar expands line of light-based hair reduction systems as FDA approves
June 2002
	IGPE suffers major brownout AEA Teaching the Teachers BAE reaches out to others “passionate on permanency” iMM-Pac’s high technology will rev up epilation speed From truffles for facials to laser for blondes AEA forms early plans for 2002 Convention in Vegas
March 2002
	Laser warfare in New York –physicians Vs estheticians Laser treatments a bitter lesson for some patients NTP proposes estrogen be added to carcinogen list IGPE’s Congress 2002 set for springtime in Chicago Different methods of hair removal not without risks OK, but will it get those dirty, dirty hairs out? Androgen therapy may help postmenopausal women Amazon Croton tree sap may be antibacterial cure-all First birth control patch receives FDA approval Attention to hair details is never just for women Postmenopausal diabetics may have help from HRT
December 2001
	IGPE’s Year 2001 Congress rescheduled for April 2002 Laser hair removal victim Sues NY spa for $100M Hinkel Inc’s Delilah knows answer to Samson’s secret Pfizer wants to know why women are quitting HRT Ballet presents Gold Probe Award for the year 2001 Studies prove progesterone noneffective against PMS Dr. Blum says “Goodbye” to IHR and Skin Talk FDA gives the “OK” to a new birth control invention New cataphoresis roller to be Apilus standard in 2000 AEA Grand Raffle winners take home grand prizes P&G donates its valuable hair removal technology
September 2001
	Name that Guild! Will it be IGPE or IGHRS? Hormone Center of New York now a reality Spider vein removal made easy for medical doctors Sterex needles adds a new twopiece to its product line AEA in Memphis for Rockin’ an’ Rollin’ and CEUs "Reduction” only, OK. But who will enforce the rules? “UK Student of the Year” wins trip to Memphis, TN
June 2001
	Who gets to use laser for hair removal in Florida is still anybody’s guess “Rebound epidemic” of HIV may already be underway Electronic tweezer-maker offers new cream to aid laser hair removal Lasers are more versatile, lighter and more available Findings of hair study just another way to raise funds Latex allergies put lower protein gloves in demand Keeping up with misleading ads is a never-ending task U.S. entry at Cannes Film Festival tells a hairy tale
March 2001
	National associations set 2001 convention plans Taking the "wait" out of electrology waiting rooms Women with Mustaches is one hairy exhibit South Africa braces for the "explosive" AIDS epidemic Bulge area of hair follicle may also be home to skin’s all-important stem cells Women seeking HRT advice still favor doctor’s opinion Researchers find two types of stem cells Amazon tree sap the cure for what ails us?
November 2000
	New AEA leader has a "Vision for the Future" New York more accessible city for hirsute patients FDA creates MD registry for drug Accutane Laser manufacturers crank out machines, get OK from FDA and churn out the ads Women fall short on folic acid Researchers weigh pros and cons of HR therapy
Wyeth’s stock suffers nasty side-effects from HRT drugs
	Stock shares of the giant pharmaceutical company, Wyeth, based in Madison, New Jersey, fell 24 percent to a four-year low in July 2002, after a large, long-term study by the Women’s Health Initiative [see Hair Route, Issue No. 92] published in major medical journals, showed that women taking Wyeth’s flagship drug Prempro for hormone replacement therapy (HRT), had an increased risk of breast cancer, stroke and heart disease. Another study released later that month, linked Wyeth’s hormone therapy drug, Premarin, to an increased risk of ovarian cancer. Reporting its quarterly earnings in October, Wyeth said its earnings had slumped a more-than-expected 31 percent as safety concerns hurt sales of its top-selling hormone replacement treatments. Revenue fell to $3.62 billion from $3.7 billion. Net income rose to $1.4 billion, or $1.05 per share, compared with $252 million, or 19 cents per share a year earlier. Excluding one-time items, earnings fell to $626.7 million, or 47 cents per share, from $905.4 million, or 68 cents per share. Analyst’s estimates had ranged from 48 cents to 55 cents per share, with an average forecast of 52 cents per share. Wyeth said it would take a $1.4 billion charge to increase the reserve to settle product liability and personal injury claims from its recalled diet drug cocktail fen-phen, which has been linked to heart problems. The company has so far taken more than $14.5 billion in charges to settle fen-phen claims. In late September, the company warned that 2002 earnings before one-time items such as the fen-phen charge would fall short of expectations, hurt by the slowing sales of hormone replacement drugs and manufacturing problems with its pneumonia vaccine Prevnar. It was also reported that sales of the company’s consumer health products, such as Robitussin cough suppressant and Centrum vitamins, were sluggish.
Progestin not estrogen is link to cancer, study says
	Sales of hormone replacement pills containing both estrogen and progestin have plunged since last summer, when a major U.S. study conducted by the Women’s Health Initiative linked these combination drugs to breast cancer and heart disease. Now the results of another study, conducted at Lund University in Sweden, suggests that women who take hormone replacement drugs containing estrogen alone, may have less chance of developing breast cancer than those who take the combination pill. Women typically take the hormone replacement drugs for relief from menopause symptoms, including hot flashes, trouble sleeping, irritability and vaginal dryness. Using estrogen alone is recommended only for women who have had hysterectomies, because the use of estrogen increases the risk of womb cancer and progestin protects against it. The Lund University study, which was presented at the annual meeting of the Swedish Society of Medicine in Goteborg, Sweden, involved 30,000 women, including about 3,500 who were taking hormone replacement therapies to ease symptoms of menopause. Results of the study indicate that women who took pills containing progestin had triple the normal risk of breast cancer. Dr. Haakan Olsson, the study’s lead researcher, said, “Women taking drugs with only estrogen had normal rates of breast cancer.” The study showed that among 395 women taking drugs with progestin for more than four years, 25 (6.3 percent) developed breast cancer. Among women taking estrogen-only drugs, the corresponding number was nine of 322, or 2.8 percent, a rate similar to that of the women in the study who were not taking hormone treatment. “The risk [of breast cancer] is about three times higher after more than four years’ use of progestin, and 1.8 times higher after less than four years’ use,” Dr. Olsson said. For many years, scientists have debated the pros and cons of hormone replacement therapy (HRT) and tried to determine whether the increased risks involved in this therapy outweigh the benefits of the medications. Critics of the new Swedish study say the number of women studied was too small to provide any answers. Dr. Valerie Beral, head of Oxford University’s epidemiology unit in Britain said, “You can’t use a study like that to draw definite conclusions.” Dr. William Creasman, an expert on HRT at the Medical University of South Carolina, is also skeptical because of the scope of the study. He said even the results of the large, long-term U.S. study on combination treatments published in major medical journals earlier this year was “flawed and raised more questions than answers.”
Gene leaves clues that may lead to hope for the hairless
	Scientists have discovered a gene that causes extreme forms of hair loss; a finding they say could one day point to better remedies for common hereditary baldness. Researchers found the gene – appropriately named “hair-less” – by studying a Pakistan family who for generations has been plagued by the inherited form of alopecia universalis. Sufferers of this rare syndrome are born without eyelashes or eyebrows, quickly lose the hair on top of the head, and never grow any body hair. It’s a far cry from the more common male pattern baldness, which sends millions of men reaching for their hair-growth drugs or toupees. But because the hairless gene regulates the same hair follicles, and appears to switch on other hair related genes, it provides a vital clue to understanding hair growth and loss. Dermatology professor, Dr. Angela Christiano, the lead researcher of this study at Columbia University says, “There are several forms of hereditary hair loss, but scientists until now have been unable to find any of the genes responsible. We’re hoping this will lead us to the next gene and the next.” Dr. Christiano said they have begun test-tube experiments to uncover exactly how the gene for hairlessness works. “This is sort of like getting your foot in the door,” agreed Dr. David Valle, a medical geneticist and pediatrician at Johns Hopkins University, who praised the study, recently published in the journal Science. Dr. Christiano said, “Researchers think hair growth is regulated like a clock and needs to pass through certain checkpoints before a new hair can grow. We’re hoping this is the first checkpoint. If so, following the hairless gene’s trail as it makes proteins that switch on other genes, could uncover where milder forms of baldness originate, and suggest possible new therapies. It’s a field already attracting interest. Drug giant Johnson & Johnson has recruited balding families for its own gene hunt, and a California company says that if the genes to stimulate hair growth are found, it has the technology to transfer them into empty hair follicles for gene therapy.
Yes, we’ve got hair to spare, do we hear any more bids?
	What do you do with all those hairs you remove from clients, anyway? Do you store them away safely, for that day in the future when your client is world famous? – No? Well maybe you ought to think the idea over again. At an online sale at MastroNet, Inc. on Oct. 28, 2002, some hair of the legendary rocking ’n’ rolling “Elvis the Pelvis” Presley went on the auction block. The precious bundle of jet black hair clippings (approximately the size of a baseball), was originally cut from the “King’s” head by his personal hairdresser, “Gill” Gilleland – and you’re going to feel like weeping when you hear the price it sold for and think about all the great hairs you’ve trashed in the last 10 years. What do you suppose they’d be worth today? Homer M. Gilleland (better known as Mr. Gill), was Elvis’s personal hair stylist for over 20 years. During those years, the singer gave Mr. Gill numerous gifts of clothing, including the Flame Jumpsuit, assorted jewelry, a 1972 Lincoln Mark IV, a home on Jean Drive, in Memphis and, presumably, all the hair clippings he could carry. Born in North Carolina, Mr. Gill attended New York’s Antoinne Beauty School in 1937, and was later given a job starting beauty schools in St. Louis, Kansas City, and Memphis. Settling in Memphis, he worked as a hairdresser at Goldsmith’s Department Store, and it was there that he met up with the Presley family. From that point it was a giddying ride – wherever the King traveled, Mr. Gill traveled also. From the Hawaii “Aloha Special” satellite broadcast, to the New York City Madison Square Show. From the late 1950s until May 1976, Mr. Gill was there, attending to Elvis’s coloring, cutting and styling needs, and picking up the mess of hair clippings that were left behind. Shortly after Elvis’s death – across from Graceland at Mr. Tubbs’s Souvenir Shop – Homer Gilleland was selling samples of hair that he’d collected from his old boss during his years of service. Five years ago, before he died, Mr. Gill gave the remains of his hair collection to Elvis’s old friend, Tom Morgan Jr., who recently made the decision to sell. Going to auction, along with the ball of hair, was a long, documented provenance, and letters of authenticityfrom John W. Heath (the world’s foremost Elvis memorabilia expert) and John Reznikoff, of University Archives (the world’smost trusted authority in the field of hair collecting today). And what does a ball of Elvis’s hair go for? Well, superfluous hair of the stars doesn’t come cheap. The Oct. 28 opening bid was $10,000. There were 32 parties bidding, and the closing bid was $100,105. It’s time, ladies, to get out those jam jars and start preserving all those juicy little anagen hairs. There’s no knowing what they’ll be worth 25 years from now!
2-year-old Vaniqa tops one million in prescription sales
	Just two years after getting clearance to market from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, the topical hair removal cream Vaniqa, developed by Bristol-Myers Squibb Co. and Gillette Co., has topped one million in prescription sales in North America. According to data released in September by NDCHealth, Inc., ”The easy-to-use cream continues to gain favor among women and physicians coast-to-coast for its ability to clear unwanted facial hair, or greatly reduce the time women spend removing or concealing it.” The presence of facial hair is among the most prevalent and bothersome cosmetic concerns a woman faces. NDCHealth says an estimated 41 million American women have removed unwanted facial hair at least once in the last six months. Likewise, the market for hair removal services and products of all kinds is in excess of $1.8 billion annually. Confirming the need for a product that slows hair growth, 43 percent of women surveyed by NDCHealth reported they were unhappy with their current method of hair removal, and 60 percent thought the hair grew back too fast. Geoffrey Redmond, MD, Hair Route magazine's medical consultant and columnist, was involved in the development of Vaniqa and did much of the research showing it to be effective. Jeanne Sweeney, DCT, a nationally known electrologist also worked with him in studying Vaniqa. ”It is an entirely new approach to treating increased facial hair, because it does not work through hormonal pathways,” says Dr. Redmond. ”Vaniqa works directly to slow hair growth by inhibiting an enzyme called ornithine decarboxylase (ODC). When this enzyme is blocked by the medication, metabolic activity in the hair follicle decreases, and hairs grow in more slowly. Vaniqa does not itself remove hair, so it needs to be used in combination with a removal method.” Vaniqa (eflornithine hydrochloride) is the first and only product to receive the approval of the US Food and Drug Administration for decreasing growth of women's facial hair. Available only by prescription, the cream can be used by women of all ages and all skin types, and is effective regardless of the cause of excess facial hair, be it hereditary or hormonal. It is gentle enough to be used daily, as part of a woman's regular skin care regimen, and during clinical trails results improved the longer Vaniqa was used. Dr. Redmond confirms that many of the women who used Vaniqa in the clinical trials were pleased with results. ”Vaniqa is for women who are already doing some kind of hair removal,” says Dr. Redmond. ”Slowing the growth of the hair means fewer hair removal sessions; more importantly, it increases the time after removal that a woman can feel confident that her facial hair is not noticeable. I know of no reason why women undergoing electrolysis should not also use Vaniqa. For those women with heavy facial hair growth, this makes sense because the cream will slow down the growth within a few weeks and the electrolysis by a competent electrologist will produce eventual permanent removal.” Vaniqa does have some limitations. Testing involved only application on the face, so it is not indicated for increased hair elsewhere. Bikini-line use would raise particular concern since a topical applied to that area might be absorbed more than when it is applied on the face. Side effects, if they occur at all, are quite mild. When applied right after hair has been removed with a razor, mild stinging can occur; but this is brief and not very bothersome. Use by pregnant women was not studied, therefore Vaniqa cannot be recommended for use in pregnancy. ”Bristol-Myers Squibb and Gillette were forward-looking to invest in developing Vaniqa,” says Dr. Redmond. ”For years, most of the medical profession refused to acknowledge that increased hair growth in women was a problem at all. As a result, women embarrassed by visible facial hair have felt quite isolated.”
Hormone trial halted due to cancer, heart Risk
	A major U.S. trial at the Women’s Health Initiative, a unit of the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI), designed to show the possible benefits of hormone replacement therapy (HRT) in combating coronary heart disease, was halted in July when researchers found that the estrogen/progestin combination being used presented “safety concerns.” The trial involved 16,608 women aged 50 to 79 who still had their uterus. Such women are given the estrogen/progestin combination because estrogen alone can promote cancer in the lining of the uterus. Dr. Jacques Rossouw, who is acting director of the NHLBI, said women who have participated in the trial, as well as other patients taking this drug combination, “should not be unduly alarmed,” since the risk to an individual patient is small. However, he suggested “Women with a uterus who are currently taking estrogen plus progestin should have a serious talk with their doctor to see if they should continue it.” Although the combination hormone did reduce the risk of colon cancer and hip fractures, it also increased the risk of heart disease and breast cancer. The trial was said to be the largest, best-designed, and most important study of HRT to date. More than 6 million women in the US currently take estrogen and progestin combination therapy for a variety of reasons, including relief of hot flashes and other menopausal symptoms. The hope – and the hype – has been that such hormones would also confer a number of other advantages, including a reduced risk of heart disease. However, the study suggests that when women take the drugs for more than about five years, the risks of the hormones clearly outweigh the benefits. Women taking the hormones after menopause had a greater risk of breast cancer, heart attack, stroke and blood clots than those who did not take the drugs. The results of the trial, which was supposed to last 8.5 years, were originally scheduled to be published in the August issue of The Journal of the American Medical Association, but were released early due to the importance of the findings. The patients were randomly assigned to receive either the estrogen/progestin combination or an inactive placebo. They were followed for an average of 5.2 years. Dr. Rossouw said the results showed that if 10,000 postmenopausal women take estrogen plus progestin, in a given year eight more will develop invasive breast cancer, seven will have a heart attack, eight will have a stroke, and 18 more will have blood clots (including eight with blood clots in the lungs) than in a similar group of 10,000 women not taking these hormones. “This is a relatively small annual increase in risk for an individual woman,” said Dr. Rossouw. “However, even small individual risks over time, and on a population-wide basis, add up to tens of thousands of these serious adverse health events.” Dr. Claude Lenfant, director of the NHLBI, said that menopausal women who are considering starting HRT with the hope of preventing heart disease might want to reconsider the idea. “Menopausal women who might have been candidates for estrogen plus progestin should now focus on well-proven treatments to reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease, including measures to prevent and control high blood pressure, high blood cholesterol and obesity,” he said. “Heart disease remains the number-one killer in North America.” Within a day of receiving word about the halting of the U.S. trial, health officials at Britain’s Department of Health were warning British women not to begin a treatment of hormone replacement therapy (HRT) to combat coronary heart disease, because the U.S. study had found the drugs could produce “serious side effects.” A spokeswoman at Britain’s Department of Health said: “HRT should not be initiated for prevention of coronary heart disease. A small increase in the risk of breast cancer after five years of use of HRT has been known for some time.” She said that the government’s Committee for Safety of Medicines – an independent advisory committee – would “carefully consider any further implications of the American study and update its advice as necessary.” In England, about six million HRT prescriptions were issued last year, according to government numbers, though the particular combination of drugs was not identical to those used in the U.S. study.
Drug maker amends hormone therapy (HRT) prescribing info
	In a press release dated Sep. 4, 2002, U.S. drug maker Wyeth said it has changed the prescribing recommendations for women taking its hormone replacement therapy (HRT) products to reflect recent studies that raised safety questions about the medicines and sparked a nationwide debate. The labels for Premarin, Prempro and Premphase will now recommend that women remain on the therapies for the shortest time possible given the individual patient’s treatment goals. The drugs should also not be taken to prevent heart disease, and other treatments should be considered for osteoporosis prevention, a common use of hormone replacement therapy. Wyeth says the prescription information for these drugs will include results of a study spearheaded by The Women’s Health Initiative (WHI) that suggested Prempro carried a slightly increased risk of breast cancer, stroke, and heart disease after five years of use. A second study prompted safety questions about Premarin. Premarin contains the hormone estrogen for the treatment of menopause symptoms while Prempro combines estrogen with a synthetic female hormone called progestin. Wyeth, which saw prescriptions in U.S. drop more than 20 percent in the weeks immediately after the Prempro study came out in July, has been criticized for not adequately warning patients of the potential risks of the medicines.
ASDS warns against cosmetic surgery by non-physicians
	The 2002 Member Survey of the American Society for Dermatologic Surgery (ASDS) indicates clearly that cosmetic procedures performed by non-physicians without adequate training or supervision continue to pose a public safety concern. Numerous medical treatments that traditionally present a low risk profile when performed by qualified dermatologic surgeons are now being cited as the cause of scars, burns, permanent skin discoloration and even misdiagnoses of serious conditions like skin cancers. With these facts in mind, the ASDS has announced that it will extend for another year its awareness campaign to warn consumers about the risks of complications and the unscrupulous practices associated with various invasive and noninvasive medical procedures administered by non-physician operators at spas, salons or clinics. Almost 41% of Survey respondents reported an increase in patients seeking corrective treatment over the past year – due to damage caused by untrained non-physicians performing laser/light hair removal, subsurface laser/light rejuvenation techniques, chemical peels, acne therapy, and misdiagnosis or delayed treatment of skin cancers and rosacea. Laser and light-based hair removal procedures by non-physicians were again the most widely reported complication with 106 dermatologic surgeons noting such adverse effects as second and third degree burns, permanent nerve damage and scarring. This is an increase of 7% when compared to last year’s data for hair removal procedures. In a July press release, ASDS President-elect Dr. Roy G. Geronemus, told reporters that the results of the Survey underscores the need for improved awareness, legislation and enforcement regarding the non-physician practice of medicine. He said, “The Society will remain vigilant in its efforts to protect patients on this issue.” Compared to the ASDS’s 2001 Survey, the incidence of complications from laser and light-based hair removal procedures by non-physicians increased significantly this year, from 24% in 2001 to 31% in 2002. “High-tech hair removal procedures remain the leading source of complications,” said Dr. Geronemus. “And while we are pleased to note some minimal improvement in the rate of complications from certain procedures like rosacea,” he added, “it is worrisome to see chemical peels, acne therapy and hair removal come on the radar screen rather dramatically.” To address these concerns, the ASDS has issued position statements on the non-physician practice of medicine, and Society members have been instrumental in encouraging state medical boards, education departments and health departments to re-examine the legal definition of the practice of medicine. The ASDS’s reform efforts during the past year have resulted in a revised position statement on the utilization of medical lasers and chemical peels under direct and onsite physician supervision by the Louisiana State Board of Medical Examiners. Oregon introduced new guidelines restricting laser procedures to “direct physician supervision” only. And the New York State Board of Medicine passed a resolution recommending that the use of lasers and intense pulsed light for hair removal be considered the practice of medicine and thus must be performed by a physician or done under direct physician supervision. Policies regarding laser use in Texas are pending review by the state medical board and health department. “The bottom line for our specialty is to protect consumers from the proliferation of non-physicians who typically do not have the necessary medical training and qualifications to diagnose the condition, perform the procedure or adequately address complications when they arise, particularly when treatment is administered outside the medical setting,” says Dr. Geronemus. “Since the incidence of complications reflected in our survey may just be the ‘tip of the iceberg,’ we clearly have more work to do.”
BAE Master Class presents — Will that be One Hand or Two?
	Should the electrologist work with the needleholder in her dominant hand and forceps in the opposing hand; or should she hold both the forceps and needleholder in the same hand? That is a question that has been debated, on and off, at electrologists’ meetings worldwide for many years. And it’s going to be one of many interesting topics on the program of the British Association of Electrolysists’ special “Symposium & Master Class,” to be held at the Hairdressing & Beauty Equipment Centre in London, England, on Sunday Nov. 17, 2002. The one-day event will be open to all electrologists, members and non-members, and to all tutors in both private and state colleges. Among the high-priority topics on the Symposium agenda will be the severe shortage of skilled electrologists in the field today, and the dwindling number of students enrolling in our schools of electrology. At the Master Class, there will be a practical demonstration of the one-handed epilation technique – which requires that the electrologist’s forceps and needleholder both be held in the same hand. Janet Ellard-Smith, the BAE’s press secretary says, “practitioners of this one-handed technique – once used extensively in the West-End of London – claim that it is much faster than the current two-handed method.” In her invitation to potential Symposium visitors Ms. Ellard-Smith says; “If you have never seen this technique you are in for a real treat. I am really looking forward to this as when I have seen this procedure used it is amazing and looks like a magic trick! I have never been able to master it and am hoping to give it a go!” All delegates to the Symposium will be issued with a Certificate of Professional Development. The cost of this one-day experience, with lunch included, is £75. Early registration is advised. Tel: 0870-1280477, or email sec@baeltd.fsbusiness.co.uk for details. For further information contact Janet Ellard-Smith direct on: Email janet.ellard-smith@bigfoot.com Tel: 020-8318 5356 Fax: 0870 132 5833. While attending the Symposium and Master Class, visitors will have the opportunity to become a BAE Member, or Associate Member. The benefits of being a member are numerous and include eligibility to join the Medical Group Insurance Scheme, with preferential premiums and excellent coverage. Electrologists are kept up-to-date on electrolysis issues every two months through the Association’s newsletter Probe. And the Association also has two ‘HELPLINES’ available for any queries from members and the general public. “Come and join us! says the Association. It’s good to talk!”
Pioneer electrologist Ruth Young Block dies at 101
	A pioneer of short wave epilation, Ruth Young Block, died of heart failure on Aug. 7, 2002, just one week short of her 101st birthday. Born August 14, 1901, Ms. Block had transformed her early years of Depression-era penury into a long, high-profile career in electrolysis, followed by 29 years of comfortable retirement in her Chicago lakefront apartment. A Polish immigrant, Ms. Block became an electrologist in 1937, and with borrowed money opened the ‘Ruth Young Block Luxury Salon for the Permanent Removal of Hair’ in Marshall Field’s annex building, in Chicago’s historic downtown Loop district. Throughout the 36 years she worked at this location, she was a constant voice in the promotion of permanent hair removal and a staunch supporter of state and national electrolysis associations. During the span of her career she held various posts in the Electrolysis Society of America (ESA), the Electrologists’ Association of Illinois (EAI), of which she was a founding member and one-time President, and the American Electrology Association (AEA) where she served a two-year term as 1st Vice President (1968-70), and a two-year term in the high office of AEA President (1971-72). From the beginning, Ms. Block was a pioneer of short wave epilation, a method that was in its infancy in the 1930s, and she never ceased promoting the process in her typically aggressive advertising campaigns. Newspaper ads – her favorite form of advertising – regularly declared; “Our short wave method, using radio waves destroys hair five times faster than the old approach,” “Guaranteed permanent,” Private consultation without obligation,” “Trial Treatment $1.” In 1972, Ms. Block’s daughter, Carol – who had been active in the electrolysis business for some years – introduced the Block clientele to a hair removal process that was not to the liking of the professional electrolysis associations of that day. The ensuing controversy soured Ruth Block’s long relationship with some of her peers, and she decided to retire from business in 1973, at the age of 72.
FDA clears first light-based do-it-yourself-at-home device for superfluous hair removal
	The laser manufacturing company, Radiancy, Inc., based at Yavne Industrial Park in Israel, with corporate headquarters located in Orangeburg, N.Y., announced in June 2002 that the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) had granted the Company clearance to market its non-laser, light-based photoepilation system, SpaTouch,” for patient removal of unwanted hair at home. Radiancy’s president, Zion Azar, said the FDA’s new, “Physician Directed Use (PDU)” indication confirms “the superior safety, ease of use and clinical efficacy of the innovative light energy technology exclusive to the SpaTouch.” “The FDA’s clearance is a significant corporate milestone, and we are very excited that our SpaTouch system is the first of its type to be classified as a PDU,” said Mr. Azar. “Our successful clinical results positively establish that SpaTouch is safe and effective for hair removal performed by patients in their homes.” In a study designed to evaluate the safety and efficacy of SpaTouch hair removal when used by patients for self treatment in a home-like environment, 67 patients – with various skin types (I-IV) and blond to black hair – performed two treatments, on two body areas. The first self-treatment was administered at a clinical investigator’s office after instruction and guidance by the physician. The second self-treatment was performed four weeks later at a hotel room, simulating an at-home environment. Safety and treatment response were evaluated at six and 12 weeks following the first self-treatment. Results showed that side effects such as redness and swelling at the treatment site were mild, transient and comparable to those in previous investigations where a similar device was operated by healthcare professionals. “The basic concept of the study was to determine if the average person could treat him or herself without causing harm. Our work showed that patients may administer self-treatments for hair removal in a safe and effective manner,” said Thomas E. Rohrer, MD, the study’s lead investigator in Boston. Radiancy Inc. says there are several aspects of the SpaTouch system that make it ideal for patients to use at home. “The Company’s trademarked Light and Heat Energy (LHE) technology utilizes the heat generated from the light source, enabling the use of low light energy fluences that help avoid the risks associated with high energy lasers.” A bulletin issued by Radiancy, Inc. says, “High-tech hair removal is a multi-billion dollar business, and industry experts expect that the number of installed light-based devices will more than double in the next few years. Seven years after the first laser hair removal unit was approved by the FDA, consumers are spending more than $1 billion annually for treatment, making high-tech hair removal one of the fastest-growing cosmetic procedures.”
Palomar expands line of light-based hair reduction systems as FDA approves
	In a press release dated Aug. 1, 2002, Palomar Medical Technologies Inc. announced that it had received clearance from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to sell and market a new handpiece for its EsteLux light-based hair reduction system– “good for all skin types, including tanned skin.” The red light filtered handpiece expands the EsteLux system’s treatment capabilities by permitting “permanent hair reduction on all skin types,” through a unique combination of optics and energy levels that allows the handpiece to selectively target melanin in the hair follicle. The Palomar Company’s fortunes have not shone too brightly in the past year or two. A leader in the manufacturing and promotion of laser hair reduction in the late 1990s, this high-tech firm has lately been struggling to stay ahead of innumerable competitors. In May 1996, Palomar stock traded above $16 on the New York Stock Exchange, but by April 1997 shares in the company floundered around $4. The Company’s chairman and chief executive officer at that time, Steven Georgiev, told shareholders: “Palomar will focus only on achieving the largest possible market share in our core business – cosmetic laser products and services. We believe that we are positioned to capitalize on these multi-billion dollar markets and achieve a dominant position within the next two years.” Alas, it was not to be. Investors who bought Palomar stock at 1996 prices, were having great difficulty finding buyers who would pay $1.70 for their shares at the beginning of September 2002. These manufacturers have long since given up hope of mining “multi-billion markets” in the medical laser hair removal field. In June 2002, the Audit Committee of the Board of Directors of Palomar fired its independent accountants, Arthur Anderson LLP, because the accounting company had noted on Palomar’s 2001 year-end financial statements “there is substantial doubt about the [Palomar] Company’s ability to continue as a going concern.” As of July 8, 2002, Palomar has a new accounting firm auditing its financial statements, and the manufacturing and retailing departments of the Company are turning their sights toward the possibly more lucrative cosmetology markets and non-laser flashlamps. Pinning its hopes on its much-touted EsteLux pulsed-light hair reduction system ($29,000), Palomar is currently bombarding the esthetics, spa, and salon industries with high-powered advertising in every beauty and cosmetics magazine it can find. Recent promotional material from Palomar reported “sales of the Company’s products continue to be impressive during the historically slow summer months.” And in the line-up of new product offerings there is the LuxY(TM) yellow light filtered handpiece – for fast removal of hair and pigmented lesions on lighter skin types; the LuxG green light filtered handpiece – for pigmented and vascular lesion treatments; and the LuxR red light filtered handpiece – for fast removal of hair on all skin types, including tanned skin.
IGPE suffers major brownout
	All did not go well for the proponents of needle-type electrolysis attending the April 2002 Congress and Membership Meeting of the International Guild of Professional Electrologists in Chicago. A small contingent of members — calling itself the “Ethical IGPE Coalition” — had hoped to stall the reelection of incumbent Guild president Trudy Brown, and, more importantly, defeat a proposal of the Guild board to remove the words “Professional Electrologists” from the corporate name and replace them with the words “Hair Removal Specialists.” The efforts of the Coalition were sadly to no avail. A near two-thirds majority of the scant 61 IGPE members attending the Chicago meeting confirmed Ms. Brown’s position as presidential leader, and voted in favor of the changes to the corporate name. Ms. Brown did not accomplish her mission without considerable political maneuvering. The first order of business when the membership meeting came to order was to shuffle the convention schedule (already quite changed from the one that members received in the mail weeks earlier). According to a report by James Walker — who spearheaded the Coalition — Ms. Brown did not want secret balloting for the vote on changing the words and meaning of the corporate name, and was instead able to arrange for a (more inhibiting) “detractors-only standing vote” — requiring the few persons who disagreed with the proposed changes to stand up and be counted. At the election for Guild president, the rules were tweaked so that only a person present at the Chicago meeting could be nominated for office. “Since the new rules prevented the nomination of anyone who was not present at the meeting, nominations from the floor were predictably sparse,” says Mr. Walker. “No one was now able to nominate Mr. Fino Gior [founder and former president of the Guild] for the position of president, as the Ethical IGPE Coalition had planned to do.” To give Ms. Brown some opposition on the ballot — no matter how untenable the proposal — Mr. Walker nominated himself for the position of president of the Guild. At voting time, only those members present at the convention on election day were allowed to participate. Ms. Brown retained the Guild’s presidency with 39 votes. Mr. Walker received four votes. Five voters abstained. The “new board,” says Mr. Walker, “all of them returning incumbents, were duly sworn and told, ‘You people who stand here; You are the Guild.’” On hearing the results of the voting, Mr. Gior said “Disaster hit the Guild. It went from ‘permanent hair removal’ to ‘hair reduction’ and they call this ‘progress.’ I call, it ‘regression.’ They say laser is here to stay! Well, so is death, disease, crime and greed. Does this equate to a Good?” Mr. Gior added that it will be interesting to hear “how the rest of the Guild’s members — those that were unable to attend the meeting in Chicago — react to these changes.” The answer to this question may not be of much consequence: one Guild critic, who wishes to remain anonymous, estimates that the Guild membership dropped by more than 200 in the 2002 renewal period, and a further loss in number may leave the International Guild of Hair Removal Specialists (IGHRS) with a membership count lower than some state electrology associations.
AEA Teaching the Teachers
	The American Electrology Association’s International Board of Electrologist Certification (IBEC) has developed a program to prepare electrologists to become teachers in a classroom environment. In a recent press release the AEA said, “Once again the AEA is leading the way, setting high standards for the electrology profession by providing this pedagogy program. If you are looking for an opportunity to grow and do something for your profession of electrology then this is the program for you. Here is an opportunity for you to achieve your goals.” A Certified Professional Electrologist (CPE) with at least five years experience in the field will be eligible to participate in this “Teaching the Teachers” program, which will help prospective instructors learn the skills and techniques they require. The curriculum will cover formats, structures, methodologies, and delivery systems. Participants will learn how to prepare lesson plans, develop written and practical tests, and develop presentation skills. The AEA is offering the course prior to the Association’s Convention, Oct. 21-22, 2002. The program will provide a complete course syllabus and teaching materials for classroom and reference use. Learning the skills and techniques to develop overheads and handouts, and make the most of the various available media, will be part of the two-day event. The first class is on Mon., Oct. 21, 2002, between the hours of 9:00 a.m. — 5:00 p.m. On Tue., Oct. 22nd, the hours are 9:00 a.m. — 4:00 p.m. Buffet luncheon will be provided both days at 12:30. Registration is limited to electrologists who hold the CPE credential with five years of experience in the field. Registration fee for the two days is $185.00. For more information about the program contact: Sharon Ortiz — AEA Treasurer, 1616 Cherry St., Wenatchee, WA, 98801-3147. Registration must be before Oct. 1, 2002. For information about the Orleans Hotel in Las Vegas, tel. 800-ORLEANS.
BAE reaches out to others “passionate on permanency”
	At the 45th Annual General Meeting and Open Convention of the British Association of Electrolysists (BAE) held at the New Cavendish Club, in the heart of London, on April 28, Sybil Perkins passed the Chairmanship of the Association over to Sue Paradise. Ms. Paradise is a practising electrologist with more than 13 years experience at her Elisabeth Cummings Clinic in Gravesend, Kent. Ms. Perkins, the retiring Chair, held the position of Secretary of the BAE for several years and also assisted with the BAE’s Helpline. Professionally, she has been in private practice for 31 years, formerly with two successful salons, and more recently from a clinic in her home. Ms. Perkins will continue to be an active BAE committee member and work with the Helpline, which the Association runs for the benefit of its membership and the general public. The Vice-Chairmanship of the BAE was passed from Sue Paradise to Janet Ellard-Smith, current press secretary for the BAE and former British Electrologist of the Year. Laura Bateman, who owns a salon in St. Albans, Hertfordshire, took over the position of Association treasurer. Among other important business at this BAE meeting was the launching of the Association’s new web site, www.electrolysis-bae-ltd.co.uk. On this web site consumers can find their closest BAE-electrologist, and members can read all about their committee and even see photos of who’s who! The site also has links to the web sites of the American Electrology Association (AEA), the International Hair Route “the definitive magazine for permanent hair removal,” and Verity, the web site of a self-help group for polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS). The British Association of Electrolysists is always actively recruiting new members, and any electrologist “who is passionate about permanency” is invited to contact the BAE Helpline, telephone 0870 128 0477, for details about joining the Association. For further information about the BAE contact: Janet Ellard-Smith at: tel. 020-8318 5356, fax. 08701 325 833, or email janet.ellard-smith@bigfoot.com.
iMM-Pac’s high technology will rev up epilation speed
	The speed at which epilation can be performed is of the utmost importance to electrologists’ clients. “This is why something new appears on the market each year, offering a quicker way to remove unwanted hairs,” says Clément Beaumont, president and CEO of the electrolysis manufacturing firm Dectro International. “Computerized electroepilation is no exception to this desire for speed,” Mr. Beaumont adds. “And our Company took up the challenge to increase the speed of electroepilation without compromising the effectiveness of this modality, and we created the new iMM-Pac software, that integrates new, even more outstanding functions for our state-of-the-art Apilus Senior II and SX-500 devices.” Thanks to the Apilus flexibility, owners of the Company’s Apilus Senior II or SX-500 devices can now make their system even more rapidly effective with iMM-Pac Advanced Apilus technology. The first function integrated in the iMM-Pac software is a complete range of programs for insulated probes. These programs are available for each body area and treatment modality. The unique feature is designed to ensure better use of insulated probes, while maximizing results and comfort. Two other interesting options are Dectro’s Multiplex (developed to treat deep follicles and facilitate the removal of hairs in the telogen phase), and MultiBlend (designed to treat very distorted hairs, and strong, difficult anagen hairs). Once restricted to the Apilus SX-500, these two very effective techniques can now be optionally integrated into the Apilus Senior II. Also incorporated in the iMM-Pac, is the MicroFlash — proportional pulsing/variable delay (MPP/VD) function, which makes it easier to use the probe displacement method in the follicle — a method that is becoming popular with the increasing use of insulated probes. The method consists in producing several reduced pulses which are emitted at different locations along the follicle. “The result with this technique,” says Mr. Beaumont “is more extensive destruction between the papilla and the bulge sections of the follicle, with reduced length and intensity when used with insulated probes. Greater comfort and less abundant regrowth.” The Company says the new iMM-Pac technology offers a series of additional assets designed to meet the expectations of the most discriminating clientele, while providing a permanent, comfortable and rapidly effective epilation!
From truffles for facials to laser for blondes
	The U.S. television news networks have not been slow to jump on the controversy surrounding the practice of laser hair removal, particularly in New York City where Kim McMillon “an attractive, 34-year-old Wall Street investment banker” is seeking compensation of $100 million from Greenhouse Day Spa, after receiving permanent facial scars in a laser hair removal “treatment gone wrong.” [Reported in Hair Route, Dec. 2001, page 20.] A CBS 2 Investigation of Ms. McMillon’s case turned up some interesting information on the use of lasers in different states. In their interviews with doctors, CBS 2 learned that “the laws regarding the use of lasers in New York State are murky.” They were told that technicians with as little as one day’s training can perform the procedures, but should be under the supervision of a doctor. However, there are loopholes. A New Jersey surgeon explained to CBS 2, “There is a way to work that out in New York.” When CBS 2 went undercover a plastic surgeon told them how they could set up laser treatments in a spa if he became the physician director. He said he could help them buy and maintain the laser machine and provide additional training if they wanted — but he wouldn’t have to be on site. A CBS 2 undercover producer asked the plastic surgeon, “Okay, this is like a whole package and is that part of the cost of buying the machine?” The doctor responded, “That has nothing to do with the machine, this has nothing to do with the company, this is then between us. They’ll sell you the machine and all that and then what we have is we have a contract.” The CBS 2 reporters discovered this is a common transaction called “rent-a-doctor.” It allows non-physicians to get a doctor to sign off on the purchase of a laser machine and receive malpractice insurance. For a fee, of course. The same plastic surgeon told CBS 2, “There is a fee per month, I think around $500 and for that I’m available whenever, if you need to come back, if you have a lawsuit.” Reporters with the ABC News program Primetime also had a field day when, on May 2 of this year, they did some investigating of the booming spa industry. American women spent almost $9 billion on spas in 2001 alone. The spas offer a wide range of services, which they say can promote health, beauty and a sense of well-being. Primetime wanted to investigate claims about some of the more exotic treatments offered by these operations. During a two-month investigation, Primetime staffers visited spas and beauty clinics in New York City, recording their visits — and the spa operators’ claims — on hidden cameras. Primetime then showed the tapes to medical experts, and confronted the spa operators with what the experts said. The reporters were fascinated at first by the latest beauty treatments at the upscale spas. The signature treatment at one spa was a $140 facial that began with rare truffles — chopped and mixed with fragrant oils and brushed on the face — and ended with a caviar cream “to replenish the skin with minerals and nutrients.” Primetime’s exposé of facials was dull entertainment when compared to investigations into laser hair removal. Laser treatments to remove body hair are becoming available at more and more spas, Primetime discovered, and more than 1 million Americans had laser hair removal in 2001. According to Dr. Roy Geronemus, a leading expert on the topic of laser, dermatologists are seeing a “dramatic” increase in the number of complications from these treatments. “These complications may have lifelong consequences,” he said. Primetime met Kim McMillon (the aforementioned “attractive Wall Street investment banker”) who told them she has been left with permanent scarring, and now, more than a year later, still does not uncover her face in public. Dr. Geronemus expressed his concern to Primetime about training: some operators have only a weekend’s worth. “Even with much more training, mistakes are made,” he said. “There are many different lasers for different skin types and too many operators use the wrong laser for the wrong skin.” The newspeople were further surprised to discover that only 15 states require “physicians only” to perform laser hair removal. In 20 states, including New York, they found there are no regulations at all. To see if testers would be accurately told what to expect and what risks they might take, Primetime sent employees to spas in New York to document their consultations with hidden cameras. These “testers” were all deemed high risk or poor candidates for laser hair removal by Dr. Geronemus. Experts consulted by Primetime said one of the most important things in laser treatment is assessing a customer’s suitability. Some lasers can be dangerous for some darker skin types, they warned, and are ineffective on blond hairs. Primetime’s hidden cameras found that while some laser operators were careful to consider clients, skin and hair type, others were willing to proceed with laser treatments without giving adequate warning of the potential dangers involved. At one spa the operator told a tester with fair skin and blond hair that she could get rid of unwanted hair and would not face side effects because of her skin and hair color. The operator promised that after three sessions, costing a total of $1,000, the tester’s hair would be gone “permanently.” Dr. Geronemus said that was misleading: “Lasers just don’t work on blond hair at this time . . . It simply doesn’t work,” he said. “There’s no point in even attempting this procedure on this patient.” When Primetime told the operator of the doctors’ opinion, she said that while the laser won’t work on many blonds, it will on some, and that you don’t know until you do it. Because melanin absorbs the laser’s heat, people with darker skin are at a much higher risk for side effects. Some lasers cannot distinguish the dark hair from the dark skin. Nevertheless, a black tester who went to a laser hair center in New York was told she would be safe, and was promised that any reaction would last only a few days. Primetime’s experts were shocked to hear the operator’s reassurances, explaining that the laser she planned to use on the black tester was the wrong laser and increased the risk of burning and scarring. There are more than 30 models of hair-removal laser on the market, but operators need to choose carefully which laser to use on which skin type, the experts said. “The mistakes that were made were fundamental mistakes and should not be made,” said Dr. Geronemus. “These are fabulous procedures if performed properly, but there can be significant consequences if not performed properly.”
AEA forms early plans for 2002 Convention in Vegas
	The American Electrology Association (AEA) will hold it’s 2002 Convention at The Orleans Hotel in Las Vegas, Oct. 23-26. The Keynote Speaker will be E. Scott Sills, M.D., an endocrinologist from Atlanta, GA. Dr. Sills will be talking about “PCOS: The Significance of Symptom Awareness in Electrology Settings.” Other speakers include: electrologist Joyce Munson; Mary Ann Ciesla, PhD, MD; electrologist Bette Pritchett, BA; Julie Donnelly, BS; Zev M. Cohen; and Jon Anderson. For more details contact the AEA Executive Office, 106 Oak ridge Road, Trumbull, CT 06611. Fax: (203) 372-7134, or email convention@electrology.com.
Laser warfare in New York physicians Vs estheticians
	The questions of permanency or “permanent reduction,” were never even hinted at in the lengthy, cosmetic laser story featured in the Styles section of The New York Times, on Sunday, February 17. The big debate in this article, written by Elizabeth Hayt and titled “Whose Hand Holds the Laser,” was not about the efficacy of laser hair removal but rather about who should be allowed to perform the potentially dangerous procedure. “Originally developed by physicians” reports Ms. Hayt, “these treatments, which promise the dewy luster of youth, have in the last two years moved out from the fluorescent lights of doctors’ offices and into the candlelighted eucalyptus-scented interiors of skin-care salons and ‘wellness centers.’ “Using powerful technologies like lasers and microdermabrasion machines, the treatments are being done by nonphysicians, everyone from facialists to massage therapists,” says Ms. Hayt. The article quotes Mary Bemis, the editor of American Spa Magazine as saying “Everyone wants a piece of the Pie. A lot of physicians saw a good amount of their business being taken away by estheticians who started doing microdermabrasion and laser hair removal. The estheticians argue that you couldn’t get that kind of one-on-one personal attention from a physician’s office. Beauty is where the money is.” A spokeswoman at the U.S. Food and Drug Administration told Ms. Hayt that the FDA classifies hair-removal lasers as prescription devices, which can be sold only to physicians, dentists and other ‘licensed practitioners.’ But the states decide which licensed practitioners, including nurses and estheticians (technically, people who do facials, tweezing and the like) may buy and use the machines. The article points out that manufacturers and distributors of laser hair removal devices are supposed to verify that buyers other than physicians have medical oversight, but it is “easy to circumvent the system.” Ken Callison, the owner of Allied Health Association, which caters to the esthetic industry, told the Times reporter that for a $600 annual fee, he offers “a rent-a-medical-director program, so that nonphysicians can get a doctor to sign off on the purchase of a hair removal laser.” Further to that, said Mr. Callison, “for $150 a year, they can buy $1 million worth of malpractice insurance.” Darryl Stevens, the president of Marine Agency Insurance – a company well known to the electrology and esthetics communities – told Ms. Hayt, “We are seeing a lot of claims.” The claims are for blistering and scarring and working on people who aren’t good candidates. “We are in the top of revising our policies. The premiums are going to go up because the dollar amounts of claims are going up.” One million dollars’ worth of malpractice insurance will be far short of what is needed if Kim McMillon, a New York investment banker, wins her case [fully reported in the December 2001 issue of International Hair Route]. In an interview conducted in her lawyer’s office, Ms. McMillon told the Times reporter that midway through a laser hair removal treatment at the Greenhouse spa in Manhattan, she had to call it off because her face “felt like it was on fire.” A year later Ms. McMillon seeks $100 million in damages from Greenhouse, “for horribly disfiguring her face during a laser hair removal beauty treatment.” Dr. William Coleman, clinical professor of dermatology at Tulane University Health and Sciences Center, says “It’s not like it doesn’t happen to a physician, but it’s less likely. If something goes wrong, you get early intervention, which keeps a problem from becoming a big problem.” Cindy Barshap, the owner of Completely Bare, a Manhattan skin-care center that does pulsed-light hair removal, holds a different view: “I personally don’t think doctors should be doing hair removal” she says. “The technicians are licensed estheticians; they do this 12 hours a day. You go to a podiatrist for fungus but not for a pedicure. What doctor wants to do hair removal?”
Laser treatments a bitter lesson for some patients
	“What you see isn’t always what you get,” was the thrust of a health-news story circulating in the U.S. press during December 2001, about the possible hazards involved in cosmetic laser treatments. The article had significant impact, given that it was penned by the award-winning journalist Colette Bouchez, formally a health reporter at the New York Daily News and author of several medical health books. Ms. Bouchez reported that a bitter lesson is being learned by an increasing number of people who’ve been harmed, disfigured or scarred from what should have been relatively risk-free cosmetic and dermatologic procedures. The American Society for Dermatologic Surgery (ASDS) is quoted as saying: “Thousands of consumers have suffered disastrous results after enduring a variety of procedures gone wrong.” Chemical peels, Botox wrinkle injections, tattoo and wart removals, laser skin resurfacing, and laser hair removal, are among the techniques that most often invite trouble. The problems range from “severe burns, to disfiguring scars and significant skin discoloration, and more.” The ASDS says the major reason for the rash of injuries, in almost all of the cases reported, is procedure error by technicians who have no medical training. Dr. Harold Brody, president of the ASDS, told Ms. Bouchez: “Patients are being enticed into glamorous day spas, skin clinics, beauty salons, and even some unscrupulous doctors’ offices with promises of qualified medical care. What they are too often ending up with is untrained technicians and damage that can take years to repair.” In answer to the question, ‘How do you tell the good guys from the bad guys?’ Dr. Jeffrey Dover, an associate professor of dermatology at Dartmouth Medical School, offers the following rule of thumb: “Never let looks deceive you. No matter how plush a salon, no matter how sophisticated or costly the advertising, no matter if technicians carry stethoscopes and wear white coats, don’t assume anything and ask everything before accepting treatment.” “Never accept any treatment that doesn’t start with a one-on-one consultation with a board-certified dermatologist or plastic surgeon,” the doctors advise. “And make sure the technician has at least several years of experience. The training should include not only some medical schooling, but specific apprenticeships with board-certified dermatologists or plastic surgeons.” “Many spas and salons use the guise of a ‘medical director’ – often a physician who serves as an umbrella for multiple centers – who is not on the premises and may not even be a skin specialist,” says Dr. Steven Mandy, president-elect of the ASDS. “While this often provides the legal protection to meet state health department regulations, it does not serve the consumer well,” he says.
NTP proposes estrogen be added to carcinogen list
	Late in 2001, the National Toxicology Program (NTP) of the USA’s National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences announced its intention to add steroidal estrogens to its “known human carcinogens” list in the next Report on Carcinogens (2002). The NTP’s Report on Carcinogens, which is updated every two years, is a list of all substances which either are known to be a human carcinogen or “may reasonably be anticipated to be such a carcinogen.” Currently, there are 48 known human carcinogens included in the Report. Commenting on the announcement, Clay B. Frederick, PhD, Senior Research Fellow and Research Section Manager in the Toxicology Department at Rohm and Haas Company in Spring House, Pennsylvania, said that in a comprehensive review of both animal and human data, the weight of evidence suggests that estrogen use – as in hormone replacement therapy (HRT) and estrogen-only replacement therapy (ERT), by postmenopausal women – is associated with a slight increase in the risk of breast cancer and a stronger increase in the risk of endometrial cancer. “However, on a personal note,” Dr. Frederick added, “I have about 2000 well educated and ‘in touch’ private patients on some form of ERT or HRT, and I can only imagine the chaos that will ensue if the current report goes into effect in 2002.” James V. Fiorica, MD, Professor and Chief of the Gynecology Oncology Program at the University of South Florida College of Medicine in Tampa, says “there is inconsistent evidence detailing any relationship between the use of HRT and risk of breast cancer. More than 50 years of use and approximately 50 case-control and cohort studies have not revealed a clear answer. The absence of convincing evidence is reassuring and implies that the risk, if any, is small.” Data from prospective observational studies indicate that the short-term use of HRT (less than 5 years) seems to confer no increased risk of breast cancer. By contrast, long-term HRT use (10 to 15 years), observational studies have found a modest increase in relative risk of breast cancer. The range of relative risk varies from 1.1 to 1.8. Data from the Collaborative Group on Hormonal Factors in Breast Cancer provides a clear view of the absolute risk associated with HRT use and breast cancer. For every 1000 women who take HRT for five years, 2 (0.2%) are estimated to develop breast cancer. Breast cancer develops in an estimated 12 (1.2%) per 1000 women who have used HRT for 15 years. Other studies have shown that the relative risk of breast cancer associated with estrogen-progestin therapy is between 1.5 and 1.38. Two recent analyses found lower risks of breast cancer recurrence and all-cause mortality in women who used HRT after breast cancer diagnosis than in women who did not. “To further place this in perspective,” said Dr. Fiorica, “if the 15-year absolute risk of getting breast cancer is approximately 1.2% for a 50-year-old nonuser of ERT, she has a 98.8% chance of being cancer free if she does not take ERT. If taking ERT for 15 years increases the relative risk by 50%, she has a 97.6% chance of being cancer free if she does take ERT.”
IGPE’s Congress 2002 set for springtime in Chicago
	The annual Congress of the International Guild of Professional Electrologists (IGPE) is scheduled to take place at the Palmer House Hotel in Chicago, April 28-30. As far as International Hair Route has been able to determine, the program for the event will be more or less the same program that was planned for the IGPE’s September 14, 2001 Congress, which was cancelled due to the September 11 terrorist attack on the World Trade Center in New York. The Congress will begin at 8:00 a.m. on Sunday with ‘Registration’ and ‘Opening of the Exhibit Hall.’ On the agenda for the first day are “General Business Meeting,” “Presentation Slate of Officers” and “Nominations from the Floor for Officers”, and three guest speakers; Paula Cappiela, RN, Stacey Elder, and Johanne Fortier. Ms. Cappiela will present a two-part lecture “Latex Allergies Identification – Risk & Outcome,” and “Cumulative Trauma Disorder.” Ms. Elder, a well-known lecturer and electrologist from Baltimore, Maryland, will give a presentation titled “Skincare Before & After Electrolysis – What Works, and What Doesn’t.” Completing the program for this day will be electrologist Johanne Fortier, talking about “Modalities Used in Electrology.” Election Polls open for “Guild Members Only” on Monday morning and the program starts at 8:45 a.m. with guest speaker Darryl Stevens presenting “Malpractice Insurance.” Also on the agenda for this second day is the “General Meeting and Installation of Officers.” Two additional guest speakers include Richard F. Wagner, MD, talking about “Body Dysmorphic Disorder,” and “The Regulation of Hair Removal.” Terri Chapman, RN, will address the topic “Anger Management.” The next day starts with a special 2-hour presentation on “Medical Use for Lasers,” followed by a 1-hour panel, made up of well-known electrologists who will discuss their experiences with electrolysis and laser hair removal. Preceding the closing ceremonies will be internationally-known endocrinologist Geoffrey Redmond, MD, lecturing on “Hirsutism, PCOS and the New Treatments; Oral Contraceptives, Insulin, Sensitizers and Eflornithine (Vaniqa).” The registration fee for the IGPE Congress will include two continental breakfasts, a lavish cocktail party, exhibit viewing, all lectures, and a Certificate of Completion. (CEUs are pending). For more information or a registration package call: 1-800-830-3247.
Different methods of hair removal not without risks
	The American Academy of Family Physicians (AAFP) has issued a paper cautioning the public against the irrational use of products and methods for eliminating superfluous hair. Among the AAFP’s concerns are the great number of over-the-counter gels, creams, lotions, and aerosols, marketed as depilatories that will cause unwanted hair to fall out. The AAFP says these products contain substances which may irritate or burn, and they recommend that consumers test the depilatories first on the back of the wrist. If it doesn’t cause an irritation within a day or two, says the AAFP, it’s probably safe to use. John Bailey, Jr., PhD, director of the Office of Cosmetics and Colors at the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), echoes the AAFP’s concerns. He explains that “depilatories act like a chemical razor blade, because they usually contain an alkaline chemical called thioglycolate, which dissolves protein in the hair, causing it to separate from the skin easily.” The AAFP also warns that plucking and waxing can irritate the skin and stimulate the hair to grow faster by increasing the blood supply to the follicles. They say “electrolysis, which delivers a small electrical current through a fine needle placed directly into a hair follicle, remains a popular option for many consumers.” However, the AAFP warns that “home electrolysis products and electronic tweezers don’t work well, and are not recommended.” “Even lasers have been adapted to vaporize hair follicles and slow hair growth. But patients report varying success,” says the AAFP. “The ideal candidate for laser hair removal is someone with fair skin and dark brown or black hair, because the laser light gets absorbed by the pigment or melanin located in hair follicles.” They caution that risks may also include redness and scarring, depending on the kind of laser light used.
OK, but will it get those dirty, dirty hairs out?
	Clean your duds without suds? That’s the promise from Japanese appliance maker Sanyo Electric Co., which has unveiled what it describes as the world’s first washing machine that cleans clothes without needing detergent. Instead of liquids or powders, the Osaka-based company’s new washer uses ultrasonic waves and electrolysis to get the “deep dirt out.” The ultrasonic waves produce bubbles that batter dirt particles, which are then dissolved by a combination of activated oxygen and hypochlorous acid generated by electrolyzing the wash water. Sanyo has named the new product, Denkaisui, and they are promoting it as the world’s first environmentally friendly washing machine. Nevertheless, for the meanest stains, the manufacturer still recommends using detergent. The top-of-the-line Denkaisui, until now for sale only in Japanese stores, has a ticket price equal to $1,030 US. A Sanyo news release does not say whether the machine will be sold for export, and company officials could not be reached for comment.
Androgen therapy may help some postmenopausal women
	A recent study conducted at Laval University, in Quebec, Canada, has confirmed that androgens play a major – but so far underestimated – role in women’s health. Dr. Fernand Labrie, MD, PhD, professor in the Department of Physiology and Director of the Laboratory of Molecular Endocrinology & Oncology, says that women normally produce about two thirds of the level of androgens found in men. But testosterone levels decline gradually with age, and women may have testosterone insufficiency in their premenopausal years. The symptoms of testosterone insufficiency include diminished well-being (dysphoric mood or blunted motivation), persistent unexplained fatigue, and sexual-function changes (specifically decreased libido, receptivity, and pleasure). Other consequences of androgen insufficiency may include bone loss; reduced muscle strength; and decline in cognition, memory, and energy. Susan R. Davis, MBBS, PhD, Associate Professor in the Department of Epidemiology and Preventive Medicine at Monash University in Melbourne, Australia, confirms the concept of an androgen deficiency syndrome (ADS) in postmenopausal women, but says the definition of “a low testosterone level for women” is limited by the insensitivity of most standard assays for detecting testosterone levels at the lower-normal female range, and poor discrimination for values below this. While admitting that a clinical or biochemical definition of ADS still needs to be determined, Dr. Labrie says, “a composite of symptoms (lack of desire to be intimate, flat mood, diminished well-being, loss of libido, loss of motivation), can indicate the presence of androgen deficiency: the dominant feature being blunted motivation.” Compared with previous hormone replacement therapy (HRT), women in the Laval University study receiving oral estrogen-androgen therapy showed significant improvements in sexual sensation and desire after eight weeks. In the past, a number of studies have shown that androgens in women are likely important for libido and sexual function, with the potential for beneficial effects on bone mineral density, body composition, energy level, and psychological well being. Ideally, androgen replacement therapy would be used in women with low androgen levels and a set of symptoms consistent with androgen insufficiency, in the setting of adequate estrogen replacement. “Because of the limitations associated with accurately measuring free testosterone,” Dr. Labrie explains, “androgen therapy should be considered primarily in women who have a physiologic reason for reduced androgen concentrations. “As sexual dysfunction and additional symptoms associated with androgen insufficiency are characteristic of many other medical, psychological, and psychosocial problems, alternate causes of the presenting symptoms must be identified and treated before considering androgen therapy.” Currently, there are no approved androgen therapies for sexual dysfunction in women. Androgen-based preparations include topical 2% testosterone ointment, methyltestosterone, DHEA, intramuscular testosterone, and testosterone implants. Products available for men, including skin patches and gels, are inappropriately dosed for women. Although several new products currently are under investigation, researchers say there is a need for large, randomized controlled trials to assess the efficacy and safety of androgen therapies for women. Potential risks of androgen therapy include hirsutism, acne, and liver dysfunction, lowering of the voice, adverse lipid changes, and virilization of the female fetus. Women who elect a trial of androgen therapy should be informed of the potential risks and unproven efficacy. Monitoring of liver function tests may be indicated in long-term users.
Amazon Croton tree sap may be an antibacterial cure-all
	Researchers in Alberta, Canada, are taking a closer look at the red sap of an Amazonian tree that brings quick relief for common complaints such as cuts, stomach pains and itchy insect bites. The sap, called Sangre de Grado, comes from the fast-growing Croton tree, a species commonly found throughout the Amazon region. Dr John Wallace, a professor of pharmacology and therapeutics at the University of Calgary’s faculty of medicine, is heading up the study, the results of which will be published in an upcoming issue of the Journal of Investigative Dermatology. Dr. Wallace first heard of the tree and the healing properties of its sap, from a Peruvian student in a colleague’s laboratory. He says; “Sangre de Grado has been used for centuries by indigenous peoples of the Amazon. It was traditionally applied to cuts because it has antibacterial properties and seems to promote wound healing. A balm produced from the sap is effective in quickly blocking the itch from insect bites.” To test the effectiveness of the sap, 10 pest control workers in Louisiana were given a balm containing Sangre de Grado, while another 10 workers were given a placebo balm. The workers used the balms for three months and each kept a diary to record the effect of the balms on their bites. “Basically, the placebo didn’t do anything,” says Dr Wallace, “but the cream with the Sangre de Grado produced beneficial effects against the bites of a wide variety of insects ranging from mosquitoes to fire ants. However, the mechanism by which the sap of the Croton tree blocks the itch from insect bites is still unknown.” “We know it acts on sensory nerves and possibly that’s how it works on preventing the itch,” explained Dr. Wallace. “Maybe Sangre de Grado works through multiple mechanisms. We’re working on isolating the active components of the sap that are responsible for the analgesic properties,” Dr. Wallace said.
First birth control patch receives FDA approval
	In December 2001, Ortho-McNeil Pharmaceutical, Inc., a leader in prescription birth control options, announced that it had received approval from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), for the first “birth control patch,” Ortho Evra (technically described as norelgestromin/ethinyl estradiol transdermal system). The Company says that “women soon will have a new birth control option that combines the 99 percent effectiveness of the Pill with the convenience of once-a-week dosing.” Ortho Evra was developed by the R.W. Johnson Pharmaceutical Research Institute and is to be marketed by Ortho-McNeil, who currently produce nine birth control pills, a leading intrauterine device (IUD), and diaphragms. The company also markets prescription pharmaceutical products in other therapeutic categories, including the central nervous system, urology, infectious disease, analgesics and wound healing. “Approximately 39 million women in North America currently use some form of birth control,” says Ortho-McNeil. “However, in a recent national survey, 75 percent of women said there is a need for methods that are more adaptable to their lifestyles.” “Although there are a variety of birth control methods to choose from, many women still desire new options,” said Patricia Stephenson, M.D., a clinical trial investigator and partner at Stoneridge Obstetrics and Gynecology in Sellersville, PA. “Ortho Evra offers what many women are looking for – a highly effective method of birth control that is simple and easy to use.” The new product is a thin, beige patch that delivers continuous levels of progestin and estrogen through the skin and into the bloodstream. It is worn for one week at a time, and is replaced on the same day of the week for three consecutive weeks. The fourth week is “patch-free.” Women can wear the patch discreetly on one of four areas of the body: the buttocks, abdomen, upper torso (front and back, excluding the breasts), or upper outer arm. Trials have shown that it remains attached and effective while bathing, swimming, exercising or wearing it in humid conditions. Less than two percent of patches had to be replaced because of complete detachment and less than three percent had to be replaced because of partial detachment. Phase III clinical trials involved more than 3,300 women for more than 22,000 menstrual cycles. One of these studies, published last year in the Journal of the American Medical Association, found that Ortho Evra was as effective in preventing pregnancy as a leading birth control pill. Ortho-McNeil president, Seth Fischer, says “Ortho-McNeil has been the leader in contraceptive technology since we introduced the first prescription contraceptive in 1931. The approval of Ortho Evra reflects our legacy of innovation in providing women with new birth control options that best suit their needs.”
Attention to hair details is never just for women
	Men without gray hair are perceived as more successful at dating than their gray-haired contemporaries; that is the conclusion of a nationwide “Great Dating” survey sponsored by Just For Men Haircolor, to determine what unmarried men and women look for in a mate. Conducted via the Internet by National Family Opinion (NFO) Research, Inc., the survey aimed to find out how important a role hair plays in the dating game. Five hundred women ages 30-49 and 500 men ages 35-54 were surveyed. When shown photos of the same man with and without gray hair, both men and women selected the man without gray as a better “Romeo,” stating that the darker-haired men looked more confident and healthier. Women feel that it is acceptable for men to cover their gray hair as well. More than 57 percent felt that it was OK for men to color their gray hair to bolster their self-confidence. According to one female respondent, “I think it makes a lot of men appear younger looking and shows they take time to improve their appearance.” Clinical psychologist, dating expert and popular radio and television talk show host Dr. Joy Browne, emphasizes the important role that a person’s hair can play in a boy-meets-girl scenario. “Hair nowadays symbolizes a wide range of personal traits, including vitality, success, youth and sexuality,” says Ms. Browne. “It’s our crowning glory.” In her book, Dating For Dummies, Ms. Browne says “It [hair] can have a real emotional impact on the mating ritual we call dating. It’s simple – if your hair looks great, you feel great.” When it comes to increasing physical appeal, women are more inclined to actively work to improve their looks. While 55 percent of the men and women surveyed are working out to increase their dating odds, many women also admit to changing their hairstyles (46 percent) and covering their gray hair (39 percent) to enhance their sex appeal. Of the men surveyed, almost one-third said they had made changes to their hair, including changing their hairstyle and coloring their hair, to enhance their overall appearance and self-confidence. An additional 15 percent were considering coloring their hair to improve their dating odds. “Coloring away gray hair is a very easy way for men to take years off their looks and give their image a boost,” says Dominic DeMain, senior vice president of Combe Inc. marketing. “Just For Men Haircolor works in only five minutes to blend away gray and rejuvenate hair with natural-looking results.”
Postmenopausal diabetics may have help from HRT
	Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) may help postmenopausal women with type 2 diabetes to stabilize their blood sugar and control their disease over the long term. A study of more than 15,000 women whose average age was nearly 65 years found that those who were taking HRT had significantly lower levels of HbA1c – a measure of long-term blood glucose (sugar) – regardless of age, ethnicity, education, obesity and other factors. Dr. Assiamira Ferrara and colleagues who conducted the study at Kaiser Permanente in Oakland, California, structured their research to evaluate the effects of HRT and determine its value in helping women to control their diabetes. The majority of the women in the study (55 percent) were non-Hispanic whites, 14 percent were non-Hispanic blacks, 12 percent were Hispanic, and 11 percent were Asian. Compared with women who did not use hormone therapy, women using HRT tended to be younger, better-educated, white, current or former smokers, and were more likely to exercise to control their disease. Type 2 diabetes occurs when the body can no longer respond to insulin, the hormone that clears the blood of sugar after a meal and deposits it into body cells to use as energy. Long-term complications of elevated blood glucose include kidney failure, heart disease, blindness and nerve damage that can lead to limb amputation. Dr. Ferrara says while their research does suggest that HRT, in particular estrogen, may improve glucose control, more research is needed before doctors can make recommendations. “Long-term clinical trials larger than those conducted thus far among women with diabetes, will be necessary for us to get a better understanding of the variables involved,” says Dr. Ferrara. “For diabetic women, some changes that come with menopause – such as shifts in hormone levels and insulin metabolism – may make it harder for them to keep their blood sugar in check.
IGPE’s Year 2001 Congress rescheduled for April 2002
	The International Guild of Professional Electrologists’ Congress 2001, originally planned to take place on September 14-16, 2001 (just two days after the terrorist attack on the twin towers of the World Trade Center, in New York) has been rescheduled for April 28-30, 2002, at the Palmer House Hotel in Chicago. The Congress agenda, including most of the guest speakers arranged for this year, will remain the same for the 2002 event. Reservations for the Palmer House should be made directly by calling 1-800-Hiltons. The IGPE Group Rate is $139 single or double occupancy. IGPE Congress 2002 registration packets will be mailed out in January 2002. Registration includes two continental breakfasts, lavish cocktail party, exhibit viewing, all lectures, and a certificate of completion. (1.4 CEUs are pending). For more information and/or a registration package call 1-800-830-3247.
Laser hair removal victim Sues NY spa for $100M
	In the New York Post on November 1, 2001, it was reported that a New York woman, described as “an attractive Wall Street investment banker” is suing an East Side spa for $100 million for “horribly disfiguring her face” during a laser hair removal beauty treatment. According to reporter Paul Tharp, Kim McMillon, 34, went to the posh Greenhouse Day Spa on East 57th Street for a series of $350 laser treatments to remove “a few hair follicles” on her cheek and neck. She now claims that what she actually got for her money was severe burns on her face and neck, which have caused her to become a virtual recluse who doesn’t date anymore and is embarrassed at her job. “I could smell the burning, I could feel my face on fire,” McMillon says. “It was so painful, I could have screamed. I kept wondering when it would be over with.” Apparently Ms. McMillon told the spa’s technician to stop because of the pain, but the technician just rubbed ice on the one side of her face and asked her if she was ready to “do the other side.” The Spa’s doctor, who looked in on her a little while later, suggested that she buy some salve on her way home. The suit claims that McMillon, an investment banker at Deutsche Bank, was diagnosed with serious second- and third-degree burns that cannot be repaired with plastic surgery. McMillon is still able to work, but has to wear coverings on her face to hide the deep scarring from the laser treatments. McMillon said in the complaint she continues to experience “depressed mood, loss of confidence and self-esteem, sleep impairment, anxiety and shame over facial scars.” According to papers filed with the Brooklyn Supreme Court, the Greenhouse Spa – a chain of luxury establishments located in cities between Beverly Hills, California in the west and Greenwich, Connecticut in the east – told McMillon that the treatments were safe, and that they would be conducted by trained technicians.
Hinkel Inc’s Delilah knows answer to Samson’s secret
	The A. R. Hinkel Company is proud to announce the addition of the Model UC-4 (nicknamed “Delilah”) to its line of state-of-the-art epilators. The new design incorporates a dark glass front panel surrounded by a Corian bezel, giving the unit a highly distinctive look. The unit combines the best features of the new computerized epilators, without forfeiting the natural advantages of a totally manual, two-pedal blend machine. Using a serial port in the back of the epilator, future software upgrades for the Delilah can be imported directly to a personal computer in the electrologist’s office. William Schuler, spokesman for the Hinkel Company, says “the ability to upgrade the epilator, either at the factory or through the electrologist’s PC, truly makes Delilah the last epilator a practitioner will ever need to purchase.” In explaining the epilator’s nickname, Schuler reminds us that “Delilah has long been associated with hair removal.” Contact A.R. Hinkel Company, www.arhinkel.com
Pfizer wants to know why women are quitting HRT
	A study conducted by Dr. Robert F. Reynolds and his colleagues for Pfizer Inc., in New York, has shown that fewer postmenopausal women are staying on hormone replacement therapy (HRT) long-term. Dr. Renolds’s study, published in the October issue of the Journal of Clinical Epidemiology, followed over 900 women belonging to a Massachusetts health plan who had started HRT between 1993 and 1995. The women, who ranged in age from 45 to 59, were followed for two years after they filled a prescription for estrogen. By the end of the first year of followup, 53% of the women had stopped taking HRT, the researchers report. Twenty percent discontinued after the first month, and 33% discontinued by the fourth month. By the end of the study, 65% had stopped using HRT, Previous studies have found that “side effects and a fear of cancer are the primary reasons women cite for discontinuing hormone therapy.” Estrogen replacement after menopause has been shown to help prevent the bone-thinning disease osteoporosis, and some – but not all – studies suggest that the regimen can also protect women from developing cardiovascular disease. On the other hand, recent research has also linked HRT with a slightly increased risk for breast cancer. Reynolds’s team noted that women who had received their estrogen prescription from a gynecologist were less likely to stop taking HRT, but this may have been because the gynecologists were able to prescribe regimens that reduce side effects, or were able to give their patients a better explanation of the risks and benefits of HRT. The researchers also noted that the later a woman enters the study, the more likely she is to stop taking HRT. Compared with women enrolling in 1993, those enrolling in 1994 were 40% more likely to discontinue therapy, and those enrolling in 1995 were 95% more likely to discontinue. “The media is being blamed, at least partially, for the trend away from HRT,” says Dr Reynolds. “In recent years, women and their doctors were certainly affected by the increasing prominence and frequency of reports of an association between estrogen use and the risk of breast cancer.”
Ballet presents Gold Probe Award for the year 2001
	Electrologist Shelley Barouh was the very happy recipient of this year’s Ballet Gold Probe Award, sponsored by Synoptic Products, the North American distributor of Ballet electrolysis needles. Ms. Barouh is from Seattle, Washington (which has no licensing), but she attended the Sherdonn Institute in Oregon, graduating from there in 1997 and receiving Oregon licensing the same year. Ms. Barouh has been an active member of the American Electrology Association since the start of her career. She was secretary of the Washington State Electrology Association for two terms from 1997-2001, and was recently elected vise president of that organization. Associates describe Ms. Barouh as a tireless supporter of her professional associations and electrology in general. The prestigious Gold Probe Award is presented annually to honor an electrologist who is noted for the energy and dedication they give to the industry, who has been in practice for 10 years or less, who is already making an important contribution to the electrology profession and shows great promise for the future. The winner of the Gold Probe title and trophy is chosen each year by the board of the recipient’s national association. The national association receives a $1,000 cash donation to sustain its valuable work.
Studies prove progesterone noneffective against PMS
	A review of 14 trials on the use of progesterone and progestogen therapy has found that progesterone and synthetic drugs similar to the female hormone, are of no help to women suffering from premenstrual syndrome (PMS). In the October issue of the British Medical Journal, the analysis by Dr. Shaughn O’Brien and his colleagues at the North Staffordshire Hospital in Stoke-on-Trent, concluded that “a systematic review shows that there is no published evidence to support the use of either progesterone or progestogens to help reduce the severe mood swings, anger, anxiety and other symptoms of PMS.” More than 900 women with PMS were included in studies, but Dr. O’Brien and his colleagues found that none of the preparations used in the trials were significantly better than the placebo. Women produce progesterone in the second half of their monthly cycle. Progestogens are found in the contraceptive pill and hormone replacement therapy (HRT). They are also used to treat heavy and painful periods and PMS. The symptoms of PMS can range from mild to severe. An estimated one in 10 women suffers from PMS badly enough to seek treatment. The symptoms disappear during pregnancy and after menopause. The cause of PMS is not certain, but doctors suspect it is due to the hormonal imbalance that can occur during a woman’s cycle. Many medical experts believe that progesterone causes the symptoms of PMS in women who are susceptible, says Dr. O’Brien. “Women have normal progesterone levels, but their body, particularly their brain, is more sensitive to the progesterone in people with PMS.” “There are lots of theories for that,” adds Dr. O’Brien, “but it is thought to be [caused by] a brain hormone. The most feasible cause for this is serotonin deficiency” he says, referring to the brain’s messenger chemical.
Dr. Blum says “Goodbye” to IHR and Skin Talk column
	Jon H. Blum, MD, the dermatologist from Farmington Hills, Michigan, who authored International Hair Route’s column “Skin Talk,” for 15 years, has retired from professional practice and from writing, effective November 30, 2001. Dr. Blum was formerly a Diplomate of the American Board of Dermatology, a Member of the Michigan Dermatological Society, and a member of the Oakland County Medical and Michigan State Medical societies. His professional reputation was well established in the early 1980s when he wrote a weekly Q & A column in the Detroit News, and he was a popular lecturer and television talk-show guest in the Michigan area. With the advent of his IHR column, beginning in February 1986, Dr. Blum’s name became known nationally to thousands of electrologists who valued his lucid, no-nonsense professional advice – aimed directly at the Magazine’s readership. Dr. Blum says he has enjoyed his involvement with the world of electrolysis, and with the electrologists he has met on the Hair Route, but the lure of retirement is just too great to resist any longer. Those flowers around the Doctor’s neck may be a good clue to what he is talking about.
FDA gives the “OK” to a new birth control invention
	Women may soon opt for a new type of contraceptive, a hormone-emitting flexible plastic ring they slide into the vagina once a month to prevent pregnancy. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration approved Organon Inc.’s NuvaRing in October, and it should be generally available next spring. It emits the hormones estrogen and progestin in amounts similar to those found in birth control pills, but women use a new ring once a month instead of having to take a pill every day. “Many women are pill-weary,” says Dr. Nancy Alexander, Organon’s contraceptive director. “For those women, the prescription-only NuvaRing may provide an easy alternative” says Dr. Alexander, who has tried the device and found it simple to use. “If it’s in the vagina, it’s in the right place. You push it in just so it’s comfortable.” For every 100 women who use NuvaRing properly, one or two would become pregnant each year, a rate similar to other leading contraceptives, the FDA said. But using it properly is crucial, and Organon will provide a special patient brochure with instructions, the Agency said. The 2-inch ring has a type of estrogen and progestin mixed into the plastic, and a thin outer coating regulates release of the hormones over time. The medications penetrate the vaginal tissue into the bloodstream, providing blood hormone levels comparable to birth control pills, says the FDA medical reviewer Dr. Dena Hixon. “The woman inserts the ring anytime during the first five days of her menstrual period,” says Dr. Hixon. “It stays in place for three weeks, and the woman then removes it for a week and replaces it with a new one. Dr. Hixon recommends the use of a backup contraceptive for the first seven days of the first ring use – to let the hormones rise to protective levels. “After that,” says Dr. Hixon, “as long as the woman properly inserts a new ring each month, contraception should be continuous.” Even though the ring is inserted into the vagina, it is not a barrier contraceptive and thus, unlike condoms, it does not protect against the AIDS virus or other sexually transmitted diseases, the FDA warns. Side effects may include vaginal discharge, irritation or infection, the FDA said. In clinical trials of 2,300 people, about 14 percent of users had vaginitis, for instance. As with all other hormonal contraceptives, there also is a small risk of blood clots or heart attack, which is increased in smokers. New Jersey-based Organon won’t have enough NuvaRings for widespread sale to begin right away. Instead, the company plans to enroll up to 6,000 doctors in a pilot program that trains them in how to use NuvaRing and provides each with a small number of the devices. Dr. Alexander says “patients seeking the device this year will have to find doctors enrolled in the pilot program. Routine sales will begin by spring.” Organon would not reveal an exact price, but said NuvaRing should be comparable to name-brand oral contraceptives.
New cataphoresis roller to be Apilus standard in 2000
	At the annual convention of the American Electrology Association, in October, electrolysis manufacturing company, Dectro International, introduced a new cataphoresis/anaphoresis electrode set which meets electrologists’ demands for equipment that readily lends itself to the sterilization process. Cataphoresis is used as an after-treatment by electrologists to firm the client’s skin, soothe the nerves and reduce redness. The Dectro applicator has a handpiece of durable plastic, and comes with four specially-shaped metal electrode heads that can be used to treat different areas of the body. In response to the AEA’s call for tighter sterilization protocols, the metal electrode heads have been designed to provide fast and easy detachment. The applicator connects to the epilator with a standard banana-type plug which allows it to be adapted to any epilator. The electrode set is presently available as an option directly from any distributor-member of the Dectro Group. Beginning early in 2002, the set will be shipped standard with all Apilus epilators. Contact Dectro International at www.dectro.com
AEA Grand Raffle winners take home grand prizes
	A lot of conventioneers at the American Electrology Association’s big October bash in Memphis, Tennessee, went home with prizes won in the Association’s Grand Raffle. The grandest of the “Grand Prizes” this year were two epilators, generously donated to the AEA for its fund raising by two of the electrolysis industry’s leading manufacturers. Electrologist June Allen, of Fitchburg, Massachusets (unfortunately not around for the photo-op), was lucky enough to have her name come up first in the draw for the fabulous ST-100 Blend Epilator, kindly provided by the Silhouet-Tone company. The winner of the marvelous Cléo by Apilus computerized epilator, provided by Dectro International, was Mary Federico, of Beachwood, Ohio.
P&G donates its valuable hair removal technology
	The Procter & Gamble Company is donating all the patents and intellectual property relating to its proprietary NAC Depilatory Technology to TRI/Princeton, an independent, non-profit research institute. The Company says the technology holds promise for becoming the first-ever, leave-on depilatory, for eliminating unwanted “peach fuzz” facial hair. NAC is so gentle to the skin that skin care products containing the depilatory could be applied and left on indefinitely. Other depilatories must be removed shortly after application or risk potentially serious skin irritation. This characteristic means NAC could be incorporated into products such as facial moisturizers that consumers already use, eliminating the need for a separate product, and reducing the time and steps for consumers. As the sole new owner of the technology, TRI/Princeton will benefit from all future revenues of NAC, and retain all future rights to the technology – including 41 active and pending patents and all accompanying intellectual property. With further development work and successful commercialization, it is estimated that skin care products containing NAC technology could generate annual sales exceeding $1 billion for the industry. “We are thrilled that TRI/Princeton will be able to continue the development of this promising technology,” said P&G principal scientist, Greg Hillebrand. “TRI/Princeton is uniquely qualified to bring the technology forward because of their depth of expertise in the science of human hair and depilatory research.” In addition to its technical expertise, TRI/Princeton is well poised to bring the technology to market, as they already have strong ties to corporate sponsors. TRI/Princeton focuses on advanced research and education in polymers, fibers, films, human hair, and porous materials. “We are very pleased that Procter & Gamble has recognized TRI/Princeton’s track record in corporate research and product development,” said Dr. Gail Eaton, president of TRI/Princeton. “We look forward to further developing NAC Depilatory Technology, and ultimately taking it to market.” NAC Depilatory Technology arose from P&G’s substantial commitment to skin care research. The company is currently focusing its skin care research on other promising technologies outside of hair removal, but did not want NAC to sit on the shelf. By donating the technology to TRI/Princeton, the company helps ensure NAC’s depilatory benefits are further developed and eventually commercialized. P&G is not able to devote resources to commercialize all of its more than 27,000 patents. P&G licenses many technologies and donates other select technologies that are not essential to current product development activities and that can be best developed elsewhere. P&G is granted more than one patent per day. TRI/Princeton, founded in 1930 as the Textile Research Institute, is an independent, nonprofit organization that serves clients in industry, government, and academia throughout the U.S. and abroad. The Institute provides members with advanced research and education in human hair, fibers, nanotechnology, biotechnology, polymers, and porous materials. P&G markets more than 250 brands including Pampers, Tide, Always, Bounty, Pringles, Folgers, Charmin, Downy, Iams, Olay, Crest and Vicks. P&G employs nearly 106,000 people in more than 80 countries worldwide. P&G invests nearly $2 billion a year to develop and improve its products, leading the way in R&D globally among consumer products companies. P&G’s Global Licensing and External Business Development Unit is charged with ensuring the company maximizes the value of its “treasure trove” of technologies by selling, licensing and, in some cases, donating these technologies. The unit is also responsible for licensing select P&G brand trademarks.
Name that Guild! Will it be IGPE or IGHRS?
	Even before some Hair Route readers receive this September magazine, the International Guild of Professional Electrologists, Inc. (IGPE) may have a name change. The old organization was founded 22 years ago by New York electrologist Fino Gior, to raise money for a major public relations effort that would champion traditional electrolysis and educate consumers on the truth about electronic tweezers. The proposal to change the name to International Guild of Hair Removal Specialists, Inc. (IGHRS), was initiated by the IGPE’s Board of Directors earlier this year, and is being voted on by those members who attend the organization’s General Membership meeting (held in conjunction with the annual Congress) in Chicago, September 14-16, 2001. At the same Membership meeting, members are being asked to vote on two other proposals: Article II slightly changes the organization’s objective of “establishing closer communications between electrologists throughout the world” — to “establishing closer communications between electrologists and allied health professionals throughout the world.” Article III introduces associate membership for the organization (something that has never been proposed before) for “An individual whose interest, education and objectives are aligned with the goals of the Guild providing the profession and the public.” Changing the IGPE’s name from “Professional Electrologists” to “Hair Removal Specialists,” and the two other bylaw changes, could open the door to a broader membership for the much-weakened organization — which was formerly restricted to “persons who practice or teach only in the profession of electrology or who are manufacturers in the field of electrology, using those methods approved by the Guild.” Responding to questions from IHR about the recent happenings at IGPE, Mr. Gior replied: “Dozens of electrologists around the country have e-mailed or called me these past few weeks. Yes, I am deeply hurt. I was never notified of any of the proposed changes.” “All the IGPE changes and intended changes,” said Mr. Gior, angrily, “are an insult to the established foundation of the International Guild of Professional Electrologists and to all its legitimate well-intentioned members. This is a sad and regretful time in my life.” If the proposed changes are adopted, it is presumed that the newly-named organization will no longer close it’s doors to “hair removal specialists” such as the electronic tweezers makers (like Guaranty Hair Removal Systems, who are approved for permanent hair removal by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA)), and the manufacturers and practitioners of laser hair removal systems who offer “permanent hair reduction.” As the critics of the name-change plan jokingly ask: “What do you get when you take the PEs out of the IGPE?” The answer: “You get GHRS!” (like in Guaranty Hair Removal Systems — the one-time dreaded enemy of IGPE members).
Hormone Center of New York now a reality
	Geoffrey Redmond, MD, well known to readers through his regular column, “Endocrine Perspective,” in Hair Route magazine, has completed his move from Cleveland, Ohio, to New York, NY, and recently launched a new Hormone Center in that city. The move puts his increasingly-multinational practice within easier reach of patients who come from as far away as Hawaii, London and Japan. Dr. Redmond is one of the few physicians to take a serious interest in hirsutism. He has always recognized the important role of electrolysis and has been a good friend to the electrology profession, speaking frequently at national association meetings in the U.S. and Canada. His book for lay people, The Good News About Women’s Hormones has become a classic; electrologists have found it to be extremely helpful for themselves and their clients. Dr. Redmond has also edited two related medical texts and published scores of articles in medical journals. Transferring his practice to New York City is like coming home, for Dr. Redmond. “I grew up and had my medical training here at Columbia University College of Physicians & Surgeons, and Rockefeller University,” he said. “Being in New York makes me able to better serve people who come from a distance. Sadly, many women with hirsutism or other hormonal problems have great difficulty finding physicians near home who are sympathetic and knowledgeable about hirsutism, alopecia and other female hormone problems. Many find themselves in New York for one reason or another and so it is convenient for them to visit for a consultation.” In addition to his clinical practice and research, Doctor Redmond is also active in education for women with hormone problems and those who share his mission to help them, notably electrologists. He plans to expand these activities even further at his new website, which contains extensive information on hirsutism and other common female hormone problems. He continues to lecture extensively, and he has a new book on the subject of women’s hormones, in progress. Dr. Redmond may be reached at: Hormone Center of New York, 133 East 73rd Street, New York, NY 10021. Tel.: 212-861-9000. Fax: 212 570-1515. E-mail: info@hormonehelpny.com Website: www.hormonehelpny.com
Spider vein removal made easy for medical doctors
	With the arrival of the Arachnophlebectomy (arack-no-fleh-bectomy) Surgical Device, medical doctors now have a simple and effective way to destroy unsightly spider veins. The new patented device received clearance for marketing from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration earlier this year, and is being manufactured by Advanced Medical Products Inc. (AMP) of Las Vegas, Nevada. Cameron Stuart, president of AMP says, “The device is simple. It’s a sterilized, disposable instrument with a fork-like design and a beveled vortex, which doctors can buy for $59.” “There are no harsh chemicals and it is easier for doctors to perform than other traditional methods,” adds Mr. Stuart. “Best of all, most patients experience minimal side effects.” The device uses a procedure called the Miglin Method™ and is usually performed in the doctor’s office with a local anesthetic administered to the area to be treated. The Arachnophlebectomy Surgical Device is inserted into the skin, with the u-center of the needle’s fork-like head capturing the targeted vessel. The device is then rotated (at least 360 degrees clockwise and counterclockwise), transecting the spider vein. The procedure is repeated every one to two centimeters along the spider vein, causing the vein to blanch and allowing the body to resorb the destroyed tissue. Since the procedure is purely cosmetic and usually not covered by insurance, patients who want their spider veins removed must be willing to pay to have the procedure done; generally $300 - $500 depending on the size of the area to be treated.” Clinical studies of the device and procedure were contracted at Northwestern University in Chicago, and the University of Nevada School of Medicine in Las Vegas.
Sterex needles adds a new twopiece to its product line
	Responding to popular demand, Sterex Electrolysis International has added a new, size #2 (002) needle, to its brand-leader twopiece range of needles. From his office in Warren, Rhode Island, Sterex marketing director, Bob Chapman, said; “We had the new needle tried and tested by professional electrologists, and the feedback in the trials has been excellent. The 002s are ideal for the upper lip and other very fine hairs.” The product in stainless steel is available at 60 needles to the box. The same needles in Gold, or Insulated, comes 50 to the box. Free samples are available by calling Sterex toll-free at 1-800-601-9344.
AEA in Memphis for Rockin’ an’ Rollin’ and CEUs
	Beginning in 2002, the American Electrology Association’s (AEA) annual convention will return to Las Vegas, Nevada, every other year, and hold the event at different cities on alternate years. In 2001, AEA conventioneers will gather in Memphis, Tennessee — Mecca of Elvis, King of rock ’n’ roll. The host hotel for this year’s big bash, October 17-20, is the Adam’s Mark Hotel, a Memphis landmark that rates as one of this city’s premier hotels in terms of elegance, history, meeting facilities and convention services. Located in the heart of the East Memphis business district, 12 miles from Memphis International Airport, the hotel’s striking 27-story glass tower houses 408 guest rooms, and provides panoramic views of the city’s skyline. The handsomely appointed atrium lobby, restaurant, lounge and conference space adjoining the tower is surrounded by beautifully landscaped grounds, a heated outdoor pool and spa, an elegant gazebo, and a small lake populated with wild ducks. Memphis is the 18th largest city in the USA. It is also the cleanest city in the nation, according to the National City Beautiful Commission who have awarded Memphis the title on five separate occasions — more times than any other city. In this ideal setting, there is an abundance of unique attractions for visitors. Overton Square is three blocks of intriguing galleries, boutiques and a myriad of eateries, offering everything from fine Old Southern cuisine to the world-famous Memphis barbecue (more than 100 barbecue restaurants have given the City the reputation of pork barbecue capital of the world). The country’s only Mississippi River Museum, down at famous Mud Island River Park, offers a scale replica of the Mississippi River, and a restored World War II bomber plane, the “Memphis Belle,” which was the subject of a feature film by that name. But there is work to do before conventioneers can escape to the sights and sounds of the City, and the AEA has prepared an excellent educational program that no one will want to miss. Things get fired up on Wednesday, October 17, with visitor registration (8:00 — 5:00 p.m.), and an 8:30 a.m. “Reporting Time” for the Association’s certification exam for CPE (Certified Professional Electrologist) credentialing. The Exhibitor Showcase opens at lunchtime (12:00 - 6:00 p.m.), and the AEA’s Annual Meeting officially opens the main event (1:00 - 2:00 p.m.). The keynote speaker of the convention (3:00 - 5:00 p.m.) is Sheila Kirk, MD, of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, whose talk is titled “The Transgendered Person — The Important Professionals and their Skills Involved in their Successful Transition.” Dr. Kirk will be describing the “trans-community,” and the medical and surgical treatments that the transperson may select in his/her transition. Dr. Kirk will lay stress on the important contributions of the electrologist in the preparation for an individual’s change to another gender role. That’s enough for the first day of work, and from there everyone takes off to prepare for the action-packed AEA 2001 Buffet Dinner and Fabulous Las Vegas Show (7:00 - 9:00 p.m.), always a highlight of the AEA’s get-togethers. This takes care of the first evening’s entertainment, and gets everyone geared up for the full day of learning on the next day’s agenda. Thursday morning, October 18, starts off bright and early with continental breakfast (7:00 - 7:45 a.m.), The Exhibitor Showcase opens at 7:00 a.m. and stays open until 5:30 p.m. The first speaker of the day (8:00 - 10:00 a.m.) is electrologist and former electrology instructor Sally McAleer, of Rockville, Maryland. Ms. McAleer is currently president of the Maryland Association of Professional Electrologists, 2nd vice-president of the AEA, and editor of the AEA’s Electrology World. She has lectured and conducted workshops in the U.S. and Japan, and on this occasion will present a two-part presentation, titled “Back to Basics,” which is designed to help electrologists evaluate themselves through the use of AEA’s Standards of Practice. Lynne Sehulster, PhD, M(ASCP), a microbiologist with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) in Atlanta, Georgia, will complete the morning agenda (10:30 – 12:30) with a presentation on “Revised Infection Control Standards and Liquid Disinfectants.” Up on the podium (3:00 – 4:00 p.m.) after a long buffet luncheon hosted by the AEA, will be Barbara Kieffer, of Topeka, Kansas. Ms. Kieffer is currently president of the Kansas Association of Professional Electrologists, as well as chair of the AEA’s Committee for Infection Control Standards for the Practice of Electrology. Her talk will be “Health History Assessment” — one of the most important aspects of the professional electrologist’s practice. This valuable tool has been revised, and Ms. Kieffer will explain in detail the necessity of documenting the questions on the client history forms. In the evening of this second day (6:30 – 10:30 p.m.) the AEA has arranged for an optional, private tour of Elvis Presley’s “Graceland” mansion and “Meditation Gardens” — the King’s final resting place. Conventioneers who have a visit to “Graceland” on their “must do” list, will find this AEA tour (with dinner and transportation included) an attractive plan at a good price. The first speaker after breakfast on Friday, October 19, will be electrologist, June Allen, of Fitchburg, Massachusetts. Ms Allen is a past president of the Massachusetts Association of Electrologists, and at different times has also held the position of vice-president, and secretary of that Association. Her presentation (8:00 – 10:00 a.m.) at this AEA convention will be “The Consultation — Educating Your Patient, Selling Yourself and Your Services” — a two-part power-point presentation, involving much audience participation. Part I explains what good consultation involves — what it is, and why it is so important to the success of the electrologist’s practice. Part II gives an actual example of the consultation, including educational support materials. The second half of the morning (10:30 – 12:30 p.m.) belongs to Peter Rubin, MD, of Boston Massachusetts. Dr. Rubin is an ophthalmologist with the Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary, and an associate professor at Harvard Medical School. His talk will focus on “Disorders of the Eyelash and Brow, and Esthetic Consideration in Ophthalmic Plastic Surgery.” After the buffet luncheon (12:30 – 2:00) hosted by the AEA, and some hands-on time in the exhibit hall, dermatologist Lawrence Jacoby, MD, of Avon, Connecticut, will complete the day’s educational agenda (3:00 – 5:00) with “Dermatology: As it Pertains to the Electrologist.” Dr. Jacoby is a clinical associate in dermatology and chairman of the Connecticut Board of Hypertrichology. His talk will illustrate some common and not-so-common skin diseases, which electrologists might encounter in their professional practice. For convention visitors who enjoy the game of chance, the AEA has set up another optional tour for this last evening. This one offers some rollin’ (dice, that is) without the rockin’, on a five and a half-hour junket (6:30 – 12:00 a.m.) by bus to Harrah’s Casino at Tunica, Mississippi. As an alternative to the optional casino tour, some visitors might want to take off on their own for some ribs and entertainment over at historic Beale Street district, recognized by the world as the “Home of the Blues.” It’s a multiplicity of old honky-tonks, shops, bars, theaters, pawnshops turned into new restaurants, and other nightspots. W.C. Handy made musical history on Beale with his “Beale Street Blues,” “Memphis Blues,” and other blues classics. The legendary street is home to several unique attractions: A. Schwab’s Dry Goods store, the Beale Street Substation Police Museum, W.C. Handy’s Home, B.B. King’s Blues Club, the Center for Southern Folklore, the Hunt-Phelan Home, the Memphis Blues Museum, and the Orpheum Theatre. As some relief from a big night on the town, continental breakfast on Saturday morning, October 20, doesn’t get under way until 8:00 a.m. And being only a half-day program, there is only one speaker (10:00 – 12:00 p.m.) left to complete the convention’s 1.5 contact hours of education for CEUs. The guest at the podium for this final talk is Gail Lenehan, RN, EdD, of Hingham, Massachusetts, who will explain “All You Ever Wanted to Know About Latex Allergy” or, “What Do You Mean These Gloves Can Make Me Sick?” With the meeting closed, it’s “lunch on your own” and — for those visitors who don’t have a plane to catch on this day — time for more tourist activities. An optional three-hour City of Memphis tour (2:00 – 5:00 p.m.) has been arranged for those people who like their sightseeing routinely mapped out for them. For $15 per person (cost of transportation included) the tour briefly covers all of the City’s major attractions. Registration fee for the AEA’s Memphis Convention 2001 (after Aug. 15) is $360 for members, $460 for non-members; $260 for students (must be a student at time of convention); spouse/guest fee $205 (all activities), or $85 (dinner party only). Add $25 for late registration (after Oct. 5). The registration fee includes 15 hours of professional education (1.5 CEUs), Buffet Dinner and Las Vegas Show, Continental Breakfast daily, Buffet Luncheons, admission to the Exhibitor Showcase. AEA members automatically receive a convention registration form by mail. Non-members requiring more information about the convention should contact Marilyn Kraut, 710 Tennent Rd., Englishtown, NJ 07726, or visit the AEA web site by going to links at www.hairroute.com. Applications for the AEA’s CPE examination and to receive a test bulletin contact: AEA Executive Office, 106 Oak Ridge Road, Trumbull, CT 06611. Fax: (203) 372-7134. Hotel reservations must be made directly with the hotel: The Adam’s Mark Hotel, 939 Ridge Lake Boulevard, Memphis, Tennessee 38120. For reservations call: (901) 684-6664. Room rates for AEA Conventioneers are: $114 for single/ double/ triple/quad. All reservations are due 12 midnight, September 14, 2001. Free shuttle-bus to and from the airport compliments of The Adam’s Mark Hotel (call when you arrive at the airport!).
“Reduction” only, OK. But who will enforce the rules?
	Health Canada, the Canadian government agency that has authority over therapeutic products and devices, has finally taken a stance on the question of who may use lasers for hair removal and what claims may be made by practitioners for permanent hair removal. Even better, the same bureaucratic body has responded to the question (or at least part of it), in writing! Getting a written statement out of a government official is no mean task and Glenn Pearce, an electrologist in private practice in Grimsby, Ontario, has spent many months trying to get someone “up there” to listen to him and give him some answers. Last month Mr. Pearce got his reward; a letter from Beth Pieterson, Director of the Medical Devices Bureau, in Ottawa, dated August 17. According to Ms. Pieterson, “Lasers indicated for permanent hair reduction have been licensed for sale in Canada. A licence authorizes a manufacturer to sell the device in Canada but in no way implies that the Medical Devices Bureau has approved the device or certifies its safety and effectiveness.” “With respect to claims,” said Ms. Pieterson, “we are presently only permitting claims for permanent hair reduction. Where a claim for permanent hair removal is made, the Bureau is requiring the manufacturer to modify this claim to permanent hair reduction before a licence will be issued.” When it came to the question of who may use the laser, and claims of permanence made by practitioners, Ms. Pieterson passed the proverbial bureaucratic buck: “Representations by practitioners in offering a service does not fall under the authority of the Food and Drugs Act or the Medical Devices Regulations,” she wrote. “Therefore, the Bureau has no jurisdiction over this matter. Concerns related to the advertising of a service could be identified to the professional society of which the practitioner is a member or to the Provincial government who is responsible for the delivery of healthcare.”
“UK Student of the Year” wins trip to Memphis, TN
	Now in its twelfth year and with entries at record levels, the Sterex Electrolysis International competition to find the “UK Student of the Year,” recently held its grand finals at the prestigious Selfridge Hotel in the West End of London, England. The 2001 finals comprised twelve regional winners from across the UK. Each finalist had to carry out a full electrolysis treatment — followed by oral questioning — before a panel of eminent judges. A very tough assignment for anyone, let alone a student performing in front of her peers. The winner of the “UK Student of the Year 2001” is Sally Walton from Carendon College. Her prize is a Sterex SX-B Blend epilator, and a visit with her tutor, Jenny Needham, to the American Electrology Association’s Convention 2001, to be held this October in Elvis Presley’s home town of Memphis, Tennessee: All courtesy of Sterex.
Who gets to use laser for hair removal in Florida is still anybody’s guess
	If you are an electrologist in Florida currently operating a laser – for hair removal or any other reason – you are in contravention of the law. Exceptions to the law, as it stands today, apply only to electrologists that have certain additional credentials in the medical field. This story begins on June 19, 2000, when Florida’s Governor Jeb Bush signed into law the state’s new health care bill, among other things making it mandatory that all laser hair removal be performed under the direct supervision of a Florida licensed physician. The ruling dashed the hopes of many electrologists in the state that had strived to keep the business of hair removal by laser under the electrolysis umbrella. The section of House Bill 591 that concerned electrologists at that time required that: “All protocols relating to electrolysis or electrology using laser or light-based hair removal or reduction by persons other than physicians licensed under this chapter or chapter 459 shall require the person performing such service to be appropriately trained and work only under the direct supervision and responsibility of a physician licensed under this chapter or chapter 459.” Though it stated that “persons” under the “direct supervision” of a licensed physician may use lasers for hair removal, the bill did not say exactly which “persons” that might be. (The use of lasers in Florida had previously been restricted to RNs, Licensed Practical Nurses, and certain Physician Assistants, under the direct supervision of physicians.) The question lay in limbo for five months, until Florida’s Board of Medicine (BOM) had its Dec. 1-3, 2000 meeting. After much discussion about who could perform laser hair removal the Electrolysis Council was informed that the process would be restricted to a physician licensed as an M.D., a D.O. (Osteopathic Doctor), an A.R.N.P. (Advanced Registered Nurse Practitioner), or a P.A. (Physician Assistant – licensed to practice medicine with physician supervision). The BOM added that once the rules were completed and made final, electrologists would be permitted to perform laser hair removal – “under a supervisory or protocol relationship with a physician.” That decision was not enough for those Florida electrologists who believe that electrologists are the experts on hair and that they should be the ones to perform laser hair removal, without overly strict supervision by the medical profession. Within the next few months, electrologists would fight bitterly with each other over two bills that were put before the state’s legislators. Early in 2001, Senator Campbell introduced a bill to the Senate that primarily sought to have the terms “electrolysis” and “electrology” redefined, by having laser and light-based equipment included among the devices that effect “permanent removal of hair by destroying the hair-producing cells of the skin and vascular system.” The bill also wanted the Electrolysis Council (rather than the Medical Board) to be able to approve the types of equipment used by electrologists, and make it mandatory for all electrologists who use lasers for hair removal to take “an approved training course” and continuing education in the use of these devices. Most importantly, the bill sought to have the “direct supervision by a licensed physician” requirement (prescribed by the health care bill that had been written into Florida law in June 2000), changed to “general supervision.” This bill was vigorously challenged by The Florida Society of Dermatology, Inc. (who want complete control of laser hair removal in the state) and by that section of the electrology community that does not want lasers recognized as a modality for permanent hair removal. Faced with this strong opposition, the Senate bill was defeated in committee, April 17, 2001. Meanwhile, a bill sponsored by Representative Kallinger, had gone before Florida’s House of Representatives on April 12, 2001. Worded substantially the same as the Senate bill, it aimed to change the definition of “electrolysis or electrology” to permit the use of lasers and light-based equipment designed for hair removal. It also sought to remove the BOM’s ability to approve specific devices used by electrologists, and prohibit electrologists from using laser equipment for hair removal if they had not completed an approved training course on these devices. Again, like the Senate bill, the House bill called for “indirect” supervision, rather than the more restrictive “direct” supervision. Once more, the Florida Society of Dermatology lobby – with the full cooperation of the “permanent only” electrologists group – defeated a bill that would have amended the Florida statute on electrolysis and electrology. On May 4, 2001, just prior to the close of the session, it was all over but the shouting. It had taken almost eleven months for Florida electrologists to find themselves locked into a round robin that brought them right back to where they were in June 2000, when the state’s health care bill became law: “All protocols relating to electrolysis or electrology using laser or light-based hair removal or reduction, by persons other than physicians . . . shall work only under the direct supervision and responsibility of a physician . . . ” etc., etc.. Well, you know how it goes . . .
“Rebound epidemic” of HIV may already be underway
	San Francisco was one of the first centers of the AIDS epidemic in the early 1980s, when as many as half the gay men in the city were believed to be infected with HIV. Today in San Francisco, new infections of HIV – the virus that causes AIDS – are rising more quickly than previously believed. The latest statistics are taken as an alarming sign that a “rebound epidemic” of the killer disease may already be underway. Mike Shriver, San Francisco’s official adviser on AIDS and HIV policy says, “the numbers are harrowing.” The current rate of new infections with HIV among San Francisco gay men is 2.2 percent, up from 1.04 percent in 1997. That translates into roughly 748 new infections projected for the year 2001. The infection rate among gays who use drugs is even higher at 4.6 percent, up from 1.9 percent in 1997. U.S. public health officials say the results of four recent San Francisco studies confirm fears that a new wave of the AIDS epidemic could be gaining ground. After years of relative stability due to aggressive prevention programs, safer-sex publicity and new drug treatments, it is clear that the gay community is dropping its guard against the HIV virus. Paradoxically, successful new AIDS drug therapies like protease inhibitors, may have the unintended effect of encouraging both infected and uninfected men to engage in more high-risk sexual behavior. While suppressing many of the visible symptoms of the disease, the drug treatments do not necessarily stop transmission of the virus, and they are now believed to be one reason for the rising level of new infections. “With people living longer lives under the new therapies, the risk pool for infection is increasing,” said Sandy Schwarcz, director of AIDS Surveillance for the San Francisco Department of Public Health. “There seems to be less concern of acquiring HIV among those who don’t already have it – they’re not as fearful as they once were, when getting AIDS was a death sentence,” explained Schwarcz. “People with the disease, are living what appears to be normal lives, and many may be letting their guard down when it comes to safe sex.” More than 18,000 San Franciscans have died of AIDS since 1981. From the beginning, quick action by the city’s gay community and public health officials has made San Francisco a model for the fight against AIDS, pushing new HIV infections down from an estimated high of 6,000 in 1982 to a fairly steady 500 per year throughout most of the 1990s. “Still, we’re really, really concerned with the latest figures,” said Schwarcz. “We want to see the HIV infections continue down, not go up.” Similar studies to those in San Francisco, tracking the rise of infection rates and other sexually transmitted diseases among gay men, have been taking place concurrently in London, Los Angeles and Seattle. Others are now underway in Vancouver and Sydney.
Electronic tweezer-maker offers new cream to aid laser hair removal
	“Foundations of Freedom: The Right to Bare Arms” is the headline on a press release of May 17, that promotes a cream to “improve the effectiveness of laser hair removal on a person’s arms by as much as one-third or more.” The product was formulated by Dr. Evan Denoff, MD, Ph.D., and developed by Judith Stephens, a well-known figure in the electronic tweezer hair removal industry. Ms. Stephens – who claims to have been in the hair removal business since 1980, “when old-fashioned needle electrolysis was the only thing available” – says that a hair-free body is preferred in American culture. “This includes young girls as well as adult women and men. While hair is more accepted on males, there can be too much hair to look attractive.” Ms. Stephens, who has a CCE in electrology and an MS in Food & Nutrition Research, explains that permanent hair removal means the hair growing cells in the follicle have been destroyed. Laser and other light-based equipment work by producing heat from the absorption of the light in the pigmented hairs. They are all completely dependent on the light absorption to achieve this. “While the advantage of laser hair removal is the rapid clearing of large areas such as arms,” says Ms. Stephens, “the effectiveness needed improvement.” She took her idea to Dr. Denoff and he formulated the cream. The new cream, called Better Lase, “increases the absorption of the laser light in pigmented hairs. When more light is absorbed, more heat develops in the hair follicle to stop the follicle from producing more hair.” Clinic director, Marissa Lee says, “On the arms, many of our clients have only needed two treatments using the cream. It is completely safe to the skin during a laser treatment because the cream is not absorbed by the skin.”
Lasers are more versatile, lighter and more available
	Laserscope is the latest laser manufacturer to receive clearance from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to market its light-based, “permanent hair reduction” device. Making the announcement in a press release dated May 24, Laserscope’s president and CEO, Eric Reuter, said: “The FDA clearance adds yet another compelling indication for our Lyra laser, and further differentiates this product from the competition as the most versatile and innovative aesthetic laser on the market today.” ‘Aesthetic laser’ is the new term now universally used to describe equipment that is primarily concerned with cosmetic rather than medical procedures. The Lyra system was previously cleared for various dermatological applications including leg veins, in August 1999, and subsequently received clearance for “hair removal” in March 2000. Laserscope also claims it was “the first medical device of any kind cleared by the FDA for the treatment of pseudofolliculitis.” Laserscope says its permanent hair reduction system may be applied to a full range of patient skin tones. “Multiple treatments are usually required to achieve more than temporary removal of hair and only a few select lasers have been granted clearance by the FDA to market devices for this purpose.” The press release explains that permanent hair reduction is “A permanent reduction in the number of hairs that regrow after a treatment regime.” “Not all aesthetic lasers are created equally,” says Mr. Reuter. “The Lyra’s unique blend of the longest available wavelength, variable pulse duration and patented epidermal cooling technology are combined in a product that is not only efficacious but extremely safe for all skin types.” Laser manufacturer, Altus Medical, unveiled its newest aesthetic laser, the CoolGlide Excel, at the March meeting of the American Academy of Dermatology, held in Washington DC. Kevin Connors, president and CEO of Altus Medical told the press: “By adopting the new CoolGlide Excel system, practitioners can expand and participate in the fast growing markets for hair removal, treatment of leg veins and treatment of facial vessels.” In his endorsement of Altus Medical’s product, Arielle Kauvar, MD – a dermatologist at the Laser and Skin Surgery Center of New York – said: “We have seen promising results treating certain types of leg veins with the new CoolGlide Excel. These results, combined with the proven hair removal capabilities makes this an extremely versatile system.” The CoolGlide and CoolGlide Excel aesthetic lasers both feature high power long pulse Nd:YAG technology, and can treat all skin types, including tanned patients. Both have FDA clearance to claim “permanent hair reduction.” The original CoolGlide handpiece features a fixed 10mm spot size, suited for hair removal and the treatment of larger reticular leg veins. The new Excel handpiece design incorporates four spot sizes: 3, 5, 7, and 10mm to expand its capabilities to include vascular lesions. Integrated contact cooling on both products maximizes epidermal protection. Palomar Medical Technologies of Burlington Massachusetts, Inc., also took advantage of the March meeting of the AAD, to demonstrate its Clear Light Q-YAG 5 laser system for hair removal, tattoo, and pigmented lesion removal, and its new EsteLux light-based hair removal system. On March 16, 2001, two weeks after the AAD meeting, Palomar announced that it had received clearance from the FDA to sell and market the EsteLux for hair removal. It was not given FDA clearance for “permanent hair reduction,” but Louis P. (Dan) Valente, chairman and chief executive officer of Palomar, said this latest addition to the Company’s line is faster, more compact, and more affordable than other cosmetic devices for hair removal. “The EsteLux is a low price hair removal workhorse with a fast treatment mode,” said Valente. “The combination is perfect for many physician practices and could expand the market for hair removal. The extensive benefits of the EsteLux system will provide additional revenue streams with good margins due to the thriftiness of the instrument and ease of operation to aesthetic practices.” The EsteLux has the fastest coverage rate, a long pulsewidth, SpectruMax filtering, a high pulse rate, and a large spot size that makes the system extremely effective when treating large areas such as legs and backs. Users can treat more customers in less time, maximizing their return on investment. Palomar expects that the simple operation of this system (which critics in the electrolysis community say offers nothing more than fast hair removal) will “open its applications to a wider band of worldwide users to include; dermatologists, GP physicians, cosmetic and aesthetic physicians, doctor-supervised spas, and aesthetic salons just to name a few.”
Findings of hair study just another way to raise funds
	Late last year the Max-Planck Immunology Institute in Freiburg, Germany issued an internet press release with the headline, “Unwanted Hair Growth May Soon be Under Control.” The accompanying article announced that researchers had succeeded in identifying a protein switch that regulates the activity of numerous genes carrying information for the keratin protein structure of hair fiber: an important mechanism for hair formation. After identifying the protein switches, the Institute’s scientists set themselves the task of figuring out exactly how they work. They claimed that their investigations would likely lead to new ways for slowing down or completely inhibiting unwanted hair growth. There are many different treatments available to block unwanted hair growth. Currently, excess hair growth is treated by influencing the hormones in the body, but this can lead to side effects. The Institute’s protein switch discovery suggested that hormone treatments might not be necessary. Instead of an oral drug, topical treatment with a cream or a special shampoo to stimulate the newly identified protein switch, might be the only requirement. The question of how the immune system functions on a molecular level is what the scientists focused on. The discovery of the protein switch for hair formation was accidental. Its origins came out of an investigation of a genetic defect in mice that are affected by a hereditary immune weakness and hair loss. “We had to ask ourselves, which gene is actually defective in these naked mice,” said a spokesman for the Freiburg scientific team, “because this gene must be responsible for growing the hair as well!” They were so enthused by their findings they were reportedly thinking about establishing their own company. It was believed that this success could lead to many unexpected applications for other medical problems in humans. Around the world, other scientists were not so impressed. The Institute’s internet news release may have been sensational enough to excite most web browsers but it was not enough to satisfy the academic types that are part of the internet’s “hair community.” They responded that there was little that was new in the Institute’s research. “The gene mutation in nude mice is apparently involved in the hair cycle – we have known this for many years,” said one expert. “Those hair follicles that fully develop, produce hair fibers that are rather fragile and easily breakable due to the lack of keratin production. Hence the mouse has almost no visible hair (and is called the ‘nude’ mouse). Presumably, the same gene defect also compromises the immune system.” Apparently, the defect is rare in humans but does occur. Hair authority Dr. Angela Christiano identified two human cases comparable to the mouse model in 1999, and one of the participants in that study – who now works in Germany – was contacted for comment: he also failed to see anything new in the announcement from Freiburg. “I assume the scientists in Freiburg will try and develop a topical gene therapy to correct or modulate the apparent gene defect in the hair follicle,” he said. “This is just another switch involved in hair follicle development and cycling, same as for the hairless gene.” The consensus is that there will be many of these gene switch discoveries made in the coming years and with each one the doctors involved will make a big splash “and then most of them will disappear from sight, never to be seen again.” “The Freiburg scientists want to set up a company, so they need to impress their potential investors,” said one critic. “The press release was probably directed entirely at investors. If the investors are non-scientists (likely), then this announcement sounds like the scientists are making a commercially viable discovery. The reality is this ‘discovery’ was made some time ago – and not by the scientists in Freiburg!”
Latex allergies put lower protein gloves in demand
	Studies conducted in 2000 have confirmed that cornstarch, when combined with the proteins in latex gloves, causes the majority of allergic reactions experienced by glove-wearers in hospitals, medical centers and personal healthcare facilities. Cornstarch is the most common dusting powder used to lubricate latex gloves, and glove manufacturers are earnestly searching for ways to alleviate the problem. There are several ways glove manufacturers can combat the problem of allergic reactions. One way would be to lower the protein content of the latex they use to make the gloves. The reduced protein levels limit the amount of allergens produced. Another way would be to line the inside of gloves, limiting the chemical reaction between the cornstarch and latex proteins. A few companies are developing natural rubber latex with an inner polyurethane coating, which reduces the extractable proteins in the gloves, making them easier to put on than the gloves made of untreated natural rubber latex.” A survey report by Frost & Sullivan, a market research and consulting company based in San Jose, California, concludes with a forecast that the U.S. surgical glove markets will generate annual revenues of $292 million by 2006 – with natural rubber latex gloves dominating the majority of revenues over the synthetic and specialty glove market segments. “Powdered gloves are still preferred by most users because they are easier to put on,” says Collin Tam, the glove industry expert at Frost & Sullivan. “The challenge now for manufacturers is to reduce protein levels to the point where a powdered glove is no different than a powder-free glove. “Glove manufacturers that can introduce products that are as easy to use as powdered gloves and that cause the least amount of chemical reaction, will capture the greater share of the glove market,” Mr. Tam predicts.
Keeping up with misleading ads is a never-ending task
	The main office of the American Electrology Association (AEA) continues to receive from its members a constant stream of hair removal advertisements that contain misleading advertising. Teresa Petricca, the AEA’s executive director, says “It’s truly amazing the things that are being perpetrated on the public.” In the past few months she’s had to investigate everything from electronic tweezers to Cotton Tip devices. The most recent oddities are the Patch Device and ColdLaser ads, which have been promising “permanent hair removal,” to the readers of many beauty and esthetic magazines across North America for years. “As far back as July of 1999,” says Ms. Petricca, “the U.S. Food and Drug Administration sent a warning letter to Dr. Mark Chandler regarding the TD-829 – the same device as the Transcutaneous Patch Method, the Super Phaser Gold, and the Trans Q 2000. Despite the warning letter, the Transcutaneous Patch Method and its other clones continue to be marketed without FDA clearance.” No one is quite sure what form of light the ColdLaser HFD uses, but the company’s website advertising quotes a price of $299 for the device, and cites its capabilities for “cosmetic laser hair removal, laser anti-aging treatment, scar treatment, stretch mark treatment, acne treatment, broken capillaries, and laser body treatment.” “The price would indicate that it is a quasi-laser device,” Ms. Petricca suggests. “The one thing we know for sure is that these products are still being promoted to the public as permanent hair removal devices. And that’s after all these months without clearance to market by the FDA.” The latest thorn in the AEA’s side is the website for IGIA, another company in which Dr. Mark Chandler (the Transcutaneous Patch man) is involved. After many complaints to the FDA by AEA members, IGIA removed the words “permanent hair removal” from its advertising. The satisfaction was short-lived; the offending words were shortly replaced with the equally unacceptable “Permanent solution Hair Removal.”
U.S. entry at Cannes Film Festival tells a hairy tale
	A very hairy lady was the central figure in one of the American entries to the May 2000 Canne Film Festival, in Canne, France. The movie, titled “Human Nature” is described as a romance/comedy and stars Patricia Arquette in the lead role, Lila – “the woman with a secret;” she’s got a beard, and she has hair over her whole body. Early in the story, Lila’s friend Nathan, played by Tim Robbins, has to deal with this reality: “Ahhh! How do I extricate myself from this mess? Is my girlfriend a man? I don’t understand. This is not a part of any plan. She deceived me. She has hair! She’s not supposed to have it! “But am I being fair? So what if she has hair? Who am I to judge? I have hair. But I’m supposed to have it! I am a man. Men are supposed to have hair. But poor Lila. Think of what she’s had to go through. The courage she’s had to have in the face of this abomination of nature. I should love her all the more. I should love every grotesque hair on her body.” The movie was the directorial debut of Michel Gondry, who is noted for the music videos he has directed for artists like Bjork, the Chemical Brothers, and Massive Attack. The screenwriter was Charlie Kaufman, whose last film, Being John Malkovich, won praise from the critics. Director Gondry said, “I’d been in Los Angeles for about a year and I was trying to read as many scripts as I could but they were all really boring to me – I don’t see being a boring director and doing exactly the same as everyone else. When Charlie Kaufman gave me his script for Human Nature, I liked it immediately.” The critics say that Human Nature is a perfect title for this quirky movie, basically a love story, which revolves around a mix of unique characters. There’s Lila – the woman with a body that harkens back to an earlier stage of evolution – who becomes a naturalist and author of books with titles like “Wind in my Hair”; there’s Nathan, the scientist who is attempting to teach laboratory mice table manners; there’s Puff, a man who was raised in the wild like an ape – a sort of “monkey child”; and finally, there’s the assistant in the laboratory, who also has a secret. Perhaps Lila’s female companion (played by actress Rosie Perez), should also be mentioned. She spends a lot of her time helping Lila to shave and wax. One film reviewer has noted that Patricia Arquette’s nude scenes in the film are also quite unique because “the nudity is only ‘sort of’ nudity. Lila is covered with hair, you see, so she’s not really that nude.” The film is due to be publicly released early in November 2001.
National associations set 2001 convention plans
	The annual conference of the Society of Clinical and Medical Electrologists (SCME), set for March 5-9, 2001, will be the earliest of the conventions presented this year by North America’s national electrolysis associations. The fabulous Tropicana Resort & Casino, in Las Vegas, Nevada, will be the venue. The theme of the SCME Conference will be "Hit the Jackpot: Invest in Your Future!" and the educational program includes several guest speakers. Lori Sellers, will talk about "Antitrust Considerations in Health Care," Darryl Stevens of Marine Agency Insurance, will address the subject of "Insurance Coverage for Your Business," Laura LaPorta will present "Overuse Injuries and Prevention." The subject of "Legislative Issues Facing Electrologists" will be presented by Alan Voss. Shelby Owens will incorporate a bit of history and a little humor in her "Review of Modalities and Controversies in the History of Permanent Hair Removal." Dr. Klainer talks about "Multiple Uses of the Long-Pulsed Alexandrite Laser." Modules being presented at the conference will include: "Blood Borne Pathogens" presented by Judy Adams; "Occupational and Related Hazards – Running a Successful Physician/Allied Professional Laser Hair Removal Program," is in the capable hands of Dr. Elliot Lach; and "Lasers and their use in Electrology" will be the subject covered by Wallace A. Roberts. A panel, with Carole Crowley, Peggy Crawford and Ildiko Svoren, will be presented on "Successes & Challenges Using the Laser." The Tropicana Resort & Casino – host hotel for the SCME Conference is located on the new "Four Corners" and features the world’s largest indoor/outdoor pool set amid five acres of lush tropical gardens. The hotel may be contacted directly at: The Fabulous Tropicana Resort & Casino, 3801 Las Vegas Boulevard South (On the Strip), Las Vegas, NV 89109. For Reservations call: 1-702-739-2581 or 1-800-634-4000 Fax: 1-702-739-2448. Southwest Airlines is offering a 10% discount on most of its already low fares for air travel to and from the event. You or your travel agent may call the Southwest Airlines Group and Meetings Reservations at 1-800-433-5368 and reference the assigned ID Code R3691. You must make your reservations at least 5 or more days prior to travel to take advantage of this offer. For more information about the Conference and the educational program contact: SCME Conference 2001, 132 Great Road, Suite 200, Stow, MA 011775. Tel: 978 461-0313. ********** Harrison Hot Springs Resort in the province of British Columbia, will be the site of the Canadian Organization of Professional Electrologists (COPE) general meeting and Annual Convention, May 25-27, 2001. Education is the focus of the convention, and organizers have worked diligently to prepare the program. Among the guest lecturers at the event will be Francis McGuckin, a motivational speaker talking on the topics of "Why be a Member?," "Marketing Your Business," and "The Future of Electrologists;" Sue and Murray Pratt, B.Sc., will present "Natural Hormone Therapy, Progesterone & Health:" and Nacora Insurance will answer members’ insurance questions. The Program of Events includes a Preparation Module for the Certification Examination and an Exhibits Showcase. Registrations for the convention that are received on or before March 1, 2001, will be eligible (members only) for the Early Bird Draw – a "Friday Night Free Stay" at the Harrison Resort (valid for May 25, 2001 only). Registration at the door is an extra $30.00. Hotel reservations must be made directly with the Harrison Hot Springs Resort. For room reservations call 1-800-663-2266. Room rates for the West Tower are $179.00, Single or Double. For additional information on the convention contact: Wendy Engel at 1-250-392-4366, email: staycurrentelect@hotmail.com, Hazel Glusman 1-250-374-5222, email: hazel.dave@telus.net and Phyllis Tourond 1-604-852-8141, or email at: swansonschool@telus.net ********** Details have not yet been released for the International Guild of Professional Electrologists (IGPE) annual Congress, to be held this year at the Palmer House Hilton in Chicago, IL, Oct. 4-7. ********** The American Electrology Association (AEA) recently decided that, starting in 2002 it would hold its convention in Las Vegas every other year. This year’s conventioneers will gather at the Adams Mark Hotel, in Memphis, Tennessee, for the 2001 Convention, Oct. 17-20. The hotel room rate for the convention will be $114 per night, single or double. More details about the AEA’s annual event will be released in the May issue of International Hair Route magazine.
Taking the "wait" out of electrology waiting rooms
	Dr. J. Robert Adams, a physician in Ste. Agathe, Quebec, has some tips for his medical colleagues about how to handle "no shows" in the waiting rooms that may prove useful to electrologists and other professionals. "Perhaps the best way to improve ‘no show’ statistics," says Dr. Adams, "would be to clean up our waiting-room act. A patient who anticipates being wedged interminably between other patients who are hacking and blowing microbes into the shared air, is not likely to be motivated to keep his or her appointment. But the problem is not intractable. It can be diminished by eliminating the wait in waiting-rooms." He offers the following suggestions to help bring this about: Don’t overbook. I have known colleagues (you will not be surprised) who book more than one patient for each appointment slot because they fear a hiatus. The result: frustrated patient, stressed practitioner. Don’t schedule the same amount of time for each patient. Ask your assistant to inquire about the reason for the appointment on the telephone and endeavor to allocate the appropriate amount of time. Obviously the ploy will not always work, but it will help. Get rid of the misconception that your time is more valuable than that of your patient. Have a clear understanding that you will not see a patient who has mistimed an appointment. Give $1 to your favorite charity for every minute you keep a patient waiting. An assistant can maintain a running tally, and it will concentrate your mind wonderfully with regard to the importance of time. Consider the occasional "no show" as a valuable chance to catch up on your paperwork and telephone backlog. "The bottom line is this," says Dr. Adams, "by eliminating the wait in waiting-rooms, both patient and practitioner will think they have died and gone to heaven."
Women with Mustaches is one hairy exhibit
	When Dublin photographer Trish Morrissey’s exhibition, "Women With Moustaches," opened for a two-month stint at the Clerkenwell Gallery in London, England, over the Christmas and New Year holiday period, it created quite a stir – even for this hip city. The Association of Photographers hosted the exhibition, and as their marketing people promised, the show "challenged society’s expectations of physical beauty in a witty and surprisingly frank way." All the women in Morrissey’s works were presented in a very glamorous light, and at first glance appeared to be regular fashion shots. On closer inspection, however, viewers discovered that all the subjects had defied – or at least disregarded – the convention of bleaching, shaving or otherwise eliminating, their beards and moustaches. Some of the displayed facial hair could be described as "subtle fuzz," but there was much that belonged in the "luxuriant growth" category. Morrissey says she got the idea for the exhibition when she saw a photograph of Patti Smith, the American rock-poet, which revealed she had grown a mustache – or, more accurately, had stopped plucking the growth on her upper lip. "She had this full-on mustache and it looked wonderful," said Morrissey. "She didn’t look like a freak, she looked beautiful." When Morrissey advertised for models, "Photographer seeks women with facial hair," there were 40 respondents. She told reporters who attended the show’s opening that what she aimed to do was question notions of conventional female beauty. The exhibition, she said, was not intended to be a political statement. "This isn’t about being a dyke," she insisted. "I’m not taking shots of drag-kings. Some lesbians, like Della Grace, grow mustaches and beards as statements about sexuality." Grace, an American photographer resident in London and a "lesbian icon," has recently taken to sporting a goatee. "Lots of women have facial hair, but it’s never talked about," said Morrissey. "But it’s perfectly normal, really, and it doesn’t mean that a woman becomes unattractive. Beauty is in the eyes of the beholder and different people behold in different ways. The women I have photographed – all volunteers, ranging in age from 18 to 50 – are actually good-looking and full of confidence. They obviously don’t worry about it." At 30, Morrissey doesn’t have a beard, nor the slightest hint of a mustache. Yet a self-portrait, with a splendidly furry upper lip was a focal point in the "Women With Moustaches" exhibition. "I drew it on, just to see what it would be like," she said. "I thought it looked fine."
South Africa braces for the "explosive" AIDS epidemic
	In December of last year, experts gave a pessimistic assessment on the future impact of HIV/AIDS in South Africa, where it is already a health problem of major proportions. They said "nearly half the adult population in that country is at risk of becoming infected with HIV within the next 10 years," if drastic steps are not taken. "Unless there are significant changes in South Africa, about 45% of adults will become infected with HIV/AIDS," said Dr. Rob Dorrington, professor of actuarial studies at the University of Cape Town, at a meeting of the International Association of Insurance Supervisors. Andre Ferreira, a senior actuary at Sanlam Life, a major South African insurance company, told the same conference, "We are really only at the beginning of the epidemic as far as actual AIDS deaths are concerned. This is a train smash that is going to happen." According to Dr. Dorrington, South Africa shows all the earmarks of a full-blown HIV/AIDS epidemic in the making. "It will be the most explosive of any country in the world," he said. "Thirteen percent of South Africa’s 42 million people will be carrying HIV by the end of this year," Dr. Dorrington predicted. This would see life expectancy drop to 41 years by 2010, down from the current 63 years. "By then," he added, "the chances of a 15-year-old dying before the age of 60 will have risen to 75% percent. The infection rate will be running at 2,000 to 2,500 people a day, and there will be 450,000 people with AIDS." Dr. Dorrington blamed the white racist former apartheid government for hopelessly mismanaging the epidemic from the outset, noting its puritan streak wouldn’t even permit condom advertising until 1992 – 10 years after the first AIDS case was identified in the country. (The country’s first democratic non-racial government was elected in 1993.) Andre Swanepoel, deputy chief executive of the South African Financial Services Board, a watchdog agency, envisages two million AIDS orphans in South Africa by 2010.
Bulge area of hair follicle may also be home to skin’s all-important stem cells
	Research conducted by Dr. Robert M. Lavker of the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine, and Dr. Tung-Tien Sun of the New York University School of Medicine, has uncovered compelling evidence that the hair follicle and the epidermis may originate from the same cache of cells. The new study, published in the August 2000 issue of the journal Cell, builds on the 1990 research of Lavker and his coworkers, proposing that the stem cells for hair growth are located in that area of the follicle known as the bulge – at the point where the outer root sheath attaches to the arrector pili muscle. The latest report makes the surprising suggestion that the bulge may also be home base for the skin’s stem cells. The skin’s stem cells (mother cells or source cells) continually replace the dead and dying cells that are lost every day due to wear and tear on the epidermis. If a severe burn destroys the outer skin, epidermal cells are found to emerge from any remaining hair follicles to re-establish the outer skin in circles of regrowth. But until now, the precise origin of those new, regenerating epidermal cells has never been firmly established. The researchers’ experiments tracking the exodus of stem cells from the follicle bulge were done in mice, but human follicles also have a bulge and it seems likely this is a source of skin cells in people too. Most of the body’s cells have assumed their final, mature form, and if they divide at all will produce two identical daughter cells. Stem cells are unspecialized mother cells, which give birth to one or more specialized cells that can either remain as stem cells or develop into mature cells of the relevant type. In this way the population of stem cells is continually replenished, acting as a permanent reservoir for replacing damaged tissue cells. Dr. Lavker says he and Dr. Sun have not yet formally proved that a single cell could make either hair or skin. But following their theory; when cells in the bulge receive a signal to generate skin cells they migrate up into the surrounding skin, and when they receive a signal to generate hair growth cells they migrate down the follicle to the papilla. Dr. Sun said, "There’s been a tremendous controversy as to where the epidermal cells are. We are proposing that there is just one entity – an ultimate epidermal stem cell – located in the bulge area of the hair follicle, that is capable of forming skin or hair." Dr. Elaine Fuchs, a skin biologist at the University of Chicago, described the new research as "a very important finding" because it suggests that the stem cells in the bulge have pluripotentiality, meaning they have the capacity to affect more than one organ or tissue – in this case either skin or hair. Recent discoveries about stem cells in other tissues suggest that the cells are remarkably versatile and that, with the right signals, one kind of stem cell can be converted into another. If stem cells were to become an important way of helping to repair the body’s tissues, as many biologists hope, the bulge area in patients’ hair follicles would be an especially convenient source. Dr. Lavker said his work might help explain basal cell carcinoma, a skin cancer caused by ultra-violet light. The light cannot reach the stem cells in their deep-set bulge but it can derange the stem cell’s descendants as they migrate closer to the surface. Dr. Lavker said he believed that these light-damaged cells, which have considerable capacity to proliferate, initiate the cancer. A major "take home" message of the research, Dr. Lavker said, "is the pivotal importance of the upper follicle in the healing process of the skin. It places the upper follicle directly in the center, for wound repair."
Women seeking HRT advice still favor doctor’s opinion
	A poll conducted by the Angus Reid Group, in Toronto, recently surveyed 1,800 Canadian women ages 45 to 64, to find out how much women know about hormone replacement therapy (HRT), and where they look for more knowledge on the subject. The poll was commissioned by Pfizer Canada Inc., which recently obtained Health Canada’s approval to market FemHRT, a drug that combines both progestin and estradiol in one pill. More than half the survey respondents (55%), aged between 45 and 64, said they consider their doctors to be the number one source of information about HRT. Forty-two percent named magazines as their best source, 27% answered friends and family, 17% said television. When it came to the quantity and quality of the information they received about HRT, 70% of the women surveyed said their physician provided them with what they needed to know. Almost all the women surveyed felt comfortable talking with their physician about HRT. The Internet was the source of general health information for about a third of the women polled. Dr. Heather Shapiro, co-director of the Mature Women’s Clinic at Toronto’s Mount Sinai Hospital, says that right now there is starting to be a gap between patient knowledge and physician knowledge. She says, "right now in my practice there are women who know more about their conditions than I do, thanks to the Internet." When asked whether physicians generally are up to date about the pros and cons of hormone therapy Dr. Shapiro replies, "I think there is always room for improvement. There are always new developments." More than half of the women surveyed were afraid of developing breast cancer while taking HRT, even though the Society of Obstetricians and Gynecologists of Canada has said that the increased risk of breast cancer while on HRT is small when compared to other risk factors such as age and consumption of alcohol. Nevertheless, 57% of women surveyed said they believed the benefits of HRT outweighed the risks.
Researchers find two types of stem cells
	Canadian scientists have made an intriguing discovery about the mechanics of human blood that is bound to have an impact on everything from cancer treatments to genetic therapies. Based on a complex experiment 15 years in the making, researchers at Toronto’s Hospital for Sick Children have learned that stem cells – mother cells within bone marrow that give rise to the human blood system – are not all of a kind. Molecular biologists Ihor Lemischka of Princeton University and Craig Jordan of the University of Kentucky, who reviewed the Canadian research published in the January issue of Nature Immunology, say the work is "the most compelling characterization of human stem cells to date." Dr. John Dick, the geneticist who led the hospital’s research team says, "After transplanting human stem cells into laboratory mice, we found that one type of stem cell blossoms quickly, but produces new blood only for about a month before disappearing. A second type of stem cell appears to lie dormant for months, before springing into action for a much longer period." Not knowing that there are two types of stem cells – both short- and long-term types – doctors have not previously made a distinction between the ones they target when transplanting bone marrow in cancer or anemia patients. Nor have they ever made a distinction between which cells they try to insert corrective genes, or which stem cells they manipulate in experiments to grow new human tissue and organs. The findings of this study may help explain why many of these treatments have been less than successful. It also offers some hope there will be fewer failures in the future. "We always thought that a stem cell is a stem cell is a stem cell," said Dr. Dick, "and we didn’t realize that for some things long-term re-populating cells might be better suited than short-term re-populating cells, and vice versa. And if the stem cells have different functions, the clinical use of them will also differ." Dr. Dick said that for cancer patients who withstand high chemotherapy doses and then undergo a bone marrow transplant to save their battered blood systems, short-term, fast-acting stem cells could help quickly generate the white blood cells that bolster their vulnerable immune systems. On the other hand, researchers interested in chemically coaxing stem cells to grow into various organs and tissues for transplant, will be interested in the potential of long-term stem cells; as will scientists who use stem cells to administer gene therapies. In December 1999, for example, Los Angeles researchers began inserting artificial genes that block the AIDS virus into stem cells that will be transplanted into children with AIDS. The idea being, that as the stem cells proliferate in the blood system they will transfer the HIV-resistance to all their daughter cells.
Amazon tree sap the cure for what ails us?
	The red sap of an Amazonian tree, which brings quick relief from common complaints such as cuts, stomach pains and itchy insect bites, is being carefully studied by researchers at the University of Calgary’s faculty of medicine. The sap, called Sangre de Grado, comes from fast growing Croton trees found throughout the Amazon region. Dr. John Wallace, a professor of pharmacology and therapeutics at the University, is heading up the study, the results of which will be published in an upcoming issue of the Journal of Investigative Dermatology. He first found out about it from a Peruvian student in a colleague’s laboratory. Now, he and his research team are testing its scientific properties. "Sangre de Grado has been used for centuries by indigenous peoples of the Amazon," says Dr. Wallace. "It was traditionally applied to cuts because it has antibacterial properties and seems to promote wound healing, and a balm produced from the sap is effective in quickly blocking the itch from insect bites." To test the effectiveness of the sap, Dr. Wallace and his colleagues gave the Sangre de Grado balm to 10 pest control workers in Louisiana, while another 10 were given a placebo balm. For three months the workers kept diaries, recording the effect of the balms on their bites. "Basically, the placebo didn’t do anything, but the cream with the Sangre de Grado in it produced beneficial effects against a wide range of bites," Dr. Wallace said. The bites were from insects ranging from mosquitoes to fire ants, Dr. Wallace said. The mechanism by which Sangre de Grado blocks the itch from insect bites is unknown. "We know it acts on sensory nerves and possibly that’s how it works on preventing the itch," explained Dr. Wallace. "Maybe Sangre de Grado works through multiple mechanisms. Indigenous peoples also used the sap as a diluted drink to ease stomach pain, which could bring relief to people with gastritis or colitis." "We’re working on isolating the active components of the sap that are responsible for the analgesic properties," Dr. Wallace said.
New AEA leader has a "Vision for the Future"
	At the elections of the American Electrology Association (AEA) – held in conjunction with that organization’s convention in Las Vegas, October 2000 – Leigh Henry, of Tyngsboro, Massachusetts, was elected the new AEA president. Ms. Henry was first appointed to the AEA Board in 1994, and since that time has served on numerous committees. This is her first crack at the high office of national association president. Introducing Ms. Henry to the AEA membership gathered at the Convention, the AEA’s executive director, Teresa Petricca, said "Leigh is a team player and has proven her ability to handle difficult tasks and make informed decisions. She has gained the respect of the AEA Board with her intelligence and with her capable talents as Bylaws Committee Chairman, her presence on the Infection Control Standards Committee, and on the committee of the International Board of Electrologist Certification (IBEC)." In her address to members Ms. Henry said, "I am very proud to have been elected to lead such a progressive and professional organization. I truly believe in the viability of our profession." Well known for her strong views on laser hair removal, Ms. Henry stressed the fact that AEA represents needle electrologists exclusively. "As an electrologist, this is very important to me. I need an organization that represents my interests as a professional." Ms. Henry said that now more than ever, she wants an organization that is proactive in getting the good news about the AEA, what it is and what it does, out to consumers. "We need to be shouting about the benefits of electrolysis for the entire world to hear, and dispel the many myths that surround our profession. Promotion, education and regulation are the keys to the future of our profession," said Ms. Henry. The AEA is currently embarking on an all-out public relations campaign, and Ms. Henry assured members that she would continue to lobby for regulation of electrolysis across the nation and do everything possible to ensure that electrologists have access to quality education, as well as quality continuing education. Ms. Petricca told members that she has worked closely with Ms. Henry for the past year and is "extremely confident that the membership has elected the perfect person to succeed outgoing president, Bette DeVito." "During her tenure Bette exemplified professionalism and panache," said Ms. Petricca. "She elected not to run again, but will remain on the AEA Board as the Immediate Past President. We are pleased we are not losing her quick mind, and her dedication; she will simply be sitting in a different chair." "I am pleased that both these professional ladies – who embody the essence of leadership – will play such a vital role in the AEA," Ms. Petricca continued. "I am also delighted that the officers who have contributed so tirelessly to their positions will continue to bring so much talent, hard work and dedication to the association. We have the most professional and committed team representing electrologists on a national level. I look forward to the future of our profession and the AEA."
New York more accessible city for hirsute patients
	So many women with hirsutism and related problems such as severe acne and hair loss can’t find help where they live. Awareness of this fact has prompted Dr. Geoffrey Redmond, well known to Hair Route readers through his regular column, "Endocrine Perspective," to move his practice from Cleveland to a midtown location in New York City. "New York will be a more accessible location for many and, increasingly, my practice has become much more national in recent years," Dr. Redmond explained to Hair Route. In a sense, the move east will be "coming home" for Dr. Redmond. He grew up in New York and trained there at Columbia-Presbyterian Medical Center and at Rockefeller University. "And there are professional reasons for the move as well," said Dr. Redmond. His new practice will focus entirely on hirsutism and other, specifically female, hormone problems. Complete details on Dr. Redmond’s new, New York institute, will appear in the February issue of International Hair Route.
FDA creates MD registry for drug Accutane
	The American Food and Drug Administration’s Center for Drug Evaluation and Research is planning to start a formal registry of all doctors prescribing the acne medication Accutane (isotretinoin). The registry, which would only include doctors who agree to enforce certain pregnancy-preventing steps, was recommended by the FDA’s Dermatological and Ophthalmic Drugs Advisory Committee, at its September meeting. Accutane, a chemical cousin of vitamin A, is prescribed for the treatment of severe, disfiguring acne that has not cleared up in response to milder medications such as antibiotics. Because Accutane can cause severe birth defects, including mental retardation and other severe birth defects, a woman who may become pregnant must not take it. Both the physician and patient information for Accutane stress the danger of the birth defects. Women taking Accutane are asked to take a pregnancy test before they start the medication, and to use two forms of birth control while on the drug. Despite these precautions, 1,995 American women have become pregnant since 1982 while using Accutane. Most of the pregnancies ended in abortions, but of 383 babies born, 162 had birth defects. In Canada, no less than 275,000 Accutane prescriptions are filled every year, but Health Canada does not collect statistics about pregnancies in women taking the drug.
Laser manufacturers crank out machines, get OK from FDA and churn out the ads
	Fax messages advertising the laser hair removable services provided by doctors bombard the offices of electrologists all over the world. Arriving home after a long, tiring day of epilating fine blond hairs and sterilizing all the equipment for tomorrow’s clients, the same electrologists find their mail boxes stuffed with flyers from local "medical clinics" advertising everything from clinical peels to "Pure Laser Hair Removal." Looking over the business pages of their telephone book (often under the heading of "Electrolysis") the electrologists are alarmed to see large, 4-color ads proclaiming "Permanent" and "State-of-the-art" hair removal by laser. In the U.S., where the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is law in all matters of public health and welfare, advertisers of laser hair removal services take full advantage of the "Permanent Reduction" description that the Agency allows some of them to use. To meet the demand created by all the advertising in the public sector, more laser manufacturers get into the hair removal business, crank out more and more "new and approved" machines, and print reams of press releases and "new" advertising hype for the exclusive use of their customers. In March of this year, Laserscope received clearance from the FDA to market its Lyra Laser for hair removal, a system that had previously been cleared for various dermatological applications, including vascular lesions and leg veins. In announcing the news, Laserscope’s president, Eric Reuter said, "Compact and portable, the Lyra Laser is the first system designed to remove hair from darker skin types as well as light, making it the most versatile product available." In contrast, said Mr. Reuter, "systems based upon less advanced technologies are best suited to patients with light skin tones and dark hair only." Anticipating stockholders’ and customers’ questions, Mr. Reuter told media reporters, "Industry sources estimate the potential worldwide market for hair removal lasers to be around $650 million over the next three years." In July 2000, the Massachusetts-based laser manufacturer, Cynosure, Inc., announced that its Apogee line of hair removal lasers had received "permanent hair reduction" clearance from the FDA. The Apogee machines have what Cynosure calls "Thermokinetic Selectivity," which facilitates "treatment for patients of all skin types." The company said: "This feature is particularly significant because most laser hair removal systems cannot treat darker skin types, while the American population is increasingly comprised of people with darker skin." Cynosure says it has data collected from two clinical sites, demonstrating – after three to five laser treatments – an average hair reduction of 76-percent at 14.7 months post last laser treatment. Follow-up visits showing continued hair removal were in the 14-month range. Doctor endorsements are used by Cynosure in its product marketing. Suzanne Kilmer, M.D., Director of the Laser & Skin Surgery Center in Sacramento, California, says, "The data from this [latest] study allows us to provide encouraging information about long-term results." The EpiStar Diode Laser System for hair removal (and for the treatment of vascular and pigmented skin lesions), manufactured by Nidek, Inc., received its FDA "clearance to market" in mid-August 2000. The company says its machine is "a state-of-the-art portable, which features a thermo-electric cooling system that runs electronically – protecting the area from thermal exposure and minimizing patient discomfort." Nidek’s vice president, Hiroshi Okada, said "We are pleased that the 510(k) clearance of the EpiStar allows us to provide doctors with additional treatment therapies for patients in their practices." From a different laser manufacturer, Coherent, Inc., of Santa Clara, California, there was a late-August press release announcing a deal made between this California company and Boots The Chemists ("Boots"), in the UK. Boots, a leading retailer of health and beauty products, had agreed to offer laser hair removal services in seven of its stores located throughout the UK, using Coherent’s LightSheer family of laser products exclusively. With over 5 billion pounds sterling in total corporate sales and over 1,400 stores – ranging from small community pharmacies to city center department stores – Boots is a company to be taken seriously. The initial seven outlets will be test sites for the laser hair removal service, and if successful, up to an additional 200 stores will be added to the list "sometime within the next few years." Zoe Morgan, Director of Marketing for Boots The Chemists is quoted as saying, "The long-term effectiveness of laser hair removal will allow us to offer our customers the satisfaction that they expect from Boots. Boots will use state-of-the-art LightSheer laser technology, operated by trained and qualified medical professionals, to offer this highly effective treatment for unwanted hair." Of the numerous laser manufacturers entering the hair removal scene, Candela Corporation, headquartered in Massachusetts, has deployed the most aggressive marketing tactics during the past year. The company received FDA clearance to market its GentleLASE system for "permanent hair reduction" in June, and its PR department was quick to take full advantage of the news. Product endorsements from names in high places in the medical field have been an important part of their promotional campaign. Jeffrey Dover, M.D., Director of SkinCare Physicians of Chestnut Hill and Associate Clinical Professor of Dermatology at Harvard Medical School, described Candela’s product as a "safe, effective and elegant in the treatment of unwanted hair. FDA clearance for long-term hair reduction allows physicians to answer questions about long-term treatment results from today’s very informed patients." Unsolicited faxes arriving at the office of International Hair Route from GentleLASE clinics describe their services in a somewhat less "elegant" fashion to Professor Dover. Typical of the messages received by electrologists is the one that blares, "Hair Removal Guaranteed. No More Waxing! No More Shaving! No More Painful Needles!! Special Offer – Free Consultation and Test Patch." Which is not quite the way the manufacturer, Candela, puts it. To describe how the system works, another operator says, "Our Candela GentleLASE laser provides speed. Using the laser for the first 3 or 4 treatments then following up with electrolysis means both quick and permanent hair removal. We can say permanent hair removal because at the end of the laser cycle we will be using electrolysis treatments to rid the scattered regrowth." About 6 or 7 laser treatments are recommended over 12 to 24 months, after that, "a few 15 to 30-minute electrolysis treatments over the following 6 to 18 months to clean up the area." In September of this year, hundreds of conventional electrolysis practitioners from coast to coast in the U.S. were the targets of a Candela mass mailing aimed at getting electrologists on board the GentleLASE bandwagon. Printed right on the envelope, immediately adjacent to the recipient’s address, there was a brief endorsement from an electrologist in High Point, North Carolina: "I am convinced that beyond a shadow of doubt, the GentleLASE® Plus is the best laser available for permanent hair removal." The letter inside (where use of the phrase "permanent hair reduction" was strictly adhered to), invited electrologists to "make the jump" into laser hair removal with the purchase of a GentleLASE Limited Edition laser – "at an amazing breakthrough price of $49,500." Many such letters were received by electrologists who live and work in states that prohibit the use of a laser by anyone other than a licensed physician.
Women fall short on folic acid
	Despite the U.S. federal government’s announcement seven years ago that a certain type of birth defect is linked to a lack of folic acid, public health officials say these birth defects are still occurring. According to the March of Dimes, as many as 2,000 to 2,800 cases of neural tube birth defects (out of an estimated 4,000 per year) could be avoided if women of reproductive age consumed sufficient folic acid. In 1999, the Food and Drug Administration mandated that cereal and grain products be fortified with folic acid, but the fortification level was kept low (about 1,000 micrograms per day) because of a fear that too much of the substance can cause a dangerous blood disease, or can mask a vitamin B-12 deficiency.
Researchers weigh pros and cons of HR therapy
	The results of a major study presented at this year’s annual scientific meeting of the American College of Cardiology, in Anaheim, California, seriously questions the doctrine that hormone replacement therapy (HRT) is a powerful way to ward off heart disease, the leading killer of older women. That belief has been a centerpiece of women’s health care since the 1980s and has helped make the estrogen pill Premarin one of the most widely prescribed medicines in North America. Many doctors think estrogen helps the heart largely because it seems to improve cholesterol levels after women go through menopause. The pills lower total cholesterol and "bad" cholesterol, while raising "good" cholesterol. And it is assumed that these changes translate into less heart disease, even though there has been no experiments to definitively prove the theory. The first research to test the idea was the 1998 Heart and Estrogen-progestin Replacement Study (HERS). Its conclusion shocked doctors with the conclusion that; "Four years of treatment with combination estrogen and progestin pills failed to lower the risk of new heart attacks in women who already had heart disease." Though some physicians immediately stopped putting their elderly heart patients on long-term HRT, many others simply refused to believe the results. The director of the latest study, Dr. David Herrington of Wake Forest University Baptist Medical Center, in Winston-Salem, N.C., said "our results are indeed somewhat surprising in view of the large body of evidence indicating that estrogen does have a favorable effect on cholesterol and heart disease." "We cannot say for certain that there is no benefit from HRT," Dr. Herrington added, "but we can rule out a large effect." The findings will undoubtedly create further confusion among doctors and patients who are already trying to deal with the pros and cons of taking hormones for many years after menopause. Many women have HRT for a few years to relieve hot flashes and other ill effects of menopause. Some stay with the therapy for many years to improve cholesterol levels and to prevent brittle bones and vaginal changes, even though the treatment can also increase the risk of breast cancer. Dr. Jennifer Daley, of Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center in Boston, says the new findings are the result of "practice variation in the face of uncertainty." She discusses her own misgivings about HRT as she enters perimenopause, and suggests that other physicians have similar concerns. "The new study indicates that it is time for physicians to lend an attentive ear to their female patients," Dr. Daley believes. "We know little about how women make the decision to use HRT, whom they discuss their decision with, how partners and friends help them decide, how women use each other to discuss and weigh options, and where women turn to get the information they need." She says these and other questions must be answered if physicians are to guide their patients. Now doctors are clearly confused and divided over what to expect from the effects of estrogen on the heart. Many agree that even if the hormone proves to be good, its benefit is unlikely to be as large as that of statin drugs, which clearly lower cholesterol and save lives. Dr. Karen Alexander, a cardiologist at Duke University Medical Center, believes there is still a cardio-protective role for HRT in women who do not have documented heart disease. "I don’t think they [hormone replacements] need to be thrown out. They have a tremendous benefit, but we need to figure out who’s going to be putting themselves at risk" by using HRT. "Data suggest women shouldn’t be afraid of HRT if they have been on it for more than a year. The risk, so far, seems to be most pronounced during the first year of use." Dr. Noel Bairey Merz, director of the preventive and rehabilitative cardiac center at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center in Los Angeles, says, "the limitations in this study are many. It is a cross-sectional study and the results could be confounded by many things. The women included didn’t represent a general population, and many were overweight." More studies need to be done," Dr. Merz said. Answers to some of the questions should come from the federally sponsored Women’s Health Initiative, which is examining the effects of hormone replacement on more than 27,000 women ages 50 to 79. The first results are expected in about five years.