As the research on vitamin C’s anti-aging benefits continues to grow, so do the choices consumers have in selecting a skin care product infused with vitamin C. The most recent study from Tulane University School of Medicine supports existing claims that L-ascorbic acid, the most biocompatible form of vitamin C, has an indisputable effect on promoting collagen synthesis, lightening hyperpigmentation, and protecting skin against aging effects of UV radiation.

Unfortunately, many of the formulations available to consumers today contain unstable forms of vitamin C or insufficient concentrations needed to produce visible changes. When L-ascorbic acid is incorporated into a stable topical formulation, it is proven to be among the most effective in protecting against photoaging of the skin. PCA SKIN® Clinical Care Products offer three different formulations containing the most potent form of vitamin C, L-ascorbic acid, in the most effective concentrations available. Each formula offers unique advantages for different skin types:

• pHaze 15+ C-Quenchâ Antioxidant Serum
• pHaze 16 C-Strength 15% with 5% vitamin E
• pHaze 16 C-Strength 20% with 5% vitamin E

This collection of vitamin C products offers the latest in skin care science formulated by PCA Advanced Skin Care Systems. The company develops advanced topicals which aid in correcting acne, eczema, rosacea, hyperpigmentation, psoriasis, and premature aging due to sun damage. Company founder, Margaret Ancira, revolutionized the skin care industry in 1990 with the first non-prescription, clinically researched skin care products for physicians. PCA Professional™ Products,PCA Skin® Clinical Care Products and PCA® MEN used by clinical practices in 60 countries.

PCA Advanced Skin Care Systems
877.PCA.SKIN
www.pcaskin.com

The new Palomar Lux1540 Fractional™ Laser Handpiece uses patented Fractional Technology to deliver the most safe and effective soft tissue coagulation and skin resurfacing available (Not yet cleared by the FDA).

“Fractional” means that the Lux1540 delivers its laser pulses as an array of “microbeams”. This approach protects the skin by creating a lattice of treated areas surrounded by untreated areas. It will also result in quicker and more effective collagen remodeling, and faster healing time, with little to no downtime for the client.

Adding to safety and comfort is Active Contact Cooling, in which the skin is continually cooled throughout treatment by the handpiece tip, and Smooth Pulse Technology, which delivers light in gentle, even pulses, thus preventing a rapid rise in epidermal temperature.

The Lux1540 is an attachment for the popular StarLux® Pulsed Light and Laser System which also provides hair removal, photofacials for pigmented and vascular lesions, leg vein clearance, acne treatment, and many other aesthetic applications.

Palomar Medical Technologies, Inc.
800.PALOMAR (725.6627)
www.palomarmedical.com

The complexities created by sun damage and barrier degradation are vexing problems for dermatologists, as well as cosmetic and plastic surgeons. While many different approaches may be utilized to help repair and rejuvenate the appearance of the skin, many physicians have recognized the importance of having the patient participate in the process with daily home care. Now, that task has been made easier with products which harness the strength of niacin.

Tucson, AZ-based Niadyne Inc. is launching NIA 24ä, niacin powered skin therapy, to help patients treat sun damaged skin. Available exclusively in the physician’s office and in select medi-spas, these new products employ a proprietary, scientifically-formulated niacin molecule which strengthens the lipid bilayer and improves the look and performance of the skin. The products help repair the effects of sun exposure, counteract hyperpigmentation, improve skin tone and texture, add new firmness, improve the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, and protect against further assault.

During research partially funded by the National Institutes of Health, scientists identified an important role for the active form of niacin in how cells respond to genetic damage. As a result of that research, Niadyne Inc. developed a patented Pro-Niacinä molecule that is capable of traveling through the layers of the skin to nourish and protect it from the dangers of the sun and the environment. Pro-Niacin is so effective, it has been chosen by the National Cancer Institute for development as a potential skin cancer prevention agent.

Niadyne Inc.
866.NIADYNE (642.3963)
www.NIA24.com

Mentor Corporation (NYSE:MNT), a leading supplier of medical products in the United States and internationally, announced that it had signed a distribution agreement with Niadyne Inc., a privately owned company dedicated to the discovery and development of uniquely efficacious topical products, to distribute Niadyne’s innovative NIA 24(TM) line of science-based cosmeceutical products used to improve and restore the healthy appearance of the skin. Terms of the agreement were not disclosed.

“The NIA 24 family of products provides an innovative, simple, yet scientific solution which allows patients to restore and improve the healthy appearance of their skin,” commented Joshua H. Levine, President and Chief Executive Officer of Mentor Corporation. “We believe that these cosmeceutical products will complement our future dermal filler and botulinum toxin products and are pleased to partner with Niadyne as we continue to expand our range of science-based, aesthetic-medicine products.”

“We are delighted to join with Mentor for the distribution of NIA 24 Niacin-Powered Skin Therapy,” said Melisse Shaban, Chief Executive Officer of Niadyne, Inc. “The reach and professionalism of Mentor’s sales team are unparalleled in the industry. With Mentor’s support, we will be able to provide even more physicians, and their patients, with Niadyne’s breakthrough skin care products.”

Mentor Corporation
1.805.879.6000
www.mentorcorp.com

The latest cosmetic breakthrough goes beyond traditional creams and major surgeries to improve the signs of aging safely and effectively without any downtime or interference with an active lifestyle. Aluma™ skin renewal treatment turns back the clock in a softer, gentler way. This revolutionary technique delivers energy safely and comfortably to the underlying layers of the skin, gently stimulating the production of new collagen, while protecting the skin’s surface regardless of its color. The new collagen which is formed plumps and smoothes the skin, making it appear more youthful and radiant.

The advantage of Aluma Skin Renewal over skin resurfacing methods like laser therapy are tremendous, particularly for a middle-aged population with mild to moderate skin damage. There is no prolonged recovery time, anesthesia is seldom required, treatment takes only 15 minutes, and patients can return to work or normal activities immediately. Additionally, the procedure is administered in a series of four to six treatment sessions, providing gradual improvement with low risk and excellent long-term results.

Treat wrinkles, fine lines and improve skin laxity with a safe, gentle touch using the unique Functional Aspiration Controlled Electrothermal Stimulation (FACES) technology. The Aluma vacuum-assisted handpiece conforms the skin to allow energy to safely pass through the epidermis. Therapeutic Radio Frequency (RF) energy is deposited deep in the dermis creating uniform, contained zone of heating for collagen contraction and renewal, with little to no discomfort. In the months following treatment, the body’s natural wound-healing processes result in the generation of new collagen and dermal remodeling. As new, “younger” structured collagen is laid down, the skin looks tighter, firmer, and more youthful.

Lumenis Ltd.
408.764.3000
www.lumenis.com

Newer, safer ways to deliver microdermabrasion continue to drive the 20 percent annual growth rate experienced by the market. IntegreMed, a division of Integrated Skin Care LLC, with headquarters in Albuquerque, NM, meets this need for innovation and increased safety with the re-launching of its environmentally friendly, next generation Salt-A-Peel™ MacroDermabrasion Therapy, the original sodium chloride-based system.

“IntegreMed is building a strong brand identity for our Salt-A-Peel MacroDermabrasion Therapy,” explains Bill Lawrence, CEO of Integrated Skin Care. “This is not just microdermabrasion. We offer an integrated skin rejuvenation system that starts with salt—a natural element of the body—to abrade safely and effectively and allow penetration at a deeper level, followed by DermaPhoresis™ ultrasound and our unique, vitamin-enriched Integris Skin Care products.”

With Salt-A-Peel MacroDermabrasion Therapy, IntegreMed resourcefully merges 21st-century technology with one of nature’s ancient, most powerful purifiers—salt. This stimulating, noninvasive rejuvenation process is easily tolerated. Patients see immediate benefits and enjoy longer lasting results in fewer treatments.

Many companies reach a plateau and have difficulty moving to the next level. “My role at IntegreMed is to improve the likelihood of success and increased profitability through planned, measured growth,” says Lawrence, who has held top-level management and board positions at a number of consumer product companies and is a principal of Revitalization Partners in Seattle. He has significant expertise in strategic planning and assisting companies to re-energize in order to become more successful. Lawrence’s experience in the skin care industry includes directing the successful restructuring of Garden Botanika.

The re-focused IntegreMed has assembled a strong team to support Salt-A-Peel MacroDermabrasion Therapy. Michael Oakes and the CMR Group have been given responsibility for expanding the North American distribution network. “Michael is well respected in the aesthetic technology field,” says Lawrence. “He has strong, existing relationships that will benefit IntegreMed and our marketing and sales efforts.”

IntegreMed
877.733.7627
www.IntegreMed.net

DUSA Pharmaceuticals, Inc.® (NASDAQ NMS: DUSA), developer and marketer of Levulan® photodynamic therapy (PDT) for the treatment of dermatologic conditions, announced today that it has closed the acquisition by merger of Sirius Laboratories Inc. of Vernon Hills, IL, (“Sirius”) into a wholly owned subsidiary of DUSA which will be called Sirius Laboratories, Inc.

DUSA is paying $8 million of cash, less certain expenses, and $14 million, represented by 1,973,393 shares of DUSA’s common stock as of the closing on March 10, 2006, to the Sirius shareholders. Sirius shareholders may also receive potential future payments of up to $5 million in cash and/or common stock, based on a combination of new product approvals or launches, and achievement of certain pre-determined total cumulative sales milestones for Sirius products. An additional $3 million, represented by 422,892 shares of DUSA’s common stock, is being held in escrow for up to two years subject to certain indemnification provisions of the merger agreement.

DUSA is also pleased to announce that Neal Penneys, M.D., Ph.D., a shareholder and former director of Sirius, has been elected to the DUSA Board of Directors. Dr. Penneys is a highly respected Dermatopathologist with extensive business and FDA experience.

The former Sirius was a privately-held dermatology specialty pharmaceutical company, founded in 2000, with a primary focus on the treatment of acne vulgaris and acne rosacea. Products include Nicomide®, a patented oral nicotinamide-based product for patients with acne and rosacea; Nicomide-T® cream and gel, topical nicotinamide-based products; and the Avar® family of sodium sulfacetamide-based products for acne. Sirius is also developing pipeline products targeted to unmet market needs in the acne and rosacea markets. Sirius sales totaled approximately $10 million in 2005, with net profit of approximately $1 million.

DUSA Pharmaceuticals, Inc.
877.533.3872
www.dusapharma.com

Diomed Holdings, Inc. (AMEX: DIO), a leading developer and marketer of minimally invasive medical technologies, including its patented EndoVenous Laser Treatment (EVLT(R)) for varicose veins, announced the launch of its next generation EVLT(R) procedure kit.

The new kit features the Spotlight(TM) sheath and introducer with a specially treated tip to increase echogenicity, significantly enhancing sheath visibility under ultrasound. This new feature improves performance of the EVLT(R) procedure by allowing the physician to easily confirm sheath positioning. The new kit also offers improved sheath markings for more consistent delivery of laser energy, a new packaging configuration for ease of handling, an improved optical fiber locking mechanism, and a more versatile guidewire.

The new EVLT(R) kit has been in limited release since early January, with full commercial availability scheduled later this quarter. Kits with the Spotlight(TM) sheath will initially be available in a 45cm length, with an “extended length” 70cm version available during the second quarter. Diomed currently plans to continue selling its standard EVLT(R) procedure kits.

In November of 2005, Diomed launched the state of the art DELTA(TM) laser platform and is now broadening its consumable product line with this feature-rich EVLT(R) kit, further demonstrating its commitment to venous disease management. The Company will continue to improve upon its market leading product line by listening and responding to physicians, specialists and patients.

“The Spotlight(TM) sheath and the other kit improvements offer unique clinical advantages and should drive expanded sales of our EVLT(R) procedure kit,” concluded James A. Wylie, Diomed’s President and CEO. “More than 50,000 EVLT(R) procedures have been successfully performed on an installed base of over 850 Diomed systems. Over the last three years, we have clearly established Diomed as the leader in endovenous laser treatment for varicose veins.”

Diomed, Inc.
www.diomedinc.com

Cutera, Inc.® (Nasdaq: CUTR), a leading provider of laser and other light-based aesthetic systems for practitioners worldwide, announced two new offerings, Titan™ V and Titan XL, designed to complement the current and widely used Titan procedure.

“Building on the success of Titan and in an effort to meet the changing needs of our customers, we have developed two new offerings for faster treatments and improved visibility,” said Kevin Connors, President and CEO of Cutera. “All our Titan customers have the option to upgrade their existing systems. This is yet another example of the upgradeable path offered to our customers.”

The Titan V has a treatment tip that extends beyond the handpiece housing to give an unobstructed view of the skin’s surface. With enhanced visibility, the clinician can better see where the light is in contact with the skin, making it easier to treat the delicate eye and nose areas.

The Titan XL not only extends beyond the housing for unimpeded visibility, but also has a treatment spot size that is twice as large as the Titan V’s. With a larger spot size, clinicians can perform procedures twice as fast and treat larger body areas, such as arms, abdomens and legs.

“I’ve seen excellent results with the original Titan,” said Amy Taub, M.D., Founder and Medical Director of Advanced Dermatology. “And now these two new offerings are built in such a way that they give me even better visibility for treating sensitive areas, including around the eyes and nose. I can treat my patients even faster which saves time, and therefore lets me treat more patients.”

Cutera, Inc.
1.888.4CUTERA
www.cutera.com

By: Elda Argenti

Spring is finally here; and the summer months filled with sun, surf and sand are just around the corner! It is time to buff dull winter weathered skin and dead skin cells which have built up on your skin’s surface and get your body ready for the beach. If your skin looks as though it needs a moisture boost before you bare all at the beach, Plantogen has the perfect treatment - the Raw Sugar and Rice Bran Body Wrap Treatment. Plantogen invites spa-goers to indulge in a sweet new body treatment that exfoliates, heals, and moisturizes dry winter skin making your skin feel smooth and younger.
This natural exfoliating Raw Sugar and Rice Bran Body Wrap Treatment is so good you will want to eat it! The treatment includes a combination of the exfoliating benefits of Plantogen Raw Sugar and Rice Bran Body Scrub and the healing properties of Manuka Honey and Shea Butter Body Moisturiser in a warm body wrap. The Raw Sugar and Rice Bran Body Scrub contains ingredients from the sugar cane fields of Queensland, Australia, like raw sugar, rice bran, soy bean oil, grape seed oil, sweet almond, oil and jojoba oil. Additionally Manuka Honey contains high sugar concentration, supplying cells with a wide range of vitamins and minerals. Shea Butter has superior skin protection and is smooth, creamy, extremely moisturizing, and gentle to the skin. Because of its amazing moisturizing and healing properties, Shea Butter has been used on skin for centuries.

The Raw Sugar and Rice Bran Body Wrap Treatment will keep your skin glowing and smooth all season long! The Body Wrap is an ideal remedy for stressed, tired winter bodies. Go ahead, indulge, and buff your dull looking winter-weathered skin with Plantogen. The Raw Sugar and Rice Bran Body Wrap Treatment is now available exclusively in spas and fine salons. For spa locations please visit the store locator at www.plantogen.com.

About Plantogen Spa Therapy Products:
Plantogen was developed by Australian skin care professionals and motivated by the belief in utilizing the Earth’s resources to obtain plant-derived ingredients. Plantogen spa therapy products provide a refreshing perspective to pampering your skin and relaxing your mind. The inviting and therapeutic experience of Plantogen will persuade you to slip away from your packed day planner and into the serenity of your bathroom for a little “me time.” Plantogen offers a range of spa products including: Body Products, Facial Cleansers, Facial Masks, Facial Moisturizers, Facial Supplements, Facial Toners and Hands & Feet Products. To purchase products from the Plantogen line call (800) 851-6533.

Biography: Elda Argenti

With over 20 years of experience in the skin care industry, Elda Argenti brings a skin care line with natural ingredients to the United States, called Plantogen. After graduating from the University of New South Wales in Sydney with a degree in business, Ms. Argenti spent twelve years at Proctor & Gamble working in product development. At P&G she was instrumental in developing the company’s worldwide skin care strategy. Following her time with P&G, Ms. Argenti consulted for beauty brands like Elizabeth Arden Red Door Spas and the Wella Group, where she focused on developing long-term business strategies for international beauty brands.

After spending most of her life in the corporate world, Ms. Argenti returned home to Australia in the early 1990’s, with a vision of creating an affordable, plant-derived spa therapy brand for the educated female consumer. With an honest approach to skin care in mind and over four years of research and development, Elda Argenti founded a product line based on the marriage of natural ingredients and science. Her interest was originally sparked by a key ingredient from her native Australia, Manuka Honey, and its evolution from the medical world into mainstream beauty. Maunka Honey is one of nature’s purest healers for skin and the basis of most of products in the Plantogen product line. Manuka Honey is instrumental in supplying cells with a variety of vitamins, amino acids, and minerals and provides white blood cells with the necessary glucose to destroy bacteria especially, Staphylococcus aureus and Propiobacterium, which are common causes of acne. In fact, Elda used her own sensitive skin as the tester, or “guiney pig” as she refers to it, to help her formulate the facial products. Now consumers can enjoy the benefits of Elda’s work in select spas and salons across the United States, where Plantogen products and the Manuka Honey Facial Treatment are offered.

Although the Manuka Honey ingredient has helped launch the Plantogen line to success, Ms. Argenti attributes the performance of the products to a culmination of factors. One of the smart reasons for Plantogen’s success is that the products and treatments are offered in salons and spas, instead of a mass-market retailer, where the consumer is pampered, relaxed, and given skin care advice from a certified aesthetician who has been educated on the benefits of the products.

Elda Argenti continues her dedication to skin care and her consumer by emphasizing to women that the secret to beauty cannot be found in one product alone, but rather a lifestyle dedicated to wellness. Her belief is that beauty is achieved through developing a healthy, stress-free lifestyle where one focuses on taking care of the body and mind by drinking lots of water, eating healthy, and taking time for pampering. Elda Argenti currently resides is Australia and is the mother of two.