August 13, 2009

Valeant Pharmaceuticals International of Aliso Viejo, Calif., introduces the Kinerase Scar Healing Therapy, a non-greasy silicone gel that has been clinically shown to improve the appearance, color, roughness and discomfort of scars.

Kinerase Scar Healing Therapy works by forming an invisible protective barrier to soften, flatten and smooth scars in eight weeks. The serum is formulated with several high-quality silicones such as Dimethicone, Phyenyl Trimethicone Polysilicone-1 and Polymethylsilsesquioxane.

Other key ingredients include Cyclopentasiloxane, an emollient that softens skin, as wells as a stable lipophilic form of Vitamin C. Vitamin C has been linked with promoting collagen synthesis, preventing lipid peroxidation and environmental-induced cell damage. It also may inhibit tyrosinase activity along with melanogenesis.

Kinerase Scar Healing Therapy dries quickly so it won't stain clothing, and it safe for use by pregnant women.

Kinerase is distributed by dermatologists and cosmetic surgeons. It also is available through select retailers.

Aug. 11, 2009

The Clarisonic sonic skin cleansing family of products now includes a pink-colored Mia, available only in physicians' offices.

The Mia is a travel-sized brush created by the primary inventor of the Sonicare toothbrush. Mia's one-speed sonic vibrations cleanse deep inside the pores to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles and improve the overall complexion.

The rechargeable brush is completely waterproof for use in the tub or shower. The brush heads are interchangeable with other Clarisonic skin cleansing models.

The white Mia became available in Sephora stores this month. But the pink version is available in doctors' offices as of August 10th. It won't be available to the general consumer in Sephora or on Clarisonic.com until October.

The pink Clarisonic Mia can be purchased for the suggested retail price of $149 at professional offices.

Aug. 5, 2009

ADVANCE for Healthy Aging has unveiled a digital edition of its popular print magazine, viewable anywhere physicians, dermatologists and plastic surgeons in medical aesthetics, skin care and age management can get online.

Available through www.advanceweb.com/healthyaging, the digital edition features the same information as the print version in a format that is also accessible to professionals outside the United States. Each interactive edition provides physicians with credible, unbiased information to help their patients look good and feel good as they age. It serves the medical aesthetics field by offering insight into the latest treatments and techniques, new products, professional trends and strategies that promote proper skin care and improved wellness.

Every one of your organizational members can subscribe to our digital edition for FREE. When visiting www.advanceweb.com/healthyaging, they can click on the "Current Digital Edition" button at the top left side of the page. After they click on "Create New Account," they will be asked to fill out a form. Once they've filled out the form and signed in, the digital edition will load-it's just like our print issue, only searchable. As a subscriber, they will also have access to our large library of past editions.

In addition to our digital edition, the ADVANCE for Healthy Aging Web site provides up-to-the-minute news in the medical aesthetics and age management profession, multimedia features, informative columns and much more! Plus, visitors have access to our patient resource center, which features an "Ask the Doctor" center, a video webcast series and exclusive articles. This special resource center also gives physicians the opportunity to participate in our physician forums and blogs.

August 4, 2009

The Food and Drug Administration sent an announcement out yesterday alerting healthcare professionals of official name changes to drugs marketed as Botox, Dysport and Myobloc. Previously, all three were referred to as botulinum toxin type A. The change, according to the FDA statement, is intended to "reinforce individual potencies and prevent medication errors."

• Botox/Botox Cosmetic is now onobotulinumtoxinA
• Dysport is now ababotulinumtoxinA
• Mybloc is now rimabotulinumtoxinA

The brand names of the drugs are not changing, merely the drug name. The FDA alert notes that the potency units are specific to each drug and doses from one drug can't be applied to the others. Each of these drugs now include the FDA-required box warning and a medication guide.

The complete update can be found here.

July 30, 2009

With the historically negative reports of hydroquinone's toxicity, Basis Medical Technologies, Toronto, Canada, is introducing a peptide alternative to help doctors treat hyperpigmentation and melasma-without the signature irritation or side effects of other creams that treat discoloration.

Lumixyl,™ a non-toxic, non-irritating, synthetic peptide technology, was introduced at the American Academy of Dermatology Summer Meeting, which was held in Boston. The skin brightening cream has been shown to significantly improve the appearance of unwanted discoloration, age spots, sunspots and uneven skin tone.

Lumixyl's formula show potential, in that it restrains tyrosinase, the enzyme responsible for initiating the overproduction of melanin and causing uneven pigmentation and dark spots. In fact, studies show that Lumixyl, a chain of ten amino acids, promoted the moderation of melanin more efficaciously than hydroquinone. At equal concentrations, skin that was treated with the Lumixyl peptide expressed a reduced production of melanin by as much as 40 percent compared to those treated with hydroquinone, which reduced production by only 7 percent in the study. 

In-use and Repeated Insult Patch Testing studies confirm that Lumixyl is safe for topical use and does not elicit irritation or allergic reaction. It does not cause increased sensitivity to sunlight as do many commonly used brightening agents and is gentle for all skin types and tones, according to company representatives.

This alternative might be one that physicians consider.

Lumixyl Topical Brightening Crème is available through physicians and can be used in an at-home regimen. In addition, physicians can use the product to compliment other treatments to diminish dark spots, uneven pigmentation and improve overall skin tone.  This new skin brightening cosmeceutical is available for $120 per 1 ounce pump.

July 30, 2009

Obagi Medical Products, Inc., announced the results of recent study of its Condition & Enhance System, which demonstrated the product line enhances the overall aesthetic results of surgical and nonsurgical facial rejuvenation procedures.

Obagi's Condition & Enhance system is formulated with 4% hydroquinone to correct premature photoaged skin and to prevent future skin damage.

Researchers assessed 2,500 patients, of whom 52 percent had non-ablative/non-surgical procedures such as botulinum toxin type A injections, intense pulsed light therapy, and filler injections. And 46 percent had ablative/surgical procedures such as laser therapy, chemical peels, and surgery. Patients used the Obagi product line for four weeks prior to their cosmetic treatment and six weeks after their treatment.

As rated by investigators, 83 percent of patients treated with the Condition & Enhance System and botulinum toxin type A injections experienced a 1-grade improvement in hyperpigmentation.

In addition, 33 percent of subjects achieved a 2-grade improvement in this type of sun damage related discoloration. Investigators also noted similar improvement levels in tactile roughness and sallowness. These results are independent of the effects of botulinum toxin type A, according to researchers.

The study also found:

· Investigators gave ratings of "good" or "excellent" improvement in overall skin quality in at least 80 percent of patients treated with the Obagi Condition & Enhance System as pre and post-conditioning in combination with:

• Botulinum toxin type A
• Intense pulsed light therapy
• Non-ablative laser therapy
• Ablative chemical peel
• Surgery

· Investigators gave ratings of "good" or "excellent" improvement in overall skin quality in at least 70% of patients treated with the Obagi Condition & Enhance System as pre and post-conditioning in combination with:

• Non-ablative chemical peel
• Microdermabrasion
• Ablative laser therapy
• Laser resurfacing

"Using the Condition & Enhance System, with 4% hydroquinone, improves overall skin quality and is an effective adjunct to both non-surgical and surgical facial rejuvenation procedures," says lead investigator Jody Comstock, MD, Skin Spectrum, Tucson, Ariz., in a press release.

July 27, 2009

Employees of American Laser Centers, a chain of more than 220 providers of cosmetic laser treatments, now have access to a new company-developed online training program. American Laser Centers calls the program ALC University, which consists of over 400 courses covering technical, procedural and compliance topics. The initiative includes a tracking mechanism for training and a "method of ongoing communication with new and current employees," states a press release.

"With the swift growth ALC has experienced it was clear that the company's training initiatives needed to evolve in a way that served the quickly growing employee and facility network in an efficient and effective way," said Ted Villella, Learning and Performance Leader at American Laser Centers. "ALC University has helped to shift the company's focus from training to 'learning' and provides a platform that will continue to allow us to build the best team, grow the base business and expand the company's offerings."

According to the release, the company is in the process of applying for Authorized Provider status with the International Association for Continuing Education and Training. ALC plans to offer Continuing Education Credits for the majority of its courses.

ALC provides laser hair removal, skin rejuvenation, cellulite reduction therapy, body contouring and other services.

July 23, 2009

GlaxoSmithKline (GSK) announced that it has completed the acquisition of Steifel Laboratories to complete what the companies call "a new world-class specialist dermatology business."

In the deal, GSK acquired Stiefel for a cash consideration of $2.9 billion and also assumed $.04 billion of net debt. Additional cash payments may also be due depending on business performance, the press release states.

As a result of the acquisition, GSK will form a new dermatology business unit within GSK under the name Stiefel, A GSK Company.

"As part of GSK, we are stronger, more competitive and continue to be a driving force in dermatology around the world. We are excited to combine GSK's prescription dermatology products, such as Bactroban, Cutivate and Altabax, with Stiefel's portfolio, including brands such as Duac, Olux E and Soriatane. This combined portfolio, together with our specialty sales force and GSK's global presence, positions GSK's dermatology business for significant growth," says Charles Steifel, Chairman of Steifel.

"We now have established a new world-leading, specialist dermatology business that will immediately generate new revenue flows to GSK," notes Deirdre Connelly, President, North American Pharmaceuticals, GSK.

July 23, 2009

La Roche-Posay recently hosted a group of dermatologists, plastic surgeons and nurse/aestheticians for four days at its headquarters in France as part of its annual Circle of Excellence program.

In May, the group toured La Roche-Posay's facilities and attended presentations on the company's latest research. The guests also visited the company's Thermal Dermatology Center, a hospital specializing in the treatment of dermatological diseases that don't respond to conventional medicine.

 "Touring the actual hospital really brought home the concept of the Thermal Spring Water's efficacy in treating certain skin conditions like psoriasis and atopic skin: a unique and medically based treatment that demonstrated the brand's commitment to dermatology," says Miami Fla., dermatologist Frank Flores, MD, in a press release. The spring water flows naturally in the region and is rich in selenium, an antioxidant that promotes cellular preservation.

The Circle of Excellence program recognizes top customers who generated more than 10 percent growth in La Roche-Posay product sales. Membership into the program requires a minimum of $20,000 in annual La Roche-Posay sales.

Physicians interested in participating in the Circle of Excellence program can call interested (888) LRP-LABO for additional information.

July 22, 2009

The aesthetic laser manufacturer Lutronic, Inc., of Princeton Junction, N.J., has signed a contract with Lifestyle Lift to become its primary laser therapy provider with the eCO2 laser system.

"We tested Lutronic's eCO2 on over 1,000 patients and experienced the highest satisfaction among patients and physicians as well as exceptional results," says Lifestyle Lift CEO David M. Kent, DO, in a press release.

The Lifestyle Lift is among the growing trend of branded cosmetic surgery procedures. This one-hour procedure is marketed as a less invasive alternative to facelifts. It's touted as offering patients positive results with only local anesthesia and minimal downtime.

Earlier this month, Lifestyle Lift reached a settlement with the State of New York over its attempts to post fake customer reviews online. The company ordered employees to pose as patients and post glowing reviews of the procedure on websites. The company will pay $300,000 in penalties and costs to the state; Lifestyle Lift also has agreed not to post anymore fake reviews.

July 22, 2009

Medical laser company Lumenis was recently honored with a Supplier Performance Award by Premier Purchasing Partners, the group purchasing unit of Premier Healthcare Alliance.

"Premier is pleased to recognize our top performing suppliers with the Performance Award, which honors our valued suppliers that strive for collaboration and performance excellence to the benefit of the alliance," said Premier Purchasing Partners President Mike Alkire.

"Lumenis endeavors to bring the most state of the art technology to the market, fulfilling the highest standards of excellence, quality and reliability," stated Mr. Dov Ofer, Chief Executive Officer of Lumenis. "We believe that by persistently enhancing all aspects our operations, we are able to deliver the highest quality and best value systems to our customers."

Lumenis is a manufacturer and distributor of laser, light-based and radiofrequency devices for medical applications. Among its products are the Light Shear DUET for hair removal, the Aluma RF device for treating wrinkles, the ILP Quantum and UltraPulse Fractional CO2 laser.

Cytori Therapeutics, which makes the Celution® 700 System, got further direction as it prepares to begin the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approval process for its fat grafting technology that uses a patient's own stem cells to reconstruct and fill the areas of the bodies.

The FDA provided guidance, stating that device would be regulated as a medical device under the Federal Food, Drug and Cosmetic Act. The FDA's determination, in response to Cytori's Request for Designation, clears the way for Cytori to compile and submit a marketing application to the FDA for the Celution® 700 System for use as a medical device in aesthetic body contouring and/or filling of soft tissue voids, a press release stated.

The technology, which already is available in Europe, uses stem cells, which purportedly last longer than normal fat grafting procedures. Studies on the Celution are already underway for reconstruction on patients who've had mastectomies in Europe. Preliminary results of one such study on 70 European patients are expected to be released in December in the United States, according to Tom Baker, Cytori's director of investor relations.

The FDA designation will provide an important first step on the road to rolling out this technology to the U.S. market, according to Baker.

July 16, 2009

Capstone Therapeutics (Nasdaq:CAPS) has completed enrollment for the first of its two ongoing AZX100 Phase 2 pilot clinical trials in keloid scarring, the Arizona-based company announced earlier this week.

The Phase-2 pilot trials are blinded, placebo controlled, multicenter, parallel group dose ranging studies to evaluate the safety and preliminary efficacy of AZX100 following excision of keloid scars.

AZX100 is a novel synthetic 24-amino acid peptide. It belongs to a new class of compounds in the field of smooth muscle relaxation and fibrosis.

The studies will attempt to determine the most effective dosage levels in up to 120 participants. The efficacy AZX100 to reduce and prevent keloid scars also will be examined via scar assessment scales using both 2D and 3D digital photography.

Keloid scars are raised and extend beyond the site of the original wound. They are caused by an overgrowth of fibrous tissue following surgery, burn or other skin injury. Occuring most frequently in people with darker skin types, keloids can grow for years and typically do not resolve with time.

There is currently no prescription medication specifically labeled for treatment of keloid scars in the U.S. or Europe.

July 15, 2009

Cumberland, RI-based Onset Therapeutics has been granted FDA approval for the commercial launch of Hylatopic Emollient Foam for the management of atopic dermatitis, allergic contact dermatitis and radiation dermatitis.

Hylatopic is a non-steroidal prescription product formulated to rapidly hydrate the stratum corneum (the top layer of the skin) and provide a semi-permeable barrier against irritants and excessive water loss. The company claims the product is safe and ideal for patients who have disease coverage on greater than 10 percent of their body surface. The product contains no drying alcohols and leaves no oily or sticky residue.  

The StriVectin brand of skin care products, which includes anti-wrinkle and stretch mark creams, has been acquired from Klien-Becker by private equity firm Catterton Partners. The management team Chrysallis will lead the newly acquired brand.

 StriVectin was introduced in 2003 to reduce stretch marks, but has since become better known as an anti-wrinkle solution. A company press release calls StriVectin "the fastest growing anti-aging brand and one of the top 20 prestige skincare brands in the United States."

 "The StriVectin brand is well positioned for today's skincare consumer wanting efficacious, solution-focused skin treatments with proven results," said Chrysallis chief marketing officer Jill Scalamandre.

July 8, 2009

The Philadelphia Business Journal reports that PhotoMedex CEO Jeffrey O'Donnell has resigned his position to "pursue other interests." His position will be filled by former PhotoMedex CFO Dennis McGrath.

 The company, based in Montgomeryvile, PA, markets excimer-laser and fiber-optic systems for the treatment of skin disorders like atopic dermatitis, psoriasis, acne and vitiligo as well as other products for hair and wound care.

The report notes that O'Donnell joined the company in 1999 and contributed to the company's growth in the dermatology market.

In  June, PhotoMedex introduced its XTRAC Velocity Excimer laser, a follow-up to the XTRAC Ultra laser. The company claims the new product offers treatment times three times faster than the previous model.

In March the company completed a $13 million acquisition of Photo Therapeutics, a manufacturer of non-laser skin care products including the Omnilux Clear-U and Omnilux New-U over-the-counter LED-based devices.

July 6, 2009

Physicians facing the credit crunch on laser-assisted lipolysis technology can take advantage of Osyris Medical USA's new trade-up program.

Physicians can generate new revenue for their practice by purchasing a Lipotherme and upgrading to the LipoControl system when financing is available. Physicians can put 100 percent of their original purchase price toward the new system.

"This unique program reflects our core philosophy which aims to build a strong, lasting relationship with each of our owners, by ensuring that their investment will continue to be a successful part of their practice over time," says Peter Falzon, chief executive officer of Osyris Medical USA., in a press release.

The Lipotherme™ is a 980 nm diode laser for laser lypolysis. The system is a compact, portable unit for use in the operating room and office setting. Physicians also can expand the system's capabilities by adding endovenous and exovenous applications for vein removal. The LipoControl™, which is awaiting FDA approval, features a method for tracking and measuring energy, giving physicians an on-screen visual confirmation of the treatment site in real-time.

July 2, 2009

Dermatologist Howard Murad, MD, UCLA professor and founder of the Murad skin care company, has been inducted into the Aesthetic International Association's Academy of Legends.

The AIA Academy of Legends aims to raise educational standards and public awareness of the aesthetics industry by recognizing leaders in the field. Dr. Murad has been recognized for his inclusive health approach to skincare.

"My focus has always been on science and research-and harnessing clinical findings in ways that can help people look and feel good, live healthier and improve their overall quality of life," says Dr. Murad in a press release. "It is an honor and a privilege for me to be recognized by my peers for doing what I love to do. I am touched and grateful."

Dr. Murad has treated more than 50,000 patients. He developed a comprehensive approach to understanding health and aging. Dr. Murad's research has examined the ability of cell membranes to hold water as the fundamental marker of a youthful appearance. As part of this philosophy, Dr. Murad has championed an inclusive health approach to help the body create stronger, healthier cells as the pathway to beauty.

The Murad brand includes 88 consumer products and 45 professional products sold in 45 countries. All of this products incorporate Dr. Murad's philosophy on cellular water.

June 29, 2009

La Roche-Posay has introduced the Mela-D Serum Anti-Dark Spot Concentrate, which corrects hyperpigmentation and evens skin tone.

The formula combines three ingredients to reduce dark spots without irritation:

1. Lipo-Hydroxy-Acid (LHA) - 0.2 percent: A patented breakthrough pro-exfoliating molecule that provides precise cell-by-cell exfoliation to help reduce the size of dark spots.
2. Kojic Acid - 1.0 percent:  Inhibits the activity of tyrosinase (melanin activating enzyme) in the skin to help reduce the appearance and color intensity of dark spots.
3. Glycolic Acid - 5.7 percent:  Provides reinforced exfoliation to help reduce the size of dark spots and create a uniform complexion.

The keratolytic (exfoliative) action of LHA and the reinforced keratolytic action of glycolic acid prepares the skin to allow for even better penetration of the Kojic acid for optimal results, according to the company.

Clinical studies have shown patients experienced an 18 percent reduction in pigmentation, a 23 percent reduction in skin discoloration and a 50 percent increase in skin radiance after eight weeks, according to a company statement.

Mela-D Serum Anti-Dark Spot Concentrate from La Roche-Posay has a suggested retail price of $55.00 and can be purchased at select physicians' offices, CVS/pharmacy, Duane Reade, Longs and Rite Aid locations with Dermo-Skincare Centers, and online at www.laroche-posay.us beginning in August 2009.

June 4, 2009

Patients using prescription-strength topical retinoids to control acne and ward off the signs of aging will have one more choice in this fast-growing market.

Spear Dermatology Products received FDA clearance for Refissa, a 0.05% topical Tretinoin cream. Spear's product is a generic equivalent to Johnson & Johnson's Renova Cream. Refissa will be available to patients by prescription starting this month.

A 40 gram tube of Refissa may last 2-3 months, depending on individual usage patterns and costs on average, less than $2.00 per day, according to a company statement.

Refissa's emoillient formulation is for patients with normal to dry skin, and the product can be used in patients who want to reduce fine facial wrinkles and improve rough skin and irregular pigmentation.

Many dermatologists view topical retinoids as the cornerstone of treatment for sun damaged skin and acne. Prescription retinoids typically are formulated as acne treatments. Refissa, however, will be marketed as an anti-aging product.  

"Despite the recession, luxury items like skin care and anti-aging products continue to be in high demand," says Stephen Basile, Sr. vice president sales and marketing. "This growing shift of consumers opting to use less invasive skin rejuvenation products is fueling an ever-growing market for Baby Boomers who want to spend less to effectively treat their sun damaged skin and improve the appearance of their skin."

June 3, 2009

The family of Clarisonic sonic skin cleansing models now includes the new Mia, a lightweight and compact brush to use at home or on the go.

The Mia will be available for sale this month on Clarisonic's website, www.clarisonic.com. The brush will be available in Sephora stores nationwide in August. The suggested retail price is $149.

Mia's compact pLink™ power link charger magnetically attaches to the handle and allows for a full 20 minutes of use. The rechargeable brush is completely waterproof, making it perfect for use in the tub or shower.  Brush heads are interchangeable with other Clarisonic skin cleansing models.

Created by the primary inventor of the Sonicare® toothbrush, Mia's gentle sonic vibrations cleanse deeply, clearing pores. According to the manufacturer, Pacific Bioscience, Mia reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles; smoothes and softens skin; and reduces oily areas, dry skin patches and blemishes.

May 20, 2009

Biopelle introduces its Tensage product line, formulated with fibroblast growth factors to smooth wrinkles and improve the skin's texture elasticity.

Available through physicians, Tensage is formulated with glycoproteins secreted by a small type of snail known as the Cryptomphalus Aspersa. Studies show this secretion works to repair the snail's skin following injury in 24 hours, according to a company statement. Biopelle's patented growth factor blend is called SCA Biorepair Technology. The SCA Biorepair Techcnology has been used in Europe as a treatment option for radiodermatitis.

The Tensage regimen begins with the intensive ampoule treatments, which provide the highest strength SCA available. Patients may experience improvements in skin tone and texture in seven days, according to the manufacturer. The ampoules are supplemented with one of three creams, providing additional SCA repair. The Tensage line also includes the eye contour cream and body care lotion.

May 20, 2009

Cynosure Inc. of Westford, Mass., has upgraded its Smartlipo MPX laser lipolysis system to feature increased energy and intelligent temperature sensing.

The Smartlipo MPX 46-watt workstation allows physicians to liquefy and remove larger areas of fat in about half the time required by the original 32-watt Smartlipo MPX. Both generations of the laser system include Cynosure's ThermaGuide, which continually monitors the temperature under the skin and controls the energy output.

The system combines the 1064-nm and 1320-nm wavelengths in one laser output. This blended thermal and photomechanical effect efficiently liquefies fat and tightens skin through collagen remodeling. The two wavelengths also can be used individually.

"With the introduction of Smartlipo MPX 46 watts, we believe that we have strengthened the competitive advantage of our laser lipolysis technology not only from the standpoint of efficacy, but also in terms of patient safety," says Cynosure President and CEO Michael Davin in a statement.

May 1, 2009

Grammarians will tell you not to mistake brand names for generic products. Avoid Popsicle, which is trademarked; say frozen confection. Don't throw your trash in a Dumpster. (It's a large steel waste receptacle.)

But the aesthetic-laser manufacturer Palomar hopes to turn its SlimLipo technology into a household name with a new direct-to-consumer marketing push. As part of the marketing initiative, Palomar, of Burlington, Mass., will rebrand its SlimLipo laser lipolysis system to consumers as LifeSculpt. SlimLipo will still be the name of the technology but the entire treatment from consultation to results will have the LifeSculpt name, according to marketing representatives.

Set to launch this month, the campaign will emphasize how the LifeSculpt procedure fits into patients' active lifestyles, according to a press release. Anchoring the campaign, a patient Web site will feature before and after photos and a find-a-physician directory.

Light and laser companies have traditionally directed their marketing efforts to physicians. But as competition in the industry remains fierce, Palomar joins a growing list of body contouring device manufacturers to target patients directly. Other companies offering patient Web sites include Cynosure's SmartLipo and CoolTouch's CoolLipo.
 

Feb. 23, 2009

The economic slowdown has impacted the majority of cosmetic physicians, however, a recent report offers strategies for increasing or maintaining sales during a recession. 

CareCredit asked the market research firm Hiner & Partners, Inc., to survey 10,000 practices about their strategies to minimize the downturn's impact.

Among the survey's key findings, 61 percent of cosmetic physicians reported an average 32 percent dip in monthly sales as compared with 2007. And 80 percent of physicians surveyed reported reducing prices or offering price promotions for cosmetic procedures.

In the survey, physicians rated the effectiveness of 37 specific marketing tactics to stay afloat, ranging from price-based tactics to bundling services to advertising.

Physicians most frequently rated their practice websites as an effective strategy for reaching out to current and potential patients. Other effective tactics included bundling services, offering no-interest financing and rewarding repeat customer.

Advertising in mass media outlets offered the least bang for the buck, respondents reported. The least effective marketing strategies included free local print directories, television ads and radio ads.

To download the free report, visit the online physician community, Medical Spa MD. Log in is required.