Cristina’s beauty secret

MANILA, Philippines - Actress-turned politician Cristina Gonzales (photo), now Tacloban City Councilor and wife of Mayor Alfred Romualdez, does not look a year older. She remains as charming as when she captured the silver screen and captivated her fans in the ’80s and ’90s. She swears that what she discovered is better than the fountain of youth. And it is available for anyone to try.

“It’s a remarkable experience,” says Cristina, referring to a nonsurgical cosmetic procedure for the face and neck that specifically targets the foundational layer of facial tissue that doctors address in surgery.

Ulthera lifting and firming procedure, the only US FDA-approved procedure for both lifting and firming, uses ultrasound to enable the doctor to actually see the layers of skin being treated, allowing the energy to be delivered precisely to where it will be most productive.

Ultherapy jumpstarts a repair process that strengthens the existing collagen and produces fresh, new collagen. Collagen is a natural protein that gives skin its youthfulness by keeping it firmed and toned. As we age, collagen loses its strength and its ability to stand up to the effects of gravity that pull the skin downward. The result? Young, natural-looking skin.

At Dr. Jean Marquez’s The Skin Specialist clinic, Ulthera is one of the most requested procedures of patients 40 years old and up, both male and female. Good candidates for Ulthera are those who want some lifting to look more refreshed and toned but are not ready for surgery, younger people who want to “stay ahead of the game,” and those looking to prolong the effect of surgery. Celebrities are also usual patients availing of the treatment. — ROBBIE PANGILINAN