Skin Wedding Prep

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You might be surprised by how many beautiful, and naturally  appearing brides, have had Botox, fillers, laser treatments, Kybella and more before the big day! That, on top of social media filters and edited photos, there can be a lot of pressure to look a certain way before your event

When it comes to aesthetics, most brides have a lot of questions regarding skincare, injectables, lasers, and additional services that help a bride look and feel picture perfect on her wedding day. We want to assure you that there is no correct way to look for your wedding and generally comparing is the quickest way to feel like s*** about yourself. So don’t do that!

However, if you are thinking of doing something to enhance your already beautiful appearance, (without the worry of being overdone or not looking like yourself), keep reading to learn about the different options.

Table of Contents

Can I get Botox the day of my wedding?

Technically, yes you can get botox the day of your wedding, but we certainly don’t recommend it! You would be wasting your money, simply because it takes a full 7-14 days to kick in and best results are usually 4-6 weeks post injections. Also, while there isn’t any serious downtimes in regard to getting Botox, there are always potential risks for bruising and other unwanted side effects.

What is Botox?

Botox, Xeomin, Dysport, and Jeveau are all brand names of Botulinum Toxin A. This medication is a type of neuromodulator that when injected, works by blocking the communication between the nerve and the muscle. By blocking this movement, the skin does not crease as much which softens lines and wrinkles. Most common areas to treat are frown lines between the brows (glabella), crow’s feet, and the forehead.

Considering getting Botulinum Toxin injections? Learn more about how to prepare for this appointment Here!

When should you get botox before your wedding?

Again, Botox, or other neuromodulators, need about 7-14 days to fully kick in, and 4-6 weeks to reveal best results. We highly recommend getting your Botox injections 4-6 weeks before your wedding, because we want to ensure your treatment is at its best result on your wedding day. This time frame also allows for scheduling a follow-up appointment with your provider, because occasionally after the 14 day time frame a touch-up is needed. Getting Botox injections from a provider that encourages follow-ups, like our providers Ali , Molly, & Simone is very important! 

Below are before and after images of Botox injections 2 weeks apart

When should you get filler before your wedding?

To put it simply, you want to get dermal fillers about 2 months before your wedding, but a minimum of 4 weeks at least! Initial filler injections can cause swelling and bruising. So before your final results are revealed, there is a 2 week healing period. Once the swelling has subsided, you and your provider can assess if any other alterations are needed with your filler injections. 

What are dermal fillers?

Dermal fillers are gel-like substances that help restore volume, correct wrinkles, and contour the face. Common areas treated include cheeks, lips, chin, and jawline. They can also help smooth superficial lines. When done correctly, they create a beautiful, natural result that balances the face without being obvious that anything was done.

Read more about filler Here!

Should you get pre-wedding lip fillers?

Lip injections before your wedding day can be a wonderful glow-up if you are a good candidate and go to the right injector. In general, the goal is to enhance the lips without making it obvious one has lip filler. That is very much art!

Furthermore, if you do decide you are interested in getting filler before your wedding day, it is best to get lip injections 6-8 weeks prior to the date. This is because there is initial swelling and bruising from the injections for up to 2 weeks. for tips on reducing lip filler bruising and swelling read this.

Once swelling has subsided, we recommend you pop back in for a follow up appointment with your provider to ensure you’re happy with final results.

"Something I always tell clients is not to overly chase symmetry"
Ali Wagstaff
Np Injector

When should you get Kybella before your wedding?

We recommend getting Kybella done about 1 year prior to your wedding date. Before considering Kybella as a treatment for you, we want to be transparent that it is a commitment as it usually takes 3-6 sessions 1 month apart. Additionally, final results from a single treatment take anywhere from 1-3 months to be revealed with a 2 week healing time frame in between sessions.

What is Kybella?

Kybella is made from deoxycholic acid. This substance found in the human body that is responsible for breaking down fat. When injected directly into a fat pad, such as under the chin for a “double chin”, it causes the fat to break down in the area. The result is technically permanent (if weight remains stable) but it takes several treatments (3-6). It can also be used off-label for jowls and around the body for stubborn areas, too.

For further information regarding Kybella injections, be sure to read This

When should you get laser skin treatments before your wedding?

There are several different types of laser treatments on the market and it can be very confusing deciding which one is best suitable for you and your skin type. The best advice moving forward is that most treatments need to be done in a series of 3, 1 month apart for realistic skin improvements. You will want to complete your last treatment series 1 month before the wedding day for your skin to be at its best result and to allow for enough revoery time. Starting the series of treatments about 4-6 months before the wedding would be appropriate. Continue reading for an explanation of the benefits of IPL, ResurFX, and RF Microneedling, all offered at Elite Medical & Aesthetics.

How would an IPL benefit my skin before my wedding?

IPL, or intense pule light, targets skin discoloration such as age spots, hyperpigmentation, freckles, broken capillaries, and red spots. 

Specifically, this procedure works by using light energy that is converted into heat energy to target red/brown pigment in the skin cells

This causes destruction of unhealthy cells, for new cell regeneration. These light beams also heat up water in the skin creating a tightening effect. Even out your skin tone & gain rejuvenation

Have more questions about IPL?

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How would ResurFX benefit my skin before my wedding?

ResurFX treats skin concerns such as hyperpigmentation, stretch marks, wrinkles, sun damage, loose skin, and scarring. However, it will take multiple treatments to get the desired results. A non-ablative fractional laser such as ResurFX does not damage the top layer of skin, making it safe for all skin types with minimal downtimes. It shoots laser beams just below the top layer of skin, coagulating sections of the deeper tissue. A healing cascade is signaled and the old skin is removed by the body leaving room for new healthy tissue. This creates a tightening effect and more even complexion. To learn more specifically about this treatment…

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How would RF Microneedling benefit my skin before my wedding?

RF Microneedling combines the power of microneedling and radiofrequency into a combined treatment. Microneedling is used to stimulate new collagen growth by puncturing controlled micro-channels into the skin to create a healing cascade. While radiofrequency heats the tissue up to tighten & shrink. This treatment works well to tighten loose, crepey skin, target fine lines and wrinkles, as well as reduce the appearance of scarring from acne or trauma.

For those interested in regular microneedling, we do offer SkinPen as an option. This does not include the radiofrequency, but does offer all the benefits of microneedling 

Ali Wagstaff
NP

When should you get a facial before your wedding?

It is best to get a facial 1-2 months prior to your wedding. Some facials require no downtime at all, and others are more invasive and require minimal social downtime. More invasive facials that have downtime include intense chemical peels, such as the VI Peel, and deep cleansing facials with extractions. Usually there is 5-7 days of healing involved with these facials, so it is best to get these treatments 4-6 weeks in advanced. Other options of facials that do not have downtime include; dermaplaning, microdermabrasion, OxyGeneo, enzyme exfoliation, and a signature facial. These more gentle facials incorporate customized exfoliation and hydration which allows the skin to look refreshed and vibrant before an event.

Should I be on a skincare routine before my wedding?

Yes, it is always best to consult with your aesthetician to ensure you are on an appropriate skincare treatment plan and routine, well ahead of your wedding (and every day). Skin preparation is important before jumping into new facial treatments, that way there is no shock to the skin from using clinical grade products.  

Many times, using proper at-home skincare will enhance the results from facial treatments. It takes time for skincare ingredients to start working efficiently, so we recommend starting your skincare routine 6 months prior the your wedding. 

Read About a Simple Skincare 

Guide Here:

Read More

On another note, scheduling routine facials can also be a great way to incorporate self care and relaxation from stressful wedding planning.

What type of facial is best before my wedding?

We always recommend getting guidance from your aesthetician on what facial would be best for your skin type. However, more universal facials that are usually safe and effective for most skin types include, dermaplaning, Oxygeneo, and our signature facials. These treatments tend to focus on exfoliation and hydration to reveal fresh, rejuvenated skin. 

"It is also important to note that even though you may be wearing makeup on your wedding day, your skin is the canvas. With that being said, the healthier and more balanced your skin is, the prettier the makeup will lay and wear throughout the day"

Aesthetician, Mary Beth Martin

What skin treatment is best for brides?

Every bride is unique and beautiful in different ways, there is no one-size-fits-all. What is best for you is different for another bride, so it is crucial to schedule a consultation with and esthetic provider you trust. Sooner rather than later!

Personalized skin quiz!

Learn more about your skin concerns and which treatments would be best fit for you before your big day!

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How to boost confidence before my wedding?

Being a bride can be nerve wracking, but feeling beautiful in your own skin shouldn’t be. What we can recommend is pursuing treatments and injectables that will enhance your confidence and make you glow from the inside out.

For when the time comes, getting married is a special and intimate occasion that should be cherished. We understand that planning a wedding is chaotic, but rest assured that we are here to help you in the aesthetic department. Leave your questions and concerns with skincare treatments and injectables in our hands, and watch your confidence flourish. You deserve to feel you best every day of the year, but we understand this one day is even more important. 

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Everything You Need to Know About Laser Skin Tightening

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Table of Contents

As we age our bodies slow down their production of elastin and collagen. When this happens our skin can start to loosen, losing its firm look. To keep skin tight many will seek surgical skin tightening options. But in many cases, clients could have amazing results without surgical procedures by using laser skin tightening treatments. In this article we’ll talk about laser skin tightening, the types of treatments, how they work, and how much laser skin tightening costs. 

What is laser skin tightening?

Laser skin tightening is a non-surgical procedure that uses lasers to increase collagen production for skin tightening.  This can help the skin appear firmer, tighter, and less crepey.

How does laser skin tightening work?

There are many different types of lasers but the general premise is that they cause controlled damage or heating of the skin in order to increase collagen production. Some of them are ablative, meaning they remove the outer layer of skin or parts of it. Others are non-ablative, meaning they do not break the skin. They all cause controlled damage that stimulates a wound healing response and collagen production. 

Read more info about laser skin tightening with ResurFX and how it works HERE.

Who should get laser skin tightening?

Laser skin tightening works best for clients ages 30-65 who would like tighter, firmer, and less crepey skin. Those who haven’t had noticeable loosening of the skin yet may also find it to be beneficial as a preventative measure. If you are a patient with skin that has become extremely lax, a better alternative may be a surgical lift procedure.

What types of treatments are used for laser skin tightening?

There are many different types of lasers available for skin tightening so we’re just going to focus on a few of our favorites that we offer here at Elite.

IPL

IPL is technically not a laser but a light energy that targets skin discoloration. However, the light beams are able to heat up water in the skin creating a tightening effect when the treatment is done consistently. For more info visit our IPL page or read our IPL 101 BLOG.

ResurFX 

ResurFX is non-ablative fractional laser technology that is able to resurface and tighten the skin. It’s great for fine lines, wrinkles, and crepey skin. For more info visit our ResurFX page.

RF Microneedling

RF microneedling combines the power of microneedling, well known for increasing collagen, with RF (radiofrequency) to heat up the skin. It’s like getting a 2-in-1 to tighten loose, crepey skin as well as reduce the appearance of acne scars, fine lines, and wrinkles. RF (radiofrequency) technology is often used alone for skin tightening as well. For more info visit our RF Microneedling page.

How much does laser skin tightening cost?

Laser skin tightening treatments will vary in cost based on the type of procedure you’re having, what part of the body the procedure is being done on, and who is performing it. Remember, each of these procedures will require 3-6 treatments to see desired results. Below is a guide on how much it may cost based on the type of treatment.

IPL

$250-450/treatment

ResurFX

$700-900/treatment

RF Microneedling

$500-700/treatment

More on Pricing

What areas can you have laser skin tightening done on?

Laser skin tightening can be done on any part of a patient’s body, but is most commonly used to tighten skin on the:

  • Face
  • Neck
  • Stomach
  • Arms 
  • Legs

For example, the neck is a common area we see that clients want treated. To read more about laser skin tightening for just the neck read the blog below.

Neck Tightening 101

What should you do before laser skin tightening?

Always follow the instructions given by the provider doing your procedure for the best results. In general though you’ll want to :

  • Avoid sun exposure for 2-4weeks before treatment
  • Avoid Retinoids and other products that could lead to sensitivity for 2-4 days before treatment
  • Stay hydrated and drink plenty of caffeine-free fluids for 24 hours before your treatment (many lasers target water in the skin so you want to be hydrated)
  • Let your provider know about any medical conditions you have and any medications you are on

What is laser skin tightening treatment like?

Most treatments require numbing prior to the procedure to help with pain. So usually while the provider is talking to you about what to expect and going over any necessary medical history, they will have a numbing cream sitting on the treatment area for 15-45 minutes.

Then your face will be washed and the treatment will start. Usually the procedures are quite tolerable but some areas can still be sensitive. 

After treatment, as the numbing wears off, some discomfort is expected. Most people feel like they have a sunburn after laser treatments and their skin is quite sensitive. Your provider will go over aftercare or you may already have instructions that were given to you.

What is a Nurse Practitioner?

Is laser skin tightening painful?

Most laser procedures are quite tolerable but even with numbing cream there are always a few sensitive areas. Talk to your provider about the specific type of laser treatment you are having and what to expect. There are always things that can be done to minimize pain and discomfort.

What is laser skin tightening aftercare like?

Talk to your provider about aftercare for your specific treatment, in general:

  • You’ll want to avoid any harsh chemicals or scrubs for up to a week post-treatment for non-ablative treatments and longer for ablative
  • Avoid touching or picking your treatment area as this can lead to infection, scars, and permanent changes in pigment
  • You’ll want to avoid sun exposure for 4-8 weeks post-treatment depending on what you had done
  • You’ll want to keep your skin clean and dry and use only products approved by your provider
  • Avoid hot tubs or any soaking of the treated area until approved by your provider

What are the side effects of laser skin tightening?

Side effects for this procedure are generally mild but may include:

  • Warm or stinging skin in the area treated
  • Bruising
  • Changes in your skin color
  • Redness
  • Swelling
  • In rare cases loss of pigment or darkening of pigment may occur
  • If the skin is broken, infection is another rare side effect that can occur

How much downtime is there for laser skin tightening?

Skin tightening is a favorite procedure for Elite Medical and Aesthetic clients because the types we offer have very minimal down-time. Most clients are able to get back to light activities immediately after the procedure and feel fairly normal within 24 hours. 

Before and after laser skin tightening

Laser Skin Tightening Before and After on Neck
Before and After Laser Skin Tightening on Neck

How long does it take to see results from laser skin tightening?

You may begin to see some changes immediately after your first treatment but these are not permanent and are usually from mild swelling. It is recommended that you have 3 treatments spaced out every 4 weeks to achieve the best results for most types of treatments. Some practitioners say the best results will appear 3 months after your last treatment because the skin continues to produce collagen and remodel itself for 3-6 months after.

How long does laser skin tightening last?

For patients that use sunscreen and work to take care of their skin, laser skin tightening should last for 2-3 years. After this point, patients can book the procedure again to maintain the results. Many people will do maintenance treatments yearly to keep up with their results. 

Does laser skin tightening really work?

Depending on the technology, and the provider administering the technology, laser skin tightening can really work. Here are just a few studies on the various technologies we talked about in this article:.

 IPL has been shown to be extremely effective in tightening the skin, as highlighted in this piece. As above, this is because it is able to not only reduce pigment but also create new collagen production by heating up the water in the skin.

RF microneedling also has great studies on skin tightening and is being used more and more for not only the face but also the body, as highlighted in this case study. 

This study talks about non-ablative fractional resurfacing technology (like ResurFX) and how it is safe and effective for all skin types, even darker tones.

What is the difference between laser skin resurfacing and laser skin tightening?

These two terms go hand and hand. When the goal is skin resurfacing, to reduce unwanted pigment as well as fine lines and wrinkles, there is also a skin tightening effect. This is because the controlled damage to the skin increases collagen production therefore tightening the skin.

However, some products are better for skin tightening and others better at resurfacing. Talk to your provider about your goals and what technology is best for you.

What is the best non-surgical skin tightening procedure?

When we’re talking about a goal of skin-tightening usually the RadioFrequency (RF) technologies are the best (in Nurse Practitioner, Ali’s, opinion) when weighing risks, benefits and outcomes. This is especially true when combined with microneedling to get a controlled depth of tissue damage with controlled energy. This helps to tighten the skin without going too deep and causing unnecessary damage or also dissolving fat in areas we don’t want to (like in the face). 

These treatments are also much more tolerable and come with less side effects than some of their competitors such as ultrasound skin tightening technologies like Ultherapy.

Should you get laser skin tightening?

Whether something is “worth it” or not is highly subjective but we have had immensely positive feedback about IPL, ResurFX, and RF Microneedling. These minimal downtime procedures work across many different areas and can last 2-3 years.

If you live near Lone Tree, CO consider coming in for a consultation at Elite Medical & Aesthetics by booking an appointment below.

Book a consultation

Everything You Need to Know About ResurFX

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Table of Contents

Intro

Many of our clients are continually seeking out a way to clear up scars, sunspots, and wrinkles without an invasive surgery. For many, ResurFX could be a great solution. In this guide we’ll break down what ResurFX is, how it works, and what it can treat.

What is fractional laser treatment?

A fractional laser treatment is a procedure where tiny laser beams are directed into targeted sections of the skin. The treatment leaves little dots all over the skin as it  creates controlled damage to these fractions while leaving the surrounding skin untouched. By doing so, the surrounding skin that has not been treated can help speed up recovery time by signaling healing cells including stem cells for new tissue growth. The cells that have been treated (those that are unwanted like hyperpigmented cells) are damaged and naturally expelled by the body.

 

The two major types of fractional treatments are ablative meaning the laser breaks the surface of the skin, and non-ablative where the goal is just to create controlled damage and usually coagulate the tissue without breaking the skin.

What is a non-ablative laser and why should I use it?

A non-ablative fractional laser such as ResurFX does not break or damage the top layer of skin making it safe for all skin types with minimal downtime. It shoots laser beams just below the top layer of skin coagulating sections of the deeper tissue. A healing cascade is signaled and the old skin is removed by the body leaving room for new healthy tissue. This creates a tightening effect and a more even complexion. Read more information about Skin Tightening Treatments.

Additionally, because the treatment is fractional, the treatment zones will heal more quickly. However, it will take multiple treatments to get the desired results. 

What does ResurFX treat?

ResurFX is an excellent treatment option with minimal downtime, it is able to treat:

  • Wrinkles and fine-lines
  • Hyperpigmentation
  • Scarring
  • Sunspots
  • Stretch marks
  • Loose skin

What are the benefits of ResurFX compared to other treatments?

ResurFX is one of the best non-ablative fractional lasers on the market. It has a proven safety record with excellent results. As above, this type of laser is wonderful for all skin types and has minimal down time. Read more about this skin treatment here.

How does the ResurFX fractional laser work?

ResurFX works by sending controlled laser beams (targeted by depth and energy) to varying levels of the skin. The targeted tissue is treated in fractions leaving the surrounding tissue intact. The intact skin is able to help heal the treated tissue faster meaning there is less down-time. Most people can go about their normal activities and even wear make-up within a few hours after treatment. Below is a photo of NP, Simone, performing ResurFX in office.

How much does ResurFX cost?

ResurFX varies in price due to the size of the area being treated. For smaller areas like scars it may only cost $250, larger areas like the face and neck could cost upwards of $1200.

Estimated cost breakdown by area:

  • Small scars: $125 each
  • Medium scars: $200 each
  • Large scars: $275 each
  • Under eye and crows feet: $350
  • Forehead and glabella: $350
  • Full face: $800
  • Full face and neck: $1200
  • Decolletage: $800
  • Stretch marks: $400+
Our Pricing $

What is the ResurFX treatment like?

ResurFX is generally a 20-30 minute procedure depending on the size of the area being treated. At the office, the clinician will walk you through the procedure and ask if you have any questions. After this, they’ll prep the area with a topical anesthetic that will help ensure the procedure is less painful. Once the skin is prepped and clean the clinician will use the laser tool to begin treating the skin. 

The first treatment is usually done conservatively to see how your skin responds and ensure there is no post inflammatory hyperpigmentation in those with darker skin tones. Sometimes a 1-2 month prep before treatment is needed for darker skin types or those prone to hyperpigmentation. After great results from the 1st treatment, each consecutive treatment can get more aggressive depending on the goals of treatment.

How should I take care of my skin after my fractional laser treatment?

Immediately after your appointment, the clinician will use a cooling gel or fan on the skin to reduce some of the discomfort. They’ll then apply a protective sunscreen on your sensitive skin. After this you should make sure to:

  • First 24 hours: Avoid skin-irritating products like retinol creams, salicylic acid, and benzoyl peroxide. Also, avoid using a rough washcloth on your face. To reduce the sunburnt feeling you can apply a cool compress to your face in short intervals. 
  • 24-48 hours after: Wash skin with a mild cleanser and avoid makeup. Apply an SPF 30+ sunscreen and a moisturizer. 
  • 72 hours after: continue washing with a gentle cleanser. Make sure to continue applying an SPF 30+ sunscreen and a moisturizer. 
  • 5 days after: You can resume using products like retinol creams, salicylic acid, and benzoyl peroxide. The skin may be sensitive.
  • Between days 4-7 you can also start exfoliating the skin as it may feel rough and gritty. Only exfoliate if the skin is completely intact and there is zero sensitivity. 

Make-up can technically be applied immediately post treatment but we usually recommend waiting until the skin is no longer sensitive and is starting to exfoliate, usually around day 3. 

How long until I see results from my ResurFX fractional laser treatments?

It is recommended that patients receive at least 3 ResurFX treatments with 4 weeks in between treatments. That means it can take upwards of 3 months to see the full results of your ResurFX treatment. You will also continue seeing skin improvements for up to 6 months following the completion of treatment. This makes a great treatment for upcoming events such as weddings, vacations, and important social events.

What are the side effects of ResurFX treatments?

Immediately after your treatment, you will feel like your skin has been sunburned. This hot feeling should dissipate after the first 1-2 hours. After this, most patients experience dry,  pink, or bronzed skin for 2-4 days with peeling or flaking (most common) as the treatment works to remove damaged skin. In some patients, it may take up to a few weeks for redness and irritation to fully subside. 

Potential rare, but serious side effects include:

  • Severe swelling or blistering
  • Infection
  • Skin hyperpigmentation
  • Scarring

Most all of these side effects can be avoided by going to a trained medical professional, like our Nurse Practitioner Ali, that knows how to keep you safe for this treatment. Closely following pre and post treatment instructions are also crucial to great results. For instance, since the skin is not broken during the treatment, picking is the most common reason people might get an infection.

If any of these happen after your treatment, immediately contact the provider that did your treatment.

Are there any treatments I can have with ResurFX?

  • IPL for a photofractional treatment to really target dark spots and discoloration
  • Dermaplaning, light peels and enzymes can be done prior for a more intense treatment
  • Injectables such as Botox or Xeomin can be done immediately after the treatment but we usually recommend against this because the skin is so sensitive to touch.

How many ResurFX fractional laser treatments will I need?

As mentioned above, the best results from ResurFX will take 3 sessions spaced a month apart. This ensures collagen stimulation and long-lasting improvement in the skin. Many providers will offer packaged deals if you book 3 or more appointments. 

How long before I will need more ResurFX?

The results of your ResurFX treatment should last forever on the areas treated. That being said, as we age new spots, lines and scars  will often appear naturally that will need to be treated as they develop.

Is ResurFX the same as Fraxel laser treatment?

Fraxel is simply another brand of non-ablative fractional laser. It has gotten a bad rap for severe side effects such as scarring, hyperpigmenation and severe pain. However, the company that makes this product has updated their machine (so we’re told). It should also be said that bad side effects are often created by technicians that don’t have proper training or experience so you can’t just blame the brand or company.

From our research ResurFX has a higher track record of safety, great results and patient satisfaction which is why Elite Medical and Aesthetics chose this brand over the many other competitors.

ResurFX Before and After

Womans face before and after resurfx on nose
Before and Afer of ResurFX on nose scars
side profile before and after resurfx on cheeks
Before and After of ResurFX on a dark spot on the cheek

Are you ready for ResurFX?

If you’re looking for a way to reverse wrinkles, scars, and other skin considerations ResurFX is an excellent option with minimal downtime. If you’re in the Lone Tree, Colorado area (just South of Denver), book an appointment now to talk to our amazing staff at Elite Medical and Aesthetics 

Book appointment here