(August 2012) Portland, OR – With millions of Americans in search of a “one step solution” for skin care ailments, there has been a lot of buzz around LED light therapy. However, despite being used for decades, the unique technology has mystified people, leading to many misconceptions about how LED light therapy works and its true benefits whether it be for blemishes, anti-aging or even hyperpigmentation. Dermatologist and Department of Dermatology at Oregon Health & Science University (OHSU) professor, Dr. Neil A. Swanson, is tackling some of these myths so consumers can finally understand the true power of light.

Myth: LED Light Therapy is a quick fix for skin care problems.
Truth: “It’s important to remember that results from light therapy treatments can take time and will vary depending on your age, skin type, whether or not you smoke and how well you take care of your skin, amongst other things,” says Dr. Swanson. Typically, people see results in four to six weeks when using a light-based product consistently and correctly. “For example, the ANSR: HALO is a red and infrared light therapy device that should be used on clean skin twice a day for five minutes at a time to achieve maximum results.” Those who want to use at-home light therapy treatments must understand that positive changes occur in the skin at the deeper layers first; building healthier skin over days and weeks that will eventually be visible on the surface. LED light therapy is also a great way to stimulate the skin’s natural rejuvenation processes and ensure skin is healthier moving forward – it is preventative care.

Myth: LED Light Therapy only works if you begin at a young age.
Truth: Prevention is key to helping skin age gracefully, so starting a regular skincare regimen at an early age is ideal; however, it’s never too late to make a positive change. “Even if you have been neglecting your skin for decades, those who start with an LED light therapy regimen can slowly begin to notice a reduction in fine lines and wrinkles and improvement in skin tone,” says Dr. Swanson. “Keep in mind, the longer you have neglected your skin, the longer it will take for results.”

Myth: It’s dangerous to put the LED light directly on my face.
Truth: “In my experience, most at-home LED light therapy devices are safe. However I can only speak specifically to the ANSR: light devices because I have personally tested these,” says Dr. Swanson. “Although the light looks intensely bright, LED light is neither a laser nor UV light, so it won’t burn your skin or eyes.” For optimum results, gently glide the product directly on the face. The farther away an object is away from a light source, the less light is shined on that object. If the light is farther away from the face, the light is less intense and will not be as effective. As with any bright light source, staring into the LED lights for any length of time is not recommended.

Myth: The color of the light doesn’t matter; all colors will effectively help my skin.
Truth: Different lights have different purposes. This is due to each light emitting a different wavelength. These wavelengths penetrate the skin on different levels and therefore have different results. Red LED light and infrared light have been proven to stimulate collagen growth, decrease the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles and improve general skin tone. Blue LED light has been proven to be effective in treating blemishes.

Myth: The longer I’m exposed to the light, the better the results.
Truth: “Research has found that your skin reaches a threshold after some time,” says Dr. Swanson. Although in some specific cases, the benefits of the light will expand if the product is used for a longer period of time, studies have suggested that with both red and blue light sources, skin will reach its maximum benefit after about ten minutes of exposure each. “It’s always best to use a product for the recommended period of time. Some devices can actually cause damage to the skin if it is exposed for too long,” adds Dr. Swanson.

About Dr. Neil Swanson
Dr. Swanson is a Professor and former Chair of the Department of Dermatology at Oregon Health & Science University (OHSU), former OHSU Medical Group President, and former Vice President of American Academy of Dermatology. In addition, he serves on the Board of Directors for ANSR:, a skincare technologies company that specializes in LED light therapy devices. He has been a visiting professor at a number of prestigious schools and has authored more than 170 journal articles and textbooks.

(July 2012) Portland, OR – According to the Research and Innovative Technology Administration, the average summer long-distance trip is 284 miles in one direction, so keeping travel items light is a key component to a successful summer vacation. Plus, with ever-changing airline restrictions and increasing baggage fees, who wants to deal with the hassle of worrying about what beauty essentials to bring? With portable, palm-sized and lightweight beauty products from ANSR:, keeping skin smooth, radiant and healthy during a summer vacation has never been more convenient.

Whether planning a trip across the globe or a quick weekend getaway, ANSR:’s collection of products provides on-the-go solutions for any skin type and age group. With daily use of ANSR: light therapy products, skin will become smoother, healthier, and more radiant.

Benefits include:

• The compact, circular shape makes them perfectly suited for travel. The ANSR: BEAM and ANSR: HALO both weigh just under 2.6 ounces and can easily fit into any cosmetic bag or the pocket of a small purse.
• The ANSR: HALO uses infrared and red LED light therapy at different skin depths to smooth wrinkles and help stimulate collagen growth for an effective, anti-redness, anti-aging skin care regimen.
• The ANSR: BEAM uses blue and red LED light therapy to improve skin’s complexion and reduce blemishes.

Since water is not needed and the lights are completely safe for eyes, ANSR: products can be used pretty much anywhere. Whether it’s during a ten-minute car ride to the airport, on the Euro rail to Italy, cruising along the Mediterranean or while relaxing during a long flight across the country, in as little as five minutes skin will be prepped, primped and ready to go. Regular use will help you see visible results in as little as four weeks time.

Portland, OR (June 2011) – Cards and balloons are nice, but this year surprise dads and grads with the gift of great skin. Whether it’s receiving a diploma or celebrating that special man, ANSR: provides light-therapy solutions that both dads and grads will love. Plus, these products help keep skin looking healthy long after the celebration has ended.

Grads:
The ANSR: BEAM ensures that skin issues are the least of a graduate’s worries as they set out to tackle interviews and land their dream job. The ANSR: BEAM utilizes both blue and red LED light therapy to help fight blemishes, decrease the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles and help even skin tone. First, the blue light mimics the blemish fighting effects of sunlight without the harmful U.V. rays and then the BEAM automatically switches to the red light, which continues to improve the look and feel of skin, stimulating collagen and smoothing skin. Simply use the BEAM on clean skin, twice a day and let the light do the rest. It can easily be added into any skincare regimen and the compact, cordless and rechargeable design means any smart graduate can BEAM their way into the future.

Dads:
For dads, the ANSR: HALO is the go-to device to help skin age gracefully. Having children is one of the greatest joys in life, but the sleepless nights and stressful days can take their toll on skin. Now dads can reach for the sleek design of the ANSR: HALO. The red light therapy product utilizes both LED light therapy and infrared light therapy to penetrate the skin on two levels – the red LED light works on one layer, the infrared light on another, deeper layer – to help reduce pore size, fine lines, wrinkles and redness. Best yet, this anti-aging device fits in the palm of the hand so it’s perfect for dads on the go. Use the ANSR: HALO twice a day for five minutes at a time.

Where to Shop:  Available at select spas and salons throughout the United States or at www.ANSR.com.

About ANSR:
ANSR: is a privately held, Oregon-based company committed to creating innovative light-based beauty devices that support healthy skin at any age. ANSR:’s effective and unique beauty solutions utilize advanced light therapy technology to smooth skin, reduce blemishes, fine lines and wrinkles. ANSR:’s BEAM and HALO beauty products are used in the most recognizable spas in the country, including Bliss, Canyon Ranch, Four Seasons, Ritz Carlton and more; and are also available for home use. For more information visit: www.ANSR.com

(May 2012) Portland, OR – As the summer sun begins to sizzle, skin often pays the price. To protect the masses heading outside to enjoy the sun, Dr. Neil A. Swanson, an international lecturer and author on cosmetic surgery procedures and skin cancer detection and treatment, is offering his insight to address the five most common sunshine related skin care issues. Dr. Swanson is a Professor and former Chair of the Department of Dermatology at Oregon Health & Science University (OHSU), former OHSU Medical Group President, and former Vice President of American Academy of Dermatology. He has been a visiting professor at a number of prestigious schools and has authored more than 170 journal articles and textbooks.

Hyperpigmentation & Redness: Pigmentation will always be worse during the summer months because the sun triggers the production of melanin. Heat also triggers inflammation, which increases melanin activity resulting in hyperpigmentation. Dr. Swanson recommends:

• Exfoliate skin regularly. “A mild acid peel helps to break up and remove pigmented cells, as well as draw excess oil out of the pores to leave the skin less shiny,” he says.
• Look for licorice extract in topical products. Dr. Swanson notes, “some feel this ingredient is effective in treating uneven skin tone.”
• Tap into new light therapy technologies. “Light therapy is proven to reduce the appearance of pore size and redness,” says Dr. Swanson. “The ANSR: HALO is a great at-home device that utilizes both LED and infrared light to help with skin rejuvenation and improve skin tone.”
• Avoid outdoor activities during the warmest parts of the day so heat doesn’t take its toll on those genetically prone to hyperpigmentation.

Sunburns: “As a dermatologist, I encourage my patients to stay out of the summer sun as much as possible; however, I know that sun exposure and sunburns are inevitable,” says Dr. Swanson. When faced with sunburn, reducing the inflammation as soon as possible will help reduce damage to the skin. Dr. Swanson recommends:

• Take an aspirin and apply a hydrocortisone cream to reduce swelling and redness.
• For a natural approach, soak a cloth in milk and ice and apply it to the affected area for at least ten minutes. Aloe can also be soothing when applied to the burnt area.
• Use a sunscreen with an SPF higher than 30 that protects against both UVA and UVB rays. Some of the newer sprays and pumps work well and are easier to use.

Calluses: Hyperkeratosis or calluses form when too much pressure is combined with friction, which stimulates the skin to thicken and protect itself. When it’s time to bare all in summer sandals, calluses prove to be embarrassing – about ten percent of American women complain of unsightly, often painful calluses. Dr. Swanson recommends:

• Combine a bath of warm water, Epsom salts and body wash in a tub and soak your feet for 15 minutes. After soaking, rub the callus with a pumice stone.
• For more serious calluses Dr. Swanson says, “I recommend the ANSR: SOLE, which utilizes an electronic file to gently scrub away the callus. It works faster than a manual pumice stone and is far more effective on severe issues.”

Razor Burn: In the summer, when you are shaving more often, it’s more likely that the hair will dive back under the skin causing ingrown hairs. Dr. Swanson suggests:

• Use a loofah to gently exfoliate the skin and encourage the hair to pop out.
• Shaving reduces the top layer of skin by 20 percent and often results in irritation. To avoid feeling this burn, store razors in some place other than the shower and replace razors every two weeks. Dr. Swanson says, “items left here are more prone to bacteria which can lead to discomfort or infection.”
• Shave in the evening before bed since sweating can increase irritation.

Blemishes: Breakouts are a common problem as the summer heat warms up. Warmer weather results in more sweat, which in turn clogs pores and creates a breeding ground for blemishes. Dr. Swanson recommends:

• Use a non-comedogenic UVA and UVB sunscreen that will not clog pores.
• Use a salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide based cleanser twice a day.
• Blue LED light has been shown to help fight blemishes. “An easy-to-use product to help with blemishes is the ANSR: BEAM,” says Dr. Swanson. “This product combines blue light therapy with the benefits of red light therapy to help reduce blemishes and improve skin tone and texture.” Simply use the product for ten minutes, twice a day to help fight those little red bumps during the summer and all year long.

About ANSR:
ANSR: is a privately held, Oregon-based company committed to creating innovative light-based beauty devices that support healthy skin at any age. ANSR:’s effective and unique beauty solutions utilize advanced light therapy technology to smooth skin, reduce blemishes, fine lines and wrinkles. ANSR:’s BEAM and HALO beauty products are used in the most recognizable spas in the country, including Bliss, Canyon Ranch, Four Seasons and more; and are also available for home use. For more information visit: www.ANSR.com

(April 24, 2012) Portland, OR – Today, more and more savvy estheticians are turning to LED light therapy to help combat blemishes and fight the signs of aging. ANSR:, a leading developer of light-based beauty products, is pleased to announce the addition of several luxury spas now offering ANSR: products as part of their treatments and via retail. Whether one is celeb-spotting in Los Angeles, hitting the strip in Las Vegas, celebrating Mardi Gras in New Orleans or heading to the latest restaurant opening in New York, ANSR:’s latest and greatest spas will be able to help ensure skin is looking its best.

ANSR: light therapy products are being sold and utilized in professional treatments at the following new locations:

• Equinox: West Los Angeles, CA & Santa Monica, CA
• B Spa Bar at the Privé Salon in the Soho Grand Hotel: New York, NY
• The Spa at Trump SoHo: New York, NY
• Woodhouse Spa: Victoria, TX & New Orleans, LA
• The Peninsula Spa: Beverly Hills, CA
• Andrea Nuebart of Dr. Manolakaki’s Office: Shrewsbury, NJ
• Aria (MGM Mirage): Las Vegas, NV
• BASK by Exhale and Revel: Atlantic City, NJ

“We are so happy to partner with such well-recognized names in the industry to help their clients receive the best treatments and skin care products possible,” says Kailani Kim, National Sales Manager for ANSR:. “The addition of these new luxury spas to our family of spa and beauty partners will continue to propel the ANSR: name as a world-recognized leader in light based beauty products.”

For those interested in receiving a professional treatment featuring either the ANSR: BEAM or ANSR: HALO, please contact the spa directly. For more information on where you can buy ANSR: products for home use, shop www.ANSR.com.

About ANSR:

ANSR: is a privately held, Oregon-based company committed to creating innovative light-based beauty devices that support healthy skin at any age. ANSR:’s effective and unique beauty solutions utilize advanced light therapy technology to smooth skin, reduce blemishes, fine lines and wrinkles. ANSR:’s BEAM and HALO beauty products are used in the most recognizable spas in the country, including Bliss, Canyon Ranch, Four Seasons and more; and are also available for home use. For more information visit: www.ANSR.com

(April 2012) Portland, OR – ANSR:, a leading developer of light-based beauty products, is pleased to announce their 2012 board of directors. The board, which includes several new members, offers a wealth of beauty industry marketing, product development, medical, manufacturing, supply chain and financial experience to help ANSR: bring their exceptional beauty products to an even broader consumer audience. Since 2007, ANSR: has launched several light-based products to address skin care needs such as reducing the appearance of redness, blemishes, and fine lines and wrinkles, with many luxury spas integrating the products into their client treatments.

“The ANSR: board reflects a strong industry support of, and belief in, ANSR: products,” says Spencer J. Brown, ANSR: CEO and Chairman of the board of directors. “As ANSR: continues to grow and be recognized as a global leader in innovative, light-based beauty products, their combined experience and insight will be vital.”

2012 Board of Directors:

Continuing Board Members

Spencer J. Brown: Brown comes from a diverse business career spanning 35 years. Before coming to ANSR:, Brown was a key leader in a number of successful business ventures including mergers and acquisitions, Venture Capital and Private Equity transactions and Initial Public Offerings. He joined ANSR: in 2007 as an advisor and was recently appointed CEO and Chairman of the board.

Dawn Blackstone: Blackstone has over 25 years of experience with major consumer goods companies. She held senior roles in marketing, sales and general management at Dermalogica, Herbalife, Procter and Gamble, Merle Norman Cosmetics, Neutrogena, and Johnson & Johnson. Presently, she is the Chief Marketing Officer for ColorProof Haircare. She originally joined the ANSR: board in August 2010.

New Board Members:

Dr. Neil Swanson: Formerly on the ANSR: advisory board, Dr. Swanson has served as a professor and chair of the Department of Dermatology at Oregon Health & Sciences University (OHSU). He is an international lecturer and has authored more than 170 journal articles, authored or edited multiple textbooks, and contributed chapters of numerous textbooks, all pertaining to dermatology.

Frank Helle: New to the ANSR: board, Helle is the CEO of Axian, Inc., a 22-year privately-held web-services software and data engineering firm.  Prior to this, he was a senior global manager at the Monsanto Company where he lived in various cities abroad as the Managing Director for three Monsanto Divisions. Today, Helle is active on the Board of Directors for Oregon’s Association for Corporate Growth and is the current Chair for the Portland Angel Network.

Frank M. Maione: As the Chief Customer Officer (President) of Sales, USA, for Johnson & Johnson Group of Consumer Companies, Maione was responsible for the overall business performance, financial results, strategic development and integration of six major Johnson & Johnson businesses – with $7.6 billion in annual sales – until his December 2010 retirement. He has also held a key role at Pfizer, Inc./Pfizer Consumer Healthcare as the Vice President of Sales, USA, where he drove top-line growth from $1.6 billion to $2.4 billion while launching over 50 new items. He is a new addition to the ANSR: board.

About ANSR:

ANSR: is a privately held, Oregon-based company committed to creating innovative light-based beauty devices that support healthy skin at any age. ANSR:’s effective and unique beauty solutions utilize advanced light therapy technology to smooth skin, reduce blemishes, fine lines and wrinkles. ANSR:’s BEAM and HALO beauty products are used in the most recognizable spas in the country, including Bliss, Canyon Ranch, Four Seasons and more; and are also available for home use. For more information visit: www.ANSR.com

(February 2012) Portland, OR – When Spencer J. Brown joined the team at ANSR: in 2007 as an advisor, he never imagined he would be appointed CEO five short years later. As the company chairman and the largest outside investor in the company, his extensive knowledge and belief in the brand made him the easy choice to step into the role. Brown comes from a diverse business career spanning 35 years. He was a key leader in a number of successful business ventures including mergers and acquisitions, Venture Capital and Private Equity transactions and Initial Public Offerings. Prior to joining ANSR:, Brown served as CEO of Euro RSCG DRTV, increasing their annual billings significantly and making them the largest direct response television advertising agency in the world.

“The decision to step up as Chairman and CEO was an easy one,” says Brown. “I always put my money where my mouth is and, when it came to ANSR:, it made the most sense because it came with the blessing of my wife and family who are all avid users of the products. As Chairman and CEO I plan to continue ANSR:’s expansion so others can see the benefits of LED light therapy and our other skincare technologies.”

Since coming on board as chairman, Brown has already helped ANSR: exceed their fundraising goals and, moving forward, he aims to make ANSR: a recognized brand worldwide for skincare solutions and light therapy. In addition, Brown hopes to double revenue each year for the next five years. Although this may seem like a lofty goal, Brown believes this can be achieved by surrounding himself with an expert team and utilizing people who have extraordinary skill sets. Brown says, “I see myself as a conductor in an orchestra, making sure each person is playing the same song and performing at their best. When you surround yourself with great people, great things happen.”

About ANSR:

ANSR: is a privately held, Portland-based company committed to developing innovative products to support healthy skin and body wellness. ANSR: provides effective and unique beauty solutions utilizing technology. ANSR: products are brilliantly designed to be easily integrated into professional treatment rooms and consumer lifestyles. For more information visit: www.ANSR.com

This is a space to celebrate the beauty of, and from, light.

Here you’ll find the occasional musings of ANSR: friends and fans; news releases we’ve published with the ANSR: PR pros at West PR; and other light therapy and beauty industry news of note.

What’s lighting up our lives these days? Well, we’re feeling pretty thrilled with our new website, produced with our friends from AcquaPhoto. And the new HALO testimonials we’ve just published from our fabulous ANSR: HALO users (trust me, it wasn’t hard to participate!) were very fun for the whole team to pick and post. What do you think?

Welcome. And thanks for stopping by! ~JLJ