The ambiance at the W Hotel in Westwood (Los Angeles) was classy and cool amidst the green and blue, glowing outdoor lights, and a sparkling pool surrounded by fire pits.

The press party for the “Project: Sweat Free” health education campaign was spectacular — picturesque to say the least.  

Stepping into a scene that looked like something straight out of The Hills, my editor Elana (who is also a columnist for Agenda Magazine) and I showed up to learn why Kara Saun (Hello? Finalist from Season 1 of Project Runway!) is helping to raise awareness about excessive underarm sweating and its new age solution: Botox ® injections.

Taking a seat in a private cabana adorned with a stunning mirror, as well as a flat-screen TV, we were able to speak with Kara and Dr. Mavis Billips about the effectiveness Botox ® has on underarm sweating. The two seem like such an unlikely business couple – a fashion designer and a dermatologist? Well sure! Many of Kara’s models have dealt with excessive sweating during the hustle and bustle of a runway show. Her observance of the models’ embarrassment and frustration, as well as their fear for such fabrics as — eek, silk! — prompted Kara to get on board with “Project: Sweat Free.”

  “Sweat stains are not a fashion accessory,” Kara said empathetically.

As Dr. Billips explained, many people suffer from profuse sweating, or what is technically known as hyperhydrosis, and don’t know that they can obtain temporary relief. By receiving Botox injections in their effected areas, such as the underarms, their dreaded perspiration can be halted for approximately 6 months! While this procedure is catching on (it was recently featured on Dr. 90210), it is still not as publicized as most medical professionals would like. So the goal of Kara, Dr. Billips, and “Project: Sweat Free” is to educate everyone on the wonderful results that can be provided by Botox treatments.

After the doctor/designer interview, we sat sipping Cointreau martinis and taking in our surroundings. A great mix of physicians and trendy attendees mingled around the open bars and large, lounge couches for a worthy cause. Of course, with LA fashion week coming up, the attire was fabulous! And might I say? Knee-high boots are in once again this season and were definitely a staple of the night. Let’s thank the fashion gods for that!

~ Leeann
 
Photo Credits: Elana’s camera and my extraordinary photography skills