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Stress shows up in more ways than we realize, affecting sleep, energy, focus, and overall health. In this week’s blog, Dr. Sarkar shares simple, practical stress management techniques she personally recommends and lives by, including breathing resets, guided relaxation, and small daily habits that can make a meaningful difference.
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Clinical Interview with Kaya Merzlak, CRNP
At Connected Health, our approach to care is rooted in relationships, personalization, and helping patients feel their best, inside and out. That’s exactly what you’ll experience when working with our Nurse Practitioner and Skin Health Specialist, Kaya Merzlak, CRNP.
We sat down with Kaya to learn more about her background, what led her into aesthetics, and to get her take on some of the most common skincare and Botox questions she hears from patients.
Tell us about your background and what led you into aesthetics.
“I struggled with my skin growing up. I had bad acne in high school and was on Accutane. That experience really shaped my perspective. I realized that the better you feel, the better you show up in your life, and your skin plays a big role in your confidence and even the way you interact with others!
When I became a nurse practitioner, I initially worked in the hospital setting, and while it was meaningful, there was a lot of sickness and suffering. I knew I wanted to move toward something more proactive and uplifting. Now, I get to help people feel confident, healthy, and truly enjoy their lives.”
What do you love most about working with patients at Connected Health?
“Every day is different, which I love. I really enjoy getting to know my patients and building those relationships. What I like most about skin health is that you can usually identify a problem and come up with a clear solution, and then actually see the results.”
Why does concierge medicine matter to you?
“For me, it’s about being the happiest, healthiest version of yourself so you can fully enjoy your life and the people you love. This type of care also gives me the flexibility to be more present with my family, especially my daughter, who means everything to me.”
“Are you really injecting a toxin into your skin?”
“Simply put — yes, Botox is a toxin. It works by temporarily inhibiting muscle movement. That’s why it’s so important to see a trained and experienced clinician who understands facial anatomy.
At Connected Health, we have the ability to take a more personalized approach. Rather than strictly following standard dosing, I can tailor treatments — sometimes starting with less and adjusting over time — to ensure natural, individualized results.”
At what age should someone start Botox?
“I typically say the early 20s — around 20 to 25 — if it’s something you’re interested in. Starting earlier can help prevent repetitive muscle movement, which over time leads to fine lines and wrinkles. It often means you’ll need less over the long term.”
Is Botox preventative or corrective?
“Both — but it’s absolutely preventative. Our faces are very expressive, and over time, that repeated movement creates lines. Botox helps limit that movement, which can slow the formation of wrinkles before they fully set in.”
Can Botox help with anything beyond wrinkles?
“Yes! Botox has several additional uses. I treat patients for hyperhidrosis (excessive sweating), especially in the underarms. It can also be used to subtly lift certain areas of the face, for example, helping patients look more refreshed or awake by relaxing muscles that pull downward.”
When should I start if I want to look my best for a summer event?
“The sooner, the better. Botox takes time to fully settle, and starting earlier gives us the opportunity to make small adjustments if needed. Ideally, I recommend about six weeks before a big event.”
How much do things like hydration and nutrition really impact your skin?
“Your skin is your body’s largest organ, and everything plays a role — from your diet and supplements to your skincare routine.
Hydration is key, stress management is important, and what you eat absolutely impacts your skin. For example, dairy can be a trigger for many people. There’s also a strong connection between gut health and skin health.
I often recommend options like Nutrafol because it supports both skin and hair health from the inside out.”
Do You Need Expensive Products for Good Skin?
“Not necessarily. Quality matters, but more isn’t always better. You don’t need a 10–12 step routine to see results. I work with patients to simplify their regimen — focusing on a few high-quality, effective products that are tailored to their specific skin type and concerns. Consistency is more important than having a complicated routine.
That’s one of the reasons I like using the Sanitas line in the office. It’s high quality, results-driven, and at a more attainable price point compared to a lot of medical-grade skincare. I’ve seen a lot of patients have really positive outcomes with it when we build it into a routine that makes sense for them.”
“If you’re not sure where to begin, that’s okay! I always encourage patients to schedule a complimentary skin consultation with me. There’s no pressure to purchase anything. We can talk through your concerns, review your current products, and create a plan that makes sense for you.”
Whether you’re looking to simplify your skincare routine, explore preventative treatments, or address specific concerns, Kaya is here to guide you with a personalized, thoughtful approach every step of the way.
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