Anti-Aging skin treatments have been around for a while but it is only in recent years that they have gained popularity. Most people think of anti-aging treatments as wrinkle creams and Botox. These treatments can be very effective in combating the visible signs of aging like wrinkles, dryness and sagging skin. Some work well, but many are expensive and don’t offer guarantees. Here is a guide to anti-aging skin treatments and how they work.
Collagen production is closely tied to the thickness of our skin. The more collagen we have, the better we look and the longer we stay healthy. There are different factors that can affect collagen production and aging including age, injury, diet, hormone levels, stress and obesity. Collagen injections, dermabrasion, chemical peels and Botox have all been used as anti-aging skin treatments. The newest option is using microneedling.
Microneedling is a non-invasive procedure that involves the application of a cream on the affected area to stimulate collagen production. Collagen acts as a lubricant and natural barrier between the epidermis and the dermis layer of the skin. As we get older, collagen breaks down causing fine lines and wrinkles to form. Microdermabrasion and Botox are popular choices for this treatment but many people are turning to microneedling because it is less invasive than other treatments. The treatment involves the application of a thin, even layer of cream over a small area. The cream is designed to break down the uppermost layers of skin and cause the uppermost layer to break down and form a bump or dark spot.
Another trend in anti-aging skin treatments is using natural organic ingredients. Some ingredients such as aloe vera and avocado extract have been found to help fade away wrinkles and fine lines. Others like Cynergy TK and Phytessence Wakame are known for improving the skin’s hyaluronic acid content which helps keep skin hydrated.
Once you find a dermatologist who offers the type of anti-aging skin treatments you are interested in, your next step is to select which procedure is right for you. If you are younger than 50 years old, you may be considered for microdermabrasion. It is performed on a tiny minute scale and can be done in a doctor’s office. You will not need a prescription to get this treatment. The results are quick but not long lasting. If you are looking for a wrinkle reducer rather than an anti-aging treatment, you will probably be offered Botox or collagen injections.
Another option to consider is injectable fillers like Botox. While these are generally used for facial wrinkles, they also work well for frown lines and other aging areas due to their ability to thicken the facial skin. Collagen has also been found to stimulate the growth of new collagen fibers, so it can help with younger-looking wrinkles. However, like all anti-aging treatments, injectable fillers carry the risk of infection, facial redness, bruising, and allergic reaction.
Another option for the treatment of aging skin is in-home treatment products that contain the same active ingredients as in doctor’s offices. These products include lotions, creams, and moisturizers that you can use at home to give yourself an even skin tone and to reduce wrinkles. There are currently no federal laws requiring manufacturers to disclose any of these ingredients, so you would have to do your homework to find out what each product contains. For the most part, however, natural ingredients have shown to be safe in clinical trials with humans. These products can be bought over-the-counter, but the best way to avoid being taken in by frightening snake oil is to consult a physician and ask about the possible benefits of these treatments and what your risks might be.
The final option in anti-aging skin treatments that we will discuss is minimally invasive injection therapy. Because of the safety of chemical peels and their effectiveness, this treatment remains the top choice for many people. To perform minimally invasive injection therapy, the physician will inject a very small amount of a chemical called metronidazole into each individual wrinkle. This chemical works by peeling the top layer of skin off, while activating the deeper layers of skin where the production of collagen and new cells occurs. This method has proven to be highly effective in treating both fine and deep wrinkles.
