As we age wrinkles appear on our face and body. Although wrinkles can signify wisdom, we would rather not have them. Most wrinkles appear on the parts of the body where sun exposure is greatest.
Here are two categories of wrinkles : fine surface “texture” wrinkles or lines and deep “dynamic” wrinkles related to the muscle contractions ( frown lines , smile lines , etc). Aging of the skin is a very complex and a gradual process. There are two components in the aging process: “
internal aging”, programmed in our genes and “
external aging”,
caused by external harmful factors (smoking, inadequate water intake, unprotected UV exposure, air pollution and many others).
With age skin cells divide more slowly and the inner layer, called the dermis, begins to thin. The number of the superficial skin cell also decreases (by about 10% per decade). Collagen production gradually slows
down, resulting in decreasing of the skin firmness. The skin is less able to retain moisture and oil-secreting glands produce less sebum (skin oil). All these changes make the skin thinner, less elastic and cause it
to wrinkle and sag.
Unfortunately, it is impossible to reverse our “
internal aging” but the “
external aging” can be significantly modified or prevented. It is crucial to maintain a
healthy life style, quit smoking and wear a sunblock with SPF# 30 or more to prevent wrinkle formation. The correction of already existing wrinkles can be divided into several categories:
- Medical/topical treatments: Vitamin A (Tretinoin, Retin-A), alpha-hydroxy acids (glycolic and lactic acid), antioxidants (vitamins A, C, and E) and moisturizers.
- Cosmetic procedures: medical facials, chemical peels (glycolic acid, TCA peels),
microdermabrasion.
- Laser skin resurfacing: carbon dioxide, erbium, fractional(pixel) lasers, IPL(intense pulsed light). These help to stimulate the body's natural collagen production and to remove the superficial old layers of the skin cells.
- Botox® ( paralyzes the muscles, reducing wrinkle appearance).
- Dermal fillers : (Restylane® ,
Perlane® , Juvederm™ , and
Radiesse®). These are injected into the skin to increase volume and flatten wrinkles and folds.
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If you are considering a treatment for your wrinkles, ask your doctor which procedure is right for you according to your age, skin type and personal expectations. Call today for your free consultation.
