Nonsurgical Cosmetic Procedures
Unfortunately, your skin starts aging around the time you leave the teen years behind. While much of the natural aging process is controlled by your genes, there are a number of environmental and lifestyle choices which can age your skin prematurely. When fine lines and wrinkles start to show up, we can wind up looking much older than we really are.
Many people want younger-looking skin but don’t want to undergo any invasive surgical procedures. Luckily, there are a number of procedures and treatments available today that can give you back that youthful glow without resorting to going under the knife. Indeed, most of these procedures can be done in-office quickly with minimal downtime.
Botox Injections
Arguably the most well-known cosmetic procedure that people use to fend off aging, Botox works via an injection that relaxes the muscle tension that causes wrinkles. Normally, it takes effect within a matter of days although it doesn’t last forever. Nevertheless, you only need about 2-3 injections a year to maintain the look.
The side effects are minor and usually resolve themselves within 24 hours. So most patients can return to normal activities right after treatment. Not only is Botox noninvasive, but it doesn’t change the original shape and appearance of the face. The usual target areas are between and above the eyebrows, forehead, around the mouth, and crow’s feet.
Dermal Fillers
As you get older, your skin naturally begins to lose collagen and elasticity, which causes wrinkles and a loss of padding in the face around the eyes, mouth, and cheeks. Injectable dermal fillers are an anti-aging treatment that can plump up lips, decrease wrinkles, and soften facial creases. It’s a minimally invasive procedure that can give natural looking and long-lasting results with regular treatments.
Many people recognize them from brand names like Juvederm, Radiesse, and Restylane. In addition to the face, fillers can also be used to make hands look younger. Similar to Botox, dermal fillers are also temporary. However, the results can last up to a year or longer, depending on the patient and the filler used.
Platelet-Rich Plasma Therapy (PRP)
Known as a treatment for injured tendons, cosmetic platelet-rich plasma therapy has gained popularity as a skin treatment as well. It starts with a doctor taking a sample of your own blood and extracting the plasma and platelets to concoct a concentrated sample of PRP.
With the next step, the doctor uses microneedles to inject the solution right back into your skin in order to stimulate collagen production. The idea is to activate cell growth to repair and regenerate damaged skin. Many patients prefer it as an alternative to synthetic fillers as a more natural way to fight the aging process.
Laser Skin Resurfacing
Laser skin treatments are another increasingly popular way to treat the skin and lessen wrinkles, scars, and blemishes. Depending on the type of treatment, light energy is directed at the skin to promote new collagen growth or to burn layers of damaged skin to force new skin to grow. Their advantage is that they are practically painless and have no downtime.
With laser skin resurfacing, the doctor sends short light beams at irregular skin to remove one layer at a time. While the laser beam removes the skin’s outer layer, it heats the underlying skin. As a result, it spurs the growth of collagen fibers. As the targeted area begins to heal, newer skin forms that is firmer and smoother.
Chemical Peels
A chemical peel is another non-surgical procedure that improves the texture and firmness of your skin. The process involves applying a liquid solution to the skin, which removes different outer layers, depending on the strength of the solution. The end result is fresh, untouched skin. Peels can remove scars, wrinkles, and even precancerous growths.
They are also helpful for treating acne scars, uneven pigmentation, and sun spots. Usually, they are applied to the face, but they can also be used to treat the hands, neck, or chest. Typically, patients will see some peeling after 48 hours although it resolves itself within 2-5 days. While patients can resume normal activities right afterwards, the treated skin is sensitive and should remain out of the sun for 2-4 days at a minimum.
If traditional cosmetic surgery is something you want to avoid, ask your doctor about these nonsurgical options to find the one that is just right for you. He or she can help you select the best procedure for your needs and the look you want. The best part about these minimally invasive cosmetic procedures is that they are both safe and effective for maintaining a more youthful appearance.