Anti-Aging Treatments for Smooth Skin

There comes a time in everyone’s life when they look in the mirror and realize that, almost overnight, they’ve aged. We haven’t discovered the Fountain of Youth yet, but dermatologists offer cosmetic anti-aging treatments that give the mythical water a run for its money.

In this article, we’ll examine some of the most popular and impactful injectable anti-aging treatments available at the Dermatology and Skin Surgery Center of Wilmington.

 

Injectable Anti-aging Treatments

There are several types of cosmetic injectables that smooth fine lines and wrinkles. Two that we use often are neuromodulators and dermal fillers.

 

Neuromodulators

There are several brands of Botulinum Type A neuromodulators on the market, such as Botox®, Dysport®, Xeomin®, and Jeuveau®. Some facial wrinkles are caused by repeated movements, such as the horizontal lines in the forehead and glabellar lines between the eyebrows (commonly called “11s”). Neuromodulators are all a type of Botulinum Toxin Type A that smooth wrinkles by inhibiting muscle movement.

Neuromodulators work great to address forehead lines, crow’s feet, glabellar lines, fine lines around the lips, in the chin, the neck, and décolletage. The results typically last for three to four months, depending on the individual. People with stronger muscles may need a higher dosage than other people to see results. Most patients will see a dramatic improvement within two weeks of the injection.

You should see a Board-Certified dermatologist for any neuromodulator injection. While neuromodulators are generally a safe anti-aging treatment, your practitioner needs to have a strong understanding of facial anatomy. If an inexperienced practitioner places an injection in the wrong site, it can spread and lead to ptosis, which is the dropping of a brow or eyelid. An experienced injector who understands facial anatomy can help prevent this potential adverse effect.

Most people are suitable candidates for neuromodulator injections. However, neuromodulators should be avoided by those who:

• Are pregnant or breastfeeding
• Know they are allergic to Botulinum Toxin Type A
• Have been diagnosed with certain neuromuscular conditions (ALS, Lou Gehrig’s Disease, etc.)
• Have an active infection or skin inflammation

 

Dermal Fillers

A dermal filler is an injectable that smoothes fine lines and wrinkles by restoring volume loss that naturally occurs as you age. There are several types of dermal fillers on the market, one of the most common being hyaluronic acid (HA).

Dermal fillers are an effective way to plump the lips, restore fullness to the cheeks, reduce fine lines and wrinkles around the mouth, and smooth deep wrinkles. The results can last from six months to two years, depending on the type of filler and the individual’s rate of metabolization. Unlike neuromodulators, the results from dermal filler injection are immediate.

Like neuromodulator injections, it’s essential that you see a Board-Certified dermatologist for dermal filler placement. If you’ve had previous surgical procedures to your face, let your physician know. Some procedures can change the anatomy of the face, so you may not be a candidate for fillers in certain areas.

Most people are suitable candidates for dermal fillers. However, fillers should be avoided by those who:

• Are pregnant or breastfeeding
• Know they are allergic to products in the filler
• Have an active infection or skin inflammation

 

Topical Anti-Aging Treatments

Injectable anti-aging treatments are highly effective, but some people prefer to address their wrinkles with less invasive in-office procedures and topical products.

 

Chemical Peels

Chemical peels are in-office treatments that smooth the skin by removing the damaged outer layers. Peels may be beneficial to patients with acne scars, uneven skin tone, fine lines and wrinkles, and signs of sun damage. A chemical peel is an excellent way to bring a healthy glow to dull, uneven skin.

 

Topicals

The first step to any anti-aging treatment is to make sure that you have a good skincare regimen in place. Your daily regimen doesn’t have to be complicated, but it should include the following key ingredients:

• Broad-spectrum SPF 30 sunscreen: No matter the weather or your geography, you should wear sunscreen daily to protect your skin against sun damage. Broad-spectrum sunscreens protect against UVA and UVB rays that increase your skin cancer risk and cause premature aging.
• Antioxidants: Environmental factors like pollution and UV radiation create reactive oxygen species that are linked to skin cancer and photoaging. Antioxidants like vitamin C protect skin against reactive oxygen species damage. Apply an antioxidant serum each morning after cleansing your skin to any area where you get sun exposure (face, neck, chest).
• Retinoids: Topical retinoids are a class of drugs that are vitamin A derivatives. They work well to reduce fine lines and improve uneven pigmentation. They also smooth out roughness and texture. Drugstore creams often contain retinoids, but they are usually weaker than prescription-strength versions.

Using these three skincare pillars may be all that some patients need, but they’re also a great addition to a treatment plan that includes neurotoxins or fillers.

 

Microneedling

Microneedling is a treatment that uses small needles to create controlled injury to the skin in order to promote new collagen and elastin production as the skin heals. A microneedling treatment is a non-invasive way to reduce fine lines and wrinkles, plus it improves skin tone and texture. It is effective in treating some scars such as acne scars and scars from traumatic events or surgeries.

 

Preparing for Your Treatment

The best thing that you can do to prepare for an in-office cosmetic consultation is to come with a list of questions about the procedures that pique your interest. Everyone has different needs and concerns, so be prepared for your consultation so that you can get the most out of the appointment.

You should also bring a complete list of medications and supplements that you’re taking. Be prepared to tell your dermatologist about previous surgeries, cosmetic procedures, and any recent dental work.

If you’re ready to explore cosmetic dermatological treatments, schedule your appointment with one of our Board-Certified dermatologists today.

 

Contact the Dermatology and Skin Surgery Center of Wilmington for all of your Mohs surgery, cosmetic, and general dermatology needs. Since 2001, Skin Surgery Center’s fellowship-trained Mohs surgeons and board-certified dermatologists have provided patients with exceptional treatment outcomes. Our professional staff is ready to provide you with the thoughtful, competent care that you deserve in our state-of-the-art facilities. Book your appointment today.