Some of the signs of aging skin may be inevitable. The American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) says that, as your skin matures, collagen and elastin fibers that maintain skin plumpness begin to deteriorate. Lifestyle choices can also have a significant influence on your skin as you age. The Mayo Clinic says premature wrinkles may be avoided by protecting your skin from the damaging effects of the sun. Anti-aging skin care treatments range from wrinkle creams to chemical peels to laser resurfacing and beyond.
Sun Protection
When it comes to anti-aging skin care, one of the most significant preventative methods is avoid excess sun exposure and always wear sun protection. The AAD says the sun is responsible for most of the undesirable skin changes that become noticeable as you age. These include wrinkles, pigmentation changes and age spots. The AAD recommends that you wear a sunscreen with a sun protection factor (SPF) of 30 or higher.
Moisturizers
Moisturizers nourish and smooth the skin, replacing oils that are lost as skin ages. The AAD says, however, that moisturizers that cost more are not necessarily the best. There are a number of affordable and effective over-the-counter moisturizers. Active ingredients to look for in moisturizers that may help reverse the signs of aging include alpha hydroxy acids, salicylic acid, azelaic acid, kojic acid and some peptides.
Retinoids
Retinoids also benefit aging skin. The Mayo Clinic says retinoids are vitamin A derivatives that, when applied to skin, may diminish fine wrinkles and smooth rough skin. A more potent retinoid, known as tretinoin (Retin-A) is a prescription-only topical treatment that has been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration for wrinkles. Side effects of retinoids may include, redness, burning itching and dryness.
Dermabrasion
Dermabrasion is a resurfacing procedure that uses a rotating brush to sand the skin. This process removes surface layers of the skin that results in a rejuvenated appearance, according to the AAD. You may experience redness, swelling and scabbing for up to two weeks after a dermabrasion treatment.
Laser Resurfacing
Laser resurfacing causes wrinkles to "literally disappear in a puff of mist," according to the American Society of Dermatologic Surgery. Laser rejuvenation involves either a laser beam that destroys the outer layer of skin (epidermis) or or less injurious pulsed light sources and radiofrequency devices, says the Mayo Clinic. In the latter, recovery may be speedier but the results are typically less dramatic. Side effects of laser resurfacing may include mild swelling, redness or brown discoloration at the treatment sites.
Chemical Peels
Chemical peels are used to treat wrinkles around the eyes and mouth. The AAD says peels work by applying a chemical solution such as glycolic acid, salicylic acid or lactic acid to remove the outer layers of skin. This stimulates the growth of new skin which is usually smoother and less wrinkled than your old skin. Chemical peels may produce reddening and peeling similar to a sunburn which can last for a few weeks.
Fillers
Soft tissue fillers, which include fat, collagen and hyaluronic acid (Restylane, Juvederm), can be injected into deep facial wrinkles. The Mayo Clinic says fillers plump and smooth out wrinkles and and give your skin a fuller appearance. You may experience temporary swelling, redness and bruising in the treated area.
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