According to the American Academy of Dermatology, skin becomes thinner when collagen and elastin become weak. This may occur for a variety of reasons: aging, smoking, too much sun, stress, lack of sleep or pollution. Prevention is the best method; you protect yourself against free radical damage. However, thanks to modern technology, there are a wide variety of treatments, ranging from topical solutions to invasive cosmetic procedures.
Chemical Peel
There are three different levels of chemical peels: The light peel that uses alpha-hydroxy acids, the medium peel that uses trichloroacetic acid, and the deep peel that uses phenol. Chemical peels are perfomed by dermatologists to peel layers of your skin off, revealing fresh, younger-looking skin. For wrinkles, the medium and deep peels are most commonly used.
Microdermabrasion
Microdermabrasion is suitable for mild wrinkles or discoloration. It involves the use of microparticles to remove the top layer of skin and promote new skin growth. It is advantageous because it does not require the use of a topical anethetic and requires no recovery time. You can buy a home microdermabrasion kit at your local drug store and on the internet.
Lasers
Laser treatment is a popular method to eliminate wrinkles since the FDA has given it the green light. This is a non-invasive surgery, however it works by removing layers of skin. Mild pain, redness and swelling may result, but those conditions usually are treated with over-the-counter analgesics. Be sure you consult your dermatologist to find out if laser surgery is ideal for you.
Facelift
A facelift is an invasive procedure, usually done by a cosmetic surgeon. It involves cutting into the hairline, stretching the skin and smoothing it out for a wrinkle-free appearance. Unlike the other forms of treatment, it does not have to be performed multiple times; one time will suffice for approximately 10 years. Consult a cosmetic surgeon about the risks and benefits involved with a face-lift procedure.
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