Considering the cost of a face-lift--an average $6,800--and risk of any surgical procedure, many people opt for alternative solutions to recreate the healthy glow of their youth. As marketing trends continue to move toward achieving natural facial health and beauty, many skin-care companies, physicians and beauty experts offer inexpensive and noninvasive ways to make the best of what you already have from the neck up.
The Right Skin Care Regimen
Using products that are appropriate for your skin type is essential for rejuvenating the face and neck. "You will age and get wrinkles no matter what you do, but don't ignore it," says licensed aesthetician Jeffrie Ann Hall. She recommends products that contain anti-oxidants such as vitamins A, C, and E.; skin-identical ingredients that "mimic the structure of the skin to help prevent moisture loss and improve texture while protecting it from damage"; exfoliants to remove dead skin cells; and sun protection.
Limit the Sun's Damaging Effects
Though a tan gives the appearance of a healthy glow, consider the underlying damage that may keep your skin from looking it's best. "Seventy-five percent of what we think of as aging of the skin is caused by the sun," Hall says. Hall advises using a facial sunscreen with at least a SPF15 that blocks UBV and UBA rays.
Healthful Food and Lifestyle Choices
"The skin is an outward reflection of the internal situation. A diet rich in fruits, green leafy vegetables, herbs and spices and lean proteins such as chicken, gives you the nutrients you need for healthy skin," says Dr. Michelle Copeland, surgeon and author of "The Beautiful Skin Workout." In addition to eating well, steering clear of skin-damaging habits such as smoking, drinking alcohol and tanning will create a "luminous" complexion.
Facial Exercises
Just like body muscles, those in the face lose their tone if unused for any length of time; this causes that droopy, aged appearance. Cynthia Rowland, creator of the facial exercise program called Facial Magic, suggests "facial exercises that use isometric and resistance type movements" or the repetition of hold and release movements of the various muscles in the face and neck.
Micrdermabrasion
Microdermabrasion is a popular spa treatment that generally produces clearer, more vibrant skin. The aesthetician or dermatologist uses a mechanical device that directs tiny crystals or particles onto the face. Dead skin cells, sun damage and minimally dark spots are gently removed by the particles. It is relatively painless procedure and costs an average of $75 to $100, depending on location and the type of treatment.
References
- Cosmetic Plastic Surgery Statistics Web site: Cosmetic Plastic Surgery Research
- Jeffrie Ann Hall; Aesthetician; Austin, Texas
- Dr. Michelle Copeland Skincare Web site: Personal Beauty Tips from Dr. Michelle Copeland
- Cynthia Roland Beauty Systems Web site: Media Center, Exercising Your Face: Fact or Fiction
