As you age, your skin's collagen and elastin fibers begin to deteriorate. These fibers provide structure to the skin, making it soft and supple. When these fibers break down, the skin may begin to fold--a condition known as skin wrinkling. Wrinkles can be treated with several treatment options.
Retinoic Acid
Also known as tretinoin, retinoic acid is a topical form of vitamin A that can help fight wrinkles, according to U.S. News & World Report. When applied regularly to the skin, these skin treatments can stimulate collagen growth. Though products containing retinoic acid are sold over the counter, prescription treatments contain more significant amounts and may be more effective. It may take six weeks to six months in order for you to experience a noticeable reduction in skin wrinkling.
Laser Treatments
Laser light therapies represent an ever-evolving sector for wrinkle treatments, according to the Mayo Clinic. Ablative lasers remove the top layer of skin cells and stimulate collagen growth to layers underneath the surface skin. These treatments may require more significant recovery time. However, nonablative sources and pulsed light treatments penetrate the skin and stimulate the growth of collagen and elastin under the skin.
Hyaluronic Acid
An alternative to Botox treatments, hyaluronic acid is an injectable treatment that's injected into the skin in order to fill or plump wrinkles, according DocShop.com. Hyaluronic acid binds to water molecules in the skin in order to expand skin tissue. Because it's found naturally in the body, the body is more likely to accept it, which reduces the likelihood for adverse reactions. Over time, however, the hyaluronic acid is absorbed into the skin, reducing the effects of the filler. This may take four to six months. Commercial forms of hyaluronic acid include Captique, Hylaform, Juvederm, Perlane, Radiesse and Restylane.
Collagen
Collagen injections can be used to treat wrinkles, according to the American Academy of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeons. Injected collagen utilizes animal protein injected into the skin to reduce the appearance of wrinkles. This treatment is especially effective for treating wrinkles of eyebrows or cheeks. However, collagen treatments typically last between two and four months, meaning additional injections may be required to sustain results.
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