As skin ages, it loses elasticity and may wrinkle, sag or become discolored. With an extensive range of anti-aging skin treatments on the market, it can be a confusing choice of options for those wishing to reverse the hands of time. But concerned consumers can learn about different procedures, both surgical and non-surgical, before making an educated decision on the best way to look younger and feel better.
Expert Insight
According to the American Academy of Cosmetic Surgery, baby boomers are turning to surgical and non-surgical anti-aging procedures for the skin in growing numbers. Facelift procedures rose 44 percent from 2008 to 2009 in procedures by AACS members, and eyelid lifts went up 42 percent. According to the AACS, non-invasive anti-aging procedures also rose from 2008 to 2009, with Botox procedures up 157 percent and filler procedures up 245 percent.
Surgical Procedures
Facelifts and eyelid lifts are popular anti-aging surgeries for people battling the skin's signs of aging. A facelift lasts for more than 10 years, according to Consumer Guide to Plastic Surgery. Surgeons perform facelifts using a variety of procedures, generally involving making incisions around the ears or side of the face, removing excess skin and lifting remaining skin. Facelifts help to combat the effects of gravity and skin's loss of elasticity. During eyelid surgery, incisions are made in the top crease of the eyelid skin or below the eyes and excess skin is removed to create a tighter, more youthful appearance.
Non-surgical Procedures
Non-surgical procedures continue to increase in popularity at rapid rates, according to the American Academy of Cosmetic Surgery. Common non-surgical procedures include laser resurfacing of the skin, chemical peels and injections of Botox, restalylane or collagen. Laser treatments work by using laser beams to penetrate the skin and change pigmentation, removing age spots and evening out skin tone. Laser procedures require a series of treatments. Chemical peels use chemical solutions to remove damaged outer layers of the skin, exposing smoother, healthier skin underneath. Restyalane is a hyaluronic acid often used in the lip area to reduce wrinkles and make the lips appear fuller.
Injections
Skin injections offer a less expensive solution to the effects of aging than cosmetic surgery. There are a variety of skin injections on the market today, many of them available at spas and dermatologist or cosmetic surgery offices. Botox, or botulinum toxin, is a popular injectable that works by temporarily paralyzing the nerves and muscles that cause wrinkles, creating smoother looking skin. The effects of Botox usually last three to eight months. Collagen is a naturally occurring protein in the skin that can be injected in aging skin to create a fuller, more elastic appearance.
At-home Treatments
There is an endless array of at-home anti-aging treatments on the market, including lotions, exfoliants and creams. It is best to consult a dermatologist about the best products for your skin type, age and goals, as an expert can help you wade through the many claims, ingredients and products on the market to determine which are most effective.
Warning
Anti-aging skin procedures all carry risks, so learn as much as you can about your options. Side effects of these procedures can include infections, bleeding, pain, swelling, bruising, skin rashes and paralysis of facial muscles. Consult a dermatologist about the risks of any procedure you are considering.
References
- American Academy of Dermatology: In-Office and At-Home Cosmetic Procedures Fact Sheet
- American Academy of Cosmetic Surgery: Baby Boomers Keep Cosmetic Procedures on the Rise
- Cosmetic Surgery Magazine: Facial Cosmetic Procedures- A Quick Head-to-Head
- Consumer Guide to Plastic Surgery: Facelift Surgery
- American Society of Plastic Surgeons: Eyelid Surgery Procedural Steps
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