Younger-looking skin is often at the top of patients’ wish lists for their dermatologists. According to Dr. Jacqueline Watchmaker of U.S. Dermatology Partners in Scottsdale and Phoenix, Arizona, “Anti-aging treatments from your dermatologist and products used at home make a meaningful difference in appearance. Anti-aging treatments like topical tretinoin and certain lasers can improve not only the beauty but also the health of the skin. A dermatologist can help you develop both an in-office and at-home regimen based on your skin needs and wants.” In this blog, Dr. Watchmaker describes some of the most recommended anti-aging treatments.
Microneedling
As the skin heals itself after an injury, it produces more collagen and elastin, the proteins that give skin the elasticity that allows it to bounce back and stay smooth. Microneedling harnesses this collagen and elastin-boosting power by causing microscopic injuries to the surface of the skin. After the microneedling procedure creates these injuries, the skin begins healing, causing accelerated skin cell turnover and increased collagen and elastin production. A series of treatments can diminish the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles as well as prevent them from developing.
Candidates
Anyone who wants to improve the general appearance and texture of their skin can benefit from microneedling treatment. In most cases, microneedling is used to address skin on the face, but it can also be used on other parts of the body in some situations. Microneedling can be used to improve the appearance of wrinkles, fine lines, scars, enlarged pores, hyperpigmentation, stretch marks, skin laxity, and uneven skin tone or texture.
Benefits
- Comfortable and minimally invasive with little (2-3 days) downtime
- Quick and convenient treatment option for all skin colors
- Versatile treatment to address numerous imperfections
Laser Skin Resurfacing
Laser skin resurfacing increases collagen and elastin production to tighten and smooth skin. The laser skin resurfacing process uses laser light waves to heat the outer layers of the skin, tightening existing collagen and elastin fibers and encouraging the production of new collagen and elastin for smoother skin. U.S. Dermatology Partners offers numerous laser skin resurfacing options, including:
- CO2 Laser Skin Resurfacing
- Erbium Laser Skin Resurfacing
- Fraxel Laser Skin Resurfacing
- HALO Laser Skin Resurfacing
Candidates
According to Dr. Watchmaker, “People who have many brown spots and/or fine lines and wrinkles around the eyes, mouth, or on the forehead can benefit from laser skin resurfacing. I also recommend this treatment option for acne scars. While most skin tones tolerate laser treatments, those with very dark skin have a higher risk for hyperpigmentation, so your dermatologist may not recommend certain laser resurfacing procedures if you have darker skin tones.”
Benefits
- Generally healthier and younger-looking skin
- Reduced pore size and a more even skin tone
- Diminished appearance of scars and skin discoloration
Chemical peels
Chemical peels, as the name indicates, use chemicals to gently peel away dead skin cells and the outer layers of skin. It’s an advanced exfoliation technique that keeps the skin looking smooth and bright. Chemical peels reveal healthier layers of skin and jump-start collagen and elastin production.
Candidates
Your dermatologist may recommend a chemical peel to improve pigmentation and give the skin a brighter complexion. However, it’s not usually recommended for those who spend significant time outdoors.
Benefits
- Improves the efficacy of skincare products by increasing absorption
- Reduces the appearance of sun damage and hyperpigmentation
- Products and treatments are personalized for each patient
Microdermabrasion
Microdermabrasion uses a device to remove the surface layers of skin. However, unlike traditional dermabrasion which was used 5-10 years ago, microdermabrasion is more gentle, making it safer for people with more sensitive skin. Rather than using a high-speed rotating device, microdermabrasion uses a high-speed spray of small crystals to remove the outer layers of the skin.
Candidates
Microdermabrasion is great for people looking to clean out clogged pores and give the skin a nice glow. While this treatment option is gentle, it’s not recommended for those who have inflammatory skin conditions like rosacea, as the microdermabrasion process can still irritate skin, leading to a flare-up.
Benefits
- Gentler than dermabrasion for those who have more sensitive skin
- Brightens skin for a healthy glow
- Helps to clear clogged pores
BOTOX/Neuromodulators
Botox is one of the most popular brand names for a series of dermatologic treatments known as neuromodulators. These treatments use a precise amount of botulinum toxin to target and control the unconscious facial movements that contribute to the formation of fine lines and wrinkles. By limiting these movements, wrinkle formation is slowed, and the appearance of existing lines and wrinkles is reduced.
Candidates
Botox and neuromodulators are some of the most popular dermatologic treatments. These injectable dermatologic treatments may be recommended to prevent or reverse fine lines and wrinkles. Neurotoxin injections aren’t recommended for those who have a neuromuscular disease, pregnant patients, or anyone under 18 years of age.
Benefits
- A quick and comfortable treatment option
- Results are visible quickly
- Easily customizable to enhance appearance
Fillers
Dermal fillers are injected below the skin to restore lost facial volume. There are several different types of dermal fillers, including:
- Juvederm Filler Treatment
- Radiesse Filler Treatment
- Restylane Filler Treatment
- Revance RHA Filler Treatment
- Belotero Filler Treatment
- Sculptra Filler Treatment
Candidates
Dermal fillers may be recommended for anyone over the age of 21 who wants to smooth fine lines, add structure to the cheeks or jawline, plump lips, or reshape facial structures.
Benefits
- Results are relatively immediate and typically last 6-12 months.
- Certain fillers can increase collagen and elastin production for longer-lasting results
- Increased confidence and feeling of aging gracefully
SofWave
SofWave is an innovative ultrasound treatment technology that combines ultrasound wave treatment with an advanced cooling technology for comfortable treatment. The ultrasound waves gently penetrate beneath the skin to stimulate collagen and elastin production and tighten the skin.
Candidates
Adults who have mild to moderate skin aging may benefit from SofWave treatment. Most patients who choose SofWave are over the age of 30 and want to improve skin laxity of the lower face and neck.
Benefits
- Improve the appearance of skin laxity without a need for anesthesia or numbing
- Long-lasting results with retreatment once a year
- Can be performed year-round with minimal risk for light sensitivity
Ultherapy
Ultherapy is a unique treatment that uses ultrasound technology to improve skin laxity. Ultrasound imaging allows the aesthetic provider to clearly see where they need to apply energy for advanced precision. As the energy is applied, it penetrates deeper into the skin, protecting the outer layers of the skin.
Candidates
Skin laxity and wrinkles on the forehead, around the eyebrows, chin, neck, and chest can all be addressed with Ultherapy. In most cases, dermatologists recommend this procedure for people over the age of 30.
Benefits
- No downtime – You can resume regular activities right away
- A U.S. Food and Drug Administration-approved safe treatment
- Results look and feel natural
Topicals
As part of the morning and evening skincare routine, there are a few key products that will prevent the development of fine lines and wrinkles and decrease the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles that have already formed. Specifically, you should include:
- Retinols/retinoids – as part of the evening skincare routine, retinols/retinoids promote skin cell turnover and collagen and elastin production.
- Antioxidant serums – serums that contain vitamins A, C, and E protect the skin from sun and pollutant damage.
- Moisturizer – applying moisturizer morning and night ensures skin stays healthy, hydrated, and supple. A great option is the Epionce Renewal Facial Lotion. This moisturizer is light and easily absorbed, and it includes active ingredients formulated to combat skin aging.
- Sunscreen –this is arguably the most important step in your skincare routine.
Candidates
When it comes to topical treatments, Dr. Watchmaker says, “Starting in the late teens or early twenties, using retinol, antioxidant serums, and moisturizers as part of your morning and evening skincare routines can improve the appearance and health of your skin. And obviously, daily use of sunscreen is essential!”
Benefits
- Keeps skin looking smooth and beautiful
- Can help with pigmentation
- Improves the results of other dermatologic anti-aging treatments
Sunscreen
Prevention is the best defense against aging. Much of skin aging is caused by exposure to the sun’s UVA and UVB rays, so protecting against this damage keeps skin looking younger and healthier. Applying sunscreen every day is one of the easiest ways to prevent skin aging and maintain a more youthful appearance.
Candidates
Everyone should apply sunscreen every day to any area of skin that will be exposed to sunlight. Even if it’s cloudy and cold outdoors or you plan to be inside for most of the day, it’s important to apply sunscreen. Sunlight still reaches the skin and can cause concerns, including accelerating aging.
Benefits
- Prevents aging before it begins
- Protects against hyperpigmentation and other concerns
- Reduces the risk of developing skin cancer
Explore Your Options with a Professional
If you’re interested in learning more about anti-aging skincare treatments and products, it’s time to schedule a consultation at U.S. Dermatology Partners. Our skilled dermatologists will work with you to develop a personalized skincare and dermatology treatment plan to maintain smooth, healthy skin at any age. We make getting started quick and easy. Just take a few moments to complete our online scheduling form. Once we hear from you, a member of our team will be in touch to finalize the details of your consultation.
Find a location near me
or
