ANTIAGING TREATMENTS

Resurfacing Treatments

Resurfacing treatments all aim to exfoliate, or clear the upper dermis of dead, unproductive cells which clog the pores, preventing new skin growth, collagen and elastin production, and absorption of antiaging skin nutrients.

Resurfacting treatments include:

• Dermabrasion
• Chemical Peels
• Laser Resurfacing
• L.E.D Light
• Other exfoliating treatments

Choosing a Resurfacing Approach

There are many choices for skin resurfacing. Important factors to consider are:

• The skill of the surgeon
• Safety of the procedure,
• The desired depth of the resurfacing, its ability to safely reduce wrinkles
• The length of recovery
• Possible complications
• The duration of the benefits

All resurfacing procedures need a healing period during which the skin is red and sensitive. The deeper the procedure, the higher the risk for complications, including delayed healing, infection, loss of pigment [especially in darker skins], and scarring.

A person's age also helps determine the procedure:

Chemical peels are best for ages up to 40

After age 40, collagen or fat implants have more impact

Age 50 and over, laser resurfacing and more customised, invasive treatments are generally required. This usually entails a combination of procedures including:

• Laser resurfacing – for deep Lines around the mouth – laser surgery
• Chemical peel – for the rest of the face
• Blepharoplasty [eye lift] to correct droopy eyelids and bags and for raising the brow
• Botox and dermal fillers – for deep lines around the eyes