The Wrinkle Free Face
Fine lines and wrinkles are some of the earliest signs of aging. With time, the skin loses its naturally elasticity and begins producing less collagen. This occurs as a natural part of the aging process, but wrinkles may be brought on prematurely by poor nutrition, excessive exposure to the sun or tanning lamps, and smoking. Today there are numerous methods of wrinkle reduction that have proven to be effective in reducing the appearance of fine lines, deep folds, and every type of wrinkle in between.
Treatments to Remove Wrinkles
Wrinkle reduction treatments vary greatly. Because there are so many options, most individuals are able to find a method that is appropriate for them. Often the first course of treatment involves topical creams designed to fill fine lines and wrinkles to reduce their appearance. Many of these products are available over the counter, but there are also prescription options.
There are also numerous wrinkle reduction treatments that can be performed in the office of a doctor or dermatologist. These treatments are very safe, effective, and minimally invasive. Many do not even require the use of any type of local or general anesthetic. These treatments include laser resurfacing, micro-dermabrasion, and cosmetic injections like Botox or collagen. Laser treatments and micro-dermabrasion are designed to smooth the surface of the skin and stimulate collagen production while Botox injections are intended to reduce the appearance of lines and wrinkles by decreasing muscle movement. Collagen injections work to fill in lines and wrinkles to restore the skin's smoothness and elasticity.
In addition to creams and minimally invasive procedures, patients may also undergo cosmetic surgery procedures like face lifts or brow lifts. These procedures can provide patients with a much younger appearance, but they require extended healing time and have considerably more risks when compared to other methods. They do, however, typically provide the longest lasting and most drastic results.
Recovery from Wrinkle Treatments
Healing times vary depending on the nature of the procedure. Laser and skin resurfacing treatments heal within a few days, and the full results become apparent over the next several weeks. With these procedures, patients typically require little to no downtime. Major cosmetic surgery is painful and can take several weeks to heal, and complications like infection are common. Even after such procedures are performed, the aging process will still continue, and new wrinkles may form. As a result, many patients choose to have procedures repeated to maintain a youthful countenance.