Looking in the mirror and seeing signs of aging can be discouraging. For many of us, this isn’t how we imagine ourselves looking as we go about our day. Many who are not at the point where facelift surgery is indicated— come to my office wondering what “other things” they could be doing to help restore a more youthful version of themselves.
In many cases, a combination of lifestyle changes, certain non- surgical treatments as well as minor surgical procedures can add up to big results.
Lets do some math: The first number in my equation is 8.
The science of sleep clearly shows numerous benefits to your skin when you get enough rest— 8 hours per night at least. Here are a few reasons to prioritize sleep:
- During “deep sleep”, cell production increases and the breakdown of proteins decreases. Proteins are necessary for cell growth and repair, including the repair of skin cells that have been damaged by daily stressors and ultraviolet rays. Getting quality deep sleep is crucial to maintaining healthy, youthful looking skin.
- Collagen production also occurs during the deep sleep cycles. Growth hormone release is maximized at this time, and growth hormones play a major role in maintaining our body’s collagen matrices. Since collagen is the “scaffolding” of the skin, adequate collagen production is key to reducing sagging, volume loss and wrinkling in the face and elsewhere.
- Sleep deprivation may make you look less attractive (their words not mine). A Swedish study found that people can easily identify sleep-deprived individuals by subtle-but-obvious facial cues, including paler skin, redder eyes and droopier eyelids. Not only were the sleep-deprived individuals in the study easily identifiable, the observers in the study actually “judged” them on it, rating them as “looking more tired and less attractive.”
- Skin hydrates during sleep, the entire body perspires more, creating a hydrating effect on skin temporarily reducing the appearance of wrinkles. Combine the natural hydrating effect of sleep with a quality nighttime moisturizer, (I recommend SkinCeuticals Metacell Renewal B3) and you’re well on your way to maximizing your 8 hours of downtime.
- Quality sleep reduces stress, and stress can have a detrimental effect on the skin. On top of that, cortisol, the hormone released when we are stressed, actually breaks down the collagen we are so desperately trying to build and protect! Here’s another tip — try not to sleep on your stomach. Eight hours of gravity with your face pressed against the pillow each night can also be detrimental.
The next number in my equation is 3
BOTOX® Every 3 Months
Having BOTOX® injections to address problem areas approximately every three months can smooth out wrinkles and give your skin a smoother and more youthful appearance. BOTOX® is a tried-and-true injection-based treatment that can make a huge difference for certain trouble spots, namely those “expression lines” on the forehead or between the eyebrows. These lines are caused by repeated muscle contractions over time, and eventually they can become permanent. BOTOX® works by temporarily paralyzing those muscles and when those muscles are relaxed, the lines smooth away. Repeated BOTOX® treatments, can help your facial muscles “forget” the bad habits they’ve learned. In the meantime, you’ll look better, more rested and more relaxed.
Dermal Fillers every 3 to 4 months depending on type
The results of these “injectable” treatments can truly be astonishing, no scalpel, no downtime. I use dermal fillers to plump and smooth lines and wrinkles, while restoring fullness to parts of the face that have lost volume over time.
Office Based Treatments
A good portion of what makes us look older is related to the tone and texture of our skin. When you look at a 20-year-old person’s face, what do you see? Generally, smoother, well-hydrated skin, with a more even complexion. As we age, the way to recoup some of that youthful radiance is through treatments such as BBL phototherapy, chemical peels, laser treatments and microneedling. The aforementioned can address sun damage, scars, fine lines, wrinkles, “age spots”, uneven skin tone, and dull looking skin. There are treatments available for all skin tones and types, and some of these non-surgical rejuvenating treatments also can boost collagen production, which means their benefits go deeper than just the surface.
Skin Care at Home – 7 Days a Week
A question I often hear from patients is: “What things can I do at home on a regular basis to look my best?” At my office we provide our patients access to the full line of Skinceuticals products, including D.O.S.E., custom formulations created just for you and your individual needs. I am a big proponent of SkinCeuticals not only because they are medical grade, scientifically tested formulas, but also because I use them myself and have seen the results first hand, and I wouldn’t want anything less for my patients. Using your customized SkinCeuticals regimen seven days a week, can be a great way to maximize the results of other types of treatments.
Upper & Lower Eyelid Surgery
All of my above recommendations are non-surgical, but for certain people not ready for a facelift, there is a small procedure that can produce a real “wow” factor: eyelid surgery. Also called blepharoplasty, this procedure takes about 90 minutes from start to finish and does wonders for drooping upper eyelids and/or puffy or dark bags and circles under the eyes. The incisions are small and hidden in the natural lines of the eyelids themselves, and most people are ready to go back to work in days/weeks and even attend social events only a few weeks after surgery. If signs of aging around your eyes are giving you a tired, aged look, this may be the “little bit extra” you need to look and feel more refreshed. If you are ready to take control of your appearance as you age, and even possibly preempt many of the tell tale signs of aging—contact my office today to set up a consultation with me to learn more about which options are best for your individual needs. I look forward to seeing you soon!
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