Wrinkle Smoothing Treatments

We all know that wrinkles come with age, but age is not the only contributor. A number of other factors including genetics, lifestyle, and environmental pollutants contribute to the development of wrinkles. As we age, our natural collagen begins to break down and skin elasticity decreases. Facial wrinkles are caused by our repeated expressions, sun damage, smoking, and various environmental pollutants.

 

With an aging population of ‘Baby Boomers’ in a culture that cherishes a youthful appearance, the demand for products and procedures to turn back the hands of time is growing rapidly. In addition to the innumerable and heavily marketed products that can be purchased over the counter and from troops of ‘independent beauty consultants’, there are a number of wrinkle smoothing treatments available medically from plastic/cosmetic surgeons and dermatologists. The wrinkle smoothing treatments provided by physicians include both surgical and non-surgical wrinkle procedures. 

 

 

Dermal fillers can be used to smooth moderate to severe facial wrinkles by injecting the ‘filler’ into the mid to deep dermis. These fillers provide effective wrinkle smoothing in most cases by increasing the volume to plump up the area. Procedure time is short (about 15 to 20 minutes); side effects are typically few (redness, swelling) and short-term, and results are immediate. A variety of filler materials may be used: 1) collagen base—Evolence (porcine or pig collagen), Artef (bovine or cow collagen), and Cosmoplast and Cosmoderm (human collagen); 2) hyaluronic acid base (Juvederm, Restylane, Prevelle Silk, Elevess); 3) calcium hydroxyl apatite (Radiesse); or 4) poly-lactic acid (Sculptra). The type of filler used is best determined by an experienced physician and will vary depending on the area to be treated, length of time results will last, and other individual factors. The quality of the results (smooth with no lumps and bumps) is as dependent on the skill of the physician as on the type of filler material.

 

Wrinkle smoothing injections are perhaps the most familiar treatment for diminishing or erasing wrinkles. BOTOX (now formally approved by the FDA for this use as Vistabel) smoothes wrinkles by relaxing nerves in the muscles of the treated area. The procedure takes about 15 minutes with full results seen within two weeks and lasting three or four months. These injections may also be combined with dermal fillers in the treating wrinkles.

 

Chemical peels use varying types and strengths of chemical solutions to provide a rejuvenated and more radiant appearance by removing a carefully determined depth of old skin cells. New skin typically has a smoother, more youthful appearance. The mildest peels use alphahydroxy acids (AHAs) like glycolic, lactic, and fruit acids in varying concentrations. The peels can be repeated as often as weekly. Trichloroacetic acid (TCA) peels are a bit stronger and typically used for medium depth peels, but peel depth can be adjusted using different concentrations. Phenol peels are the strongest of the chemical solutions and can be used to smooth course wrinkles. As would be expected, results are more dramatic and last longer with the stronger phenol peels. Patients may feel like they have a sunburn following treatment with any of the peels, but a longer recovery time is required for stronger peels. It is essential that patients wear sunscreen as directed by the physician after having a chemical peel.

 

Microdermabrasion gently removes dead cells from the outer layer of skin using small crystals with mild abrasion to reveal brighter, healthier looking skin. More than one treatment is typically needed. Patients may experience some redness following the procedure, but side effects are rare.

 

Light or photo therapies may also be used as effective wrinkle smoothing treatments. Physicians used instruments that allow them to select the appropriate wavelength, strength, and frequency of light impulses based on the area being treated. Phototherapy works by stimulating the production of collagen (a substance that begins to break down as we age) to provide a smoother, more youthful appearance. A series of treatments is generally required to achieve optimal results. Improvement is significant following the initial treatment and continues to increase with subsequent treatments. Although patients may experience some temporary redness and slight bruising following photo rejuvenation, downtime for recovery is minimal to nonexistent.

 

As with all medical wrinkle smoothing treatments, outcomes are best when procedures are performed by qualified, experienced physicians. Consultation with the physician is necessary to determine the treatment or combination of treatments best suited for each individual and for patients to understand the benefits and risks of the procedures.