As people get into their thirties, the quality and youthfulness of their skin begins to deteriorate. Many seek out cosmetic treatments as a means of staving off these effects, and they are highly effective.
Among those popular cosmetic procedures are injectables, microneedling, and lasers. While they have been traditionally recommended to older patients, these treatments are now being performed on people in their 20s and 30s at an unprecedented rate. They are a cost-effective and convenient option for patients of all ages.
These quick and simple treatments can achieve remarkable results without requiring surgery. Surgery comes with a hefty amount of commitment, including the cost. With injectables, patients can save money while attaining a more youthful appearance.
What are the different procedures, and what do they entail?
There are various cosmetic procedures available that can aid in fighting the aging process.
Botox
BOTOX is derived from a cosmetic form of the toxin botulinum. This formulation works by temporarily freezing facial muscles that are responsible for inducing wrinkles in the face. Once these muscle contractions have been paralyzed, the skin is able to relax and smooth out, giving the patient a more rested and refreshed appearance.
Dysport
Also derived from botulinum, Dysport® is an injectable that is designed to attenuate wrinkles. It works by relaxing the muscles that are responsible for wrinkles. Injections are made between and above the eyebrows. This is carried out in a carefully controlled manner to ensure that facial expressions are left unhindered.
Xeomin
Xeomin is a neuromodulator, just like BOTOX and Dysport. It is also derived from botulinum and works by blocking the signals from nerves to muscles, allowing the muscles to relax and reducing the severity of wrinkles and fine lines. The only real difference between Xeomin and the aforementioned products is a slight variation in its molecular structure.
Dermal Fillers - Restylane and Juvederm
Restylane and Juvederm are both injectable fillers that are formulated with hyaluronic acid. They work by restoring lost volume in the face, resulting in a reduction in wrinkles and lines. Both procedures are quick and virtually painless. The primary difference between them lies in their textures. Juvederm’s texture makes it ideal for treating fine lines and wrinkles, whereas Restylane’s texture is more effective at addressing volume loss in areas such as the cheeks.
Facetite
FaceTite is a minimally invasive treatment that can provide remarkable anti-aging results in only one in-office visit. FaceTite treatment employs a cannula to emit radiofrequency energy, heating up the fat tissues in the patient’s face. This process causes the skin to contract and tighten, giving the face a taut and firm look. Beyond that, it also stimulates collagen production.
Embrace RF
A highly effective anti-aging cosmetic treatment, Embrace RF is essentially a combination of FaceTite and Morpheus8. Embrace RF is an innovative procedure that channels radio-frequency (RF) and bipolar RF energy to provide both facial contouring and fat reduction benefits.
Morpheus 8
Morpheus8 is an innovative procedure that employs microneedling to stimulate collagen production in the skin while simultaneously removing fatty tissues. Its combination of traditional microneedling techniques with radiofrequency energy is what sets it apart from other anti-aging treatments. With Morpheus8, the benefits are doubled, as the microneedling stimulates increased collagen production while the radiofrequency energy redefines fat regions of the face.
CO2 Laser
Laser resurfacing is a procedure that is designed to improve the skin's overall appearance and treat any minor flaws that may exist. These treatments are able to attenuate the appearance of fine lines and improve skin tone, leaving the patient with a refreshed complexion. A fractional laser is employed to administer the treatment, allowing for a shorter recovery period and less risk of side effects.
CO2 laser skin resurfacing removes the outermost layer of the skin and heats the sublayers of the skin. This process stimulates collagen production, resulting in enhanced firmness and texture in the skin.
What is the takeaway?
All of these procedures are great options for patients struggling with the effects of aging. Choosing the right treatment option requires an in-depth look at the patient’s unique issues and having a good understanding of what best suits their needs. As with any cosmetic protocol, patients should have realistic expectations for the outcome of their procedure.