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Within the past few years, the cosmetic industry has surpassed expectations. The knowledge behind anti-aging and cosmetic procedures has improved tremendously, with less recovery time and amazing results becoming the standard.
There are now new and exciting developments in non-invasive facial cosmetic procedures. Cosmetic and anti-aging procedures have been modified and improved. There is a wide range of treatment options and procedures to choose from such as nimble fillers, futuristic lasers and so on.
Peptides
Peptides are short protein molecules. They are formed from amino acids.
Due to advances in technology and research, cosmetic peptides are fast becoming a leading beauty revolution. They are used to prevent skin aging by targeting the skin growth factors, hence regenerating collagen and restoring the elasticity of the skin.
There are lots of different synthetic peptides available in anti-aging skincare and they have many roles. Some of them appear in ingredients’ lists by a trade name such as Matrixyl or Argireline, and these might be a combination of more than one peptide.
Common cosmetic peptides include:
- Acetyl tetrapeptide-9
- Caprooyl tetrapeptide-3
- Copper peptides
- Matrixyl-palmitoyl pentapeptide
- Hexapeptide-11
- Acetyl Glutamyl Heptapeptide-1 also known as SNAP-8
Dermal Fillers
Dermal fillers are a naturally derived or synthetic material, that is injected directly into the skin with the aim of adding volume and smoothing out wrinkles, depressions or folds. Dermal fillers are similar to botox as they are both injections. The only difference being botox is most often injected around the forehead and wrinkles around the eyes (crow’s feet) to stop muscle contractions that result in wrinkles.
A wide variety of fillers are available and can be used:
- Collagen-Based fillers (Cosmoplast, Cosmoderm, Evolence). They are the first FDA-approved human collagen skin fillers. They are used to treat finer facial wrinkles. One important benefit of collagen-based fillers is the absence of an allergic reaction
- Semi-permanent fillers (Sculptra, Radiesse). Radiesse is an injectable skin filler that contains microspheres comprised mainly of calcium and phosphate ions, which occur naturally in the human body.
- Permanent fillers (Artefill)
- Hyaluronic Acid-Based fillers (Restylane, Juvederm). These are made of biosynthesized, non-animal hyaluronic acid. They are preferred for use in wrinkle treatment. Juvederm does not cause an allergic reaction.
Microdermabrasion
This is one of the newest, safest and best discussed cosmetic procedures with a dermatologist.
Microdermabrasion is a non-invasive procedure that uses a spray of microcrystals to exfoliate the outermost layer of dry, dead skin cells, giving way to a healthier, younger-looking skin. Microdermabrasion also promotes the growth of new skin cells beneath the skin, with higher levels of collagen and elastin.
- This procedure is ideal for patients who have the following skin conditions:
- fine lines
- dull-looking skins
- sun damage
- age spots
- clogged pores
- stretch marks
- uneven pigmentation
- blackheads
- melasma
There are a few different ways this procedure can be executed, based on the specific device used. There are three methods currently being used.
- Diamond-tip handpiece: This type of applicator is generally used in more sensitive areas of the faces such as close to the eyes. This procedure gently removes dead cells underneath the skin and sucks them off immediately.
- Hydra dermabrasion: This method combines simultaneously dermal infusion of products and crystal-free exfoliation.
- Crystal microdermabrasion; This uses a non-allergenic crystal-emitting hand-device to gently scrub away superficial layers of the skin. Different types of crystal that may be used include aluminum oxide and sodium chloride.
Microdermabrasion does not present any serious risks when it is performed by a licensed skincare professional. Some people may experience slight skin tenderness, swelling, and redness. These usually resolve within a few hours post-treatment
Laser resurfacing
Laser skin resurfacing is a popular cosmetic procedure that can help revitalize the skin and reduce the effects of the sun, aging, and some facial skin disorders. It is very safe, effective, and convenient. Cosmetic laser skin resurfacing is also less expensive when compared to many other treatment options.
Laser skin resurfacing is effective for patients with lines, wrinkles, or superficial facial scars such as acne scars that do not respond to other treatment modalities. It is contraindicated in patients with existing health conditions that might cause adverse risk during the procedure or recovery period.
After the procedure, healing takes three to ten days depending on the depth of the surface and type of laser used. Patients will be advised to gently apply ointment and redress the area daily.
Ultherapy
Ultherapy is a non-invasive procedure, FDA-approved technology to lift and sculpt the upper and lower face, neck and chest. The procedure utilizes ultrasound energy to kickstart the regenerative process within the deep layer of the skin to produces fresh, new collagen and elastin fibers, which should result in firmer skin, less sagging and fewer wrinkles.
Thermage
Thermage is an FDA approved non-surgical, non-invasive cosmetic procedure that uses a unique form of radio frequency (RF) energy to simultaneously tighten old collagen and stimulate the skin to produce more collagen for an overall younger looking appearance. The thermage procedure produces an instantaneous and marked reduction in the appearance of wrinkles, jowls, and sagging skin in the neck or eyebrow area.
Thermage is an excellent treatment option for patients who wish to reduce the appearance of subtle facial wrinkling and sagging skin.
Chemical peel
A chemical peel is a treatment in which acid, such as glycolic acid, lactic acid or trichloracetic acid, is applied to the skin and exfoliates the top layer, causing dead skin cells to peel off. At stronger concentrations, new, tighter skin forms as collagen production are stimulated in response to the wounding.
Chemical peel enhances and smoothes the texture of the skin. It is an effective treatment for facial blemishes, wrinkles, and uneven skin pigmentation. They exfoliate the outer layers of dead skin, revealing a new skin layer with improved tone, texture, and color.
Skin sags, bulges, and more severe wrinkles do not respond well to chemical peels. They may need other kinds of cosmetic surgical procedures, such as laser resurfacing, a facelift, brow lift, eyelid lift, or soft tissue filler (collagen or fat)
Fat Transfer (Microlipoinjection)
Micro-liposuction is a new technique in cosmetic surgery for contouring and removing fat from the neck, cheeks, and chin. It is performed with a combination of tiny incisions and small cannulas that result in quicker recovery time and very minimal scarring. A small amount of fat is drawn from the thigh or buttocks and is then injected into a targeted facial area.
There is no downtime associated with this procedure. Patients go home the same day and resume regular activities soon afterward.
Hylaform
Hyaluronic acid is a natural moisturizer that attracts and binds water, helping to strengthen and lubricate the skin
Hylaform is an injectable skin filler synthesized from a highly purified avian hyaluronic acid that mimics the effects of the natural hyaluronic acid found in the body. As the body ages, hyaluronic acid in the skin diminishes, causing the skin to lose its elasticity. Hylaform replenishes your body’s natural hyaluronic acid to help restore a more youthful appearance to your skin.
IPL Photofacial
A photofacial is a thirty-minute cosmetic procedure in which intense pulses of light are used to penetrate deep into the skin. IPL photo rejuvenation then causes collagen and blood vessels below the epidermis to constrict, reducing redness and age lines. The procedure involves only minimal discomfort, while the redness and swelling that sometimes occur after treatment disappear shortly. The end result of a photo facial/Fotofacial occurs gradually in the week’s post-treatment.
Connect With A Dermatologist Near You
References
Cosmetic Peptides – PeptideSciences.com. (2018). Retrieved from https://www.peptidesciences.com/cosmetic-peptides
FULTON, J. (1996). Dermabrasion, Chemabrasion, and Laserabrasion. Dermatologic Surgery, 22(7), 619-628. doi: 10.1111/j.1524-4725.1996.tb00608.x
Spandau, D., Loesch, M., Somani, A., Kingsley, M., & Travers, J. (2014). Skin resurfacing procedures: new and emerging options. Clinical, Cosmetic And Investigational Dermatology, 231. doi: 10.2147/ccid.s50367
SULLIVAN, M. (2011). Medical, Cosmetic Derms Agree: Consider Health Before Beauty. Skin & Allergy News, 42(8), 1-8. doi: 10.1016/s0037-6337(11)70408-9
