Have you noticed a few extra lines recently? New age spot? Skin looking dull  and lacking moisture?

Perhaps, it’s not bad enough that you feel it’s worth going under the knife, but you want just a little extra… oomph.

There are a variety of options out there that can help! Let’s look at some of them:

Microdermabrasion

PROS:

• Microdermabrasion can be used to improve/reduce:
  • scars and acne scars
  • wrinkles and fine lines, “crow’s feet”
  • age spots
  • unwanted pigmentation
• It does not involve needles or puncturing and has little/no downtime.
• Not painful (if done correctly)

CONS:

• Useless if done incorrectly
• Can be expensive some places (prices range from $75-200)
• Not effective in treating:
  • congenital skin defects
  • most moles
  • birthmarks
  • scars from burns

Retinol

Retinol is the strongest form of Retinoid(Vitamin A derivative) available without a prescription. Retinoids trigger the release of collagen in the skin. Collagen contributes to the elasticity of the skin (or the ability to bounce back).

PROS:

• Helps speed up the renewal of skin and reduce the appearance of wrinkles, fine lines and age spots for firmer, smoother and more evenly-toned skin
• Many types available
• Can be used at home

CONS:

• Retinol is converted to Retinoic acid by the skin which causes irritation
• You must wear sunblock to protect your skin while using this product
  • You should be wearing sunblock anyways! Protect your skin.
• Overuse or use of the wrong product can damage the skin
• Here’s an example of a good retinol product.

Lasers

Laser can treat a wide variety of conditions. There are lasers that reduce cellulite, tighten skin, remove birthmarks, remove unwanted hair and reduce wrinkles.

Lasers are also used to treat skin abnormalities.

PROS:

• longer lasting results
• may be able to “fix” or reverse more than topical medications

CONS:

• Most lasers are pricy
• Some people do not tolerate the pain associated with lasers

Botox

Read more about Botox by clicking the link.

 

Juvaderm

Read more about Juvaderm by clicking the link.

Find a dermatologist in your area here.

• Skincare