|
BOTOX® Cosmetic, or botulinum toxin type A, is a protein commonly used to reduce or eliminate the appearance of facial wrinkles. It is injected under the skin into areas surrounding the eyes, forehead and mouth to smooth crow's feet, frown and worry lines, and lines on the neck. BOTOX® injections block nerve impulses, weakening muscles to relax wrinkles and give the face a rejuvenated look. RESTYLANE is designed to smooth wrinkles, sculpt lips and shape facial contours. It is a clear gel composed of hyaluronic acid, a natural substance that is found throughout your body. This synthetic acid carries no risk of allergic reaction. The most common areas for treatment are the lips, glabellar lines (between the eyebrows) and the nasolabial folds (from the root of the nose to the angle of your mouth). With its unique ability to bind with water, RESTYLANE remains in your skin for many months. Collagen is a naturally occurring protein found in the second layer of skin (the dermis) which "plumps up" the skin, joints, bones and ligaments. Injections counteract the effects of gravity, sun exposure and years of facial muscle movement by filling out sunken areas and smoothing lines for a rejuvenated look. Results may begin to fade in a few months, depending on the patient's age, genetic background, skin quality, lifestyle and body site. Because of this, and because injections cannot improve severe wrinkles or deep folds, the procedure is often combined with facial resurfacing or plastic surgery for more a satisfying and longer-lasting outcome. Chemical peels remove damaged outer layers of skin on the face to smooth texture, reduce scarring, and remove blemishes and pre-cancerous growths to produce healthy, glowing skin. There are three types of chemical peels, ranging from mild to strong – alphahydroxy acids (AHAs), tricholoroacetic acid (TCA) and phenol – and formula strengths are tailored to each patient. Peels can be combined with other procedures such as facelifts for a younger look. They may be covered by insurance if they are performed for medical rather than cosmetic reasons. Microdermabrasion improves mild to moderate sun damage, scarring, wrinkles and other superficial skin problems. A gentle stream of tiny particles exfoliates the outer layer of skin and provides a fresh, glowing, younger appearance. The particles scrape away the surface layer of aging or damaged skin, which is then brushed off with the microdermabrasion vacuum tool with no need for anesthesia. Only a small amount of skin is removed, so sensitive areas such as the face, chest, neck, arms and hands can be treated. Results are comparable to a light chemical peel and should be immediately visible. The procedure is particularly helpful for Asian and dark-skinned patients who risk skin discoloration with other treatment options. Microdermabrasion is often performed in conjunction with other skin renewal procedures, such as laser treatment and chemical peels. Multiple treatments are recommended for full effect. |
||
