Turn Back the Clock: Reducing the Signs of Aging
Do You Really Want to Look Your Age?
We all want to live long lives, but does that mean we need to show our age? Most people would rather not, and there is solid science that says you don’t have to. Did you know that about 50 percent of visible skin aging comes from the environment, rather than any genetic factors? Climate, UV exposure, pollution, poor sleep, and stress can all accelerate skin aging. The good news is that many of these environmental factors can be managed, and the look of your skin improved, without surgical measures.
What Are the Visible Signs of Aging?
The effect of environmental factors on your skin can manifest in a number of ways. You may notice that your skin looks dull and tired, which indicates a depletion of oxygen. Fine lines and wrinkles can make you look older, as can sagging skin and discoloration. What can you do to decrease these signs? There are some simple and not so simple ways to turn back the clock.
Simple Things You Can Do to De-Age Your Skin
If environmental factors are damaging your skin, it makes sense that protecting your skin from these factors would help it look more youthful. Some simple steps you can take for healthier skin include:
- Getting enough quality sleep. Experts recommend 7 to 8 hours per night.
- Drinking more water. Go for at least 8 glasses per day.
- Eating a more nutritious diet. Skip the overprocessed food in favor of nutrient dense fruits and vegetables, lean meat, healthy fats, and whole grains.
- Slathering on the sunscreen. Every day, all year, whether it is cloudy or sunny, and whether or not you are going outside, protect your face from UV rays by using sunscreen.
- Being proactive with your skincare. Talk to your dermatologist about cleansers, serums, and moisturizers that can help you regain your youthful glow.
Non-Surgical Options from your Dermatologist
Your dermatologist can recommend skincare products, as well as providing certain non-surgical procedures that will help turn back the clock. Talk to your doctor about your concerns, and ask for recommendations, which may include:
- Facials: Facials can do a lot for your skin, to keep it fresh and youthful. They can hydrate, exfoliate, cleanse, and moisturize, and even remove excess fluid from the face.
- Chemical Peels: A chemical peel removes the outer layer of the skin, in order to encourage the growth of new, smoother skin. This can help improve skin texture, reduce acne scars and fine lines, and remove sun damage and age spots. There are different types of chemical peels, so talk to your dermatologist about which one is right for you.
- Dermaplaning: This non-invasive treatment removes dead skin cells and peach fuzz from the face, using a specialized blade. Sometimes, dermaplaning is used before chemical peels to allow for better penetration.
- Microdermabrasion: This is used to remove age spots, lighten acne scars, and rejuvenate the skin. This procedure involves spraying small crystals onto the skin to exfoliate, then using suction to remove the crystals and dead skin cells.
- Injectables: Neuromodulators like Botox® block the chemicals that contract tiny facial muscles, and this helps smooth fine lines and wrinkles.
- Microneedling: In this treatment, the top layer of the skin is punctured with multiple, tiny, sterile needles. This creates tiny wounds and trigger collagen production. According to the American Academy of Dermatology, microneedling can reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, large pores, scars, and stretch marks.
- Fillers: These are used, most often in cheeks, lips, and nasolabial folds, to add volume to areas that have begun to lose fullness and sag.
Turn Back the Clock with Swinyer-Woseth Dermatology
If you’re looking for a dermatologist to help you improve your skin, Swinyer-Woseth Dermatology is committed to providing superior, professional skin care in a manner that’s practical, efficient, and compassionate. We have the knowledge and skill not only to treat your skin but also to recommend skincare products to help you care for your skin at home. With over 30 years of experience providing dermatological services in Salt Lake City, we provide a variety of services, from cosmetic skincare to treatment for skin cancer. Our team of board-certified dermatologists and licensed cosmetic service providers are here to provide you with the care you need in a comfortable, professional atmosphere. Call (801) 682-4715 or contact us through our website.