Skin aging occurs as a result of both natural aging and excessive sun exposure. The latter process, known as photoaging, is the primary contributor to prematurely aged skin.
Signs of photoaged skin may include irregular skin tone (such as redness, broken capillaries, sun spots, and freckles), altered skin texture, enlarged pores, wrinkles and fine lines, and skin laxity. Facial rejuvenation often involves a combination of techniques to address these changes. The approach to each patient is individualized based on the presence and relative contribution of these factors.
Skin Tone and Redness
Irregularities of skin tone, such as age spots, overall redness, and prominent capillaries, may be effectively treated with lasers and laser-like devices. Intense pulsed light (IPL) is a broadband device that targets both brown discoloration and redness and is commonly used in overall facial rejuvenation.
More prominent capillaries may be better treated with a vascular laser, such as the KTP laser.
Skin Texture and Resurfacing
Superficial skin texture and tone concerns may be addressed with resurfacing techniques. Physical resurfacing may be achieved with chemical peels (most commonly trichloroacetic acid/TCA peel) and, less commonly, dermabrasion.
Laser resurfacing — most commonly fractional laser resurfacing — can also be used to renew the outer skin layer while stimulating collagen formation in deeper layers of the skin.
Treatment Expectations
These therapies are generally well tolerated. Some options, such as IPL, are often referred to as “lunchtime rejuvenation” due to minimal visible downtime. Others, such as chemical peels and fractional laser resurfacing, may involve redness, peeling, crusting, and swelling, and may require a period of recovery.
In many cases, a combination of treatment modalities and multiple sessions may be recommended, depending on the degree of photoaging and your specific concerns.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is facial rejuvenation?
Facial rejuvenation refers to a combination of treatments designed to improve signs of aging, including wrinkles, volume loss, skin discoloration, and texture changes.
Do I need more than one treatment?
In many cases, optimal results are achieved with a combination of treatments targeting different aspects of aging, such as wrinkles, pigmentation, and volume loss.
Is there downtime?
Downtime depends on the procedure. Some treatments, such as IPL, require little to no recovery time, while others, such as chemical peels or laser resurfacing, may involve several days of visible healing.
How are treatments selected?
Treatment recommendations are based on an individual consultation, taking into account your specific concerns, skin type, and goals.
Facial rejuvenation often involves a combination of treatments tailored to your individual concerns. Schedule a consultation to discuss your goals and available options.