Most everyone wants to look younger. And it’s probably true for men and women about equally, at every age, and at every stage of life. Today, there are anti-aging treatments for a myriad of skin conditions. More importantly, the treatments are safer than in the past – much easier to perform – and in many cases, with less recovery time. The problem, as always, is that every skin product will claim to be the best, and every skin treatment will claim to be superior to the rest.
BOTOX® Cosmetic
The most well-known anti-aging (non-surgical) cosmetic treatment is probably BOTOX®. With this treatment, a diluted toxin is injected into the face muscles. The toxin stops the muscles from contracting, and therefore prevents the skin from wrinkling. The treatment is painless, with little discomfort, and can last up to six months. BOTOX® is also used for serious muscle disorders.
Chemical Peels
Chemical peels have become a popular anti-aging alternative to surgery. This is a non-surgical treatment, where an acid-based solution is applied to the face, neck, or hands. The solution is cleansed away almost immediately and allowed to dry. Several treatments may be needed for noticeable results. Depending on the potency of the peel, recovery time could be three months.
Intense Pulsed Light
Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) uses lightwaves to treat sun-damaged skin and modify wrinkles. With this procedure, intense bursts of light are applied to specific areas. This process causes old skin to shed, and allows smoother skin to emerge, for a revitalized appearance. This is a procedure that requires professional oversight, and could take up to a dozen treatments to see some results.
Collagen Treatment
Collagen is a protein used in anti-aging treatments. The less invasive version uses collagen cream to restore natural skin protein. The more invasive version injects collagen right into the face. This is still a non-surgical treatment, and can take up to an hour, depending on the treatment area. To diminish discomfort, a topical anesthetic is used. Results are immediate and can last 6 months.
Microdermabrasion
Microdermabrasion is often referred to as the “instant facelift.” This procedure sprays tiny grains that scuff away a layer of skin. This is much less invasive (and more affordable) than any facelift surgery. The procedure causes a skin reaction whereby a new layer of skin is created. Here again, professional oversight is required since several treatments are performed at weekly intervals.
Gentle Waves LED
Gentle Waves LED is one of the more recent anti-aging treatments. Gentle Waves LED uses light emitting diodes to stimulate collagen production. The result is rejuvenated, youthful looking skin. The facial in Toronto is suited for all skin types, and practically no after-care is required. Typically, it takes 4 – 8 treatments to see noticeable results. This treatment procedure is totally painless.
Injectable Fillers
Injectable fillers are an affordable alternative to some of the other invasive facelift procedures. The injections are different from BOTOX® because they “fill-in” wrinkles and lines. Injectable fillers also serve to plump-up lips, uplift the cheeks, and reduce sagging skin. Injectables should be administered professionally as there may be mild swelling and/or bruising after treatment.
