Thursday, October 4, 2007

Wrinkle Removal and Reduction

Skin wrinkles are usually the result of skin aging however they can be exacerbated by:

  • exposure to certain extreme weather conditions
  • physical trauma or damage to the skin
  • poor health resulting in poor circulation and dehydration of the skin
  • rapid weight-loss
Treatments for wrinkle removal or reduction are generally classed as short term to medium term solutions with corresponding effectiveness and cost. The range of treatments include:
  • Anti-aging creams – these creams contain ingredients designed to re-hydrate the skin or prevent skin from drying out. The effectiveness of these creams is usually short in time and usually require daily application to maintain their skin effect.
  • Muscle relaxants and dermal fillers such Botox and Sculptura work by reducing muscle capability to contract and filling gaps or fat loss under the skin respectively. These treatments can vary in effectiveness from 3 month to 2 years.
  • Surgical procedures such as dermabrasion (abrasion of the skin to reduce the appearance of wrinkles and scars) and facelifts (removal and stretching of the skin to reduce and remove wrinkles) are the longest lasting of the treatments and usually the most expensive. These treatments can last anywhere from 1 to 10 years.
None of these treatments are guaranteed and the cost and recovery period increases with each of these treatments. The period of effectiveness is also not guaranteed and is only given as a guide. Some of the natural methods that can be used to avoid or reduce the wrinkle effects are:
  • Drinking sufficient water to keep your skin and body hydrated
  • Keeping your exposure to intense sunlight to short periods and apply suncream to protect your skin from the effects of the sun
  • Avoiding smoking and smoke filled areas – nicotine can cause dryness in the skin
  • Exercising on a regular basis and include cardiovascular exercise which improves blood circulation around the skin
  • Eating a healthy and balanced meal – visit your local GP for a check up and assistance with your diet
  • Taking some time out each day to try and relax and calm yourself mentally and physically. You may not notice it however, stress in your life may be causing you to frown for extended periods of time.