Minimally invasive techniques and the latest developments to improve ageing skin

Unfortunately, time comes for us all, and it is not often kind. We wear our years and experiences on our skin, but sometimes it may look like more years than we’ve actually lived! As skin ages, it loses fat, elasticity, and solid colouration, and this skin is unable to regenerate as it did in youth. This results in skin that is thin, sagging and loose, wrinkly, and speckled with sunspots and discolouration. There are several procedures on the market to conceal and reverse the effects of ageing, ranging from major plastic surgery to daily skincare regimens. In this article, an expert consultant plastic surgeon goes over the minimally invasive techniques that can have a big impact on ageing skin without a lot of effort, so you can find one that’s right for you.

Botox

Botox, or botulinum toxin, is a well-known beauty treatment for tightening the skin and reducing fine lines. Originally invented to help with lazy eyes, Botox quickly became a staple in cosmetic procedures. It is administered through injection and works by temporarily paralysing muscles in the face, smoothing the appearance. However, it can limit facial movement and reduce sensitivity. It is typically injected into the temples, forehead, smile lines, and chin. Botox can last for up to eight months, so the procedure will have to be repeated to maintain results, but that means that it is also reversible.

Dermal fillers

Dermal fillers are currently one of the most popular cosmetic treatments, due to their non-invasive technique and more naturalistic-looking results (when administered by a professional). They are made of hyaluronic acid, polycaprolactone threads, polylactic acid, calcium hydroxyapatite, tricalcium phosphate, collagen, or fat fillers. Much like Botox, dermal fillers are injected into the skin – most commonly in the face and neck, but can be used on the hands as well. Unlike Botox, dermal fillers make the appearance look younger by adding volume to the skin, in the way that younger people have more fat in their cheeks, under their eyes, and in their lips. This also helps to smooth out wrinkles, folds, and sagging skin. Dermal fillers also aren’t permanent, but they can last for years before needing touch-ups, or they can be dissolved if the patient wishes.

Injectable moisturisers

Also made from hyaluronic acid are injectable moisturisers. Hyaluronic acid is a naturally occurring sugar molecule found in the skin that helps it retain moisture, but production of this slows as we age. The injectable moisturiser amplifies the pre-existing hyaluronic acid, which preserves the collagen in the skin, hydrates the skin, and improves elasticity, giving the skin a youthful glow. Using injectable moisturiser helps to maintain the skin’s condition, rather than correct it like Botox or dermal fillers, and can slow down the overall visual ageing process. It is recommended to have injections every six months.

Peeling

Skin peels use enzymes and acids to exfoliate the skin, removing the top, dull layer of dead skin cells to reveal fresh, clear, and brighter skin underneath. A specialist will apply a concoction of acids and enzymes – such as glycolic acids, trichloroacetic acid, and lactic acid – to the skin where it will sit for up to 15 minutes before being removed. It may be similar to a slight burn, but it is an expected sensation. It is a simple procedure but the results are powerful! A peel can be used to address lines and reduce the appearance of scars and hyperpigmentation like sunspots, freckles, and melasma. After a peel, the skin is very sensitive and it is important for patients to be diligent about avoiding the sun for a few months and to apply sunscreen consistently. For more intense peels, the skin may begin flaking or peeling off for around two weeks afterwards, but this is normal as it is the dead skin expunging. Peels can be repeated for desired results (on the strength of the treatment).

Microneedling

Microneedling uses thin needles to make tiny pricks on the top layer of skin, called the epidermis. These minuscule injuries encourage the skin’s healing process, which means that the skin will begin to produce more collagen. This will firm and smooth the skin. Microneedling is suitable to improve the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, but also scars, burns, hyperpigmentation, texture, and large pores. The patient’s skin will be numbed before the procedure, so they will not feel pain from the needles. The skin may be slightly irritated, dry, or itchy for a few days after the treatment, but that is normal as the skin is actively healing.

Thread lift

A thread lift is a procedure that can tighten the skin around the temples, neck, and jaw (or jowls). It is similar to a facelift but less invasive and is reversible. The sagging skin is tightened, the brows are lifted and the jaw is contoured. It can be achieved surgically, where threads are inserted underneath the skin and pulled into place and secured to support structures in the facial muscles. The threads are made of polydioxanone, which is the same material used for medical sutures, and they dissolve with time, lasting up to four years. It can also be done with nonsurgical techniques, where small sutures are anchored under the skin to tighten. This procedure will not leave scars, and it can even encourage collagen and elastin production, further emphasising a youthful appearance.

If you are considering a cosmetic treatment to improve ageing skin, book a consultation with a specialist on Top Doctors today.