As we age, our skin and facial anatomy go through various changes. These changes not only affect the appearance of our skin, but also the shape of our face.  Thus, taking extra special care of our skin becomes increasingly important in our later years.  

Non-invasive and minimally invasive medical aesthetic treatments have come a long way in recent years and can greatly address common concerns, while also enhancing the natural beauty of individuals over the age of 50. These modalities offer effective alternatives to surgical procedures and can deliver remarkable results without the need for extensive downtime or recovery. 

Let’s take a look at the most beneficial treatments specifically tailored for those
50 plus, ensuring a youthful and radiant glow for years to come.

Intense pulsed light (IPL)

Here is the desert, we are continuously exposed to potentially damaging sun rays often resulting in uneven skin pigmentation which is enhanced by aging and hormones. Intense pulsed light works to remove unwanted brown and red spots caused by these invariable factors while also smoothing fine lines and wrinkles. The best thing is that the treatment takes only 30 minutes and has no downtime. Depending on the condition of the skin and individualized treatment goals, IPL can be performed on a monthly basis. 

Radio Frequency (RF) microneedling 

Microneedling stimulates the growth of healthy new skin.

RF microneedling benefits both the face and body by lifting and tightening skin, stimulating collagen and resurfacing lines, wrinkles and scars. The treatment combines the use of tiny needles and radio frequency waves to gently penetrate the skin while also delivering heat to the deeper layers. This penetration and heat stimulate the growth of healthy new skin, lifting, tightening and minimizing scarring. It is a very popular therapy due to its ease, safety and little-to-no downtime. 

Chemical peels

Chemical peels can improve skin texture, minimize wrinkles and reduce hyperpigmentation. By applying a safe chemical solution to the skin, the outermost layer is exfoliated revealing fresher and healthier skin underneath. Chemical peels can be customized to the treatment goals of the patients, allowing for an individualized skincare plan. While results are less dramatic than other skincare procedures, this is a valuable cost-effective option for anti-aging.    

Laser skin rejuvenation

Laser skin rejuvenation treatments utilize advanced laser technology to target specific skin concerns such as wrinkles, age spots and uneven skin tone. The laser energy promotes skin tightening, pore reduction and reduced the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Laser skin rejuvenation can also target areas of hyperpigmentation, resulting in a more even complexion. Because of the depth of this therapy, there is some post-treatment downtime.

Injectable treatments

Injectables such as Botox, Sculptra and dermal fillers have gained immense popularity in recent years due to their ability to provide natural-looking results with minimal invasiveness. These treatments can effectively address wrinkles and facial volume loss that occurs with aging.  

Most have heard of Botox which temporarily relaxes the muscles responsible for causing wrinkles and fine lines. This popular treatment is commonly used for upper face areas including forehead lines, crow’s feet and wrinkles between the eyebrows. Botox injections are quick, painless and provide an instant refreshed youthful appearance. The big win is that there is no downtime and results typically last 3-4 months. 

Dermal fillers are made of hyaluronic acid (HA), a naturally occurring substance in our body. As we age, we lose subcutaneous fat and bone in our faces, creating wrinkles and sagging. HA fillers can effectively reduce the appearance of these wrinkles by adding fullness to depleted areas and plumping lips. Dermal fillers provide natural, immediate results and require little-to-no downtime, making them a convenient option.  Fillers can be injected in nearly any area of the face and typically last
12-18 months or longer.  

PDO thread lift

Polydioxanone (PDO) thread lifts are a less invasive option to face lift surgery. They use dissolvable sutures to lift and tighten sagging skin tissue and can be used to treat most parts of the face including cheeks, the jaw, neck and eyes. The biodegradable sutures are made from colorless polyester that breaks down in your body after about six months. The presence of the sutures triggers your body’s fibroblast cells to produce more collagen rebuilding structure and elasticity. This 45-minute, in-office procedure delivers results which can last from 1-5 years. 

Age is simply a number, however, maintaining healthy and youthful-looking skin along the way can be truly rewarding in our later years. With the large number of cosmetic aesthetics now available, it is beneficial to meet with a qualified practitioner to explore options for your specific skin appearance and conditions. A personalized treatment plan can leave you feeling refreshed, rejuvenated and confident in your skin at every age.

Pam Gossman is a doctor of nursing practice and owner of Desert Glow Medical Aesthetics and Wellness, She offers medical wellness programs and aesthetic procedures and can be reached at (760) 565.3990 or [email protected]. For more visit www.desertglowspa.com.

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