Facial Aesthetics- What is it?
Can we be honest? A decade ago, I didn't even know the field of facial aesthetics existed, much less what it offered. But I was so grateful to discover it when I began seeking solutions for some problematic skin. And now, I get to spend my days providing facial aesthetic treatments to help others achieve radiant, beautiful skin.
Facial aesthetic procedures are non-surgical treatments that can make noticeable, but subtle, enhancements to your appearance. They can help soften some of the effects of time and sun exposure or address problem areas to improve your skin and your confidence. Most facial aesthetic treatments fall into the following four categories: anti-aging injections, dermal fillers, laser hair removal and skin rejuvenation treatments.
Anti-Aging Injections
Neuromodulators like Botox and Dysport are possibly the most popular way to reduce facial wrinkles. These anti-aging injections administered around the face offer a quick, simple procedure to relax the skin and soften the effects of stress and aging. Neuromodulators work by temporarily blocking the signals from nerves to the tiny underlying muscles, as the tightening of those muscles is the cause of unwanted lines. The injections take a few days to kick in and usually last a few months.
Dermal Fillers
Many visible signs of aging can be traced back to loss of volume. As we age, our lips thin, lines appear around our nose and mouth, and our cheeks begin to look a little hollow. Dermal fillers are soft, gel-like substances that can be injected under the skin to restore lost volume and return your youthful appearance. These treatments can do everything from smoothing deep under-eye circles, to lifting cheekbones, plumping lips and even softening the appearance of recessed scars. Collagen used to be a common dermal filler, but these days there are many options, including products that contain hyaluronic acid (e.g. Juvederm, Restylane), calcium hydroxylapatite (Radiesse), polycaprolactone (Ellansé) and poly L lactic acid (Sculptra). Fillers dissolve over time, but the effects can be visible for 12 months months.
If you have unwanted hair on any part of your body—from your face to your toes—this treatment can help. Laser hair removal technology safely and effectively targets unwanted hair to leave you smooth and confident. A series of 6-10 non-invasive laser hair removal treatments can permanently eliminate hair on virtually any area of the body or face. (Because the stages of hair growth are staggered the treatments are as well.)
If you have unwanted hair on any part of your body—from your face to your toes—this treatment can help. Laser hair removal technology safely and effectively targets unwanted hair to leave you smooth and confident. A series of 6-10 non-invasive laser hair removal treatments can permanently eliminate hair on virtually any area of the body or face. (Because the stages of hair growth are staggered the treatments are as well.)
Skin Rejuvenation
Healthy skin can make you look years younger. And skin rejuvenation treatments can give you that youthful glow by promoting collagen production and cell turnover to address everything from rosacea and acne scars to dark spots caused by hyperpigmentation and wrinkles. You will usually need multiple treatments for best results.
Laser Skin Rejuvenation - Treatments like intense pulse light (IPL) and broadband light (BBL) are common, non-invasive laser treatments that use light to reach damaged layers of the skin and enhance the production of collagen. They can also precisely target specific areas, such as sunspots.
Microneedling - Microneedling techniques can stimulate your body’s natural collagen production to give you smoother, more youthful skin. This treatment can incorporate platelet-rich plasma (PRP) to further promote naturally smooth, tighter skin.
Chemical Peels - Peels are a great option for anyone looking to erase skin imperfections left over from sun exposure, such as fine wrinkles and hyperpigmentation. These treatments exfoliate the skin and dissolve the outer layers of damaged skin to restore a youthful appearance.
You may have a long wish list or perhaps are just interested in learning more about facial aesthetics. Either way, a qualified, experienced provider can help you decide how to achieve your aesthetic and skincare goals. Good luck!
Emily Giddings, RN