Aging is a natural part of life. However, there are ways to make it a more graceful process. When it comes to taking care of your skin, anti-aging facials are a great option. Many of these facials are noninvasive and aim to promote collagen production. As with all skin care techniques, though, it’s important to know what to expect — the good and the bad.
Below are some of the most commonly sought-after anti-aging facials and what you need to know about them.
1. Chemical Peels
A chemical peel is designed to promote skin rejuvenation by working to shed off the top layer of your skin. This allows new skin to resurface, reducing fine lines and wrinkles and leading to a more youthful glow. They can come in light, medium, and deep peels depending on your skin needs. A chemical peel can also help improve acne, correct sun damage, address pigment problems, and reduce the appearance of scars. Overall, this treatment can create smoother skin, better skin tone, and improved skin texture.
As the namesake suggests, these treatments typically contain a lot of chemicals including glycolic acid, salicylic acid, and lactic acid. Keep in mind that these peels can cause redness, swelling, irritation, or scarring. Side effects are more common with deep chemical peels and can cause changes in skin color or even infections. If you want to improve skin turnover, without going in-office for a procedure, topical retinoids, like tretinoin, are an alternative option.
2. Dermabrasion
Dermabrasion is another skin resurfacing treatment that is common for those who are trying to fight the effects of aging. This procedure also removes the top layer of skin, but by using a motorized, rotating device that applies consistent, gentle pressure. Professionals will numb your skin with anesthetics during your dermabrasion. This facial is known for reducing fine lines and wrinkles, particularly around the mouth.
Like most skin care fixes, there are side effects that come along with dermabrasion. If you have allergic reactions or easily irritated skin, it could be best to avoid dermabrasion to prevent flare ups. The service can also cause breakouts, skin color changes, redness, swelling, and enlarged pores. In some extreme cases, dermabrasion can lead to scarring. Downtime can take at least two weeks, and it can take several weeks to see the full results from the treatment.
3. Microdermabrasion
A similar anti-aging facial option to dermabrasion, but less abrasive, is microdermabrasion. This is used to treat lighter skin issues by using crystals to gently exfoliate and remove dead skin cells. Your collagen production declines as you age, but treatments like microdermabrasion can stimulate it, leading to more youthful skin. It can also improve skin texture, reduce age spots, and even out hyperpigmentation. This option is typically painless and doesn’t require downtime.
Microdermabrasion does not have as many side effects as dermabrasion, but it does still come with risks. This facial can leave the skin with redness and swelling, as well as a burning or stinging sensation. In some cases, it can also leave bruising on the skin. While it’s always important to use SPF, it’s particularly crucial after this treatment to prevent these side effects. If there are side effects, however, they typically go away after a few days.
4. LED light therapy
Around 30 years ago, NASA began studying LED light’s effects on astronauts’ wound healing by growing cells and tissue. Now, this same technique is used to stimulate collagen and elastin production in the skin. This new skin cell growth helps reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. LED light devices can be used at-home, but for the best results, it’s often better to see a professional. For optimal improvements, it can be helpful to get regular treatments, once a week for a month.
If you take certain medications that increase your sensitivity to sunlight, LED light therapy might not be the right fit. Some of these medications include steroids, cortisone injections, isotretinoin, and lithium. If you also have a family history of skin cancer or eye diseases, it’s also not recommended to use this treatment. Some side effects include headaches, eye strain, and difficulty staying or falling asleep.
5. Hydrafacial
A Hydrafacial is another noninvasive way to reduce anti-aging symptoms through skin rejuvenation. This facial consists of exfoliating techniques combined with hydrating serums. It also includes cleansing and extractions to remove impurities and build up in the skin. This treatment option is also highly customizable based on your skin care concerns. To see a reduction in fine lines and wrinkles, it’s ideal to get a treatment around once a month.
While this skin care technique can be performed on most skin types, it’s important to take any sensitivities into account. For example, if you have a rash, sunburn, or rosacea, a Hydrafacial could cause flare ups. You should also pass on this facial treatment if you have any open wounds, due to the chemicals in the products.
The Bottom Line
Smiles lines, deep elevens, and wrinkles are bound to happen. However, there are ways to slow down the process. Taking proper care of skin through facial treatments is a great way to be proactive. When it comes to finding the right one for you, it’s important to know the ins and outs of each option. Consider the information above, but if you still have questions, a dermatologist or esthetician can answer your questions. There’s bound to be a facial option for you.