Aging & Collagen
The not-so-secret cause of facial aging
One of the primary reasons for visible facial aging is loss of collagen, a fibrous protein in the deep dermis that gives structure to skin and supports the functions of elastin and hyaluronic acid (HA). Elastin is an elastic protein that maintains skin shape, while HA cushions and lubricates to keep the skin hydrated. More collagen enables the presence of more elastin and HA.
Facial aging overview
Facial aging actually begins in your 20s, when skin firmness begins to decrease as a result of both internal (genetics and natural aging) and external (sun exposure, smoking, pollution, sleeping positions, etc.) factors.
Resurfacing
Chemical peels, microdermabrasion and laser resurfacing modify the surface of the skin to correct visible signs of sun damage, such as fine lines, irregular pigmentation and blemishes.
Injectables
Toxins, traditional fillers (hyaluronic acid) and collagen stimulators are injected into facial areas to reduce the appearance of lines and wrinkles and restore facial contours.
Surgery
A wide range of surgical procedures exist, like liposuction, face-lifts and fat transfers, which are used to remove excess fat, lift severely sagging skin or fill facial hollows. These are the most invasive types of treatment.
Sculptra® Aesthetic uses poly-L-lactic acid, which works with your body to help rebuild lost collagen for a more youthful-looking appearance that can last up to two years.