In the world of skin care, there is no larger or more menacing problem that wrinkles. They are a fact of life, but not everyone is anxious to be referred to as looking distinguished. In fact, the battle against the signs of aging consumes a large portion of each day for many people. There are remedies abound, and it seems as though every expert has a different opinion about how to deal with this threat to our once youthful appearance that we would like desperately to maintain. As in any conflict, to gain an upper hand you have to have the right weapons.



In recent years modern science and technology may have finally caught up with Father Time, as we have more ways than ever to combat the advent of wrinkles. Wrinkles can occur for a number of reasons, and they come in different varieties.

For the most part we can define wrinkles by placing them into two categories; Static wrinkles or dynamic wrinkles. Static wrinkles are always there. They are truly the result of the passage of time, and often deepen as we get older. Dynamic wrinkles are the result of facial movements, which would include smiling, frowning, moving our brow, or squinting our eyes.

Different problems require different solutions, and fortunately there are now a variety of options at hand to help deal with wrinkles. One of the most popular solutions for fine lines and wrinkles is Botox.

Botox is a pharmaceutical product manufactured by Allergan, Inc. that is injected into the facial muscles by a physician or medical professional. The purpose of Botox is to serve as a neuron-toxin to interrupt the signals sent through the nervous system to indicate to a muscle that it should contract. If the muscle does not receive the message, then the muscle does not move.

Less movement means fewer wrinkles. Botox presents a temporary resolution to the problem, and follow-up or maintenance treatments are required about every four to six months on average.

Static lines or wrinkles are a different story. Static lines do not move, and are typically the result of a decreased density of collagen in the skin. Collagen is what makes the skin soft, supple and elastic. If there is not enough collagen in an area, we can simply put more in.

This procedure is known as the introduction of a dermal filler. A dermal filler is either a natural or, more often, a synthetic product that is injected into the skin to fill a void. Products used as dermal fillers include natural or synthetic collagen and hyaluronic acids, such as the brand name products Restylane, Juvederm, Radiesse and more.

Some people, however, flat out do not like the idea of needles or the sound of the word neuron-toxin, which can be a bit intimidating. Fortunately there are alternatives. Traditional skin care products that are designed to rejuvenate the skin are commonplace and have been around for years. These products can certainly be helpful, but they are not going to offer the same impact or effect as more significant services or procedures.

Topical skin care products are, however, always a great way to maintain the health and appearance of the skin. If you are seeking a significant cosmetic enhancement without the use of needles or surgery, then an energy based technology treatment, such as a laser, is the way to go.

There are emerging laser technologies that now allow skin care professionals the opportunity to actually stimulate the growth of your own natural collagen to increase the overall collagen density, thus resulting in the elimination of wrinkles and a substantial rejuvenation effect. These services are commonly offered by many of your local medical spas, so visit a medspa directory today to find one near you. The future is here, so lets get rid of the signs of the past.