Are you a beauty enthusiast who is always on the hunt for the best products and most effective techniques? Los Angeles plastic surgeon Dr. George Sanders has dedicated his career to helping patients look and feel beautiful. Over the years, Dr. Sanders has used a number of products, techniques and technologies to enhance his patients’ skin and features. In his experience, a few options are ahead of the pack. Here are some of Dr. Sanders’ favorite beauty picks:
Hyaluronic Acid Products
Hyaluronic acid products such as Juvederm and Voluma are facial injectables used to reverse the signs of aging. They temporarily smooth wrinkles and folds around the face, and can also be used to add youthful contours to the face. The results typically last six to 12 months.
Botox
Botox is a staple in any beauty lover’s repertoire. Another cosmetic injectable, Botox works differently than Juvederm. When injected into the skin, it relaxes specific facial muscles and thus smoothes the overlying wrinkle. The results are temporary, and repeat treatment is needed to maintain the effects.
Botox and Juvederm are administered during a short appointment at Dr. Sanders’ office.
Erbium Laser
Erbium is a moderately powerful laser that minimizes signs of aging (e.g., lines and wrinkles) and softens other skin imperfections (e.g., oversized pores, acne scarring, brown spots). During a single treatment session that requires either local or sedation anesthesia, the Erbium laser removes the outer layer of damaged skin and stimulates the growth of fresh, healthy skin. A dressing is worn for the first five days, after which makeup is applied to conceal the pink color for anywhere from a few weeks to a few months. As new collagen forms, the skin becomes smoother, clearer, and more even in tone and texture.
Fraxel Laser
Fraxel is a fractional laser skin resurfacing treatment that is less powerful than the Erbium laser. It smoothes wrinkles, lightens brown spots and improves acne scars. Prior to treatment, a cream anesthetic is applied to the face and absorbs for 30 minutes. During treatment, the Fraxel laser creates thousands of tiny injuries within the skin, leaving untouched skin zones between the injuries. This triggers the body’s natural repair system and stimulates the regeneration of skin cells. Over time, the skin becomes tighter, firmer and smoother. Four or five treatments are needed for optimal results.
Retin-A
Retin-A is another anti-aging must-have. By increasing your skin’s supply of collagen, thinning the dead cell layer, and enhancing the blood supply, Retin-A hydrates, lifts and firms the skin and diminishes the appearance of wrinkles and lines. Retin-A also helps exfoliate dead, dull skin cells for more even and luminous skin. Medical-grade retinoid products are only available through a physician, so talk to Dr. Sanders or your dermatologist about trying one. Retinol is a milder form of Retin-A, but is available without prescription in many over-the-counter products.
Adequate Hydration
Hydration is essential for healthy and beautiful skin. There are many ways to adequately hydrate your skin, including from the inside out. Drink plenty of water and eat foods with high water content (e.g., watermelon, cucumbers, celery). Avocados, almonds and oils are great sources of vitamin E and good fats, which help the skin seal in moisture. Find a topical moisturizer suited to your skin type that keeps skin looking plump and supple.
For more information about the products, cosmetic injectables and laser treatments mentioned, schedule a consultation with Dr. Sanders today. Call our office at (818) 981-3333 and make an appointment to discuss your beauty needs and goals.
