The first article “Tips for Youthful Eyes” in our Anti-Aging Regimen series discussed the importance of quality sleep, keeping the eye area moisturized and the benefits of Thermage treatments. Since eye skin is so delicate, thin and in constant motion from facial expression, it must be well maintained and often requires cosmetic procedures.
Eye skin is one of the first places to show signs of aging, whether from loss of elasticity, poor lifestyle habits or environmental-based damages. Preventive eye wrinkle treatments have become one of the most sought-after aspects of an anti-aging regimen. Eye skin should be taut and wrinkle-free with an even skin tone. This is the appearance of a youthful face. However, wrinkles, dark circle, under eyebags and drooping eyelids are a giveaway to aging and poorly affect appearance. The following lifestyle changes and cosmetic treatments can assist to make your eyes look refreshed and less tired.
AN ANTI-AGING REGIMEN FOR EYES
4. Fraxel Laser Treatments
Fraxel lasers are either fractional ablative (Fraxel re:pair) or non-ablative (Fraxel re:fine and Fraxel DUAL 1550/1927). The lasers’ light energy heats the skin surface and/or the deeper skin layers. The re:pair ablates (vaporizes) tissue on the deer epidermis layer, while the re:fine and DUAL 1550/1927aggravate the surface and slightly below
The fractional laser anti-aging treatment regimens gently resurface eyelids gradually. Fraxel laser treatment can be used in addition to filler or surgical treatments. Fractional non-ablative treatments are safe on all skin tones, Fitzpatrick scale I to VI. The fractional ablative treatment is safe on light to medium skin types, I to III.
Fraxel laser treatments adress eyelid tightening, fine lines, wrinkles, surface scarring, sun spot pigmentation and sun damage. Consult with your dermatologist to determine which Fraxel laser is most appropriate for your skin.
This patient’s anti-aging regimen results of using Radiesse for eye hollows.*
Fraxel Re:fine FDA Clearances:
- Soft tissue coagulation
- Skin resurfacing
- Melasma
- Pigmented lesions
- Periorbital fine lines
Fraxel DUAL 1550/1927 FDA clearances:
- Acne scars
- Surgical scars
- Melasma
- Actinic Keratosis
- Photodamage
- Mild to moderate periorbital wrinkles
Fraxel Re:Pair FDA Clearances:
- Fine lines
- Textural irregularities
- Rhytides
- Pigmented lesions
- Moderate to severe wrinkles and furrows
- Vascular dyschromia
- Acne scars and atrophic scars (in progress)
5. Dermal Fillers: Juvéderm & Radiesse
Injectable dermal fillers are an effective anti-aging regimen to smooth the skin around the eyes. Dermal fillers also provide subtle, natural looking volume to correct hollow eyes. The most popular dermal fillers are Juvéderm, Radiesse, Restylane, and Bolotero.
Juvéderm promotes a healthier, more youthful facial appearance. It counteracts sagging, loss of volume and wrinkles due to aging. Aging naturally reduces the amount of hyaluronic acid in tissue, which results in loss of hydration. Effects and enhancements typically last six months to one year.
Juvéderm is available in two formulations, Ultra XC and Ultra Plus XC. Ultra XC is used for facial contouring and adding volume to wrinkles. Ultra Plus XC is used for volume and to correct deeper folds and wrinkles. Both Juvéderm formulations are injected into the mid to deep dermis.
Radiesse is a formulation of calcium hydroxyapatite microspheres that offer temporary structural support to areas of your face face. The calcium compound is naturally occurring in bones and cartilage and works by interacting with tissue close to the injection site. This supports new collagen fibers, which create contours and adds volume.
Radiesse improves the symmetry and appearance of your face by adding volume where there is fat loss. It is used both for temporary facial contouring and to eradicate wrinkles. Radiesse is a synthetic gel formulation that includes particles of calcium hydroxylapatite.
The efficacy of Radiesse lasts 12 to 18 months on average. It also has a thicker consistency than both Restylane or Juvéderm, which are both are hyaluronic acid-based dermal fillers. Radiesse is an effective anti-aging regimen for the area with:
Eyebrows
If injected above the eyebrows, it counteracts sagging of the eyebrow and eyelids. This uplifts the entire eye area.
Temples
Flat, hollow temples are evened out with injections. This adds volume to area to smooth any recessions.
Dr. Sanusi Umar is a board certified dermatologist and surgical dermatologist who is an expert in skin rejuvenation and anti-aging regimen solutions. He offers consultations at his clinic, FineTouch Dermatology, with a Redondo Beach and Beverly Hills office.
For more information concerning your eyes, read An Anti-Aging Regimen: Tips for Youthful Eyes, Part Three.