Q: I feel like my wrinkles are becoming deeper by the day and the idea of Botox worries me. What do you recommend instead?
Dr. Linda Miles, D.O.M., responds:
A. While some of us live by the creed, ‘my wrinkles tell my story,’ many of us would prefer to let our voices tell our story, not our wrinkles. To help skin look youthfully smooth and less wrinkled without resorting to invasive procedures, it’s important to understand your skin, your lifestyle and the skincare products that are most effective against deep wrinkles.
Wrinkles 101
Wrinkles start at the dermal layer, the second layer of skin that is made up of mostly collagen and elastin fibers. As we age, these fibers break down, and skin loses its strength and elasticity. Fat cells beneath the dermis also shrink leaving skin looking less plump and youthful. Furthermore, oil gland production slows, so the skin gradually retains less moisture and becomes drier, contributing to the formation of fine lines and wrinkles.
Lifestyle factors also play a role. Sun exposure, poor diet, smoking or drinking alcohol can dehydrate you and deplete essential nutrients from your body, interfering with the skin regeneration process, resulting in damaged, wrinkled skin. f you’re under a lot of stress or constantly squinting at a computer, facial muscle contractions can also cause pesky frown lines and crow’s feet.
Solutions
Injectable fillers, like Botox, have become a popular invasive solution for deep wrinkles, but they can indeed be worrisome for a variety of reasons. For starters, the procedure can be costly and needs to be repeated for ongoing results. Plus, there is always the risk of unwanted side effects ranging from mild redness and irritation to more severe reactions like vision problems and droopy eyelids. Luckily, there are natural alternatives that can make a real difference in the look and feel of deep lines and wrinkles.
Let’s start with which skin care products to choose. For the most effective wrinkle-fighting power, look for peptides as the key active ingredients. Advanced peptide Matrixyl® synthe’6® has been shown to stimulate collagen and promote healthy tone and texture, softening the look of deep lines and wrinkles. Another advanced peptide, Argireline®, has been shown to help visibly relax facial muscles, promoting a smoother, more relaxed appearance. Together, these powerful peptides work synergistically to reduce the look of deep wrinkles and discourage new ones from forming.
To reap the benefits of both of these powerful peptides, apply derma e® Deep Wrinkle Peptide Moisturizer morning and night. Effective, noninvasive and affordable, this potent formula visibly improves skin’s resilience, tone and texture, and softens and smoothes the appearance of even the deepest wrinkles. With added green tea and vitamin C antioxidants, this formula provides maximum anti-aging defense. With continued use, skin will appear smoother and more rejuvenated.
For additional wrinkle treatment power, add the derma e® Deep Wrinkle Peptide Serum and the derma e® Deep Wrinkle Peptide Eye Crème to your routine. Layer this nourishing, double-action treatment serum underneath your moisturizer or use as a stand-alone hydrator for oily skin. To visibly smooth crow’s feet, this intensively rich peptide eye crème helps reduce the signs of aging for more youthful, radiant eyes.
Aside from using powerful peptide products, there are other alternatives that can help promote smooth, younger-looking skin. Regular facial massage and acupuncture treatments are great ways to help rejuvenate skin, and reduce the look of deep lines and wrinkles. Living a healthy lifestyle can also make a big difference. Drinking plenty of water, minimizing your caffeine intake, exercising regularly and getting a good night’s sleep can work wonders when it comes to looking and feeling healthy, vibrant and youthful.
Wrinkles can be frustrating but hopefully with these simple tips, you’ll feel good knowing you can skip the fillers and choose a natural approach instead.