Facial aging is a holistic and inevitable process influenced by numerous interconnected elements and factors. It's not merely the passage of time that dictates how our appearance changes; rather, it's the intricate interplay of many elements. It encompasses the bones, muscles, fat, and, of course, the skin.

While we can’t stop the time to avoid how our faces change, we can certainly influence how our faces age. In this episode, we dive deep into the interplay of genetics, skincare treatments, and lifestyle, providing a roadmap for those who seek to take charge of their aging process.

The foundation of the aging process

When it comes to the topic of changing how your face ages, there are several key factors to consider before even delving into the realm of skincare as well as aspects beyond our control. These elements are the foundation of our aging process.

It's surprising how little attention we give to the role of bones in the aging process, but the truth is that our bones also undergo resorption, a natural thinning process. Genetics plays a significant role in determining how much resorption an individual may experience, and this can even impact their susceptibility to conditions like osteoporosis.

Another often overlooked aspect is the role of muscle in facial aging. While it's not a frequently discussed topic, muscle changes, especially around the eyes, can play a significant role in the aging process. In some cases, muscles may have hypertrophy, which can contribute to the overall transformation of one's appearance. So, when it comes to changing how our face ages forever, it's essential to consider these factors that extend far beyond just skincare products and routines.

Expressive facial expressions also lead to more lines, muscular hypertrophy in the jaw, and the loss of specific fat compartments in the face, resulting in deflation and puffy eyes. Skin changes are thus prominent, manifesting as lines, wrinkles, folds, and sagging. In addressing these concerns, treatments like HydraFacial can temporarily enhance turgor/rigidity and fluid retention in the skin, providing a smoother and tighter appearance for special occasions.

Genetics, diet, and supplements for skin health and overall wellness

I would like to emphasize genetics in your skincare plans, particularly concerning detox pathways, hormone metabolism, and sleep. Understanding your genetic predispositions can be a game-changer in tailoring a personalized approach to facial aging. It allows you to make more informed decisions and select treatments and products that align with your unique genetic makeup, enabling a more effective and sustainable way to alter the course of how your face ages.

I also recommend using air filters and avoiding plastic for drinking to ensure skin health and overall wellness. When it comes to diet, make sure to cut out gluten, dairy, processed foods, and unnatural sugars to enhance overall wellness before any procedure.

Additionally, when setting up a skincare routine, ensure that the skincare products suit your specific needs, which may include ingredients for reducing pigmentation, increasing collagen production, or targeting fat reduction. By incorporating these tailored skincare products into your routine, you're not only proactively addressing the aging process but also investing in the long-term health and vibrancy of your skin.

Treatments to improve skin health

Skin care plays a crucial role in tightening the skin and promoting collagen synthesis. Having the right cleanser and moisturizer tailored to one's skin type is essential, as is using sun protection, which are basic principles of skincare. I utilize products like elastin and my personal line of products is designed to stimulate collagen production. Daily use of these products can help improve skin tightness, so make sure to grab yours now!

The muscular blocking agents that we use assist in reducing the appearance of fine lines. These agents are commonly applied to areas like the forehead, crow's feet, and laugh lines around the nose, as these wrinkles result from muscular contractions. There are various options for these muscular blocking agents, including Botox, Dysport, Xeomin, and Taxify, each with unique properties and compositions.

The next step involves volumizing agents, commonly known as fillers. I prefer using fillers once the desired level of skin tightness has been achieved. I'm cautious about over-volumizing and tend to lean toward hyaluronic acid fillers due to their reversibility. Using reversible options is essential, especially for new patients who might want a subtle change.

Hyaluronic acid fillers, which have been around since 2005, not only add volume but also stimulate collagen synthesis. A newer hyaluronic acid filler on the market is Revanesse Versa, known for its unique chemical structure that allows it to stretch when the face animates, providing a natural look.

Another option for volumization is fat, but I use it sparingly in facial treatments, as it's not reversible and is often more suitable for procedures like mid-face lifts.

In addition to these fillers, we also utilize the patient's own stem cells for injections, contributing to age reversal.

As for non-invasive treatments, I offer different options in my practice. One involves focused ultrasound, specifically Sofwave™, which is FDA-cleared and provides non-invasive facial contouring, even around the eyes and cheeks. We've found it effective, and it's a less invasive alternative.

Additionally, we have a non-invasive solution called Evoke, by InMode, which can treat the cheeks, jawline, and chin. Evoke employs bipolar radiofrequency technology, and the choice between these technologies depends on patient selection and their baseline level of skin laxity. These treatments are part of the comprehensive approach I take in my practice to address various aspects of facial rejuvenation.

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