As we age, we are often finding ourselves looking for the fountain of youth. Although there is no “magic” pill out there, we have many options to slow down aging and even take off 10-15 years. I don’t think anyone actually wants to go under the knife, but lets face it- sometimes that is the only option depending on the results you need and want. As I have seen Dr. Thompson consulting with patients, he gives them his best and honest opinion for optimal results. As a patient you also have to have realistic expectations and understand what each procedure or treatment will accomplish. There are various options to help reverse and maintain aging and a combination of them will really help you look and feel younger without going under the knife.
There are procedures for every person’s comfort level and in fact, the the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery reports that there are over 10 million cosmetic surgery procedures each year in America. I personally like to take several approaches to maintaining my youth. I feel it is not solely about vanity. I enjoy taking care of myself and feeling good about myself. Just like brushing my teeth or having my hair done, I do regular Botox® and filler treatments as well as a physician grade skin care regimen. I do not feel that I look fake or frozen. For example, I started to develop a line between my brows in my early 20’s. I have been doing botox twice year since I was 25 to stop that line from getting deeper as well as erasing it completely. I have accomplished that and have never had any problems from doing botox or fillers. I am taking a proactive approach instead of waiting for it to get worse.
With the help of some research and experience I have come up with a list of things that anyone can do to help reverse aging and maintain youth without going under the knife.
Consider Non-surgical Procedures
There are several non-surgical treatment options that people can choose from to help turn back the clock. Injectables are incredibly popular and effective in facial rejuvenation. Injectables include Botox, Dysport, Juvederm, Restylane, Artefill,Voluma etc., and are used by 3.7 million people per year. Additional options include Co2 fractional laser, dermabrasion, chemical peels, etc. We are here to educate and advise you on what treatments will work for what it is you are trying to improve. Many people are scared of the unknown or hesitant to make it in for a consultation. At our office we offer free cosmetic consultations by answering all of your questions, pricing, etc. without any pressure to do anything. That way you are educated on all the options and can determine, with the help of Dr. Thompson and our staff, what will be best for you. These treatments are not limited to women by any means.
Get Up and Moving
Maintaining a regular exercise plan is important to help slow the aging process. Be sure to do both cardio and weight-bearing exercises throughout the week to maximize the benefits. Staying active also helps with balance, endurance, and strength. Additionally, add something to your routine that reduces stress, such as tai chi or yoga. Find something that you enjoy to do, this makes it easier for you to do it.
Eat Your Veggies
Fruits and vegetables are loaded with antioxidants, which help to keep your body healthy and slow the aging process. Load up on fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein. If you don’t particularly love vegetables there are many fruit and veggie smoothie recipes out there.
Get Plenty of Rest
Getting poor sleep or not getting enough sleep is associated with a poorer quality of life, according to the National Institutes of Health. Adults of all ages need to have seven to nine hours of sleep per night. Don’t forget to wash your face before you go to bed. Makeup, oils, and dirt throughout the day stick to the skin and it is important to wash your face morning and night to rid your skin of these impurities.
Drink Plenty of Water
Water has many benefits. Water not only keeps you hydrated but also balances body fluids, controls calories, improves the health of your muscles and kidneys, maintains normal bowl functions, and HELPS YOUR SKIN STAY LOOKING YOUNGER. Dehydration can make your skin look dull, dry and wrinkled. Stay hydrated to keep a continuous glow.
Limit Sun Exposure
Sun exposure in small amounts is needed for the body to make vitamin D, but more than that and you are risking skin cancer. Those who spend a lot of time in the sun are at risk for premature skin aging. Take precautions when going out into the sun by wearing a hat, seeking shade, and most importantly, wearing an SPF with zinc or titanium dioxide. These ingredients make it a broad spectrum SPF which blocks UVA, UVB and ultraviolet light.
Quit Smoking
With all of the other harmful things that smoking does to your body, you can add premature aging to the list. How does smoking lead to wrinkles? The nicotine in cigarettes causes narrowing of the blood vessels in the outermost layers of your skin. This impairs blood flow to your skin. With less blood flow, your skin doesn’t get as much oxygen and important nutrients, such as vitamin A.
Take care of your skin
Your skin is the largest organ on your body. This one is very important to me and is ultimately why I became an esthetician. Many people feel they waste money on these type of products because their results are minimal. I use physician grade products (products you can only obtain from a physicians office) because there is research behind them versus the over-the-counter products you buy at the store. Some people hear physician grade and think dollar signs. I have seen many over the counter products that are priced the same if not more. My philosophy is that you can have all the treatments and procedures in the world, but if you don’t take care of your skin everyday you are wasting your time and money. Fillers and botox take care of deeper rooted problems and in combination with a good skin care regimen to treat the surface, you are really slowing down the signs of aging.
Even small measures can turn back the clock making your look and feel younger. Combine all or a few of these options and you will be glad that you
did. We offer many services that don’t require going under the knife and it’s always best to review all of your options. Dr. Thompson, myself, and the rest of our staff are here to educate you into making sound decisions as well as achieving results. If you have any questions about fillers, botox or any other treatments, feel free to come in for a consultation or email me at [email protected] . I am happy to take any of your questions!
