Skin Care: Putting Your Best Face Forward

On a daily basis, most women are concerned about reversing or reducing the signs of aging caused by sun exposure, pollution, smoking, gravity—and the years of living. The skin care specialists at the OSF Specialty Clinic at Guilford Square offer a few options to consider.

Topical Creams

• Hydroquinone A bleaching agent, hydroquinone can be found at low levels in some over-the-counter products to help fade skin hyperpigmentation and combat redness.
• Retinoids Discovered by a dermatologist when he was treating patients with precancerous skin conditions, retinoids increase the turnover rate of cells in the epithelial layer, revealing healthier skin underneath. A milder form of a chemical peel, retinoids can improve fine lines and tighten skin. Since retinoids can cause dryness, peeling and redness, they should be used under the supervision of a skin care specialist.
• Vitamin C This antioxidant is effective in improving skin, but it must be used in a certain concentration, from 5 to 10 percent, which can be obtained only from a dermatologist. Vitamin C can combat sun damage and help prevent skin cancer, but will not provide dramatic change.

Other Methods

• Intense Pulsed Light Laser This type of laser uses varying wave lengths to reduce the appearance of scars, remove hair, reduce fine lines or treat pigmentation. Treatments may have to be repeated every few years.
• Fillers Newer soft tissue fillers like Restylane generally will not burn as much as collagen injections, last longer and will cause fewer allergic reactions. They can soften lines and are effective in helping lips look fuller. Only an experienced plastic surgeon should use injections near the eyes since this area is prone to swelling, bruising and edema.
• Botox Though highly toxic, Botox has been approved by the FDA to be used in minute doses to treat painful muscle spasms and as a cosmetic to temporarily improve the appearance of frown lines. Botox should be injected no more frequently than once every three months, and at the lowest effective dose.

Prevent Premature Skin Aging

• Avoid the sun and use sunscreen— every day.
• Do not smoke.
• Use moisturizer— oil-free if you are prone to acne— hypoallergenic and fragrance-free to avoid risk of allergies.
• Use retinoids properly and only under supervision.
• Use a product with the antioxidants proven to improve skin at the cellular level— one that contains hydroquinone or Vitamin C.