Which wrinkle remedy is right for you?

Do you ever look in the mirror and wish you could just look more rested? Have you ever thought about getting Botox but are scared you’ll look more like an emotionless manikin than a younger version of you? In today’s world, natural is in and plastic is out. Interventional wrinkle treatments don’t have to leave you looking frozen and fake.

Slather on the SPF

The first step in wrinkle treatment is preventing more wrinkles from popping up (or rather, sinking in). Apply an SPF of 30 or more every morning before you leave the house. If you plan to stay outside, bring it with you to reapply as needed.

Creams galore

While creams and lotions can make the appearance of wrinkles diminish ever so slightly through simple skin hydration, the results are minimal and only temporary. “Moisturizing is important to overall skin health, and if you want to help prevent wrinkles, choose one with an SPF,” says dermatologist Dr. Ron Mahler. “However, if you want a cream that will truly reduce the appearance of wrinkles and slow down the clock on skin aging, speak to your dermatologist about prescribing a tretinoin such as Retin-A.” Creams are best for wrinkle prevention or shallow wrinkles.

Try these must-have wrinkle creams >>

Botox, baby

Do you ever notice that at the end of a stressful day the mirror is much less friendly to the lines on your face? This is because the muscles we use for facial expressions lead to wrinkles. Botox relaxes these muscles so that lines are never formed. Therefore, Botox can actually be used for wrinkle prevention as well as for treatment of shallow wrinkles. If it’s your first time, pick one area that bothers you the most; the forehead, between the eyes and crow’s feet are the most common areas for Botox. The key is to find a practitioner who understands the look you’re going for. You want your friends to think you are well rested, not that you had work done.

Fill ‘er up

Often used to fill in the lines on the sides of the nose to the mouth (called “marionette” lines), fillers can plump up the appearance of wrinkles with a form of collagen found naturally in our skin. They can also be used to sculpt cheekbones and create fuller lips. Fillers are generally used for deep wrinkles. Begin with one area, and if you like the results, go back for more.

Tips for finding the right cosmetic practitioner for you:

• See one who has been recommended by either a friend or your physician. This is the best way to find someone you can trust.
• Ask to see before and after pictures done at that clinic. (If you want your lips done, make sure the lips in the after picture don’t look like they were stung by a bee!) The results should be noticeable yet still natural.
• Do a little background check. Not all Botox and filler practitioners are physicians. You should feel comfortable with their knowledge of the treatment as well as the complications.
• Finally, get a quote. Prices can vary among practitioners. Know your price range and whether the practitioner can stay within it.

All medical information is directed at a Canadian audience. Speak with your physician first before following through with any advice.

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