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Problem: Deep folds, wrinklesSkin Fillers
As we age, our skin thins. Fillers plump it up. There are over 40 different varieties on the market, made from substances such as bovine and human collagen and cadaver tissue to body fat and calcium. But only eight are FDA-approved for cosmetic purposes. Restylane, made from hyaluronic acid, a substance found naturally in the skin, is the newest filler, approved by the FDA for cosmetic use in 2003.
Baumann gets the best results using Hylaform (another hyaluronic acid), a natural sugar-based solution that binds with water to add volume, along with CosmoPlast, human collagen that gives structure. "Each provides its own benefits, so I use them together," she says. Wrinkles smooth immediately after injection. "It's instant gratification."
How they work: Fillers are injected into the skin to increase volume in tissue. The added plumpness gives the face structure and smooths deep wrinkles, fine lines and crow's-feet.
Before you begin:
- Visit a skilled dermatologist or plastic surgeon, who will consider potential allergies, risk of side effects (redness and swelling or pain are possible) and expense to determine the right FDA-approved filler for you. To find a doctor, visit the American Academy of Dermatology at aad.org or the American Society of Plastic Surgeons at plasticsurgery.org.
- Results from one treatment can last anywhere from four to six months.
Problem: Sagging skin
Thermage
This procedure tightens skin without incisions. Approved by the FDA for the upper face in 2002, Thermage got the okay for use on the lower face in June. "It's especially great in men who don't want to get a traditional face-lift because they can't hide the scars," says Narins. Results are seen in about four months, but some lucky patients see immediate improvement.
How it works: Radio frequencies heat and damage collagen. In turn, collagen contracts, and then rebuilds and strengthens, tightening and lifting skin.
Before you begin:
- Thermage is new, so long-term results are unknown. But it's speculated that it will last five years, almost the same amount of time as a face-lift.
- Visit the American Society for Dermatologic Surgery (asds.net) or thermage.com to find a provider.
Problem: Dull, yellow teeth
Teeth Whitening
Dental office bleaching trays, laser light treatments, do-it-yourself whitening strips -- even toothpaste can help transform aged teeth into more youthful pearly whites. The products that deliver faster results, of course, cost more. "If you're patient and don't want to spend a lot of money, start with store-bought whitening strips," says Lawrence Addleson, DDS, president of the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry. OTC strips whiten teeth in about 7 to 14 days, and they may be all that's needed for some people.
How it works: Carbamide peroxide or hydrogen peroxide penetrate enamel to lighten discoloration caused by aging, and habits like smoking and drinking coffee, tea and red wine. Laser whitening applies a laser light to teeth immediately after bleaching to speed up and enhance the process.
Before you begin:
- Bleaching may cause temporary tooth sensitivity and gum irritation.
- Peroxide doesn't lighten fillings, crowns, veneers, bonding and bridges, so bleaching can lead to uneven color.
- How long any treatment lasts varies, depending on your daily oral habits, but OTC products can be effective for up to a year, while laser treatments can last from six months to two years.
Price: A 14-day supply of Crest Whitestrips Premium is $35. Bleaching trays can cost $185 to $200, and laser treatments can set you back $1,000.
The Real Cost of Looking Young
Yes, these age-reducers work, and they're less costly than more invasive procedures like face-lifts. But over time, regular use can add up to a hefty sum. Start at age 35, and use them for 30 years, and this is what you could pay:
- Botox: $36,000 per area treated
- Fillers: $36,000 per area treated
- Thermage: $24,000
- Retinoids: $18,000
- Laser teeth whitening: $15,000
From Reader's Digest - November 2004
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