As we age, there is a gradual loss in the elasticity of the skin. Fibers that once help the skin maintain its youthful tight appearance slowly begin to relax with repetitive movements. In addition oil gland production diminishes and the moisture is lost from the skin surface. The surface layers begin to pile up creating a thick and dry appearance. There is a decrease in melanin pigment production causing a more pale appearance. The end result is a loose, dry surface with a fine-wrinkled or “crepe” look.
Sun exposure plays a big role in the aging process as well. “Solar elastosis” is the process whereby the sun’s ultraviolet rays penetrate the skin surface weakening the elastic support fibers in the skin. Ultraviolet rays also cause disorganization in the collagen scaffolding upholding the skin’s supporting architecture. Most patients will also notice the accumulation of splotchy, irregular brown spots known as “hyperpigmentation” that occur with chronic sun exposure. Chronic sun exposure will definitely hasten the natural aging timeline.There are a number of skin care products that can make improvements in the changes seen with the aging process. Certainly, all patients should use cosmetics with sun protection in addition to a daily application of sun block with an SPF (Sun Protective Factor) of at least 20. Hobgood Facial Plastic Surgery has a complete line of scientifically proven skincare products, and our team of physicians will advise you on what products will be the most effective for your individual skin type. Additionally, microneedling with radiofrequency is a minimally invasive treatment that can tighten and smooth your skin with little downtime.
Dr. Hobgood's aesthetic team creates customized treatment plans tailored to the cosmetic needs of each patient. Ashley Smith is a registered nurse injector who specializes in BOTOX® and filler injections, while licensed esthetician Brooke Scatchard is a certified laser technician.
Meet Our TeamSkin resurfacing incorporates a number of different techniques that penetrate to various depths causing new skin to be regenerated. Collectively, these applications may reach the deepest layers of the skin and will rejuvenate the deepest wrinkles. Sunspots and irregular pigmentations are lifted out of the skin. These peels also are used to prevent the onset of skin cancer in patients with heavy sun exposure and significant changes in the skin texture.
A variety of different chemical peels and laser resurfacing techniques are available to your physician. Regardless of the approach taken, the principle of stimulating new skin turnover is the same for all techniques. Your doctor will help you to choose the approach that is right for your specific skin type.The downtime is directly related to the depth of the peel. The deepest resurfacing techniques allow the most improvement but have the longest recovery period. Some superficial peels require only a few days for recovery and patients can begin applying cosmetics 2-3 days after the procedure. The deepest methods will heal over 10-14 days and most patients are able to cover areas after 2 weeks of healing. Sun block should be used regularly after the resurfacing procedure.
The most important aspect of resurfacing is surgeon experience. The healing period is very critical and your physician will follow you closely to make changes in your skin care regimen. Also, be sure that your physician understands and has experience using all varieties of chemical peels and laser resurfacing techniques. You should be sure that your doctor is a member of the American Academy of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery.
