While the beauty counter presents dozens of anti-aging treatments and options to get rid of fine lines, few people experience the same results as a cosmetic procedure. How do you choose the most effective skin rejuvenation treatment to improve your skin for the long-term?  

Scientists at the University of Michigan have published several studies in the Archives of Dermatology that outline the most effective anti-aging procedures and treatment options. The study tested dozens of collagen repair treatments, dermal fillers and even laser resurfacing treatment programs on test subjects, some lasting over a decade. Treatments studied included popular antiaging treatments such as Restylane, Fraxel CO2 laser resurfacing, and even topical anti-wrinkle creams made with retinoic acid.  

Restylane to Reduce the Signs of Aging

Restylane is a hyaluronic acid injectable filler that can help fill out fine lines and wrinkles by ‘plumping’ up the skin.  Restylane can help improve the shape and contours of the face, reduce the appearance of folds and wrinkles, and stretch out the skin enough to increase collagen production. Collagen is the fiber that holds skin tissues and muscle together, and the level of collagen slowly decreases with age.  Any antiaging treatment that stimulates collagen production can help improve the overall texture and tone of the skin; Restylane, and other dermal fillers, can trigger an increase in collagen production as the skin restructures itself to accommodate for the extra filler ingredients.  

Fraxel C02 for Wrinkle Removal

Laser skin resurfacing treatments heat up the skin’s deepest layers to create ‘injury’ in the treatment area. The Fraxel C02 laser is just one of several high-intensity lasers that can target key areas of the face that may be sagging or areas that have a large amount of wrinkles. A series of Fraxel C02 laser treatments can help break down weaker skin cells and tissue fibers, and also stimulate collagen production. After a few weeks, the body begins to replenish lost fibers and tissue with fresh new cells, and this process can help restore and tighten up the skin for the long-term. Laser skin resurfacing treatments can also be combined with other antiaging procedures such as BOTOX and light facials that cleanse the pores and improve the skin tone overall.    

Retinol Products to Increase Collagen

Retinol has long been available by prescription to improve the skin’s healing process, especially after an acne breakout or injury to the face. Recent developments in cosmeceuticals are now making it easier to find retinoid creams and retinol-based products over the counter. Anti-wrinkle creams, serums and lotions made with a retinol base can effectively reduce the signs of aging, firming up the skin tone and texture, and reducing the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles and scars. Researchers at the University of Michigan indicate that the retinol may an effective way to prevent the breakdown of the dermis, and reduce the effects of aging over time.  

If you’ve been considering an anti-aging skin treatment in order to reduce wrinkles, improve the texture and tone of the skin, or boost collagen production for a more youthful appearance, these top three procedures may be the best start for your skin rejuvenation program.  

Learn more about facial skin rejuvenation and antiaging treatments in our information guide, or consult with an anti-aging specialist in your area to find out which procedure will be the best match for you.