If you notice imperfections when you look in the mirror, such as acne scars or wrinkles, then you should work to correct these problems. However, some blemishes cannot be alleviated without medical procedures or surgery. Do what you can to at least partially remedy it and consider going to a dermatologist for more serious problems.
Steps
Part 1 of 4: Treating the Scars
Step 1. Use over-the-counter steroids
They can help minimize skin damage and acne scars. If the affected area is inflamed, irritated, red or swollen, then you can try reducing the size and texture of the scars with a steroid cream.
- Hydrocortisone creams are available without a prescription in concentrations ranging from 0.5 to 1%.
- The active ingredient, which is absorbed by the cells in the affected area, allows the inflammation and scar to be attenuated.
- Apply the cream or ointment several times a day following the instructions on the package. In general, limit the use of topical steroids to a maximum of 7 days.
- Check the affected area to see if any unwanted side effects occur. Sometimes prolonged use of topical steroids can cause skin atrophy or a pressure sore. This reaction usually occurs when they are used on moist areas of the body and on the face.
Step 2. Apply onion products
Some studies support the usefulness of onion skin derivatives in combination with other ingredients, such as allantoin. It should help minimize scar tissue size and discoloration.
- Products that contain onion peel derivatives are available without a prescription.
- It is generally recommended to make daily applications for several months. It takes some time to change the scar tissue and allow the skin to regenerate.
Step 3. Use silicone sheets for scar treatment
They are effective for reducing the size and visibility of some types of scars. Many variables can affect an individual's reaction to this type of treatment.
- Silicone gel sheets are available without a prescription at pharmacies and online.
- The package contains sheets that can be cut to fit the size of the area.
- Using silicone sheets daily can help reduce or fade a scar as well as prevent it from getting worse. Use this product for about 3 months for best results.
Step 4. Apply sunscreen
Sunscreen is vital for reducing scarring. Choose one that contains titanium oxide or zinc to protect your skin from both UVA and UVB rays. Choose a product with an SPF of at least 30.
Step 5. Try applying green tea extract
It contains chemicals called phenols which have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Local application of green tea promotes the release of phenol that is effective for treating scar tissue.
- Research claims green tea extract is effective for topical use. It has indeed succeeded in demonstrating that the growth of scar tissue is significantly reduced and that already developed tissue shrinks.
- Each scar is different. Green tea extract has been studied for so-called keloid scars. In these cases, scar tissue has usually formed over normal, causing a raised scar to appear that is easily felt to the touch.
- Green tea extract creams are available in herbal shops and online.
Step 6. Make a green tea extract cream
There is no one-size-fits-all or scientific recipe for making a green tea extract product, so be careful: modify it to suit your needs after figuring out what's best for your skin.
- One recipe suggests using 2 heaping tablespoons of green tea mixed with 180 milliliters of hot, but not boiling, water.
- Leave the tea to infuse for 5 minutes, then strain it with a colander or cheesecloth. The remaining liquid should equal at least half a cup of strong tea. Let it cool completely, even overnight.
- Select the base cream. Emollient creams that do not contain added preservatives or fragrances are readily available and inexpensive.
- With a sturdy spatula, blender or food processor, gradually add the cream until you get the desired consistency.
- Store the cream in a jar or other suitable container to store in a cool, dry place.
- Remember that you have not added preservatives. Do not keep the cream longer than expected. Store it in the refrigerator, but not in the freezer, to extend its useful life without contaminating it.
Step 7. Consider a topical hydroquinone product
Those with a concentration between 2 and 4% have the function of fading skin spots. With some types of scars, including those caused by acne, the skin can be discolored, with varying shades of pink or red.
- Hydroquinone products are available on prescription.
- Concerns exist regarding the topical use of hydroquinone and the possible development of certain types of cancer. The FDA (American agency that controls food and medicines) is evaluating products that contain it to verify its safety.
- Talk to your doctor or dermatologist about the risks and make sure this is the most effective treatment to help ease your scars.
Step 8. Consider a dermatological procedure
Some scars are too extensive and perhaps too old to respond well to local treatments. In some cases it is better to speak to a dermatologist, so as to know the procedures available to eliminate them.
- Laser skin rejuvenation is a procedure that consists of removing the outer skin layers, where scars or other imperfections are found. The most innovative techniques and equipment allow to obtain the desired results in a very short time.
- Dermabrasion is the use of equipment and procedures aimed at areas that are damaged or characterized by scars. The procedure helps to remove the outermost skin layers from the affected areas and stimulates cell renewal.
- Microdermabrasion is a milder form of dermabrasion. It is useful for reducing scars and more superficial imperfections.
- Steroid injections can soften existing scar tissue. Repeated treatments are often required.
- Injections of collagen and fat can help lift sunken scars, leveling them with the skin's surface.
- Radiation therapy is not used often due to potential problems with long-term side effects. It involves the use of low-dose radiation to prevent the formation of certain types of scar tissue.
- Surgery can be done to alter the size, depth or color of a scar, although it cannot be removed completely. However, it is not recommended if you are dealing with keloid or hypertrophic scars, as it can make the situation worse.
Step 9. Apply a concealer
Using concealer on a scar is a good way to temporarily hide it. Choose a shade that is as close to your skin color as possible. If the scar is red or pink, try a concealer that has a green undertone. If it's brown, try one with a yellow undertone. Make sure the concealer is waterproof.
Part 2 of 4: Treating the Stains of Age
Step 1. Eliminate dark spots
Skin spots such as age spots, also called brownish patches and age-related freckles, are imperfections that darken over time. Most people witness this pigmentation change, especially in areas that have been exposed to the sun over the years.
- Changes affecting skin color can be alarming, as they sometimes resemble symptomatic patches of cancer.
- If you are suspicious, see a dermatologist. He may take a small sample of skin from the affected area, a procedure called a "biopsy," to check for early cancer cells. When you see changes that could indicate the development of a serious condition, always consult a doctor.
- Age spots are not cancerous. They appear due to repeated exposure to the sun and mainly affect the face, shoulders and arms.
Step 2. Use whitening creams
They have the function of gradually lightening the dark areas. Continue applying the product until the affected area conforms to the natural color of the skin.
- Prescription creams that are often used to fade age spots include products containing 2-4% hydroquinone.
- Talk to your dermatologist about the risks and benefits of using a hydroquinone product.
- Other prescription products include steroid-containing creams, ointments, tretinoin or retinoic acid products, and preparations with various ingredients.
- However, keep in mind that these creams are not very successful. If you don't notice results with creams, try a procedure such as cryotherapy.
Step 3. Ask your doctor about the available procedures
There are several that can help fade dark areas of the skin.
- Intense pulsed light therapy involves the use of a laser that acts on darkened skin. It slows down the cells that produce melanin and cause the area to darken. Several treatments may be required to lighten the most extensive or particularly pigmented areas.
- Cryotherapy is a procedure that freezes the affected areas. It consists of destroying melanocytes, which cause pigmentation changes.
- Dermabrasion and microdermabrasion are treatments that can be used to lighten dark spots. The procedure is performed in the same way used to reduce scarring. Destroying the outermost skin layers promotes cell renewal, thus eliminating dark spots.
- Chemical peeling involves the local application of acids that destroy the most superficial skin layer. More than one treatment may be needed to eliminate extensive hyperpigmented areas.
Part 3 of 4: Lighten the Skin with Natural Products
Step 1. Assess the risks and benefits
Some natural products promise results that are not backed up by any scientific research. According to the American Academy of Dermatology, the high demand for good-quality and effective products for dark patches, also called age spots, melasma, and age-related freckles, has sparked more research into natural ingredients.
- Always monitor your skin for possible sensitivity to products, the development of a new allergy or unwanted skin reactions and changes. If any abnormal changes occur, tell your doctor or dermatologist.
- Experts took a look at existing research on many natural products and realized how effective they are for eliminating dark spots.
- Always use a broad spectrum sunscreen with an SPF greater than 30. This helps prevent spots from appearing and protects successfully treated areas to prevent more patches from forming.
Step 2. Try using soy products
They prevent the skin from darkening by preventing melanosomes from transferring to the epidermis. By preventing excess dark pigment from reaching the skin surface, they prevent hyperpigmentation.
Soy, extracted from the homonymous plant, is contained in many cosmetics and other lightening products
Step 3. Use products containing niacinamide, also called vitamin B3
Read the list of ingredients on the packaging of the products: it should indicate the presence of this substance among the active ingredients.
- Niacinamide acts in a similar way to soy. Helps to lighten the skin and prevent melanosomes from reaching the skin surface.
- Since the cells renew over time, with prolonged use the new ones will not contain dark pigments.
Step 4. Apply ellagic acid
It has antioxidant properties and inhibits certain enzymes necessary for the production of melanin, which is responsible for dark skin spots. According to research, it is one of the most powerful natural lightening substances there is.
- It is usually found in natural food sources, including strawberries, cherries, pomegranates, blackberries, blueberries, cranberries, raspberries, goji berries, grapes, nuts, and peaches.
- Non-food sources include American white oak and red oak.
- Some medicinal mushroom species contain ellagic acid, such as phellinus linteus.
Step 5. Apply lignin peroxidase
It is an enzyme that breaks down melanin in the inner skin layers. This reduces the formation and appearance of dark spots. Many products contain it, although research is still underway to determine its effectiveness as a skin lightener.
- Lignin peroxidase is derived from a fungus. This enzyme is usually found in wood pulp and, when broken down, can make it lighten.
- This enzyme is used to lighten wood pulp during the papermaking process.
- The use of lignin peroxidase to lighten wood pulp has led to the discovery that it is also effective for the skin.
Step 6. Use products containing arbutin
Also called alpha arbutin, it is a plant-derived product. It is considered a natural form of hydroquinone, which has been shown to be scientifically effective for lightening the skin.
- Some plant sources of arbutin: bearberry, blueberries, cranberries, blackberries, and pears.
- This substance has two forms: the alpha arbutin isomer is more effective than the beta isomer for lightening the skin.
- The available products have a concentration of arbutin equal to 3%. This substance has the function of inhibiting the production of melanin.
Step 7. Apply products containing kojic acid
This substance is a by-product resulting from the fermentation process of rice to prepare sake. Pure kojic acid can become unstable the moment it is exposed to air, so many companies use a derivative called kojic dipalmitate.
- Research is still being carried out on this agent and there is no shortage of concerns. Using it in a high concentration can cause unwanted skin changes, but also increase the risk of an allergic reaction.
- Kojic acid is also obtained from several species of mushrooms.
- Many products have concentrations of kojic acid or a derivative that vary between 1 and 4%. The active ingredient is sometimes combined with other skin lightening agents to increase the effectiveness of the product.
Step 8. Try using licorice
Ingesting it can have several side effects, but licorice and locally applied derivatives have been shown to be effective in lightening the skin.
- Some products used to lighten the skin locally, including patches, contain licorice extract or root.
- You can find recipes online. However, a preparation can cause difficulties with application because usually a sticky and smelly compound is obtained.
Part 4 of 4: Fighting Wrinkles
Step 1. Don't lose hope
Wrinkles are folds that form over time in those areas where repeated muscle movements occur. For example, smiling or squinting causes creases to form, which then become wrinkles. Most of the factors that cause wrinkles to appear as we age cannot be controlled, but something can be done to minimize them.
- Over the years, the skin naturally loses its elasticity and flexibility. It also changes the consistency, becoming more brittle.
- The three main causes of wrinkles are genetics, sun exposure and smoking.
- Other environmental causes that cause early wrinkles to appear include prolonged exposure to contaminants in the workplace and outdoors, depending on where you live.
Step 2. Observe the wrinkles of the older members of your family
Genetics play a major role in the skin changes that lead to the formation of wrinkles.
- These changes include gradual loss of skin elasticity, decreased sebum production, and loss of fat in the deeper layers of the skin.
- Fat deposits in the deeper skin layers help prevent wrinkles from developing over time, or at least minimize their visibility.
- According to research, facial wrinkles associated with genetic changes often depend on the mother. In other words, if your mom has very few wrinkles compared to her peers, you will probably follow the same path.
Step 3. Limit sun exposure
Regardless of your age, protect your skin from the sun, a major contributor to wrinkles. Always apply a product with broad spectrum UVA / UVB protection and an SPF of at least 30.
- Exposure to ultraviolet rays is one of the main causes of wrinkles.
- Ultraviolet rays cause premature breakdown of the skin's connective tissue.
- Connective tissue contains collagen and elastic fibers. Protecting the skin so that the connective tissue is not damaged means first of all keeping it elastic, so that it is less predisposed to premature aging and the development of wrinkles.
Step 4. Stop smoking
Smoking contributes to premature skin aging and causes the appearance of wrinkles. The number of cigarettes smoked and the length of time that has elapsed since you started smoking accentuate the severity of wrinkles.
- The nicotine in cigarettes causes blood vessels in the outermost layers of the skin to narrow, which restricts blood supply and reduces oxygen supply to the skin. As a result, the skin begins to wrinkle prematurely due to smoking.
- Many of the chemicals in smoking tobacco also damage collagen and elastin, which are the fibers that give your skin strength and elasticity.
Step 5. Apply topical retinoids
There are prescription products containing tretinoin, which is derived from vitamin A.
- Regular application of retinoid products can help reduce fine lines, minimize irregularities and even out discoloration.
- Topical application of retinoids can increase the sensitivity of the skin to the sun's rays and cause it to burn earlier. Make sure you wear protective clothing and use adequate sunscreen.
- The use of retinoids causes side effects such as burning or tingling of the skin, redness and dryness.
- If you notice any unwanted skin reactions, contact your doctor. Retinoids are sold in different concentrations; you may need to stop using them or try a less strong product.
Step 6. Try alpha hydroxy acids, a group of chemicals that allow you to at least partially recover the skin's natural elasticity
Topical products have been shown to be effective in smoothing wrinkles. However, at best the results are modest or limited.
- Alpha hydroxy acids are derived from natural sources.
- Here are some examples of alpha hydroxy acids and their most common sources: glycolic acid (extracted from sugar cane), lactic acid (found in many sources, including sour milk), malic acid (which comes from apples), citric acid (found in many sources, including sour milk). from citrus fruits) and tartaric acid (extracted from wine).
Step 7. Recognize the benefits and risks
In order for an alpha hydroxy acid product to smooth wrinkles, the chemicals must penetrate deep into the epidermis. These substances are contained in various cosmetics or pharmaceuticals and exist in various concentrations.
- Alpha hydroxy acids can help rebalance sebum and restore skin flexibility. The substance that is best absorbed by the skin is glycolic acid.
- Cosmetics contain 5-10% lower concentrations of glycolic acid, or other alpha hydroxy acids.
- Slightly higher concentrations offer greater benefits, but prolonged application is required to maintain consistent results, while using a product with a higher concentration.
- The higher concentrations are the most effective, but it is not possible to buy these products without a prescription. For example, glycolic acid concentrations of 50-70% are found in chemical peels, which are only done under medical supervision.
Step 8. Ask your dermatologist for medical procedures to treat wrinkles
They allow to obtain excellent results in terms of visibility and persistence of the effects. Some people have positive results by combining several procedures under the supervision of a physician.
- Regardless of the procedure you choose, take care of your skin by wearing protective clothing, applying the right sunscreen and quitting smoking (if you are a smoker).
- In this case, the cost and potential risks associated with some methods should not be underestimated.
- Talk to your doctor and, before proceeding, be sure to answer all your questions.
Step 9. Consider dermabrasion, microdermabrasion, or a chemical peel
These procedures consist in renewing the epidermis with a physical and / or chemical intervention.
- Dermabrasion requires the use of a hand tool that smooths the skin surface. Cell renewal is thus promoted, with a consequent decrease in wrinkles.
- Dermabrasion can usually be done in one session.
- Microdermabrasion follows the same principle, but only removes the outermost thin layer. Several treatments are often required to get good results.
- Chemical peels require the use of acids to dissolve the outer layers of the skin. More than one treatment may be required to achieve the desired results.
Step 10. Ask your doctor to explain laser procedures to you
The methods that allow to renew the skin with the laser require the use of ablative or non-ablative techniques to decrease the visibility and size of wrinkles.
- Ablative treatments destroy the outermost skin layers. At the same time, the layers below the epidermis are heated to promote cell renewal and collagen formation.
- Changing the skin in this way can take several months for the cells to renew themselves properly.
- Non-ablative treatments are based on the same general procedure, only they often require more than one intervention. In this case, a less extensive area of skin is damaged or injured. New laser technology has optimized these procedures.
Step 11. Consider soft tissue injections
Botulinum toxin and dermal filler injections are among the most recent techniques for eliminating wrinkles. They are effective treatments, the effects of which can last for several months, if not longer. The variables that affect the persistence of effectiveness include the type of product used, the depth of the wrinkles, the general size of the wrinkles and the point being treated.
- Injections of botulinum toxin, or botox, prevent muscle tissue from contracting, which makes wrinkles more noticeable. The results of botox injections can last up to 4 months.
- They are effective in the area between the eyebrows, on the forehead and on the areas of wrinkled skin along the outer edge of the eyes.
- Dermal filler injections consist of injecting a particular substance on the face, in the points where the deepest and most visible wrinkles have developed.
- The ingredients used for filler injections include fat, collagen, and hyaluronic acid gel. These substances have the function of filling the sunken areas of wrinkles. This allows them to be plumped, making the skin surface uniform.
- This procedure is less expensive than a face lift, but it is necessary to repeat the treatment more than once. This depends on the severity and depth of the initial wrinkles, but the success of the procedure also determines when to repeat the injections.
Step 12. Consider heat treatments
Recent developments have led to the use of radiofrequency devices that heat the skin with electromagnetic waves. Once the right temperature is reached, the production of collagen in the deeper layers of the skin is stimulated, which significantly reduces the visibility of wrinkles.
- These treatments promote the development of collagen and skin firming thanks to the use of a heat source. It is a relatively inexpensive and non-invasive procedure.
- There are several devices available to firm the skin by applying heat. You will have to go through several sessions and wait 4-6 months to see results.
Step 13. Ask your doctor to give you information about the face lift
It is an ideal surgery for those who want to firm the skin of the face, reduce wrinkles and imperfections.
- Facelift consists of surgically removing skin and fat from the face and neck, and then firming the muscles and connective tissues.
- After surgery, it takes several weeks for the bruising and swelling to pass, but the results can remain for 5-10 years.
- Choose your surgeon or face lift specialist very carefully. Check reviews and use word of mouth to determine which doctor is the best in their field. Research where they have studied and for how long. Make sure they are accredited in the field of plastic surgery or facial reconstructive surgery.
