Age Spots: How to Make Them Go Away

You don’t need to be “old” to have age spots. While these dark spots do tend to sprout up as you get older, if you spent lots of time in the sun, they can reveal themselves much earlier. Age spots can make you feel self-conscious, but thankfully, there’s much you can do to get rid of them.

Age spots are a result of the body producing excess melanin. Melanin is the pigment that gives skin its color. When the skin is exposed to sunlight, the body produces extra melanin to protect the skin from the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays. The more melanin produced, the darker the skin becomes. Age spots appear when excess melanin in the skin becomes clumped together.

Where Age Spots Appear

Age spots usually appear in areas of skin that are commonly exposed to the sun, including the:

  • face
  • backs of the hands
  • shoulders
  • back
  • arms
  • tops of the feet

Age spots can develop singly or in clusters. They vary in size and may range from 0.2–2.0 centimeters in diameter. Age spots tend to form in people aged 40 and over, though they can also develop in younger people who frequently get sunburns or use tanning beds.

Our Age Spot Treatments

We offer a number of different treatment types of age and liver spots that might be right for you including:

Intense Pulsed Light Therapy

IPL is a photorejuvination treatment that focuses primarily on irregular pigmentation, sun damage, and discolouration or brown spots on the surface of the skin or face.  A broad spectrum of light is transmitted through a small, smooth, transparent handpiece which is gently placed over the skin. Cut-off filters in the handpiece change the wavelength range allowing it to be optimized for different applications and skin types.

Medical Facials (Treatments)The light penetrates the tissue and is absorbed by either the blood when treating vascular lesions or the melanin when treating pigmented lesions damaging them. The body’s natural processes then remove the injured tissue giving the skin a more even and youthful appearance.

You’ll need to have a few follow-up treatments but you should see those age spots fade away in the next few weeks or months.

Microdermabrasion

Think of this treatment as being like sandpaper to the surface of your skin.  The procedure at our state of the art Edmonton clinic polishes the skin and removes dead skin cells which are then vacuumed up into a filter.  The skin is left soft and supple while stimulating the regeneration of new thicker firmer skin.

Our Microdermabrasion procedures are most effective when they are performed as a series of treatments. However, even one treatment can make a huge difference in skin texture and appearance. It provides a full resurfacing effect, so your skin appears younger-looking, softer and more luminous.

Chemical Peel

A chemical peel is a skin treatment which is used to improve and smooth out the surface of the facial skin. A chemical solution is used to remove top layers of skin which allows the dead surface skin to peel off. The peeling process leads to new skin growth which is usually smoother, healthier and less wrinkled compared to the old skin.

With all of these treatments, it’s important to keep out of the sun. After you’ve healed, you must take proper care of your skin when you go outdoors or you’ll wind up with more age spots. Use broad spectrum UVA and UVB sunscreen with an SPF of 30 to 50, even on days you’re not spending sitting by the pool or luxuriating on the beach to keep yourself protected.

Want to know which of these treatments for age spots is right for you? Come in for a consultation and we’ll let you know! You can book using the form below.

How To Get The Natural Look With Injectables

Dry Skin TreatmentOnce upon a time, injectables left many with frozen-looking faces, over-filled lips and plumped-up cheeks. Today, getting a natural look with injectables is the new normal with effortless non-invasive treatments that can take years off your face. The goal is to still look like you, just refreshed. You know, like you did before the signs of aging started to appear.

Throughout the aging process, bone and fat pads under the skin that act as a scaffolding, start to thin. This causes the skin to start sagging like a deflated balloon and appear drawn, tired and wrinkled.

Every face ages in different ways. Some notice their cheeks flattening in their 30’s while others keep that desired “apple” roundness well into their 70’s.

Our effective non-invasive Botox injections and range of dermal fillers are used to address these signs of aging and refresh your appearance by smoothing away unwanted lines and bringing back the natural contours of your face.

Using Botox

Botox is the number one anti-aging cosmetic treatment not only in Edmonton but in the world. Its ability to smooth wrinkles and suspend future aging while in effect – make it the most highly sought after cosmetic treatment to freshen your appearance. Botox Cosmetic smooths the lines that can make you look angry or sad – resulting in a younger-looking, well-rested appearance.

Botox is a biocompatible protein used to create a natural looking rejuvenation by suspending facial contractions that contribute to the formation and deepening of lines and wrinkles. In the hands of our skilled injectors, Botox smooths the wrinkles while allowing for facial mobility and natural expression. You will look like you – only fresher!

Botox is really best for lifting and opening your eyes, near your arch in the brows, and softening crow’s feet as well as the lines around your mouth. It can also smooth out the neck and jawline with good lift.

Using Fillers

Dermal fillers are one of the most dramatic means of reversing the signs of aging, enhancing facial features, and restoring balance through facial sculpting. Our talented injectors are known for their artistic vision; often surprising our patients with results that exceed their expectations.

age spotsUsing hyaluronic acid, a natural substance found in the human body, dermal fillers fill out skin depressions to create a smooth, light reflective surface that is youthful and flattering. Effective on lines, wrinkles, creases, furrows, hollows and indentations, dermal fillers reduces the expression lines that make us appear angry or sad; resulting in a refreshed, more beautiful appearance.

Sometimes both Botox and dermal fillers are used together to create that natural appearance you’re hoping for.

Tips for a More Natural Look with Injectables

Aside from choosing to have your treatments at a reputable med spa, there are other things you should know to get that natural look from injectables.

– Learn to love your face

You are uniquely you. Embrace that and try to find something you love about it, whether it’s your eyes, the shape of your brows, or even how your hair frames your face. You’ll be happier when you do.

– Every face is different for balance

You and your best friend might have the same problem area, but even the same specialist may need to each of you with a different approach due to your facial structure.

– Take it slow

One of the biggest mistakes people make is to try to overcorrect with injectables all in one visit. Allowing the injectables to settle will reveal the true results which will give you a more youthful, rested, and lasting look.

– Consider other options too

If your face isn’t all that aged, it might be best to hold off on injectables for just a bit. A great alternative is the PRP facial, also known as the vampire facial. It takes your own blood and extracts the plasma then applies it to your face after micro-needling for a two-prong approach that treats the surface as well as deep down. This might be all the refreshment your face needs, or it can also be balanced out with injectables afterward if need be.

Schedule an appointment with us to discuss your desires for a natural look through injectables today!

What To Do About Dry Winter Skin

Winter in Edmonton means less sunlight, colder days, more snow – and dryer skin. Many people experience dry skin in the winter that results in flaking, itching, and cracking that can be both painful and hard on your self-esteem.

If you have dry sensitive skin, then your lipid barrier is already in trouble. This barrier is a combination of natural oils and sweat. It helps to protect the underlying skin from cracking.

The lipid barrier minimizes water loss and is essential for strong, healthy, hydrated skin. It performs 3 important functions:

Traps water molecules and prevents the passage of water out of the Stratum Corneum, which is called Transepidermal Water Loss (TEWL) prevents Natural Moisturizing Factors from leaching out prevents environmental chemicals and biological irritants from entering the skin.

After the age of 40, the amount of lipids decrease significantly, which is why we are more prone to dry skin as we age.

Your skin type or a skin disease are not the only problems you can encounter when it comes to skin tightness. The environment is also a big factor.

How to Tell if You Have Dry or Dehydrated Skin

Dehydrated Skin
Dehydrated skin lacks water but is still able to produce sebum. Dehydrated skin has a lack of molecules that capture and hold water on the skin surface and inside the skin cells. Seeing that the skin should protect us, it automatically compensates for this lack of molecules carrying water by producing more sebum.

It is for this reason that dehydrated skin can feel and show symptoms of dry skin (tightness, discomfort etc.) as well as the symptoms of oily skin (shiny areas, pustules, blackheads etc.). The appearance of large pores and accumulated dead cells can be seen in certain areas.

Dry Skin
Dry skin, also referred to as “alipidic skin” is a skin that is missing oily compounds (lipids). The sebaceous glands of dry skin do not produce enough sebum. The water is no longer retained and evaporates, hence, causing dryness of the skin.

Due to the fact that the follicles are not dilated, the pores appear visually smaller. The skin appears rough and dull looking. This lack of glow is caused by opaque dead cells that accumulate on the surface of the skin that do not reflect light. Due to this dehydration, the appearance of wrinkles on the skin are intensified.

The Dry Skin Culprits

While Edmonton’s summer months are full of sunshine and low-humidity, our winters can be tough on skin thanks to a combination of factors:

Cold, Dry Air: with less moisture than warm air, the cold dry air of the region works against your otherwise perfectly moisturized skin.

Wind: the winter brings more than the occasional breeze, stripping your skin of essential lipids it needs to stay hydrated.

Winter Fires: while nothing sounds quite as relaxing as warming up in front of a fire, either inside or outdoors, the heat from can do a number on your skin.

Hot Drinks: that latte you can’t do without during the harsh winter months contains caffeine which can dry your skin from the inside out, especially if it’s replacing your regular water intake.

Layering: it’s hard to go outside during the winter without multiple layers, but the extra clothing you need can cause irritation and itching, leading to dried-out, flaky skin.

Our Dry Skin Treatments:

Medical Facials
With our range of non-invasive medical facial treatments, you can begin your journey to healthier, more youthful-looking skin with little to no downtime. Our custom-tailored facials are results-driven and can treat and prevent a variety of skin concerns including dry skin.

Chemical Peels
With our chemical peel treatments, you can begin your journey to healthier, more youthful-looking skin with our advanced, non-surgical cosmetic Skinceutical treatments

Without downtime, these customized, medical-grade chemical peels exfoliate and stimulate the skin to improve a variety of conditions, including hyperpigmentation, acne, signs of fine lines and wrinkles, and many other concerns.

Microdermabrasion
Turn back time with our Microdermabrasion diamond procedure. This advanced facial treatment encourages the production of collagen and elastin tissue, creating a firmer, more youthful facial contour. Your skin will feel and look smoother, more radiant and even.

Our Microdermabrasion procedures are most effective when they are performed as a series of treatments. However, even one treatment can make a huge difference in skin texture and appearance. It provides a full resurfacing effect, so your skin appears younger-looking, softer and more luminous.

Book Your Dry Skin Consultation Today

As with any professional cosmetic treatment, the first step should always be full consultation with a qualified practitioner to ensure that the right treatment is found for your particular skin issues. Dr. Rao will take the time to address your specific needs and answer any questions or concerns you may have. In addition, he will make recommendations as to the best treatment plan for achieving your desired results. Please fill in the form below to book your consultation now.

How To Treat Marionette Lines

Whoever said, “laughter is the best medicine” clearly have not seen laugh lines. While it is undoubtedly healthy for us to laugh loud and often, these outbursts of joy leave a mark.

Also known as nasolabial folds, marionette lines, or smile lines, laugh lines are a part of aging, especially for those who tend to be very expressive.

When a person has marionette lines on their face, they have deep creases that go from the corner of their mouth to the bottom of their chin.

There is a definite line between their sagging cheeks and their chin. This causes them to look older and tired.

What Are Laugh Lines?

Laugh lines consist of nasolabial folds and marionette lines. Together, these wrinkles and fine lines are known as laugh lines or smile lines.

Nasolabial Folds
Nasolabial folds are the fine lines and wrinkles that go from the corner of your nose down to the outside of the lips.

Marionette Lines
Marionette lines are the fine lines that go from the outside of the mouth down to the jawline on both sides of your chin.

What Causes Laugh Lines?

Laugh lines are caused by the combination of a few factors, working in conjunction as you age to create unwanted wrinkles around your nose and mouth. Some of the primary causes include:

  • Repeating facial expressions over time
  • A reduction in the amount of elastin and collagen produced as you age
  • A reduction in the amount of fat in your face as you age

Treating Marionette Lines

If you already have fairly prominent marionette lines, there are several cosmetic treatment options that are both safe and effective:

Dermal Fillers
When dermal fillers are used to treat marionette lines, they are skillfully injected directly into the area that needs to be filled out. Our experienced cosmetic professionals know where to inject the filler in order to get the best results. In addition to the fact that this is a medical procedure, it is also an art. That is why we say that they do so skillfully. This is going to leave you with even and smooth results.

Laser Treatments
Skin tightening lasers effectively reduce the presence of lines and wrinkles for a smoother, more youthful appearance. These laser treatments transfer heat and laser light under the surface of the skin. By heating the tissue to lift and tighten the underlying foundation, this strengthens the skin and stimulates the growth of new collagen.

Micro-Needling
Microneedling is a minimally invasive skin rejuvenation procedure. The needle pokes the skin to create a micro-injury. This not only stimulates collagen, but also creates channels to allow the direct infusion of serums deeply into the skin.

The serums can be platelet-rich plasma or effective anti-aging solutions that contain growth factors and hyaluronic acid to combat aging even further. The plumping of the skin, filling in of fine lines and scars, and improvement of discoloration are all achievable with micro needling.

Book Your Free Consultation Now

Dr. Rao will take the time to address your specific needs and answer any questions or concerns you may have about the various medical facial procedures we offer. In addition, he will make recommendations as to the best treatment plan for achieving your desired results. Please fill in the form below to book your consultation now.

The Truth About Acne Scars

Skinceuticals EdmontonAcne is typically thought of as something that only occurs when you are in your teenage years. But as many of us know all too well, acne during adulthood is very common.

Statistics show 33% of all acne clients seen by doctors are 25 years old or older. If you are female, the odds of you getting acne go up considerably. Women are 7 times more likely to get adult acne than men.

What Causes Adult Acne?

For women, most adult acne is due to hormone changes. This is simply because nearly everything causes our hormones go a little crazy – our menstrual cycle, pregnancy, peri-menopause (the period before menopause), menopause and starting or stopping birth control pills!

As if that wasn’t enough (and here’s where men don’t escape), other factors include stress, if you have close family with adult acne (i.e. hereditary/genetics), if you use pore-clogging hair and skin products, take certain medications or smoke. All of which make you more likely to get adult acne.

What’s the difference Between Acne Marks And Acne Scars?

Acne Scars
Acne Scars usually occur because of inflamed blemishes. When your skin pores get engorged with excess oil, dead skin cells and bacteria, the pores swell resulting into break in the follicle walls.

At times the acne scars run deeper because of damage that breaks down the support structure in the skin’s deeper layers – that is, the layer beneath the surface of your skin. So remember not to pick at your zits as it can injure your skin and convert a mild breakout into a permanent scar.

Acne Marks
Patients often mistake acne dark spots for acne scars, but they’re actually very different. At times, what we think are acne scars are in fact Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation (PIH) marks left behind by mild to moderate acne breakouts.

Types of Acne Scars

There are many types of acne scars including:

  • Icepick Scars – Characterized by thin but deep columns of missing skin tissues. Commonly arising from severe acne, icepick scars usually appear on the cheek or nose.
  • Boxcar Scars – Boxcar scars are round or oval depressions with steep vertical sides. Wider than ice pick scars, boxcar scars give the skin a pitted appearance.
  • Depressed Fibrotic Scars – If ice-pick scars are somehow aggravated, they can transform into large, hard, crater-like scars
  • Macules – Flat pigmented patches. Typically the end result of severe acne, appearing and persisting after the original inflammation.
  • Post-inflammatory Hyperpigmentation – Appears anywhere on the body and varies in size. Often caused by hormonal changes, and/or acne inflammation.
  • Soft Scars – Generally small, these vary in depth and shape
  • Atrophic Macules – Soft and sometimes blue or white. These can appear on the body as well as the face.
  • Follicular Macular Atrophy – Small, raised, generally white bumps, usually seen on the chest or back
  • Rolling Scars – Rolling acne scars are relatively broad depressions in the skin that have rounded, sloping edges.

If scars are your concern and you are considering treatment, we welcome you for an individualized consultation.

Acne Scar Treatment Options

At Rao Dermatology we are proud to offer a variety of procedures that will successfully treat all types of acne scars from superficial to deep acne scar tissue. Depending on the type of acne scarring, treatment plans will differ from patient to patient.

Our PRP and Microneedling treatments are the leading solutions to remove or improve the appearance and feel of scars left on your skin from previous injury or acne.

We also offer a number of different laser treatments that can enhance the look of acne scars including IPL, Laser Genesis, Nano Laser Peel and Sciton Profractional. Our laser treatments offers a degree of control and efficacy that allows for highly precise sculpting of the skin. The laser can target superficial to deep acne scar tissue and is ideal for patients who want dramatic results with minimal down time.

Finally, dermal fillers are an effective way to treat and potentially get rid of certain types acne scars, being particularly effective for rolling scars and some less defined boxcar scars. They are safe and well tolerated, with great results to fill the depression associated with scars. They are excellent for volume loss caused by acne scarring.

Book Your Acne Treatment Consultation Today

At Rao Dermatology we work closely with patients to determine the best course of treatment for their unique needs. We encourage anyone suffering from acne concerns to contact us to set up their complimentary consultation, where they can learn about the many treatment options available to help them achieve the beautiful, glowing skin they desire.
Fill in the form below to book your free acne scar treatment consultation now.

8 Ways To Take Care of Your Skin During the Winter

winter skin care tips

The persistent wind, rain and snow is not much fun during the winter and it can play havoc with your skin.

The cold weather can rob you of the vital moisture your skin needs to stay youthful and supple, leaving it dry, chapped and irritated.

You’re not safe inside either, as the warmth indoors can lead to further moisture loss, further exacerbating the issue.

Looking after your skin at this time of year can be tricky and with that in mind, we’ve put together a few tips to help you keep yours in good condition and looking youthful.

Tip 1 – Protect Yourself

Try and ensure that when you go out, that you place a barrier between your skin and the elements. Hats, scarves and gloves are a must, with some sunscreen thrown in for good measure for the areas you can’t cover with garments. The winter sun might not warm your face like it does during Summer, but it can be every bit as damaging to your skin.

Tip 2 – Invest in a Humidifier

There is an obvious necessity for heating systems to be used during Winter, but the problem is that as well as keeping us warm, they also dry out the air. This can really dry out your skin, which is why investing in a humidifier is a good move, especially for use in the bedroom, as they replace the air moisture that heating removes.

Tip 3 – Use Lukewarm Water

There’s nothing so appealing as a hot bath or shower on a cold day, but whilst it might feel good, it’s not terribly good for your skin’s condition. Wherever possible, choosing to wash your hands and face in lukewarm water will ensure that you don’t lose any of those vital oils from your skin’s surface.

Tip 4 – Hydrate! Hydrate! Hydrate!

One of the most important ingredients to healthy skin is hydration. Whilst it may feel better to have a warming drink during Winter, you need to drink lots of water and hydrate yourself from within. Get this part right and you’re halfway there!

Tip 5 – Use an Oil Based Moisturiser

Whilst all moisturisers claim to do the same thing, those that contain ingredients derived from petroleum can actually serve to cause more dryness issues than they solve. Aim to use a natural oil based moisturiser and you’ll help your skin to retain more of its moisture during Winter.

Tip 6 – Exfoliation

Clearing the skin’s surface of dead cells is important, because if you don’t, then less moisture is going to be able to pervade down into your living cells. An exfoliating mask is something that can help and not just on your face either, but also on your hands. Follow this with a suitable moisturiser and you’ll notice a big difference in your skin’s condition.

Tip 7 – Use a Mild Cleanser

If you’re someone who suffers with sensitive skin, you’ll find that your problems worsen during the winter and the cleanser you use might not be helping. Some brands of standard cleanser contain chemicals that can irritate the skin, so opt for milder, hydrating varieties that don’t contain salicylic or glycolic acid.

Tip 8 – Choose a Skin Friendly Clothes Detergent

Not enough people put a lot of thought into which clothes detergent they use, preferring to go for whatever’s cheapest or has the best advertising. If you use the wrong, harsh type of detergent to wash the clothes you wear every day, your skin could end up suffering. There are plenty of brands on the market that are kind to the skin, so finding one shouldn’t be too difficult.

In Summary

As they say “if you look after your skin, your skin will look after you” and the reason this phrase is popular, is because it’s true. Employ even just a few of the tips from our list and you should see a significant improvement in the softness and overall condition of your skin during the colder months of the year.

We hope you’ve found our blog of use to you and that it helps you protect your skin this Winter. Just remember to wrap up against the elements, hydrate and stay looking as young and fabulous as you know you are.

The Top 5 Cosmetic Procedures For Men

One of the biggest misconceptions circulating the health and beauty sector right now is that dermatology is specific to women.

A decade ago, you might have said that this statement is true. In this day and age however, it is far from it.

In the last 10 years, there has been a strong shift in the male attitude. More and more men are now interested in looking younger, and that is why these procedures are becoming more and more popular.

Botox

Botox is a gateway procedure for a lot of men. At first, men were very hesitant to give it a go. They were worried that they would end up looking stiff and even expressionless. This is not the case at all, and nowadays it is able to soften the wrinkles and even the fine lines around the eyes. This gives a very refreshing look and it can also make you look 5 years younger.

Lasers

Men who want to have a tighter and firmer appearance should really look into lasers. Fraxel is very invasive and it also requires you to have a lot of downtime as well. Lasers on the other hand can really help you to get that youthful appearance and it is ideal if you want to look very youthful in a short space of time. If you have never considered trying lasers before then you should certainly look into it for yourself, as it can shave years off your look.

Fillers

A lot of men are afraid of cosmetic procedures because they fear that it will make them look feminine. This is why a lot of them shy away from cosmetic filler. There are however more masculine techniques out there that can help you to look younger with ease. The key is to use a much lesser amount as this can give you a very natural undertone. It can also be used to create a very youthful look as well. If you use the treatment around the eyes then this will prevent dark circles and it will also stop you from having that “tired” look.

Body Sculpting

It is more than possible for you to destroy fat and there is now a liposuction alternative available. You only have to undergo a couple of sessions and they will only take half an hour each. You won’t have to worry about your beer belly or even your spare tyres anymore, and the treatment has been completely approved by the FDA. This has the ability to destroy 24% of your fat and it is a very safe procedure. The best thing about having this done is that it can ensure results and it doesn’t take long at all.

Laser Hair Removal

More men are now opting for laser hair removal now when compared to ever before. The treatment began for women who had leg hair, but men opt to have it done on their ears, between their eyebrows and even on their back. It is also possible for you to have it done on your chest as well. The technology for hair removal has really advanced over the years and there are many alternatives for you to choose from as well. If your hair is not black however then you may have a problem getting this done, so do keep that in mind.

So, there are many options available if you want to get a procedure done and you would be surprised at how easy it is for you to get the perfect body and without any compromise.

Book Your Free Consultation With Us Today

Dr. Rao will take the time to listen to your concerns and create a treatment plan tailored to suit your goals, skin, and budget. Contact us today for your free consultation by filling in the form below.

How To Get The ‘Natural Look’ With Cosmetic Injectables

Just as fashion trends change so do the trends in cosmetic skin treatments. It wasn’t very long ago that you would have seen a myriad of over-filled lips and cheeks gracing the covers of every major magazine at your local supermarket. Fortunately, this trend has given way to a softer, more natural, refreshed and rejuvenated look rather than artificial and unnatural.

The new trend in more natural-looking cosmetic skin treatments also matches Dr. Rao’s approach and his belief in moderation and maintaining proper facial proportions. The goal is still to look younger but in a way that is more appropriate for your age.

Throughout the aging process, bone and fat pads under the skin that act as a scaffolding, start to thin. This leaves the skin to sag like a deflated balloon and appears drawn, tired and wrinkled.

Every Face Ages In Different Ways.

Some notice their cheeks flattening in their 30’s while others keep that desired “apple” roundness well into their 70’s. This is why customized consultations and treatments are essential. The consultant and doctor need to pinpoint where to focus the rejuvenation that is right for each person

No face ages the same way. Some people notice their cheeks flattening in their 30’s while other lucky individuals keep that desired “apple” roundness well into their 70’s. This is why we always start with a consultation, so we can take note of your current appearance and come up with a tailored solution that will rejuvenate and refresh it by pinpointing the specific areas that need attention.

Age-related volume loss occurs in many areas of the face, cheeks, temples, tear troughs, lips and beneath the corners of the mouth. Dermal fillers are an ideal way to combat this loss and help give a natural-looking correction where needed in a balanced, even way.

Naturally Treating The SIgns Of Aging

One effective method that we use to maintain a natural appearance is to first, re-build that loss in facial volume using a thick filler such as Juvederm. Then, if needed, we can help plump up the areas closer to the surface with thinner fillers such as Juvederm or Restylane which will achieve softer, more refined results.

For the finer lines around the eyes and forehead, we can use appropriate amounts of neurotoxins such as Botox to help smooth out and relax the underlying facial muscles. Once again, these treatments are tailored according to the depth of the patient’s lines and the strength of their facial muscles in order to give a natural, youthful appearance.

For a natural cosmetic enhancement, it is vital to seek out an experienced physician with an aesthetic vision. This will bring out your best features and allow you to look and feel your best.

Book Your Free Consultation With Us Today

Dr. Rao will take the time to listen to your concerns and create a treatment plan tailored to suit your goals, skin, and budget. Contact us today for your free consultation by filling in the form below.

Our Non-surgical Anti-aging Treatments

Laser GenesisNo matter how hard we try, we cannot avoid the aging of our skin. It is an inevitable part of life that is worsened by many factors such as UV exposure, our environment, daily routine and, most of all, the passage of time.

Our skin is not only the largest organ of our body, but also an expression of our identity, lifestyle and choices we made. This explains why many of us try our best to keep it looking as good for as long as possible and to deflect the endless attacks of the biological and environmental forces on its youthfulness.

There are many ways aging can affect our skin including wrinkles, volume loss, sagging, dull skin tone, age spots and spider veins.

What Causes Aging Skin?

Skin ages due to various environmental causes and biological variables:

Genetics
Genetics and family history play a big part in how each person ages. If your genetic history includes individuals who aged noticeably faster, there is a good chance the same thing will happen to you but we offer a number of treatments that will help slow this process down.

Life Style
Our skin’s health can be directly tied to our internal health. Leading an unhealthy lifestyle is eventually going to leave a mark on our physical appearance.

Sunlight
Sun exposure is responsible for most of the visible aging of your skin – far more than all other factors combined. Sunrays are harmful to our skin and cause damage in the form of pigmentation, volume loss and texture problems.

Facial Movement
Wrinkles at the corners of the eyes (crow’s feet) or between the eyebrows (frown lines) are caused by small muscle contractions. Over a lifetime, regular facial expressions like frowning, smiling, or squinting leave their mark on our skin.

Dilated Blood Vessels
Tiny vessels in our face and body can become more visible when exposed to trauma as we get older. areas of the skin, particularly around the cheeks and nose, may become reddish or you may notice small veins on your face.

Decrease in Collagen or Hyaluronic Acid
As we age, our skin loses the ability to produce its own collagen and hyaluronic acid, resulting in many skin imperfections like volume loss and a lack of firmness and elasticity.

How We Can Help Treat Aging Skin

We understand that each individual is different and requires different treatments. We offer multiple skin rejuvenation options for all of your cosmetic needs. A long-term comprehensive skincare program involving prevention and protection of healthy skin, treatment of imperfections, and maintenance strategies are paramount to ensure that your skin health and structure is optimized. Our aging skin treatment options include:

Laser Treatments
Our range of effective laser treatments includes IPL, Nano Laser Peel and Laser Genesis. Our laser treatments help correct the conditions typically associated with early skin damage and aging, stimulating the body to generate new collagen, which strengthens the skin and reduces unwanted redness and wrinkles without any side effects.

Dermal Fillers
At Rao Dermatology, we can offer a variety of facial fillers such as Juvederm, Emervel, Revanesse, and Radiesse. With the expert skills of our luminary injectors, we can give you a natural soft lift and fullness that will instantly refresh your look and reverse the signs of aging.

Neuromodulators
Our neuromodulators treatments use a chemical called botulinum toxin type A which is injected into muscles. The chemical reduces the repeated muscle contractions from frowning and squinting over the years

Thermi
Our range of TermiRF treatments delivers radiofrequency heat to provide solutions for a variety of cosmetic concerns including aging skin without any social downtime.

Book Your Free Consultation Today

Book your free consultation with us today. Dr. Rao will take the time to address your specific needs and answer any questions or concerns you may have about the various anti-aging procedures offered at Rao Dermatology. He will also make specific recommendations as to the best treatment plan for achieving your desired results.

How We Can Smooth Out Forehead & Frown Lines

frown and forehead linesForehead or frown lines can present a frequent problem for both men and women at as the year’s rolls by. As we age, our skin starts to lose tightness and cannot return to the same place it was in our younger days.

When the effects of aging begin to affect our skin, it’s not because of some uncontrollable element. Instead, it is because we start to lose the collagen that once flowed through our skin to keep it smooth and protect it from external factors.

Collagen has a diverse set of responsibilities within our bodies, one of which is renewing old and damaged skin cells with newer and vibrant ones. As levels of collagen are reduced, so too is the natural process that replenishes the skin, leaving us with forehead wrinkles and folds that only serve to make us appear older.

There is even one particular variety of frown line is referred to by its terrible nickname: the 11s. Why? Because this type of frown line forms two pronounced vertical wrinkles between your eyebrows, resembling the number eleven.

No matter what name we give them, we’re all thinking the same thing: where did the frown lines come from? And, more importantly, what’s the best way to get rid of them?

What Causes Your Frown Lines?

Aging
As we mentioned earlier, the number one cause of frown lines is aging. As you get older, your skin loses some of its elasticity. That means it’s harder for your skin to bounce back to its original state. As a result, lines and wrinkles are more likely to stay in place for longer.

Genes
Another frequent cause of frown lines is DNA. Genetics play a significant role in your skin type. Some skin types are more receptive to frown lines, while others are more resilient and will withstand wrinkles for longer.

Repeated Facial Expressions
It’s an old myth that frown lines are caused by frowning. In reality, frown lines are created by frequently making any facial expression that causes your eyebrows to furrow. This can include squinting, smiling, and even laughing. Everyone’s face is unique, so different wrinkles form for different people, even when they’re making the same facial expression.

Sunlight
We all know the sun can damage our skin. But did you know sun damage can actually cause frown lines? The sun’s harmful UV rays break down collagen and elastin, two important proteins that keep your skin looking young and beautiful. Without these crucial proteins, it’s easier for frown lines to form.

Stress
While stress is never good for your health, it can be especially bad for your skin. Being stressed out can cause you to scrunch your face up repeatedly. And as we mentioned earlier, these repeated facial expressions often lead to frown lines. If that’s not bad enough, stress can also lead to breakouts and irritated skin.

Smoking
We understand this isn’t breaking news but, in case you haven’t heard, smoking is harmful for your skin. Smoking can cause all sorts of wrinkles, including frown lines.

How To Get Rid Of Forehead Lines

We offer several effective ways to get rid of frown lines:

Neuromodulators
By injecting neuromodulators (botulinum toxin type A) beneath the surface of your skin, we can reduce the muscle contractions in your face, ultimately smoothing those creases and softening those lines, helping to bring back your youthful skin.

Dermal Fillers
We use both natural and synthetic fillers at Rao Dermatology that produce superior results in combination with our doctors’ skill, technique, experience, and training. Offering Juvederm®, Restylane®, Revanesse, and RADIESSE® dermal fillers, our doctors will assess your skin and recommend the filler best suited to your skin and risk tolerance.

Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP)
PRP is an injectable therapy that uses your own blood platelets to rejuvenate your skin. By drawing your blood and spinning it down, we then inject the platelets into your skin to improve texture, links, and wrinkles.

By placing it deeper into areas like your frown lines, PRP can stimulate other cells to create fuller, healthier looking skin. Because PRP uses your own cells and tissues, the side effects are significantly lower than neuromodulators or dermal fillers.

Changes to the skin with PRP are gradual and continue for three to six months and it lasts for about two years.

If you want to book a free consultation to learn more about how we can help smooth out your forehead and frown lines simply fill in the form below.