As we age, our bodies undergo natural changes. Among these changes is skin ageing, primarily caused by the decrease in the production of elastin and collagen. As a result, signs of ageing, such as wrinkles and volume loss, begin to appear.
Fortunately, there are a number of anti-ageing treatments available in Singapore that can help slow down or combat signs of ageing skin to help one regain a youthful complexion. In this guide, we discuss several anti-ageing treatments to help you find the most suitable approach for your skin.
Anti-Ageing Treatments
Whether surgical or non-surgical, anti-ageing treatments aim to address the visible dermatological effects of ageing skin caused by factors such as excessive UV exposure. They also help maintain skin hydration, firmness, and elasticity. Some common anti-ageing treatments in Singapore include:
Laser Resurfacing
Laser resurfacing is an anti-ageing procedure that uses a laser beam that is carefully calibrated to remove the outermost layers of damaged skin (epidermis) while simultaneously heating the deeper layers of skin (dermis). It helps stimulate the production of new collagen fibres. During the healing process, smoother, more youthful skin starts to appear.
What skin conditions can laser resurfacing address?
Laser resurfacing is an effective treatment option for a range of skin conditions, which generally include:
- Fine lines and wrinkles around the eyes, forehead, or mouth
- Sun-damaged skin
- Age spots or liver spots
- Acne scars or warts
- Uneven skin tone
- Enlarged oil glands on the nose
- Scars from birthmarks such as linear epidermal nevi
Dermal Fillers
Dermal fillers involve the injection of a substance into the target area or skin to restore volume, smoothen uneven textures, and enhance facial features. This substance typically contains hyaluronic acid (HA), a natural component found in the skin that aids in moisture retention and improves skin elasticity. This procedure usually takes less than 30 minutes and requires no downtime. The results can usually last from six months to a year.
What skin issues can dermal fillers help to treat?
Dermal fillers can effectively address various skin concerns, including:
- Nasolabial folds and marionette lines
- Smoker’s lines around the mouth
- Crow’s feet
- Thinning or narrowed lips
- Loss of volume in the cheeks and temples
- Under-eye hollows and dark circles
- Asymmetry in facial features
Chemical Peels
Chemical peels are a type of anti-ageing treatment that involves applying a chemical solution to the skin to help exfoliate and peel off the outermost layer of dead skin cells. This promotes the growth of new, healthier skin and leads to a smoother, more even-toned and brighter complexion. Chemical peels can target varying depths of the skin; and can be performed on different areas of the body, including the face, neck, chest, and hands.
What skin conditions can chemical peels address?
Chemical peels are an effective treatment for addressing a wide range of skin problems, such as:
- Age spots and hyperpigmentation
- Acne scars
- Fine lines and wrinkles
- Uneven skin tone and texture
- Sun damage and dark patches on the face (melasma)
- Rough or dry skin
Microdermabrasion
Microdermabrasion is a non-invasive procedure that uses a specialised handheld device with either an abrasive tip or stream of fine crystals to exfoliate the topmost layer of the skin. This targets the skin layer which usually contains dead skin cells and pore-clogging debris. Using a vacuum-like device, this procedure simultaneously suctions away exfoliated skin cells to promote skin renewal and enhance skin texture and tone. Microdermabrasion can be done on the face, neck, chest, arms, and hands, which usually only takes 30 to 45 minutes to perform with minimal downtime.
What skin conditions can microdermabrasion treat?
Using microdermabrasion, it is possible to reduce the appearance of the following:
- Fine lines and wrinkles
- Age spots and sun damage
- Acne and acne scars
- Uneven skin tone and texture
- Enlarged pores or blackheads
- Sun-damaged skin
- Stretch marks
- Melasma
- Hyperpigmentation
Microneedling
Microneedling is a minimally invasive treatment that utilises a device with tiny, sterilised needles to create small, controlled punctures in the skin. These punctures stimulate the skin’s natural healing process, which involves the production of collagen and elastin. As a result, this procedure improves skin texture, promotes skin tightening, and minimises ageing signs. The duration of a microneedling session may take around 30-60 minutes to complete, depending on the size and number of areas being treated.
Which skin conditions can be treated with microneedling?
One may undergo a microneedling treatment to treat the following skin problems:
- Fine lines and wrinkles
- Acne and acne scars
- Age spots and sun damage
- Uneven skin texture and tone
- Stretch marks
- Enlarged pores
- Reduced skin elasticity
- Hyperpigmentation or dark spots
- Stretch marks
Choosing An Effective Anti-Ageing Treatment
Anti-ageing treatments have become increasingly popular with individuals seeking to turn back the clock and maintain youthful skin. When deciding on an anti-ageing treatment, it is crucial to consider various factors that will help determine its suitability for your specific needs.
The first step is to assess the severity of your skin concerns. Some treatments, such as laser resurfacing and deep chemical peels, may only be appropriate for individuals with more serious signs of ageing. In addition, consider your skin type and any potential sensitivities or allergies you may have. For instance, microneedling may not be suitable for those with active acne.
Most importantly, it is advisable to consult with a certified aesthetic doctor who can evaluate your specific requirements and recommend effective treatment options based on your age, medical history, and desired aesthetic outcomes.