Anti-Ageing Treatments

• Reduced Collagen and Elastin Production

  : Collagen and elastin are proteins that provide structure and elasticity to the skin. As we age, their production declines, leading to sagging skin and wrinkle formation.

• Thinning of the Skin

  : The outermost layer of the skin, known as the epidermis, becomes thinner with age, making the skin more fragile and susceptible to damage.

• Facial Volume Loss

  : The fat pads underneath the skin diminish, resulting in volume loss and hollowness.

• Increased Pigmentation

  : Age spots and uneven skin tone may appear due to sun damage (increased melanin production) and hormonal influences.

• Dry and Dehydrated Skin

  : Ageing skin produces less natural moisture, which may cause skin dryness, dehydration, and itchiness.

• Reduced Skin Cell Regeneration

  : The rate at which skin cells regenerate slows down with age, leading to a buildup of dead skin cells on the skin surface. This may result in dry, uneven skin tone.

When Does One Start to Show Signs of Skin Ageing?

• 30s

  : At this stage, some people may start to notice the initial signs of skin ageing, such as fine lines around the eyes (crow’s feet) or mouth (laugh lines). The skin may also lose its youthful radiance due to the development of dark spots, dullness, and uneven skin tone.

• 40s

  : Moving into your 40s, deepening wrinkles become more noticeable in areas such as the forehead and mouth. The skin may also lose its firmness and elasticity, leading to sagging, wrinkles, and a less defined jawline. Dark spots may also form due to sun damage and hyperpigmentation.

• 50s

  : In the 50s, the skin becomes thinner and more fragile, particularly around the cheeks, neck, and jawline areas, due to decreased collagen and elastin production. Age spots and hyperpigmentation may also become more visible due to accumulated UV damage. Furthermore, facial volume loss becomes noticeable, resulting in a more hollow-cheeked appearance.

• 60s and Above

  : Once people reach their 60s and beyond, deep wrinkles and sagging become more pronounced, and the skin may appear thin and dry. In addition to these visible signs, the skin becomes increasingly vulnerable to external factors, such as injuries and infections, due to a weakened barrier function.

What are the Available Anti-Ageing Treatments in Singapore?

• Laser Resurfacing

  : This procedure uses laser technology to improve skin texture, tone, and appearance. By precisely targeting concentrated light beams onto the skin's surface, it stimulates collagen production and the renewal of skin cells. Laser resurfacing can effectively reduce wrinkles, age spots, and acne scars.

• Dermal Fillers

  : These are gel-like substances injected below the surface of the skin to restore volume, smooth out wrinkles, plump up lips and cheeks, and enhance skin contours. Dermal fillers can address deep facial wrinkles, creases, skin depressions, and volume loss.

• Microdermabrasion

  : This cosmetic treatment utilises a handheld device that gently emits fine crystals onto the skin to exfoliate the outermost layer. It also uses suction to remove dead skin cells, revealing a smoother and more radiant complexion.

• Chemical Peel

  : In this treatment, a chemical solution is applied to the skin, causing its outer layers to peel off and stimulating the growth of new, healthier skin cells. Chemical peels can improve various concerns, such as wrinkles, discoloured skin, and scars, and can be performed on the face, hands, and neck.

• Fractional Laser Skin Resurfacing

  : This treatment applies short, concentrated laser beams to produce deep and narrow columns of tissue coagulation on the skin surface. It helps increase collagen production, which renews the skin and reduces the appearance of imperfections.

• Non-Ablative Skin Rejuvenation

  : This treatment uses a laser technique that generates heat for collagen stimulation and skin tightening. In addition, it improves the appearance of wrinkles, dark spots, and minor skin blemishes without causing any visible damage to the skin surface.

• Microneedling

  : This minimally invasive treatment uses thin, sterilised needles to create controlled micro-injuries in the skin in order to promote elastin and collagen, thereby triggering the body’s natural healing response (dermal remodelling). Microneedling is recommended for individuals with enlarged pores, wrinkles and fine lines, burns, and uneven skin tone.

• Skin Care

  : This refers to the products used to maintain and improve the skin’s health and appearance. A skincare routine typically includes a cleanser, toner, moisturiser, exfoliator, serum, and sunscreen to preserve the skin’s natural balance and address skin concerns.

What are the Conditions That Anti-Ageing Treatments Can Address?

• Skin Wrinkles

  : These are creases or folds that typically appear on sun-exposed skin areas, such as the face, neck, and hands. Laser resurfacing, dermal fillers, and microneedling can reduce the appearance of wrinkles.

• Fine Lines

  : These thin, less noticeable lines forming in the eyes, forehead, and mouth can be smoothed out using chemical peels and dermal fillers.

• Ageing Skin

  : This is a change in the skin as part of ageing, typically manifesting as a loss of elasticity and firmness. Laser resurfacing and non-ablative skin rejuvenation can help improve texture and tone for ageing skin.

• Pigmented Skin

  : Changes in melanin production may cause pigmented skin disorders, such as hyperpigmentation. Anti-ageing treatments like microneedling and chemical peels can target hyperpigmented areas to facilitate new, healthy skin cells.

• Dry/Dehydrated Skin

  : A lack of natural oils or moisture can lead to dry or dehydrated skin. Addressing this condition may involve using skin moisturisers or dermal fillers.

• Depending on Skin Type

  : Treatments for anti-ageing can be tailored to different skin types, such as oily, dry, and combination skin. An aesthetic doctor will carefully assess the patient’s skin type and recommend the most appropriate treatments and skincare products tailored to their needs.

Who are Good Candidates for Anti-Ageing Treatments?

• Realistic expectations concerning the outcome of the treatment.
• Good overall health, which facilitates optimal healing and recovery post-treatment.
• Non-smoker, as smoking can negatively impact both the skin's healing process and overall well-being.
• Have specific skin concerns that they wish to address, such as wrinkles, fine lines, or pigmentation issues.
• A strong commitment to regular skincare routines in order to achieve lasting results.

Tips to Reduce Premature Skin Aging

• Protecting Your Skin from the Sun

  : It is crucial to apply sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 daily. Wearing protective clothing and seeking shade during sunny periods hours are also recommended.

• Avoiding Smoking and Limiting Alcohol Consumption

  : Smoking and excessive alcohol consumption can hasten the ageing process, leading to wrinkle formation, lacklustre complexion, and other skin-related concerns.

• Eating a Balanced Diet

  : A diet that includes ample amounts of fruits, vegetables, and foods rich in antioxidants can protect the skin from damage.

• Staying Hydrated

  : Adequate hydration plays a vital role in maintaining optimal moisture levels in the skin and preserving its elasticity.

• Getting Sufficient Sleep

  : Targeting a sleep duration ranging from 7-9 hours each night allows for effective repair and rejuvenation processes within the skin.

• Managing Stress

  : Engaging in stress-reducing activities such as meditation or physical exercise aids in managing stress levels, which in turn improves overall skin health.

• Cleansing the Skin Gently

  : Before retiring to bed, use gentle cleansing techniques when removing pollutants, sweat residue, and makeup from your face.