Summer was fun while it lasted, but unfortunately you are now noticing the subtle aging effects the sun can have on your skin. Even with the use of sunscreens, it is hard to avoid UV exposure during the summer months. Winter is the perfect time to refresh your look with the many treatment choices designed to reverse the effects of sun damage.
Emily Spataro, MD, is a Washington University facial plastic surgeon who specializes in cosmetic surgery, rhinoplasty, skin cancer surgery, laser resurfacing, chemical peels, dermabrasion and cosmetic Botox® and fillers. Dr. Spataro says, “The combination of sun exposure and dry summer heat take a toll on the skin and can leave it with a dull finish and splotchy pigmentation —not to mention fine lines and wrinkles. Skin texture and pigment problems are underestimated when it comes to adding years to your appearance, and both can be improved upon through in-office procedures.”
Resurfacing the skin is usually done best by a physician-directed laser treatment or chemical peel, which strips away the superficial skin layers. In a matter of a few days, the skin is smoother with more even tones.
According to Dr. Spataro, “Depending on the treatment, the downtime can range from one to two days to a week or more. A full face laser treatment or a medium depth peel offer the best results when it comes to making an impact on the fine lines and age spots, but does have more down time. A series of lighter peels has the benefit of less down time, but more subtle results.”
Keep in mind that facials, microdermabrasion or light peels should be a part of routine skin care. However, they do less to impact wrinkles and dyschromias (splotchy pigmentation or age spots).
Dr. Spataro adds, “Of course, if you have more advanced aging changes, a surgical procedure such as a facelift, brow lift or an eyelid procedure may be optimal. To maximize results, these procedures can be done in conjunction with skin resurfacing.”
For more information on treatment options for your skin rejuvenation needs or to make an appointment with Dr. Spataro or any of her colleagues, please call 314-996-3880.
Washington University Facial Plastic Surgery Center
1020 N. Mason Road, Suite 205
Creve Coeur, MO, 63141