Wrinkle Reduction
Causes of lines, wrinkles, and folds
Overview
Wrinkles can be the result of such factors as collagen loss, sun damage, smoking, alcohol consumption, repeated facial expressions, and hormonal changes. Aging itself is a large contributing factor, as collagen can decrease at a rate of 1% per year after the age of 40. Additionally, sun exposure accelerates the aging process, damaging the collagen fibers so that they no longer support the upper layers of the skin; this results in the formation of wrinkles.

The most common "problem areas" include lines around the eyelids, forehead, nose, and mouth. In laser resurfacing, a beam heats the dermis (underlying skin beneath the outer layer) and stimulates the growth of new elastin and collagen fibers, which naturally fills your wrinkles from within. After several treatments, skin feels firmer and appears refreshed.

What to Expect
Depending on the area requiring treatment, a session can last from 15–30 minutes, and you can resume normal activities immediately. The hand-held wand of the laser or IPL unit is placed over your skin, and a beam of light is delivered along the full length of the wrinkles. Generally, there is minimal to no discomfort involved, and all skin types can be treated with little risk of epidermal injury. In the rare case of swelling, gentle application of an ice pack will alleviate this and any possible post-procedure discomfort.

Effectiveness and Results
Typically, the results are seen at 4 weeks and are optimal at 3–4 months. Additional sessions may be required to maintain the best possible results. It is important to note that the collagen created from the thermal wound response will be equally subject to aging and sun damage, so skin maintenance is key. Although this new collagen will have a "head start" over the untreated areas, we recommend that you wear sunscreen with UVA/UVB protection to increase your new collagen's longevity.

Before and After Gallery
Before treatment for wrinkles on the mouth and chin After treatment for wrinkles on the mouth and chin

Before treatment on facial wrinkles After treatment on facial wrinkles