By Daniel I. Wasserman, M.D.
September is Healthy Aging Month and while this topic alone could fill a large textbook, here are five tips to help us move through time more slowly and healthfully.
1. Sunscreen: The most important intervention one can do for the health of the largest organ of the body would be to use sunscreen. UV radiation (UVR) can accelerate the loss of collagen and elastic fibers in the skin, stimulate the overproduction of pigment, dilate superficial capillaries, mutate the DNA, and inhibit the skin’s immune function which can lead to cancer.
2. Topical antioxidants: Not all the sun is blocked by sunscreen and some of it will make it through and over time will cause substantial damage. Topical antioxidants can help as a second line of defense to inactivate UVR damage as it is occurring.
3. Topical retinoids: Briefly, these products can help stimulate the production of collagen and slow the loss of collagen and elastic fibers. Over time, these products are powerful tools to slow time for the skin.
4. Pulsed-dye laser (PDL): PDL is the gold standard for the treatment of redness and dilated capillaries on the face used by dermatologists. Studies have shown that the single greatest factor contributing to an unhealthy appearance are red tones. PDL will reduce if not eliminate these tones leading to an overall healthier appearance.
5. Fillers: As we age, we atrophy bone and fat in the face. Additionally, muscles of the face may shift or become more or less active or tone at rest. Depending on the nature of one’s process through this inevitable, but dreaded experience, proud cheeks could become saggy cheeks, dark circles may seem darker, and jowls may form. Fillers are an excellent tool when used in the right hands for the right patients to provide just a little help with picking up some of these areas so that many of your friends may notice a more refreshed, rested look.
These 5 tips should be a useful start toward a dialogue with your physician about the ways you may want to consider ensuring a healthy aging process.
Daniel I. Wasserman, MD
Fellowship-trained Laser and Cosmetic Dermatologist Fellowship-trained Mohs Surgeon Board Certified Dermatologist
Dr. Wasserman is a board certified dermatologist with fellowship training at Harvard Medical School in laser and cosmetic surgery, as well as fellowship training in Mohs skin cancer surgery. He has contributed as a dermatology expert for online and print magazines. In addition, he frequently lectures to professional societies and organizations on his diverse research. For more information about skin care visit the Skin Wellness Physicians website at www.skinwellnessflorida.com
239.732.0044
www.SkinWellnessFlorida.com