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Women's Health
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Wearing sunscreen and a hat is a good start toward minimizing signs of aging and protecting skin, but many women would like some additional help. With hundreds - even thousands - of products and treatments available, it's sometimes difficult to know what's best. Many women try home-care products before seeking medical advice. Although they are not risk-free and can cause irritation or allergic reactions, these products are made to be relatively safe. But that also means they may have limited effects. Women interested in pursuing additional treatments may see a dermatologist to help determine the best treatment for their skin imperfections. Sometimes increased hair growth, rashes or skin lesions may be a sign of a medical problem. Once medical problems are addressed, cosmetic treatment options can be considered. Cost may also be a factor, as insurance may or may not cover some treatments. A variety of skin conditions can be treated medically. Topical medications can slow unwanted hair growth, and lasers can help remove hair. Rashes can often be treated with creams or medications taken by mouth. Acne may also be treated with topical creams or pills. Other treatment options for acne include chemical peels, microdermabrasion (salt or sand projected on the skin for a mild sloughing) or laser treatments. Lasers or other light sources may be used to treat unwanted blood vessels and sun damage. Wrinkles are a common concern, and a variety of options are available to diminish them. The specific treatment recommended by a dermatologist often depends on the type of wrinkle that is being addressed. Some wrinkles result from years of facial movement - smiling, frowning, speaking, the whole range of emotional expressions that take their toll on the forehead and around the eyes and mouth. These wrinkles are often best treated by botulinun toxin, commonly known as Botox. It is important to realize that the effects of these injections are temporary. To maintain results, repeat injections are required three or four times a year. Other wrinkles around the lips or from the nose to the lips may be improved with one of a wide array of fillers injected into the area. Your physician can help you choose the filler that's best for you. Repeat injections may be required to maintain an optimal look. A variety of laser procedures also treat wrinkles. Some have little or no "down time," while others result in significant wounds that require weeks to heal, and still others involve intermediate healing times. The level of improvement you desire is often related to the amount of healing required; more intense procedures achieve the best results but involve longer healing times. Whatever treatment you choose, it is important to have realistic expectations. Some degree of improvement is to be expected, but those seeking perfection may be disappointed. No treatment currently available can return aged skin to "baby-soft" quality. Because there are so many skin-repair treatments, it is essential that you consult a dermatologist who is knowledgeable about a wide range of treatments. The right decision for your friend or mother may not be right for you. With accurate and complete information about expected improvement, healing time and cost, you can make the decision that is best for you. Dr. Kristen Kelly is a dermatologist with UCI Medical Center, Orange County's only university hospital. She practices at UC Irvine's Gottschalk Medical Plaza in Irvine. Information: ucihealth.com or toll-free 877.UCI.DOCS. |
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