Aging HANDS can be REJUVENATED!

Age spots as well as loss of elasticity and collagen, in the hands, are a valid concern. As we age, our hands, neck and eyes are the first areas to show the tell-tale signs of our advanced years. Here are a few things you can do to address this issue, and age gracefully in this area:

1. Proactive Maintenance: Daily serums with SPF is your morning ritual for your face, right? ....well, start applying the same serum to the backs of your hands as well. The hands are über vulnerable to the sun and require protection. Hand skin is thin and usually forgotten when applying sunscreen and serums. Moreover, hands get washed often, therefore re-application of SPF should be a priority. Carry a nourishing hand cream with SPF in your purse, it'll make all the difference. 

2. Lemon: Rub fresh lemons on the backs of your hands before you go to sleep. If you have rough or darkened elbows, add a bit there as well. The acid in the lemon acts as a natural exfoliant and skin lightener. This is an inexpensive method, however, it may take some time to see results, so be patient. Never apply lemon to the skin during the day, so wash the lemon off come morning. Sun and lemon juice are NOT a good combo for skin health, so be conscious of that. The citric acid in lemon isn't gentle, therefore, if you see signs of irritation stop using it on your skin immediately.

3. Lightening Creams: Address your concern with your Med Spa Doctor or Dermatologist and he/she will prescribe a lightening cream such as "Hydroquinone" (4-7% is the norm). Make sure that a sunscreen is applied to the treated area during the day, and reapply as needed; your skin will become sensitized from the cream. Even while driving, the sun's rays will penetrate the glass, so be conscious of your daily sun exposure. 

4.  Hyaluronic Acid:  Injectables such as Radiesse are a terrific solution to plump-up those hands and add volume to those hand-gaps. This injectable mimics Hyaluronic acid which is naturally occurring in the skin. When injected, Radiesse give hands that plump affect (think of the cheeks of a baby). What I love about Radiesse most is that "it's considered to be semi-permanent because it stimulates collagen production (due to the depth of insertion) and it lasts longer that other Hyaluronic acid fillers", says Dr. Rosa Mena of Ultima Med Spa in Miami; it can last up to 14-16 months! Other uses for Radiesse? Since it is calcium & cellulose based, it's quite dense and needs to be injected deep within the dermal tissue, and not too close to the surface. Therefore, "it is not intended for use in lips or tear truffs" but is perfect for "the cheek area, nasal labial folds, marionette lines and, of course, the hands". Explains Dr. Mena. Wondering about the price point for Radiesse and other hylauronic injectables? About $400-$700 for 1 cc. Not cheap, but a worthy investment in yourself, for sure.

5.  Lasers:  IPL or Fraxel Laser Treatments target sun spots (as well as fine lines and wrinkles). Laser technology is life-changing, and I find it comforting that women, and men alike, have options. Make sure, however, that you visit a recommended Doctor for your IPL or Fraxel Laser treatments. IPL Lasers, for example, should NEVER be used on Fitzpatrick 4 skin, or higher....I should know, I was severely burned with an IPL years ago (moral of the story: never purchase a "group deal" for laser treatments unless the place comes personally recommend to you). You don't have a recommended doctor?  In-box me and I'll help you find the best one in your area.

6.  Other Options: Mico-Dermabrasion and Chemical Peels are not just for the face. Hand rejuvenation is a valid topic and should be treated as seriously as the face and neck. Dr. Mena also mentioned that "Mico-Dermabrasion and Chemical Peels are performed based on the patient's individual needs". This includes age and severity of the skin-issue.

It is extremely empowering to know that there are rejuvenating options for HANDS! Options that were not available even a decade ago...how divine :)

--Ciao for now :)

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