What is the Prejuvenation Trend (And Is It Worth It)?
Rejuvenation procedures help aged skin look younger again. A new term, prejuvenation, refers to the non-surgical methods that both rejuvenate and prevent skin aging. The prejuvenation trend is being embraced by increasingly younger patients who hope to avoid the onset of fine lines, wrinkles, discoloration or sagging. Learn more about prejuvenation and if it’s time for you to begin.
What is the Prejuvenation Trend?
Prejuvenation is a trending buzzword which refers to cosmetic procedures that walk the fine line between prevention and rejuvenation. Non-surgical procedures such as dermal fillers and Botox not only minimize the early signs of aging, but prevent future lines, wrinkles and sagging.
Women in their 20’s and 30’s are now opting for treatments with neuromodulators and fillers in the hopes that this early action will prevent the need for surgical intervention as they age.
When Does Aging Really Begin?
Aging of the skin begins in our 20’s as production of collagen and elastin starts to dwindle. These two proteins give skin its structure and ability to bounce back from stretch, which is critical for the prevention of sagging and wrinkles.
By the time we’re in our 30’s, fat deposits under the skin start to lose volume or shift, skin begins to get thinner and blood vessels get larger. The cumulative effects of sun exposure and facial expressions start to show as various wrinkles can develop on the face as early as our 30’s.
The signs of aging are difficult to reverse without surgical intervention if we wait until wrinkles are static and skin has thinned and sagged. Prejuvenation methods address the early signs of aging while simultaneously postponing future aging symptoms.
Does Prejuvenation Work?
There is evidence that treating fine lines and dynamic wrinkles in the early stages can postpone the onset of deeper lines and static wrinkles.
In a 2015 study on twins, the twin who was treated with a neuromodulator every 4-6 months over a 19 year period showed no static crow’s feet or forehead wrinkles while the sibling who was treated just 4 times in 19 years, did.
Is Prejuvenation Safe?
To date, there have been relatively few studies on the long-term use of Botox or fillers. If you begin treatments in your early 20’s and continue until your 60’s, you’ll have used Botox for most of your life.
This long-term use does come with some risk, including the potential atrophy of facial muscles, which can result in permanent drooping. As facial skin thins with age, heaviness in the brow and eyelids are also known side effects, seen in those who’ve used Botox for over 10 years.
Neuromodulators and dermal fillers are effective methods of prejuvenation, but they aren’t the only solution. Alternative prejuvenation treatments include skin resurfacing methods such as laser treatments, microneedling and chemical peels. These methods may carry less risk.
Alternative Aging Prevention Techniques
Cosmetic treatments aren’t the only way to prevent aging. The following tips can contribute to maintaining youthful-looking skin for longer.
- Protect your skin from the sun
Wear sunscreen daily and avoid prolonged sun exposure. Sun damage leads to early onset wrinkles, discoloration and skin cancer. It’s never too early for consistent sun protection.
- Avoid smoking
Smoking breaks down collagen in the skin, which causes loss of structural support. If you quit smoking while you’re still young, your skin has a chance to repair.
- Begin an anti-aging skincare routine
A good anti-aging skincare routine includes consistent exfoliation, retinoid or vitamin C serums, and a hyaluronic-acid based moisturizer.
- Be mindful of your diet
Anti-aging skincare is more than the products you use, but also the foods you eat. Bone broth and egg whites boost collagen, berries boost vitamin C, and spinach boosts vitamin A. Foods high in antioxidants also help protect skin from aging.
When Should Prejuvenation Begin?
It’s far easier to prevent aging than to treat it. Some preventative measures, such as sun protection and proper diet, should begin as early as possible. Lifestyle choices in our early life can impact the health and appearance of the skin throughout adulthood.
If considering Botox, one suggestion is to begin treatment as soon as you notice your wrinkles linger while your face is at rest. Because everyone ages at their own pace, this could be age 24 for some people, and age 34 for others.
If you’re curious about prejuvenation and which treatments may work best for you, a board-certified dermatologist or cosmetic surgeon can offer you a specialized consultation.
Dr. Malini Fowler is a Board Certified Dermatologist that completed her undergraduate studies and graduated summa cum laude from the University of St. Thomas in Houston, Texas. She is a fellow of the American Academy of Dermatology and member of the American Society for Dermatologic Surgery. Dr. Fowler enjoys providing medical, cosmetic and surgical dermatology at our new San Antonio office.
Absolutely! Prejuvenation will not only maintain the health and aesthetics of youth, but also enhance it in the most natural way possible.