Anti-aging

What causes aging in the skin?

Approximately 90% of all changes in skin are due to prolonged exposure to sunlight. Ultraviolet light not only damages the DNA in the cells of the skin, but also inhibits the repair mechanisms that repair damaged skin cells. The breakdown of DNA, collagen, elastin, hyaluronic acid, and other molecules in the skin, all contribute to aging. As skin becomes less elastic, it also becomes drier, and underlying fat padding begins to disappear. With the loss of underlying fat support, the skin begins to sag; it appears less supple; and wrinkles begin to form. The logical, and most important, solution is sun protection. At Sunflower Dermatology we offer a variety of quality sunscreens for face and body, as well as sunscreen clothing.

How do you repair the damage that has already been done?

There are many options when it comes to anti-aging products. At-home skin care suitable for your skin type, properly moisturizing, and exfoliation, are crucial. With each passing year our skin cells turnover at a much slower rate. Here are a few key exfoliation products that can be used to visibly reduce the signs of aging:

Retinol and all trans retinoic acid (Vitamin A) - Topical Vitamin A helps build collagen fibers within the skin in addition to its more superficial exfoliating property. This is the basis for its use in minimizing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

Hydroxy Acids (AHAs or BHAs) - Designed to smooth fine lines and surface wrinkles; improve skin texture and tone; unblock and cleanse pores; improve oily skin or acne; and improve skin condition in general.

Glycolic Acid - Once inside the cells, glycolic acid triggers new formations of collagen to plump cells, and the ground substances in the skin, to reduce wrinkles on the skin's surface. Glycolic acid has also been proven to be very effective in the treatment of acne.

Vitamin C - An extremely effective anti-oxidant, and thus is a powerful weapon in the fight against aging, vitamin C protects you against the free radicals from the sun and environmental pollutants.

It is important to begin using anti-aging products as early as your 20s to prevent damage, and to repair damage that has already been done. It is never too late to use anti-aging products, and there are many products and treatments that can visibly improve aging in the skin and make you look years younger, no matter what age you are right now.

Sunflower Dermatology offers many effective anti-aging skin products, including:

Avene Retrinal 0.1%
Avene Soothing Eye Cream
Dr. H Retinol Gold
Glytone Body Lotion with Glycolic Acid SPF 15
SkinCeuticals AGE Interrupter
SkinCeuticals AGE Eye Complex
SkinCeuticals Retinol 0.5%
SkinCeuticals Retinol 1.0%
SkinCeuticals Phloretin CF Serum
SkinCeuticals CE Ferulic Serum
SkinCeuticals Retexturizing Activator
SkinCeuticals Skin Firming Cream
Tretinoin 0.025% Cream (prescription product)
Tretinoin 0.05% Cream (prescription product)

Avene