As we age it is inevitable that we will develop fine lines and wrinkles. However, good daily skin care maintenance can delay the process. There are many procedures that you can utilize to help you reduce the effects of aging, such as microderamabrasion, chemical peels, and laser resurfacing. Before deciding on an option, it is always best to be seen by an esthetician or dermatologist. They will be able to provide you with the advantages and disadvantages of each procedure so that you may make an informed decision.

One of the best ways to treat and prevent premature aging of the skin is through supplements. Many nutritional supplements contain antioxidants as well as other vitamins and minerals to help treat your skin from the inside out. This can help build collagen and elastin creating firming looking skin. Omega's are rich in essential fatty acids and can supply the skin with much needed hydration, giving it a soft, supple feel. Dr. Perricone has a wonderful supply of nutritional supplements, including DMAE to help tighten and firm the skin. Dr. Murad has a great supply of vitamins with benefits ranging from increased sun protection to cellulite treatments. Either of these options would be an excellent place to start. Remember to always consult a physician first.

Many of the external treatments deal with increasing the rate of cellular turnover. Our skin cells are "born" at the basal layer through a process known as mitosis. There are always new skin cells being born, forcing older skin cells to travel to the surface, creating many layers of cells. As the cell travels to the surface, it loses essential nutrients and hydration as it goes. Eventually the skin cell becomes dry and flat and will slough off the surface of the skin. This entire process takes healthy skin about 28 days and is called cellular turnover. As we age this process slows down decreasing the fullness of the skin. At the same time our elastin and collagen production slow down resulting in sagging skin. This is why it is so important that we take care of our skin with treatments to help stimulate cellular turnover.

Some of the treatments you can do to increase your skin's cellular turnover are:

1. A rejuvenating facial- This includes deep cleansing techniques, massage for relaxation, and most importantly exfoliation for stimulation. In addition there are many serums and masques that can also be applied to help prevent or reduce the signs of aging.

2. A chemical peel- Although these peels are extremely effective, they vary in strengths and can cause extreme dryness and irritation. Therefore it is important that you consult a dermatologist before hand and follow any instructions given for after care. Always wear a sunscreen after a chemical peel. The most common type is a glycolic peel. There can be some down time, so make sure you are prepared.

3. Micordermabrasion- This is a fabulous solution to many skin care concerns. It can help reduce scarring, increase cellular turnover, and result in soft, glowing skin. This treatment can use circulating crystals or a diamond tip to basically scrape off excess dead skin cells. There is minimal to no down time.

4. Laser Resurfacing- This should be a last resort. Although the effects can be phenomenal, it is the most invasive of all the procedures mentioned and can come with the most down time. You must consult a doctor before having laser resurfacing done. Make sure only a Doctor or RN performs the procedure. There are different types, so do your homework and chose the one that is right for you.

These are all viable options for decreasing the signs of aging. The best method is prevention. Take of your skin daily, stay out of the sun as much as possible, and always wear sunscreen. Drink plenty of water, eat well, and your skin will be happy you did.

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