Q&A with Dr. Cox: Treating the Hands
There’s an old saying that hands reveal your true age. Recent years have seen an increased focus on treatment for rejuvenation of the hands. We sat down with Dr. Cox to get her take on the science of hand aging, and what can be done.
Q: Is there any truth to the saying that hands reveal your true age?
Hands are certainly one part of the body that shows the signs of aging earliest. This is largely because hands are almost always exposed. For most people, this means hands sustain more sun damage than any other part of the body except the face. Unlike the face, however, most people do not take preventative measures to protect their hands.
Q: What are the most common concerns?
I see two primary concerns when it comes to the hands: brown spotty discoloration and complaints about a bony, veiny appearance. The discoloration can be distinct brown spots or diffuse discoloration. This is caused by sun damage, which can also contribute to a crepey dehydrated appearance. The bony, veiny look comes primarily from loss of volume. The skin on the back of the hands is already relatively thin. As we age, the skin thins further and fat volume is lost, making it easy to see the underlying structures of the hand: enlarged veins, tendons and bones.
Q: Why is there an increased focus on hands now?
Today, there is a range of excellent non-invasive and minimally-invasive treatment options that can turn back the clock on facial aging. Women and men who enjoy the results of these procedures want their hands to match their younger-looking faces.
Q: What options exist for hand rejuvenation?
My go-to for hand rejuvenation is a combination treatment of Radiesse for Hands and laser treatment. Radiesse is a filler that is FDA approved for use to in the back of the hands. This treatment restores volume and reduces the appearance of veins and bony structures. Laser treatment by either Fraxel or the Alex Trivantage Laser reduces the look of brown spots and sun damage. The result significantly younger-looking hands. As a Radiesse for Hands Center of Excellence, we have been recognized for our excellence in hand rejuvenation, and are excited to offer this new treatment to our patients.
Q: What can be done to prevent premature aging of the hands?
Photo-aging is the most preventable component of hand aging. When you apply your sunscreen in the morning, make sure to pump out a bit extra for your hands and other areas that aren’t covered by your clothing. A good moisturizing product will also lock in your skin’s natural moisture and help reduce the appearance of fine lines.
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If you have any questions, or are interested in learning if Radiesse for Hands might be right for you, get in touch. We can be reached by phone at (919) 289-4645 or by email at appointments@aesthetic-solutions.com.