With so many cosmetic treatments available today, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. There’s always something new and exciting, but how do trendy treatments compare to timeless staples? In this blog, Aesthetic Solutions Dermatologist Dr. Lisa Ishii shares five cosmetic treatments she considers essential in her own yearly routine.
#1 – Neuromodulators
Botox, Daxxify, Dysport, Jeuveau,
This is a no-brainer. Neuromodulators are highly versatile and can be used to soften wrinkles, decrease sweating, and even contour the lower face and neck. They are customizable to your goals and can be tailored to achieve localized or full face rejuvenation. Neuromodulators require minimal to no downtime, and they work quickly with final results being fully appreciable at 2 weeks. It is a great place to start when you are first beginning your rejuvenation journey.
#2 – Skin Quality Improvement
Lasers and Light-Based Devices
Enhancing the skin quality is one of my passions. Skin quality is paramount in healthy and youthful skin, and a recent global survey showed that 94% of 14,584 people interviewed desired skin that is radiant, healthy, and glowing.1 Even with fabulous cheekbones and a sharp jawline, if the skin quality isn’t up to par with the facial architecture, people tend to look older or more “weathered.” Lasers and light-based devices help decrease redness, brown spots, fine lines, and most importantly improve radiance and light reflection of the skin.
Our office has a wide range of devices based on the individual concerns. Usually, a combination of a few devices provides the most holistic approach. Here are a few of our options:
- Advanced Resurfacing for Tone + Texture: CO2, RewindTime
- Yearly Resurfacing for Tone + Texture: Fraxel Dual or Halo Pro
- Focused Lasers and Light Devices for Tone: Vbeam, Alexandrite Laser, PicoSure Pro, BBL
- Lighter Resurfacing Lasers for Tone + Texture: Clear + Brilliant, CoolPeel
#3 – Sofwave
Sofwave is a noninvasive skin firming device that can be applied to both face and body. For my patients who are looking to maintain the tautness of their skin and those who are starting to notice some mild crepiness and laxity, this is my go-to to help preserve lift, firmness, and tightness. This is a vital incorporation into the annual maintenance plan! An added benefit is its ability to be combined on the same day as injectable treatments, which can enhance results even further.
#4 – Medical Grade Skincare
We will do the heavy lifting for you in the office, but homework must be done at home! A consistent, evidence-based skincare regimen will not only help achieve your goals, but will also augment the results gained in the office. For skincare beginners, I recommend starting with a Vitamin C serum and sunscreen in the morning, and a retinoid at night. For more advanced skincare enthusiasts, I will add other active ingredients to help meet your needs. In some cases, such as melasma, sun protection and skincare (not injectables or lasers) are the first line treatment! Our online store breaks down skincare regimens by common concerns and skin types.
#5 – Facial Architecture Optimization and Volume Support
HA Fillers + Biostimulators
This can be achieved utilizing hyaluronic acid gel-based fillers (HA filler) and biostimulators (Sculptra, Radiesse). I oftentimes use a combination of both types of products to achieve a natural and holistic outcome. HA fillers are king in helping build back bony structures or fatty tissue that we have lost over time or genetically lacked in the first place. Biostimulators are my go-to for smoothening transitions or working on support for those who don’t need a lot of volume. My approach to this category of treatments is to help you look like a refreshed version of yourself, not a different person.
How to Decide What’s Right for You
Aesthetic treatment planning is never a one-size-fits-all approach. An open and honest conversation with your dermatologist helps to tailor needs to your goals and values. The aesthetic journey is a very personal one in terms of preferences, budget, and priorities. I consider all of these components that we discuss at your consultation to choose the treatment or combination of treatments that is right for you. My priority at the consultation is to educate you on your options so that you are armed with the information you need to take the next step.
These treatments are the can’t-live-withouts in Dr. Ishii’s personal regimen, but everyone’s needs and goals are unique. If you’re wondering which options should be part of your staple routine in the Raleigh, Durham, or Chapel Hill area, contact our team to create a plan tailored specifically to you.
