Prescription Strength Skin Rejuvenation

Some “wrinkle creams” can briefly improve appearance by hydrating the stratum corneum (the outer layer of the skin) or slightly decreasing inflammation. This merely temporarily covers up the signs of ageing without truly reversing them.

In contrast cosmeceuticals are products that have been shown to improve the signs of ageing both clinically and histologically (under the microscope). This is primarily done by reversing photodamage, i.e. the damage done to the skin by excessive sun exposure.

The products supplied by Dr Wassall have been scientifically researched. They are simple, effective and affordable. Dr Wassall and his staff are able to recommend a treatment regime that will match with your requirements and budget. He is also able to prescribe prescription only products if necessary.

Sun Avoidance and Sun Screen

This is the most important component to prevent further sun damage and for the treatment of sun damaged skin. It has been shown that simply avoiding the sun can reverse the histological signs of photodamage. In other words, the skin has the ability to repair itself if it is protected from continual sun exposure. No matter what treatment regime you decide, further exposure to the sun will reverse any good effects and continue with the damage.

It is impractical, almost impossible, to totally avoid the sun so we must settle for the next best thing—sun protection. This includes hats and protective clothing and sunscreens. The easiest and most reasonable protection for most people is sunscreen. Sunscreen should be worn every day, whether you are outdoors a little or a lot. Because UV damage is cumulative in its effects, even the prevention of small amounts of sun damage over a long period of time can have a profound impact on the total amount of damage. The daily use of a broad-spectrum sunscreen is imperative in the treatment of sun damaged skin. It is important to apply sunscreen to all exposed areas of the neck, chest and the back of hands. Sun Protection Factor gives a guide to the strength of the sunscreen applied. SPF 16 is quite adequate for every day use. It is important you find a sunscreen you are happy with and use it regularly.

Alpha Hydroxy Acids

These are often referred to as fruit acids. They occur naturally from certain fruits such as citrus, grapes and apples. The most popular is glycolic acid, which is derived from sugar cane.

Glycolic acid works in two ways. It loosens and dissolves glue-like substances that hold the outer layer of cells to each other and to the underlying dermis. (These thick piled-up clinging cells are responsible for the appearance of dry skin, rough skin, scaly skin and brown age spots or brown sun damage spots). When the glue is loosened, the thickened stratum corneum is sloughed away and the skin has a much smoother texture, refined pores and appears healthier, moist and more vibrant. Continued use prevents further skin thickening. Secondly, glycolic acid is known to act on the deeper levels of the skin by regenerating collagen and elastin. Clinical studies show a disappearance of fine lines and a significant reduction of coarser, deeper wrinkles.

Glycolic acid is an effective cream for removing sun spots or age spots.

Results to be expected are:

• Softer, smoother texture
• Increased elasticity and firmness
• More refined, smaller appearing pores
• Moist, healthy, vibrant skin
• Lessening of brown spots and/or sun spots
• Reduction and disappearance of fine lines
• Reduction and clearing of acne lesions, blemishes and blackheads.

Retinoic Acid

Retinoic acid has been available for twenty years. It triggered a revolution in non-surgical treatment of sun damaged skin. Considerable scientific research shows that it improves the histological signs of photoageing and photodamage, i.e. damage done to the skin by sun exposure.

What does retinoic acid actually do?

• Thins and compacts the stratum corneum (outer skin layer) resulting in a smoother, softer skin texture
• Thickens the epidermis causing the skin to tighten
• Removes actinic keratoses (rough blotches of the skin from sun damage which can be precancerous).
• Disperses melanin (pigmentation) improving brown blotchy skin
• Stimulates dermal collagen tightening the skin and removing fine wrinkles
• Stimulates new blood vessels giving the skin a pinker, rosy hue

Side Effects

Retinoic acid does have some adverse reactions. Initial treatment may make the skin red, peeling or sensitive. This can be treated by starting slowly until your skin becomes accustomed to it. It may also make the skin more photosensitive so sun avoidance is very important. People who tend to have ruddy complexions with superficial fine blood vessels may find the retinoic acid accentuates this problem. Retinoic acid can only be prescribed by a doctor because of the possible risk of absorption and effect on unborn children in pregnancy.

Hydroquinone

This is often termed a bleaching agent. It is not a true bleacher; hydroquinone acts by preventing the melanocytes producing melanin (the pigment in the skin responsible for brown sun spots and freckles). It generally takes two to three weeks to see an improvement in pigmentation and up to three months to see the full benefits of treatment.

When used with glycolic acid and retinoic acid the cells turn over more rapidly and the brown spots will fade. Hydroquinone is used frequently after facial peels and laser resurfacing to prevent hyperpigmentation. Dr Wassall can prescribe physician strength hydroquinone not available commercially.