Dr. Patricia Farris, MD of US based firm Old Metairie Dermatology & is an experienced board-certified dermatologist who is widely recognized for her expertise in anti-ageing therapies. This post features an excerpt from Dr. Farris.
Collagen and elastin are fibers that make up the supporting structure of the skin. Collagen gives skin its firmness while elastin keeps skin tight. Both of these fibers are plentiful in young skin and start to break down with natural ageing and as a result of sun exposure.
While there are lots of collagen and elastin creams available these molecules are far too large to penetrate the skin. The only way to boost collagen and elastin in the skin is to turn on the fibroblast cells that produce these fibers. This can be done using cosmeceuticals containing prescription retinoids, retinol, alpha hydroxys or peptides and by having procedures like microdermabrasion, chemical peels and laser resurfacing. This combination of cosmeceuticals, sunscreen and in office procedures is the best way to keep your skin looking young, firm and tight.