Drug store shelves are full of creams, products, ointments, and other tools that claim to repair the skin, and your local spa or dermatologist will have many helpful suggestions. It can be overwhelming to know where to start. Here are some of the best cosmetic treatment options to help return that youthful look to your skin.

Hyaluronic Acid

Why is hyaluronic acid so beloved by so many diverse groups of people? Men and women alike flock to this ingredient to improve their skin, and many different brands include it in their products. Don’t let the acid part of its name fool you- this ingredient can work some magic.

Hyaluronic acid is capable of holding up to 1,000 times its molecular weight in water. That means that using a cream that contains hyaluronic acid is akin to giving your skin a massive nourishing glass of water. The hyaluronic acid penetrates the skin and works to bind water to your skin cells. That means your cells get nourished with some much-needed moisture, which in turn helps reduce lines and wrinkles.

Microdermabrasion

Microdermabrasion is an excellent non-invasive treatment option that a local facialist can easily perform. This is an especially effective anti-aging treatment for those looking for a quick fix. If you have an upcoming wedding or special event, consider asking your dermatologist or spa about microdermabrasion.

Tiny crystals are used to exfoliate and remove the top layer of dry and dead skin cells. Not only does this leave you with a fresher and more rejuvenated look, but it also encourages new skin growth. If you are bothered by sun damage, fine lines and feel like you could use a little refresh, microdermabrasion is pain-free for most people and can be done quickly.

Thermage

Thermage is one of the trendier options today to fight old, tired skin. Heat is used to encourage your body to produce more collagen, which is known for tightening the skin. Additionally, radiofrequency energy is used with the aim of taking years off your skin. Thermage is especially useful for those with droopy, wrinkly skin. It’s known to work wonders around the eyes where skin tends to gather as people age.

The jury is out on the pain level of thermage- with some reporting it as painless with others experiencing some discomfort. Do not expect young skin instantly after one treatment; you may need to go a few times before you see the results. Among people who swear by thermage? Gwyneth Paltrow– and if she swears by it, then that’s something we’ll listen to.

Liquid Facelift

Don’t let the word “facelift” scare you off. This treatment is nonsurgical and known for improving the look of old, aging skin. So, what exactly is a liquid facelift? No, this is not the stuff of science fiction. A licensed technician injects gel fillers to gently lift the face and reduce wrinkles. The result is a more fresh and brighter look.

A liquid facelift is an excellent option for those looking to avoid the high cost and risk of going under the knife. A liquid facelift will last you for about two years, too- so you should enjoy a good return on investment. Because the gel injections are essentially sculpting your face, check reviews, and consult with friends to ensure you find an experienced professional.

Non-ablative Lasers

Non-ablative lasers are a safe way to improve the look of your skin. The laser treatment does not damage the surface of your skin, so you will not need much recovery time in between treatments. The lasers work to boost collagen production, which in turn leads to tightened skin with reduced lines and wrinkles. If you suffer from skin discoloration, like brown patches, this treatment has known to be especially effective at reducing those spots.

After the treatment, you may experience some minor redness. The procedure can be a little painful, so the doctor should put a numbing cream on your face to make you more comfortable. For the best results, try to plan on getting four to six treatments with the lasers, with a few weeks in between each treatment.

Facial Cupping

You may have heard of cupping in a massage setting, but more and more people are turning to facial cupping as a way to achieve more radiant skin. How does it work? Small cups with a suction function are used on the face to increase blood circulation. That, in turn, stimulates facial cells that are tasked with collagen production. More collagen means less puffiness, a more toned look, reduced wrinkles, and brighter skin.

Reasons to love facial cupping? The procedure is relatively quick and non-invasive. No needles are involved, and while you may have some circle-shaped marks on your face after the treatment, they will dissipate quickly.

How to Pick the Right Treatment

With so many treatments out there, it can be overwhelming to know what is best for you. Start with examining your comfort level. If you are willing to go more extreme with the usage of lasers and needles, then a liquid facelift or non-ablative lasers may be an excellent solution for you.

If you are just beginning your quest toward younger-looking skin, it would be wise to start with more non-invasive treatments and work your way up. Cupping, microdermabrasion, or using a cream with hyaluronic acid are all safe, and you can return to work right after your treatment.

Until we discover the fountain of youth, these treatments will help you in your battle against fine lines, wrinkles, age spots, and sagging skin. Don’t forget, perhaps the oldest trick in the book- wear sunscreen and drink lots of water to keep your skin safe and healthy.