As many of my long-term followers know I am focused on trying to age as naturally and gracefully as possible. Next week I will be 43 and I certainly notice I do not look quite as fresh-faced as I used to. In addition, the lines and dark circles on my under eyes are more pronounced. My main approach to anti-aging has been through my diet. I strongly believe that eating well is reflected in our outward appearance. Eating plant-based, drinking lots of water, and avoiding gluten and dairy have all been very important to my looking pretty good for my age (not to toot my own horn, I only say this because most people are surprised to learn my age so I will take this as a win!).
As for my skincare routine, I realized not too long ago that the average spa facial just wasn’t cutting it. I also am trying to avoid Botox and fillers. This may seem crazy to some. Truth be told I have injected my crows feet and forehead lines one time. I was over injected in my forehead, dropping my eyebrows, and totally changing the look of my face so that scared me straight. The injections were done by a nurse, not an MD. This is important to note. While many can perform cosmetic procedures the level of training and experience that an MD provides ensures a good result. You can read more about that here.
This Fall while researching some treatments I came across Modern Dermatology in Westport. My first visit to them was for a “vampire facial.” Read about that experience here. After realizing one treatment was not enough (there are no quick fixes!), I discussed my options with the wonderful doctors at the practice, Dr. Deanne Robinson and Dr. Rhonda Klein . They suggested a series of PicoSure laser treatments. Last week I had my first treatment. Here is a little about the treatment and my experience…
My visit to Modern Dermatology started with a Visia scan. The Visia scanner is used to record and measure surface and subsurface skin conditions. The technology captures red and brown spots, measures wrinkles, uv exposure and evaluates skin texture and pores. I love that I have a baseline and will be able to measure my progress after my treatments.
Now on the treatment. PicoSure is a laser treatment that delivers ultrashort pulsed energy to create targeted (and intentional!) injuries under the skin, which stimulate collagen and elastin production. The laser is also helpful in targeting areas of hyperpigmentation (sunspots, melasma, acne scarring) – the wavelength of the laser is attracted to the pigment, destroying those skin cells so new, healthy ones can take their place. It is a great multi-tasking treatment for fine lines, wrinkles, acne scars and hyperpigmentation. PicoSure is highly customizable to each patient’s skin and goals. It’s a great option for patients who don’t want downtime but are looking to improve their skin and reduce signs of aging.
Before we started, I numbed for about 30 minutes with a topical numbing cream. The PicoSure treatment itself felt like small zaps on my skin, but wasn’t at all painful. Dr. Klein’s assistant, Jen, held a fan above me to cool my skin as the laser was applied. The treatment was also quick, only taking about 20-30 minutes, followed by 10 minutes wearing an ice pack. I was a little red and slightly swollen that day. The next day my eyes had some slight swelling but that was likely because I expressed concern over this particular area so Dr. Klein focused more heavily there.
It is now 7 days later and my skin is already looking clearer. The slight discoloration or brown spots I had are already diminished. I was also so excited to open my beloved Us Weekly this week to see PicoSure featured. The magazine described the device as giving you a buttery, clean experience. Yes please! I haven’t finished the series treatments, but I will be sharing the results when I do. Check back next week though when I will be sharing my anti-aging skincare routine.
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