Start a skincare routine

It’s never too late to start! It may be intimidating at first, but slowly adding products to your routine can ease you into a skincare regimen that works for you, and you’ll begin to see improvements in your skin. Use products such as a face wash, moisturizer, eye cream, serum, face masks, and a strong SPF. These can all help nourish and heal your skin, while preventing it from being damaged any further. Whether you’re just starting to see a few fine lines and wrinkles, or they’ve been around for years, starting a cleansing and moisturizing routine at any age can make a difference.

Look at the ingredient list

Unfortunately, buying just any face wash, moisturizer, or other skincare product at the store won’t cut it. Look for specific ingredients that can help reverse the signs of aging and prevent it from happening further. Vitamin C, Ferulic Acid, Retinoids, Hyaluronic Acid, Peptides, and more are all common ingredients you’ll want to see in your skincare products. Stem cell derived growth factors are also an amazing skincare ingredient found in some products that can actually teach your skin to repair itself, and repair damage. It’s important, however, to use human stem cells, which will be effective unlike many plant stem cell based products on the market.

Go to the pros

If you’re really looking to invest in the reversal of aging skin, going to a dermatologist or other skincare professional that can perform treatments such as laser skin resurfacing, chemical peels, and other procedures that will help. Laser skin resurfacing can reduce the appearance of wrinkles, tighten skin, and even out skin pigmentation. Chemical peels remove age spots and wrinkles, and smoother, healthy skin heals and grows underneath. Both of these treatments will take a few days to a few weeks for your skin to fully heal, meaning it’s a process you’ll need to be dedicated to.

Catch some z’s

 A lack of sleep can make your eyes appear swollen, give you darker under eye circles, cause more wrinkles or fine lines, and more. Contrary to what you may have heard, older adults need just as much sleep as younger adults (around 7-9 hours a night) to be fully rested! However, as we age it can be harder to fall asleep and stay asleep due to health issues, restlessness, etc. And unfortunately, your skin does most of its repairing and rebuilding while you’re asleep. Ensure you’re getting a proper night of sleep by visiting a doctor, letting your body rest before getting into bed, and limiting pre-sleep screen time. Not only will you have more energy for your day, but your skin will also show it.

Consider environmental factors

Not every skincare routine will be the same, and if you live in a place that actually has four seasons throughout the year, be prepared to adjust your skincare routine to the weather every few months. Colder temperatures require more moisturizing because of the dry air and chilling temps. Hotter weather means a lighter skincare routine with a facial oil can protect your skin without making it greasy. No matter the weather, SPF is a crucial part of your skincare routine. In the summer, opt for a higher SPF, but don’t forget to protect your skin from the sun’s rays, even if it’s snowing.

Be mindful of what you eat

 It’s not just topical treatments that can help your skin, but also what you put into your body. Be mindful of the foods you’re eating. If your meals are full of processed foods that are high in sugar and don’t provide much nourishment to your body, your skin will likely reflect that. Try adding in healthy options that are great for your skin:

• Fish has omega-3 fatty acids can help your skin seal in moisture, which is important for aging skin.
• Fruits and veggies high in water like cucumbers, watermelon, zucchini, strawberries, etc. can be a great way to get in extra hydration with anti-aging antioxidants.

Annie Bowles-Welch PhD is a cell and molecular biologist with over 10 years of experience researching adult stem cells and how they can be used as therapies Dr. Bowles-Welch is from Louisiana where she earned her degree at Tulane University in New Orleans in 2017. She loves science and in her free time enjoys painting, cooking, gardening, and spending time with family and friends. Dr. Bowles-Welch is currently the Director of Research and Development at FACTORFIVE Skincare and a Senior Research Scientist at the Georgia Institute of Technology.

Our skin starts aging while we are still young. As time passes, a combination of genes, lifestyle, and environment – especially sun – leaves its mark. Wrinkles, uneven tone, and a dulled complexion often join us as we get older.

In addition, older skin becomes thinner and more susceptible to ongoing damage.

Our understanding of senior skin has given us the ability to intervene in the processes that ‘age’ our skin and address cumulative loss and damage.

Take wrinkles, for example. We start to lose our skin’s collagen support as twenty-somethings, which eventually results in “static’”wrinkles. Likewise, over the years, our repeated expressions – smiles and frowns – generate “dynamic” wrinkles. Today, though, we have a range of procedures to stimulate new collagen and limit dynamic wrinkles, giving us a chance to push our skin’s “restart” button.

Uneven skin tone – “age spots” and “spider veins,” for example, are also typical of senior skin.

Skin cancer is a serious concern, But the sun impacts our skin in a number of ways. Over the years, ultraviolet rays accelerate the breakdown of collagen and can also leave permanent darkened patches and broken blood vessels. Fortunately, as with wrinkles, we have techniques that can address this damage, ‘resurface’ our skin and boost our complexion.

To help guide seniors in prejuvenation and rejuvenation skin-care choices, I have the following suggestions.

5 Tips to “Baby” and Improve Aging Skin

1. Sun protection, now more than ever! People make the mistake of thinking that it’s too late to start practicing “safe sun” or that they can relax about sun protection when they’re older. Nothing could be further from the truth: adopting careful sun protection ­– SPF 30, seeking shade and protective clothing – actually can help the skin’s own rejuvenation processes. And taking extra care when we’re older is extra important because seniors, once retired, are often out and about more, getting even more sun exposure and further damage.

2. Go undercover to help smooth and firm: We have a wide menu of interventions that can jump start our skin’s collagen production, like microdermabrasion, laser treatments, Ulthera ultrasound, and Intensif radiofrequency microneedling. Adding in hyaluronic acid (HA), for example with Collagen PIN microneedle treatments, can give a further boost to firmness, as can HA fillers such as Juvederm, Perlane and Resytlane. For dynamic wrinkles, Botox injections hit an effective ‘pause’ button, and those injections can work in synergy with collagen and HA treatments.

3. Resurface to “reset” skin tone: Uneven skin tone – including age spots and spider veins – responds well to ‘resurfacing’ treatments like microdermabrasion, chemical peels, and laser treatments. These penetrate below the skin to eliminate clusters of pigment spots and broken blood vessels caused by cumulative sun exposure.

4. Wash less! Moisturize more! Babying’ our skin means treating it extra gently. Especially when we’re older and our skin is more delicate, we want to protect it and help it retain moisture: unless sweaty or dirty, cleanse once, nightly, with a non-soap cleanser and warm (not hot!) water. In the morning, a cool-water rinse is enough. After cleansing or rinsing, pat dry gently and apply moisturizer ASAP – while your skin is still damp – to help lock the moisture in.

5. When in doubt, check it out: Skin cancer is the world’s most common cancer, and it is more likely to develop after years of sun exposure. If there are new growths or skin changes, see your dermatologist for evaluation.

As we leave our younger years behind, we can bring our healthy, vibrant skin along with us.

Rebecca Sklar, RPA-C is a certified physician assistant through the National Commission of Certification of Physician Assistants.

Advanced Dermatology P.C. and the Center for Laser and Cosmetic Surgery (New York & New Jersey) is one of the leading dermatology centers in the nation, offering highly experienced physicians in the fields of cosmetic and laser dermatology as well as plastic surgery and state-of-the-art medical technologies. www.advanceddermatologypc.com.

“It’s important to realize that products don’t need to be expensive to be effective,” said board-certified dermatologist Sheila Zahra Farhang, MD, FAAD. “A simple, three-step approach that includes cleansing, moisturizing, and protecting your skin is key–and that doesn’t mean you need a lot of different products. Limiting the number of products may be better for your wallet and your skin since using several different products can be costly, can irritate your skin, and can make signs of aging more noticeable.”

In addition to simplifying your approach, Farhang recommends the following tips to be skin and savings smart:

Cleanse your skin before applying skin care products and before going to bed. A gentle cleanser removes dirt, oil and debris, and helps prevent clogged pores and breakouts. To prevent irritation, limit face washing to twice a day and after sweating.

Get the most from your moisturizer by applying it to damp skin. Moisturizer traps water in your skin, helping it look brighter and younger and remember to moisturize your face, body, and lips, even if you have oily skin.

Use sun protection to help prevent wrinkles, age spots, and skin cancer. Whether you seek shade, wear sun-protective clothing, or apply sunscreen, sun protection is an important part of your daily skin care. Apply sunscreen to all skin not covered by clothing.

Consider using dual-function products, such as a moisturizer with sunscreen. Make sure the sunscreen is broad-spectrum and has an SPF of 30 or higher, and remember to reapply every two hours or after swimming or sweating.

Read the label. Look for products for your skin type that say “non-comedogenic” or “won’t clog pores.”

Finally, consider using petroleum jelly. This inexpensive product can have several uses, including moisturizing dry skin and nails and treating minor injuries.

“With a wide variety of products available, keeping your skin healthy and looking its best should be affordable,” said Dr. Farhang. “To maximize results and minimize potential irritations, choose products that will work best for your skin type. If you’re not sure about your skin type, talk with a board-certified dermatologist before starting any skin care routine.”

For more information on skin care, click here to visit the AAD website.

For decades, dermatologists have sought ways to replenish collagen and erase wrinkles. Starting in the 1970s, doctors were able to use collagen from animals. Since then, we’ve seen incredible advances, with safer bio-identical collagen, which does not require lengthy allergy tests, as well as the potential for combining complementary procedures. There are also an increasing number of ways to stimulate the body’s own production of collagen. Today, patients face the fortunate challenge of myriad choices to customize the approach best suited to them

Collagen – our body’s most plentiful protein – is a key connective fiber that helps support our bones, muscles and skin. Under our skin, collagen fibers build the framework that keeps the surface taut and wrinkle-free. Over time, as collagen fibers are lost, our skin sags into the gaps left behind, creating wrinkles.

Make sure you know how long the results will last.

Wrinkle treatment injections – including collagen-based dermal fillers – are by far the most popular cosmetic procedure today, according to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons. In 2017 alone, there were close to 2.7 million dermal-filler injections, an increase of more than 300 percent from 2000.

In addition to replacement collagen, we also have new ways to trigger collagen production. These include injectables such as Sculptra, as well as surface techniques like microneedling and lasers. With the guidance of an experienced doctor, patients have increased opportunity to achieve the results they want.  Here’s how you can get those results:

1. Choose a doctor you can communicate with: To make the most of the range of options that exist, you need to feel comfortable explaining what you want – and also to fully understand what your doctor is presenting. Don’t be afraid to ask questions.
2. Consider short-term versus long-term goals: Today’s choices include fast-acting collagen-replacement injections, such as CosmoDerm®, as well as collagen-stimulating procedures, such as Sculptra injections and microneedling, that have a delayed cumulative impact.
3. Make sure you know how long the results will last: Staying power varies. After collagen injections, the replacement collagen will gradually diminish, too. To maintain rejuvenation, patients typically need ongoing touch ups after several months. Other approaches, those that stimulate collagen production such as microneedling and Sculptra, can last a year or longer. And some procedures, such as Bellafill injections, can be permanent.
4. Consider adding a “plus”: We’ve seen that combining different procedures – for example, botox plus collagen or hyaluronic acid plus microneedling – can accentuate each other to achieve a greater overall impact. It’s another reason communicating your big-picture goals to your doctor is so important for a truly individualized plan instead of a piecemeal approach.
5. Be realistic about the results: Collagen provides support for the skin and can address wrinkles, but it can’t affect more extensive issues such as excess or loose skin. In these cases, collagen can support additional interventions, such as a facelift.

Valerie Goldburt, MD, PhD, is board-certified and specializes in medical and cosmetic dermatology at Advanced Dermatology P.C.  One of the leading dermatology centers in the nation,  Advanced Dermatology P.C. and the Center for Laser and Cosmetic Surgery (New York and New Jersey) offers  highly experienced physicians in the fields of cosmetic dermatology. To learn more, click here.

A release from the American Chemical Society(ACS) reports that The researchers presented their results at the 256th National Meeting & Exposition of ACS in Boston. ACS, the world’s largest scientific society, is held the meeting from august 20^th to 23^rd, featuring more than 10,000 presentations on a wide range of science topics.

The release explains that the scientists had previously studied the chemistry and health benefits of sap and syrup obtained from sugar maple and red maple trees. Historical records suggested that other parts of the trees could also be useful, according to Navindra P. Seeram, Ph.D., the project’s principal investigator. “Native Americans used leaves from red maple trees in their traditional system of medicine,” he notes, “so why should we ignore the leaves?”

Skin elasticity is maintained by proteins such as elastin. Wrinkles form when the enzyme elastase breaks down elastin in the skin as part of the aging process. “We wanted to see whether leaf extracts from red maple trees could block the activity of elastase,” says Hang Ma, Ph.D., who is presenting the work at the meeting and is a research associate in Seeram’s lab.

The researchers, who are at the University of Rhode Island, zeroed in on phenolic compounds in the leaves known as glucitol-core-containing gallotannins (GCGs) and examined each compound’s ability to inhibit elastase activity in a test tube. The scientists also conducted computational studies to examine how the GCGs interact with elastase to block its activity, and how the molecules’ structures affect that blocking ability. GCGs containing multiple galloyl groups (a type of phenolic group) were more effective than those with a single galloyl group. But these compounds can do more than interfere with elastase. In prior work, Seeram’s group showed that these same GCGs might be able to protect skin from inflammation and lighten dark spots, such as unwanted freckles or age spots.

Seeram and Ma plan to do further testing. “You could imagine that these extracts might tighten up human skin like a plant-based Botox®, though they would be a topical application, not an injected toxin,” Seeram says. And the fact that the extracts are derived from trees would be appreciated by consumers who are looking for natural, plant-based ingredients in their skincare products.

The researchers have taken steps to get the extracts into products, having developed a proprietary patent-pending formulation containing GCGs from summer and fall maple leaves and maple sap, which they named Maplifa^TM (pronounced “mape-LEAF-uh” to reflect its origin). They have licensed it to botanical extracts supplier Verdure Sciences based in Indiana and are hoping to eventually find a market for the formulation in the cosmetics sector or even in dietary supplements.

If these products come to fruition, the team’s findings could benefit the local economy. “Many botanical ingredients traditionally come from China, India and the Mediterranean, but the sugar maple and the red maple only grow in eastern North America,” Seeram says. Farmers in the region, who currently only harvest sap from the maple trees, could tap the leaves as a value-added product for an additional source of income. Even better, the process would be sustainable because leaves could be collected during normal pruning or when they fall from the trees in autumn.

Image: Extracts from summer or fall red maple leaves are formulated into a powder that could be incorporated in skincare products to prevent wrinkles. Image credit: Hang Ma

Fractional lasers stand out due to their design, which purposefully exposes only a portion – or “fraction” – of the patient’s skin to lasers, leaving intermediary areas untouched.

Less really can be more. The fractional approach harnesses our body’s innate healing capability, with untreated areas facilitating faster, more effective skin restoration.

Since their launch in 2004, when the Fraxel®-brand laser was introduced, fractional lasers have exploded, becoming the number-one cosmetic laser skin treatment. More than 400,000 procedures were performed in 2016 alone, according to The American Society of Plastic Surgeons.

Fractional lasers turn back the skin’s clock, so to speak. Laser beams trigger a rapid healing and restoration process. That healing process can eliminate damaged skin – even below the surface – by causing it to be expelled and replaced with new cells.

I offer the following information regarding the unique potential of fractional lasers:

Uncovering 5 Truths About Fractional Laser Skin Treatments

1. It’s not just an anti-aging treatment: The ability to replace damaged skin with new growth makes fractional laser treatments an option for different kinds of skin damage. Yes, it can address wrinkles and age spots, but it also can help with other damage, for example scarring due to acne or surgery, as well as with stretch marks.

2. It’s compatible with all skin types: I think it’s helpful for patients to know that their skin type doesn’t make fractional lasers off limits. At this point, we have research that shows these lasers work for different skin tones, as well as for sensitive skin. Of course, regardless of skin type, patients need to carefully follow their doctor’s pre- and post-treatment skin care recommendations to support the best results.

3. It’s for more than just the face: When we consider the different types of skin damage fractional lasers can address. it makes sense that they offer an option for wherever skin restoration in desired – not only on the face.

4. It can be customized to meet different patients’ needs: Since it was introduced, fractional laser technology has continued to evolve. Today, patients can choose from a range of options, from more superficial treatments to those that can address deeper levels of skin damage. Patients can work with their doctors to design an approach that best meets their needs and their lifestyles, in terms of recovery time. The growing range of fractional laser treatments further underscores the importance of carefully choosing a doctor with expertise.

5. It can be combined with other treatments: Increasingly,dermatologists are using different skin treatments together to maximize results. We’re seeing this with fractional lasers, which can be combined with other procedures, for example, with intense pulsed light treatments.

Fractional lasers, have brought about what’s been called a “renaissance” in the field of cosmetic skin lasers. As a doctor, it’s extremely rewarding to see what these treatments can do for patients.

Sonoa Au, MD, is a board-certified physician and a fellow of the American Academy of Dermatology.

Problem: Hives, Redness and Allergies

Solution: When you realize a certain food, beverage, cream or cosmetic triggered an allergic reaction discontinue use or consumption. As for treatment Dr. Lolis suggests using hydrocortisone cream that can be purchased at the drug store and should always be on hand. Also take an allergy medication such as Claritin or Zyrtec. Try a cotton compress of apple cider vinegar which is an anti-septic and anti-fungal that pulls any toxins out of the skin. A compress with whole milk is also very soothing.

Problem: Puffy Eyes

Solution: Cool tea bags, cold cucumber slices work wonders to constrict blood vessels and reduce swelling when applied for 10 minutes. You don’t need to see a dermatologist for any kind of treatment for this beauty issue however be sure to invest in a good eye cream and keep it in the fridge. Applying eye cream morning and at bedtime will help.

Problem: Cold Sore

Solution: “Most dermatologists will offer cortisone injections to tame a cold sore given its ability to rapidly address inflammation. This doesn’t take very long to do so many dermatologists will tell you to come in the same day. If you can’t get an appointment get your doctor to issue you a prescription for Famvir, Acylovir or Valtrex,” Dr. Lolis suggests. “Applying a lemon tea compress, applying witch hazel oil or peppermint are some natural ways to treat a cold sore,” she adds.

Problem: Cystic Acne Breakout

Solution: Resist the urge to squeeze and soak in rubbing alcohol. “This is such a common response and people end up making the pimple worse not to mention scarring their skin. Cystic acne is deep and if treated correctly beneath the surface it could remain a bump and not a red, scabbing mess,” warns Dr. Lolis. The secret to destroying a deep cystic pimple is to get a steroid or cortisone shot. “What the dermatologist will do is inject a diluted glucocorticoid right into the pimple. You’re basically getting a concentrated dose of steroid molecules that are naturally produced by our bodies responsible for regulating metabolism, inflammation and immunity. Within one or two days of injection into a cyst, the steroid will shrink the inflammation producing relief of pain and almost immediate cosmetic improvement,” explains Dr. Lolis. If you cannot get to the dermatologist apply a paste of baking soda with water then remove it within 20 minutes. Natural clay can also work very well as could a sea salt compress. Sea salt, especially directly for the ocean only takes 20 minutes to dry up skin.

Problem: Chapped Lips

Solution: “Use lip balms not waxes and go natural with ingredients such as almond oil, vitamin E or A and make and at home paste of sugar and honey to use as an exfoliator. You want to exfoliate lips in the shower when temperature is warmer,” Dr. Lolis advises. Dry lips are always a beauty bummer especially when they crack and bleed. If chronic chapped lips are an issue, you may experience flare ups when lips are especially sensitive. “Your lips lack a tough outer skin layer which is why they are a darker color from the rest of your skin. Plus, there are enzymes in our saliva made to break down fats and proteins, which is why when we lick our lips it makes matters, worse.

Dr. Margarita Lolis, M.D. is a board-certified cosmetic, medical dermatologist and a fellowship-trained Mohs surgeon with over 20 years of experience. In her practice, she addresses common skin concerns such as acne prevention and treatment in both teens and adults, sun-damage, skin discoloration, wrinkles, changes to skin texture and loss of volume. On the medical side, she is a trusted expert in melanoma and over-all skin health. Dr. Lolis prides herself in honoring facial symmetry to deliver a natural look to her clients. She always recommends a healthy skin care regimen plus lifestyle habits that are aligned with her holistic approach to beauty. Dr. Lolis is a member of the American Academy of Dermatology, American College of Mohs Surgery, and the American Society of Anti-aging. Her practice, Skin, Laser, and Surgery Specialists is in New York City and Bergen Country, New Jersey.

“Search for the ‘fountain of youth’ is ongoing and universal,” says Au,

The most popular procedures are non-surgical applications to smooth wrinkles, tighten skin and enhance skin tone. “More and more patients are seeking treatments that are pain-free, low-risk and involve little downtime,” Au says.

To meet demand, companies have been scrambling to develop increasingly effective, non-abrasive technologies. Clinical studies of these devices have been limited, but experts point to a new generation of radiofrequency and ultrasound systems as having some success in tightening loose facial and neck skin non-surgically.

Au uses a relatively new device, the hand-held ThermiSmooth laser, with the ThermiRF computer, to deliver radiofrequency waves that precisely heat the skin in various areas of the face. ThermiSmooth was first approved by the federal Food and Drug Administration in December 2015 and is now being used to remove wrinkles and tighten skin under the eyes and around the eyelids, forehead, mouth and neck.

The success of any of these non-surgical procedures, though, depends on the right candidate and patient expectations.

The “right candidate,” according to the American Board of Cosmetic Surgery, is one, who has only “mild to moderate” skin looseness and wrinkling and does not require more extensive skin lifting and skin removal through cosmetic surgery.

The author of a 2010 article in the Journal of Clinical Aesthetic Dermatology said patients should be aware that the results of these non-surgical, cosmetic approaches oftentimes tend to be more subtle than dramatic and may not take full effect for a period of several months or more.

Meanwhile, Au’s advice to those wanting to maintain that youthful look for as long as possible: “Start early.” She offers these tips:

• Don’t smoke — ever.
• Always wear proper sunscreen outdoors. Sun damage causes premature aging and wrinkling of skin.
• Regularly apply an oil-free moisturizer to your skin as early as in your 20s.
• Consider using retinol-based skin-care products several times a week by the time you reach your 30s.
• As you age, increase use of rich moisturizers; opt for a nondrying cleanser – rather than soap and water – on your face.
• If wrinkles and saggy skin really bother you, talk to a dermatologist about eliminating the problems when they first appear – in your 40s and 50s. If you do nothing until you are age 60 or older, non-surgical approaches are less likely to achieve positive results.

Sonoa Au, MD, is a board-certified physician and a fellow of the American Academy of Dermatology. Advanced Dermatology P.C. and the Center for Laser and Cosmetic Surgery (New York and New Jersey) is one of the leading dermatology centers in the nation, offering highly experienced physicians in the fields of cosmetic and laser dermatology as well as plastic surgery and state-of-the-art medical technologies. To find out more, visit http://www.advanceddermatologypc.com/.

I have created exercises to correct facial sagging. Underlying muscles are rejuvenated with specific and targeted exercises so your face looks fresh and lifted with tight, youthful contours, and better looking skin. These exercises increase oxygenated blood to the facial tissue resulting in healthier more vibrant skin. The results are better than a surgical facelift because they leave you looking like yourself, only younger. Here are some of the exercises:

Upper Eyes 

The Upper Eye exercise lifts the brows and begins to tighten lax forehead muscles. This exercise also provides sinus relief as it “de-puffs” sinus swelling. Here’s how it’s done:  place the three middle fingers of each hand underneath your eyebrows. Drop the palms of your hands to your face. Keep your forehead and face relaxed. Push your eyebrows straight up and anchor (hold). Keep your eyes open, look straight ahead. Now use your forehead muscle to push down into your fingertips. Count to five. Release the contraction, remove your hands, take a deep breath and begin the exercise again. This time we’re counting to 10.  At the seventh second, close your eyes while you keep pushing up with your fingertips and down into your fingertips with your forehead.

Eye Circle Exercise

Use your ring fingers, apply eye cream to your under eye areas using a dabbing motion. Start by placing the tips of your ring fingers under your inner eyebrows and continue outward and then inward towards your nose until a full circle has been completed. Circle both eyes simultaneously, gently, with your ring fingers for one hundred times. This easy exercise is performed very quickly. It is performed using a very gentle motion. No tugging, pulling, or stretching of the skin is allowed. It is an excellent way to increase the circulation to your eye areas, which helps to alleviate the appearance of dark circles under your eyes.

Jowls

When the zygomaticus muscles elongate, they push into our orbicularis oris muscle (the muscle that supports the area
around the mouth). The loss of tone continues
into the jaw area, creating the look of jowls and pouches. The next exercise will teach you how to firm this area.

Complete the exercises on one side of the face before starting the other side.

1. While standing or sitting in front of your mirror, tilt your head back until you feel tension under your chin.
2. While keeping your head tilted, turn your head to the right and look over your shoulder, gently stretching your neck muscles.
3. Open your mouth slightly and jut out your bottom teeth and jaw. (This motion works the left side of your face)
4. Hold the contraction for five (5) seconds.
5. Relax your face; bring your head gently back to your original, level starting position. (Refrain from swinging your head around suddenly as you could strain your neck muscles.)
6. Breathe in deeply through your nose, and exhale through your nose.
7. Repeat the three remaining sets holding the contractions for ten (10) 
second each.
8. Breathe in deeply through your nose, and exhale through your nose. 
To exercise the right side of your face:
9. Tilt your head back until you feel the tension under your chin.
10. While keeping your head tilted, turn your head to the left and look over your 
shoulder.
11. Open your mouth slightly and jut out your bottom teeth and jaw.
12. Hold the first contraction for five (5) seconds then repeat the motion three 
times, holding the contractions for ten (10) seconds each.
13. Breathe in deeply though your nose and exhale through your nose.

You will feel the muscles in your neck elongate and the jaw muscles contract. This exercise allows a freer mobility when turning your head.

Cynthia Rowland is the creator of the Facial Magic Facial Exercise System, co-host of The Ageless Sisters on blogtalkradio.com, and author of the book The Magic of Facial Exercise. Rowland’s pioneering work has helped thousands of women and men worldwide look 10 to 15 years younger simply by doing isometric with resistance exercises that tone, tighten and lift sagging facial muscles. No cosmetic surgery, injections or electro-stimulation are needed! The Facial Magic system rejuvenates the underlying muscles with specific and targeted exercises so your face looks fresh and lifted with tight, youthful contours and better looking skin. These exercises can provide better results than a surgical facelift because they leaves people looking like themselves, only younger.

Older women who opted to put off Botox until their 40’s also don’t know what to expect. Once they see the smoothing of wrinkles, their heightened brows, lifted eyes swear by it and often add fillers and other procedures to the mix. Dr. Leonard Hochstein, Board Certified Plastic Surgeon of over 20 years and his trusted, highly credible Physician’s Assistant Jenya Titova, the “Botox Master” at Hochstein MedSpa in Miami, Florida offers some insights and a fast beginner’s guide to Botox.

1. Will it hurt? You want to know about the actual procedure and its immediate aftermath. Will there be swelling and blotchiness? “Everyone reacts differently given skin color, texture and injection site. It is important you get a real expectation,” explains Dr. Hochstein. Ms. Titova, suggests taking arnica tablets starting two days before treatment to reduce any bruising at the injection site can be very helpful. “The actual injection feels like a small prick. It’s not deep like an injection at the doctor and the needles are smaller,” assures Jenya Titova. Dr. Hochstein advises women to get their Botox done at a reputable MedSpa or plastic surgeons office administered by licensed professionals.
2. What will my results be like and how long will they last? Botox isn’t cheap and it often requires multiple injections to achieve a desired look. Everyone takes to Botox differently but on average the result lasts 2 to 6 months with 4 months being the most common. The person administering should be able to gauge anticipated results depending on area so you know what to expect before committing money and time. “Botox done to smooth deeper wrinkles like frown lines and crow’s feet often see them return within 4 months because it’s such a repeated expression,” explains Ms. Titova.
3. What is the best way to achieve a natural, smooth yet unfrozen look? They key here is how much is administered. You want to be clear that you are trying to rid wrinkles and/or lift brows without compromising your ability to express yourself. For example, if you’re getting Botox for crow’s feet the injection must target a specific area as not to disrupt the cheek movement. “When you’re starting out with any procedure it’s important to go gradual and keep things as natural as possible. It’s very important to understand how the muscles in the face all connect and work together so you achieve the balance between smoothing wrinkles without compromising facial expression,” says Dr. Hochstein.
4. Why do you really want to do it? We all want to look our best however, exploring the motivation behind your decision matters. If you’re in your 20’s, are you trying to prevent wrinkles or are you obsessed with the smooth faces you see on Instagram? “We get a lot of models and social media influencers with millions of followers coming in for Botox, shares Dr. Hochstein. “They believe their livelihood requires them to maintain a perfect flawless complexion,” he adds.
5. How will I be charged? Some doctors charge based on the region while others charge based on the amount used. It’s important to know an estimated cost before treatment. The average cost is between $300 and $900 but again, doctors in major cities with cosmetic surgeons who perhaps treat celebrities and socialites are good at what they do and their rates will reflect that. “When it comes to any procedure you get what you pay for so it’s important to do your research,” advises Dr. Hochstein who has done many procedures on women who compete in pageants, fitness models, and celebrities.
6. What areas of the face can be treated?“Traditionally, Botox is used in the upper face to treat forehead wrinkles, frown wrinkles and smile lines around the eyes. However, we can also use it to correct some lower face and neck concerns,” explains Ms. Titova who became an instructor for Aesthetic Mentors, where she trained physicians, new to aesthetic world, on techniques of enhancing patients’ appearance with cosmetic fillers and Botox.
7. Is Botox a good alternative to face lift in a younger patient?

According to both Dr. Hochstein and his Physician’s Assistant Ms. Titova, Botox should not be thought of as a face lift alternative, but should be highly considered by a younger patient as a preventative treatment. Botox can be started as early as in your 20’s to relax expression wrinkles. This way patients can age gracefully without them.

About the experts:

Dr. Lenny Hochstein is a board certified plastic surgeon in Miami, Florida. World renowned for his meticulous attention to detail, symmetry and overall excellence, including published scientific papers, awards, early entry directly into medical school where he graduated valedictorian; Dr. Hochstein has two decades of experience, over 12,000 surgeries with breast augmentation as his main specialty. His dual accreditation of American Board of Plastic Surgery and American Society of Plastic Surgeons speaks to his high standards and reputation of providing exceptional care to all his patients. In 2017, Dr. Lenny Hochstein added Hochstein MedSpa to his Miami practice to offer lesser invasive treatments and anti-aging solutions adhering to the same values of high standards and quality. Anyone selected to be on his team must be exceptional, credentialed and committed to offering excellent care. 

Jenya Titova, board certified Physician Assistant with 12 years of experience in aesthetic field, is Dr. Hochstein’s right hand at Hochstein MediSpa. She is highly skilled in areas of laser medicine and injectable treatments. His wonderful licensed aestheticians, Larisa Belyakova and Capri Colello are also great assets of his skin care team, delivering personalized, quality-driven approach to their patients.