Traditionally, cosmetic surgery and treatments have been dominated by women’s desire to maintain a youthful appearance but, men are now looking for ways to soften the look of aging and revitalize their skin while maintaining the rugged manly look.

Skin care for men doesn’t necessarily have to be about looking younger. It’s also about looking well-rested and energetic. Men in careers often face competition from younger colleagues and looking well-rested and energetic can help men stay on the career track they want.

In this article we will go through four common age-fighting cosmetic procedures that men are using to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. These cosmetic techniques can offer you healthy and youthful looking skin to soften lines and wrinkles and have you feeling younger, relaxed and comfortable.

Microdermabrasion

What is Microdermabrasion? The top layer of skin cells is removed by a mild chemical crystal formula and vacuum suction device. With the old layer of skin cells gone, a new layer of evenly textured skin will emerge. Microdermabrasion is known as the quickest way to rejuvenate your skin. Keep in mind this procedure cannot treat serious lines or wrinkles.

Treatment time: Microdermabrasion takes about 30 minutes per treatment. Multiple treatments are needed over a few weeks before the full results become apparent.

Recovery time: Minimal. Your skin may appear slightly red immediately after the procedure for about an hour.

How long do results last? Microdermabrasion results can last several months depending on your age and the condition of your skin.

Chemical Peels

What is a chemical peel? A chemical peel can rejuvenate the skin and soften lines to make you look well rested without having to take any downtime. This is one of the most popular treatments for men. There are different “levels” when it comes to chemical peels. The “lunchtime” peel is the lightest peel while deeper peels can stimulate collagen production to reduce wrinkles, improve skin texture and correct pigment problems.

Treatment time: Chemical peels can take anywhere from 30 minutes to two hours. The “lunchtime” peel takes the shortest amount of time and can be completed during your lunch hour.

Recovery time: A “lunchtime” peel doesn’t require any recovery time. Medium peels can take up to 7 days to recover while a deep peel can take up to 2 weeks for recovery.

How long do results last? A light peel is usually repeated in order for the results to last several months. A medium peel can last about one year while the deep chemical peel is more permanent.

Botox

What is it: A small amount of botulinum toxin is injected into the facial muscles below wrinkles to temporarily paralyze the muscle. Botox injections give you a smoother and more youthful look. This is a popular procedure for men to soften the lines on the forehead.

Treatment time: About 15 minutes.

Recovery time: Usually no recovery time is needed.

How long do results last? Botox results last approximately 4 to 6 months. Touch up procedures are needed to maintain the softened appearance every few months.

Laser Skin Rejuvenation

What is laser skin rejuvenation? Laser beams or intense pulsed light deliver energy bursts to the skin. This procedure stimulates the growth of new collagen to improve the texture and colour of your skin without the use of any harsh chemicals. This is a great option for men who don’t want any chemicals used during their facial rejuvenation treatments.

Treatment time: 15 to 30 minutes. Three to five sessions are usually needed before you notice the results of collagen production.

Recovery time: This procedure may leave your skin slightly red for about an hour after the procedure.

How long do results last? Touch up requirements are needed every few months to keep the collagen production going.

Not sure what treatments may be right for your skin? Contact Fairview Plastic Surgery and Skin Care for a skin evaluation. Our clinical aestheticians can give you advice on achieving healthy skin and your desired look.

About Fairview Plastic Surgery & Skin Care Centre: Dr. Cameron Bowman is a fully trained aesthetic and reconstructive plastic surgeon. His practice is located at Suite 480 – 999 West Broadway, Vancouver, BC V5Z1K5. Contact him at 604.734.1416 or www.fairviewplasticsurgery.com