The Time and use are hard on the hands. The aging process can leave discolored spots, reduce skin tone and leave veins overly visible. Further, over time, the fat content in the hands decreases, creating a bony appearance. Extensive sun exposure accelerates the aging process and can lead to skin damage as well. These factors may prematurely age the hands, but there are several options to address the problem.

Currently there are a number of treatments in use. Each is designed for a specific purpose, and consulting with a qualified professional will help identify which choice best suits your needs.

Fotofacials - Age spots will often appear and grow on the backs of your hands as you age due to the ammount of sun damage your hands recieve. Fortunately, these problems are now relatively easy to treat with the advent of IPL (Intense Pulsed Light) devices. Short bursts of light are focused on problem areas. The light energy is absorbed by the dark, unwanted pigment and destroyed. This treatment can remove age and sun spots as well as precancerous growths. Typically, three to five session are warranted. Treatment may cause temporary redness. Treated areas of discoloration may initially darken, but will fade or flake off after a week or two. Before and after photos. (click on the Fotofacial link)

Chemical peels - A chemical formulation is applied to the hands to remove age spots and decrease skin transparency. The solution removes skin cells, leaving the skin with a freshened, vibrant appearance. There are many peels currently available. Your doctor will choose the formula best designed for your skin type and desired result.

Sclerotherapy - A solution is injected directly into a problem vein, irritating its interior, and causing it to close off. The blood flow diverts to other, less visible veins, giving the hands a smoother appearance. This treatment is designed to treat overly visible veins without affecting the skin tone.

Microdermabrasion - The skin is polished with fine crystals that essentially sand off the top layer of skin cells. Removal of old or damaged cells gives the skin a glowing, healthy appearance.

Injectable fillers - Fat, Restylane, or Collagen is injected into the skin to give it a more youthful appearance. This process can also fill out overly visible boniness in the hands.

There are many options in treating aging or damage to the skin of your hands. Most are fairly simple in that no hospitalization is required, and results are visible after a short time.

By Catherine Hayes (MedSpa Technologies)
First published on medspa.com
more information is available at Medical Spas Online

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