Question

What's the best premature aging treatment?

Best treatment for premature aging? (Melasma, lines AND acne)

Help! I'm only 37! Hello, please help! I spent 9 years (21-30) in New Mexico, where I spent hours a day exercising outdoors with NO sunscreen. I always tanned easily (1/2 Italian), and because I was prone to pimples, did not like sunscreen.

Now, at 37, I have melasma that gets markedly worse in the summer, I still get breakouts, AND I have some pretty significant crows feet AND lines on my forehead. I began getting BAD acne around 30, which is when the melasma first became apparent, too.

Around 33, I started using Clean & Clear acne wash (10%benzoyl peroxide) alonge with a salycylic acid apricot scrub. That really helped with the acne. But now my skin is dry, lined, still breaks out sometimes (though not as bad as back then), and not looking good. Lately people have been telling me I look older than my age. Ugh! I do use a physical sunblock now (micronized zinc and titanium dioxides), though I find no matter what brand (California Baby SPF 30+, MyChelle Dermaceuticals 28+, BLue Lizard), I get clogged pores. What can I do? Obagi? Fraxel? CO2? I have very little money, but am seriously considering financing at this point if needed. It's driving me crazy. What to do???

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Asked by: Poor me

Answers (2)

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1
July 26, 2008

Premature Aging

Kris M. Reddy, MD
Kris M. Reddy, MD
Board Certified
Plastic Surgeon

While the ultimate correction may require multiple treatments, the most cost effective start would be Obagi skin care in combination with Retin A.  This combination has been effective in reversing environmental effect of the sun.  You should consult with a physician who can provide multiple modalities and can guide you through the process.

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2
July 21, 2008

Look into Retin-A treatments

Mark A. Codner, MD
Mark A. Codner, MD
Board Certified
Plastic Surgeon

Premature aging is caused by a number of factors, including genetics and sun damage. Wrinkles form as there is loss of elasticity in the skin, which is caused by changes in the collagen framework that makes up the deep surface of the skin.

Sun spots and damged complexion is caused by sun damage from years of sun exposure. The best treatment begins with prevention by regular use of sunscreen during childhood.

Retin-A has been shown scientifically to reverse the photoaging effect of the sun on the skin. Paitents who use Retin-A alone may find dryness that causes flaking and redness of the skin. Retin-A should be prescribed by your doctor in combination with hydroquinine, which will lighten the sun spots, and glycolic acid to remove the outer layers of dry skin.

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Comments (1)
samgreen22
samgreen22
9/18/08

I am 37 and I used to have acne too until I purchased a Clarisonic. I know they are not cheap, but they REALLY help with acne!! I also use a Retin A prodcut called Avene. It is about 60 dollars and has really helped smooth out my skin. I hope this helps!

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