Over time, the skin loses its elasticity and begins to sag. This can make people feel self-conscious and uncomfortable in their own skin. At Peachtree Dermatology Associates in Atlanta, GA, we offer Ultherapy treatment to help improve the appearance of the skin. This skin tightening technique is non-invasive, FDA-cleared, and uses ultrasound energy to stimulate collagen production and tighten the skin.
How Long Do Ultherapy Results Last?
The results of Ultherapy are not immediate. It can take two to three months to see the full effect of the treatment as your body slowly produces more collagen. However, many patients see some initial lifting and tightening within two weeks of treatment.
One of the great things about this cosmetic technique is that it continues to work over time. Even though you’ll see the most dramatic results in the first few months after treatment, you may continue to see improvements for up to five years.
Ways to Maximize Your Results of Ultherapy
1. Avoid Excessive Sun Exposure
The sun is one of the biggest enemies of healthy skin. Ultraviolet rays can cause premature aging, wrinkles, and sunspots. They can also lead to more serious problems like skin cancer. While this skin tightening technique can help improve the appearance of your skin, it’s important to remember that it’s not a cure-all.
The results of your Ultherapy treatment will only last as long as you continue to take care of your skin. That means using sunscreen whenever you’re outdoors. There are a few simple steps you can take to protect your skin from the sun:
Seek Shade
Limit your time in direct sunlight, especially between the hours of 11am and 4pm when UV rays are at their strongest.
Cover Up
Wear clothing that covers your arms and legs, and consider wearing a wide-brimmed hat to protect your face, ears, and neck.
2. Stay Hydrated
Water is essential for our bodies to function properly, and that includes our skin. Water helps to flush out toxins, deliver nutrients, and keep the skin hydrated and plump. That’s why it’s crucial to stay hydrated, both before and after your treatment. Dehydration can cause the skin to appear dull and dry, and it can make wrinkles more pronounced.
To avoid dehydration, drink plenty of water throughout the day and avoid diuretics like caffeine and alcohol. If you’re going to be spending time in the sun, be sure to drink even more water to prevent heat exhaustion.
3. Avoid Smoking
Tobacco smoke contains thousands of chemicals that damage the collagen and elastin fibers that provide structure and support for the skin. As a result, smokers often have prematurely aged skin that is wrinkled, dry, and saggy. Moreover, smoking decreases the blood flow to the skin, depriving it of oxygen and nutrients. This can lead to a dull, uneven complexion and an increased risk of skin infections.
This skin tightening technique uses ultrasound energy to stimulate the production of new collagen, resulting in firmer, more youthful-looking skin. However, smoking interferes with the body’s natural ability to heal, making it less likely that treatment will be successful. There are many resources available to help you quit smoking, so be sure to talk to us about your smoking habit during the consultation.
4. Avoid Drinking Alcohol
Alcohol consumption can have a negative effect on our skin health. It dehydrates the skin, and over time, this can lead to premature wrinkles and fine lines. In addition, alcohol consumption can cause inflammation and redness, as well as contribute to the development of acne. Alcohol also impairs the skin’s ability to heal, which means that any existing skin conditions are likely to worsen with continued drinking.
For these reasons, it is crucial to avoid drinking alcohol in order to prolong the results of your Ultherapy treatment. If you are struggling with addiction, there is help available. You can speak with us about ways to get started on your journey to sobriety.
5. Eat a Healthy Diet
Proteins
Proteins are the building blocks of our bodies and play a vital role in cell regeneration. When getting any laser treatment, you want to make sure you’re eating enough protein so that your skin can heal properly. Including lean meats, fish, legumes, and eggs in your diet is a great way to get the protein your body needs.
Vitamins A, C, and E
These vitamins are key for maintaining healthy skin. Vitamin A helps to regenerate skin cells, vitamin C promotes collagen production, and vitamin E acts as an antioxidant that protects the skin from damage. You can find these vitamins in a variety of foods such as sweet potatoes, carrots, oranges, red peppers, leafy greens, nuts, and seeds.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Omega-3 fatty acids are essential for healthy skin cell membranes. They help to keep your skin cells hydrated and prevent moisture loss. Omega-3 fatty acids also have anti-inflammatory properties that can help to soothe irritated skin. The best sources of omega-3 fatty acids are fatty fish such as salmon, mackerel, sardines, and herring. These fatty acids can also be found in chia seeds, walnuts, and pumpkin seeds.
Zinc
Zinc is an essential trace mineral that helps to protect the skin from damage by ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun and can also help to reduce the inflammation and redness associated with sunburn. Zinc is also involved in the production of collagen.
This makes zinc essential for maintaining the skin’s elasticity and youthful appearance. Including zinc-rich foods in your diets, such as oysters, beef, pumpkin seeds, and beans, can help to prolong the results of your treatment by supporting healthy skin function.
6. Get Enough Sleep
When you don’t get enough sleep, your body produces more of the stress hormone cortisol. Cortisol breaks down collagen. Too much cortisol can lead to premature wrinkles and sagging skin. In addition, lack of sleep can cause your skin to lose moisture, making it more susceptible to dryness, redness, and inflammation.
Getting enough sleep not only helps to prevent these issues but also helps to heal existing skin problems. For example, if you suffer from acne, you may find that your breakouts clear up when you get enough rest. This is because sleep helps keep cortisol hormone levels in check while also giving your body a chance to repair itself and produce new skin cells.
7. Use a Quality Skincare Regimen
Cleanse Your Skin With a Gentle Face Wash
Many face washes are harsh and can strip away the natural oils that protect your skin, but a gentle face wash will cleanse your skin without causing irritation. Additionally, cleansing your skin helps to remove dirt and debris that can clog pores and lead to breakouts.
When choosing a face wash, look for one that is meant for sensitive skin and that contains ingredients like aloe vera or chamomile. These ingredients will help to soothe and protect your skin while still getting rid of impurities. In addition, be sure to use a face wash that is appropriate for your skin type.
Exfoliate Two Times per Week
Peeling helps to remove dead skin cells and promotes the turnover of new cells. Therefore, by exfoliating two times per week, you can help to prolong the results of your treatment and achieve optimal results. In addition to promoting collagen production, peeling can also help to improve the texture and tone of your skin. Choose a gentle peeling product that is suitable for your skin type. Please consult with us if you have any concerns about which product to use.
Apply a Serum or Moisturizer
Moisturizing your skin helps to keep it hydrated, which can improve the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. In addition, moisturizing your skin helps to protect it from environmental damage, such as sun exposure and pollution.
When choosing a serum or moisturizer, be sure to select one that is appropriate for your skin type. Those with dry skin should look for a product that is rich in emollients, while those with oily skin should look for a product that is light and non-greasy.
Say Goodbye to Your Skin Problems!
Ultherapy helps to reverse the signs of aging by stimulating the production of new collagen. Most patients see noticeable results after just one treatment, and these results can last for up to five years. If you are interested in improving the appearance of your skin, call us today at Peachtree Dermatology Associates in Atlanta, GA, to schedule your consultation.
