Many of us have difficulty with the outward effects of aging. No one truly loves their wrinkles, crow’s feet and fine lines, but most of us accept them as a part of life without undergoing major surgery to turn back time. The popularity of non-invasive procedures, however, is on the rise, and these solutions are becoming more and more accessible with the creation of medical spas.

Non-invasive procedures are cosmetic beauty treatments used to treat problematic areas on the body or face without the risks, recovery time and side effects associated with invasive plastic surgery. Sagging skin, cellulite, wrinkles, blemishes, unwanted hair and uneven skin tone are all issues that these procedures can address. Though non-invasive options are less risky, they are not completely without side effects, and their results are often temporary. Five of the most popular treatments are discussed below. Be sure to thoroughly discuss all aspects of a chosen procedure with your doctor before undergoing treatment.

Botox® Cosmetic
Wrinkle reduction and plumping up areas of the face, such as the lips, are the most common uses of Botox®. Botox® Cosmetic is the most popular cosmetic procedure in the United States, accounting for nearly half of all cosmetic procedures, due to its ease and effectiveness. These treatments involve injecting a small amount of botulinum toxin directly into the muscles that cause facial lines and wrinkles. The muscles are temporarily paralyzed by the toxin, resulting in a smoother appearance of the skin. Botox® procedures are very short, and results last around three to four months before muscles regain their strength. Most side effects, which can include headache, nausea, bruising and infection, are temporary, but discuss all risks with your doctor before undergoing treatment.

Chemical Peels
Chemical peels are used to improve the appearance of skin by reducing fine lines, freckles and skin irregularities. There are three types of chemical peels available to consumers – superficial, medium-depth and deep chemical peels. During each procedure, an acid solution is applied to the face to remove the desired level of skin cells ranging from only the outer layer in a superficial peel to the lower dermal level with a deep chemical peel. Skin peels off at its own rate and can appear red and feel burnt or tight; swelling can occur when affecting deeper levels of skin.

Microdermabrasion
If you are looking for a quick fix for the reduction of pore size, sun damage, blemishes, fine lines and wrinkles and uneven textured skin, then microdermabrasion may be your answer. During these 20-30 minute procedures a device is used to spray microcrystals of sand-like aluminum dioxide across the surface of the skin, blasting away the top layer of dead skin cells. Microdermabrasion leaves behind a fresh layer of skin and can stimulate the production of collagen. Oftentimes, multiple treatments are recommended with healing time in between each procedure. Experiencing some redness and wind burnt sensations afterwards is normal, but this lasts only a few hours. Moisturizers should alleviate discomfort.

Laser Hair Removal
There are many different types of lasers available for removal of unwanted hair. Different types address different needs. For example, the Ruby Laser works best for fine and light hair, smaller areas and for those with lighter colored skin, while the Alexandrite Laser is a faster laser used to treat larger body areas on patients with light to olive complexions. Discuss laser options with your doctor to determine which laser is right for your skin and hair type and for the area of the body where the hair removal is wanted.

Accent XL Treatments
Tired of your stubborn cellulite? Accent XL laser treatments claim to decrease those unwanted fat deposits on areas such as hips, thighs and buttocks. Radiofrequency waves from the laser penetrate deeper skin layers and act upon cellulite and fat pockets. Fat particles are said to break down, while collagen particles are tightened. Unwanted fat is then removed by the body’s lymphatic system. Procedures are relatively painless, though most patients do develop some redness and may experience a stinging or warming sensation on the treatment area.