Natural Skin Care and Renewal: Dr. Paul Stallone discusses the three D's of aging: deterioration, descent and deflation

The three D’s of aging are deterioration, descent and deflation. Deterioration results in fine lines, wrinkles and texture changes. Descent contributes to droopiness or sagging of the skin. Deflation causes the loss of fullness or volume.

Many people would agree that true beauty comes from within, but have you ever looked in the mirror and thought, “I’m looking pretty good today,” and suddenly your day just got a little brighter? Many studies show that confidence in personal appearance can lead to a happier outlook and a healthier attitude towards life.

Signs of normal aging can be discouraging—wrinkles, lost volume and lines can make you look older than you are and more importantly, make you feel older than you really are. You shouldn’t put yourself down about wanting to look more youthful, because we equate youth with energy, stamina and a carefree attitude.

For someone that lives an organic lifestyle, thinking about using products like Botox or Juvederm may seem unhealthy, but receiving aesthetic treatments from a naturopathic physician is not a contraindication. It uses the most natural, least invasive and least toxic therapies needed for each person—the tools to create a younger appearance are readily available and safe.

Botox is a purified protein (not a toxin) that makes muscle cells inactive until a new receptor is produced by the cell, temporarily producing muscle relaxation. It is injected at very specific sites, giving a refreshed look, rather than a stretched one. The effects last for four to six months initially, and subsequent use will eventually require less product. The creative and artistic use of Botox is complex, because skilled physicians must visualize the muscles they want to relax.

As the face goes through the normal aging process, collagen and hyaluronic acid, which support and fill the skin, decrease. After the loss of these substances, repeated facial contractions result first in expression lines and eventually into permanent, deep wrinkles. Pollution, stress, sun exposure and smoking can all increase or accelerate these effects.

Dermal fillers can provide a subtle, natural lift by reversing the three D’s. Fillers made of hyaluronic acid, a complex sugar that is naturally found in the body to deliver nutrients, acts as a cushioning agent and hydrates the skin by retaining hydration and softens deeper or permanent wrinkles by replacing lost volume. Hyaluronic acid is completely safe and is used for many other conditions by naturopathic physicians. Dermal fillers may last anywhere from four to 18 months.

There are many fillers on the market, some of which are made of different formulation of hyaluronic acid. A naturopathic physician that performs these treatments will explain which product is right for the patient. Juvederm, Perlane and Restylane are fillers, while Sculptra and Radiesse are products that encourage the body’s own collagen production to increase. These are referred to as growers.

With the use of Botox or any other injectable substance, it is imperative to consult only with a highly knowledgeable and trained physician; research the person doing the treatment, not the price. If your main concern is cost, you’re doing yourself an injustice and possibly taking a gamble. You may see advertisements or coupons for these treatments in salons and spas or online, but Botox and similar products involve real medical procedures with the potential to cause serious problems. Don’t jeopardize your health for the sake of a coupon. Instead, check for manufacturer rebates or reward programs that can be used at any location.

Correcting facial imperfections can lead to increased self-esteem and help you feel younger because you look younger. The mind is extremely powerful, and if you see youth in the mirror, chances are very high you’ll start to feel that way on the inside. If you have questions about addressing aging, speak with someone you trust and don’t rush anything. Start slow and see how you feel.

Paul Stallone, NMD, founded the Arizona Integrative Medical Center, located at 8144 E. Cactus Rd., Ste. 820, in Scottsdale. He combines natural/alternative/conventional treatments to best fit and benefit each individual patient’s needs. For more information call 480-214-3922 or visit DrStallone.com.