One of the most telling signs of aging is often found in the eyes, where fine lines, under-eye puffiness, and the dreaded “jelly roll” can make an appearance all too soon. The good news? You don’t need to go under the knife to turn back the clock. A range of cutting-edge nonsurgical treatments is now available, offering women in this age group the opportunity to tighten and rejuvenate the delicate skin around their eyes. Baton Rouge, LA dermatologist Ann Zedlitz, MD says the latest nonsurgical treatments can help rejuvenate and enhance the delicate eye area to preserve their natural beauty.
Understanding Common Concerns and Causes
Dr. Zedlitz explains, “Fine lines and the muscular ridge beneath the eyes are known as the ‘jelly roll’ or ‘under-eye bunching.’ We usually notice this concern in our 30s as dark circles, puffy bags, and the beginning of the skin thinning around the eye area.” For some individuals, this aging process can manifest even earlier due to factors like wearing contact lenses or suffering from allergies, which can lead to excess rubbing of the eyes and skin thinning.
Genetics also play a significant role in how our eyes age, making it essential to consider your family’s eye-aging patterns. Furthermore, sun damage can accelerate the breakdown of collagen and elastin fibers in the skin around the eyes, hastening the aging process.
Upneeq: A Quick Fix
Upneeq is a prescription eye drop that offers a quick and easy solution for droopy eyelids. Dr. Zedlitz explains, “It works by stimulating an involuntary eyelid muscle called the Muller’s Muscle to contract, providing a 1mm lift.” While the lift may seem minor, it can make a significant difference in the appearance of your eyes, particularly in photographs. It’s an ideal option when you need to look your best for special occasions.
Botox and Filler: Smooth and Soften
Neurotoxin treatments like Botox Cosmetic or Dysport are recommended by Dr. Zedlitz to lift the brows and open the eyes, reducing the appearance of fine lines. Additionally, fillers such as the new Restylane Eyelight, FDA-approved for the under-eye area can replace lost volume in the tear trough area. Dr. Zedlitz points out that “fillers under the eyes should be done every 8 months to a year, but it’s better to perform skin-tightening procedures like Morpheus8 or Plasma Pen first.”
Plasma Pen: Precision and Collagen Boost
Dr. Zedlitz introduces the Plasma Pen, a precision plasma arc that creates micro-trauma on the skin’s surface. This micro-trauma engages the body’s natural wound-healing process, resulting in increased collagen production and firmer, smoother skin. However, it’s crucial to pre-treat the skin. “With any heat-based procedure, if the skin is not pre-treated with hydroquinone the risk of pigmentation of the skin is higher,” says Dr. Zedlitz. “I pre-treat all my patients two weeks prior to plasma pen with a hydroquinone prescription cream.”
Morpheus8: Minimal Downtime, Maximum Results
Morpheus8 is a minimally invasive bipolar radio frequency tissue treatment known for its minimal downtime and impressive results. Dr. Zedlitz recommends a series of three treatments spaced one month apart, with the frequency determined by age. “Morpheus8 is excellent for treating under-eye festoons and dark circles,” she notes. “Festoons are fluid-filled pouches that occur in the midface. They can often be attributed to genetics, sun damage, and the natural aging process.” Patients may experience some redness and swelling on the day of the procedure, which typically fades within 24 hours.
CO2 Laser: Gold Standard for Wrinkle Reduction
While CO2 laser resurfacing requires more downtime, it remains a powerful tool for addressing lax skin around the eyes. Dr. Zedlitz explains that this procedure uses laser beams to vaporize the epidermis while heating the dermis, stimulating collagen production. “Make sure you are in the hands of a board-certified dermatologist or plastic surgeon when receiving CO2 laser,” she advises. “The skin around the eyes is thin, so a series of three light CO2 laser treatments is recommended spaced out four to six weeks. Your skin will take about 10 to 14 days to heal.”
These nonsurgical treatments offer a range of options for individuals looking to rejuvenate their eye area without undergoing surgery. Dr. Zedlitz emphasizes that the choice of treatment should be based on individual needs and concerns, and consulting with a qualified dermatologist is crucial for achieving the best results. Trusting your dermatologist’s expertise ensures that you choose the most suitable treatment for your unique needs, helping you put your best face forward.
