Fighting Aging Skin with Electricity

Technology is constantly coming up with new ways to fight aging - especially aging skin. From chemical treatments such as Retin-A and Botox to more expensive laser treatments, fighting aging skin has never been easier. Now scientists are looking at new ways to combat aging skin changes - using the power of electricity.

Fighting Aging Skin with Electricity

It all started with galvanic skin devices that used low-level electricity to stimulate aging facial muscles. Researchers had hoped these devices would stimulate production of collagen and elastin, the tissue that gives skin its firm, youthful appearance. These devices for fighting aging skin proved to be a disappointment, but newer ways of harnessing the power of electricity for beautiful skin hold more promise.

One electrical-based treatment for aging skin is radiofrequency treatments. This treatment uses an electric current to penetrate into the deeper layer of the skin called the dermis to stimulate collagen-producing cells and cause them to pump out more skin-firming collagen.

This technique causes some immediate skin tightening that continues to increase after the procedure. Radiofrequency treatments hold promise for treating skin sagging and jowls on the face and neck and is already being used by plastic surgeons and dermatologists.

Scientists are even working on cosmetics that use the power of electrical charge to fight aging skin changes. By adding a charged element to a cream and using it with another cream that contains the opposite charge, they hope to electrically stimulate the skin by delivering micro-currents of electricity that will stimulate production of more collagen.

Finally, a technique called electroporation, which involves applying short pulses of electricity to the skin, may help to deliver anti-aging nutrients such as vitamin C deep into the deeper skin layers where they can battle aging skin.

Fighting Aging with Electricity: The Bottom Line?

These high-tech treatments holds promise for rejuvenating aging skin, but don't forget the basics. Use a PABA-free sunscreen when you go outdoors, eat an antioxidant-rich diet and don't smoke or drink excessive alcohol. These are easy, inexpensive ways to ensure you'll have beautiful skin for a lifetime.

References:

Medical News Today. "Electricity Sparks Interest in New Technologies and Cosmeceuticals for Skin Aging"

Skin and Aging online journal. "Harnessing Radiofrequency Energy"