In search of Youth

Anti-ageing procedures, whether surgical or non-surgical, are being carried out in the search for the fountain of youth. For the past few years, treatments like Botox are much in demand. The well known laser surgeon Dr. Parashar states that “The Botox injections are the fastest-growing non-surgical cosmetic procedure in the industry….” He predicts that the segment will see phenomenal growth. Gradually, more and more younger people are likely to go in for anti-ageing procedures like Botox, in order to delay the visible signs of ageing, like wrinkles, lines, or sagging skin.

Also, apart from Botox, many anti-ageing treatments, procedures and products have been introduced, like chemical peeling, liposuction, microdermabrasion, creams and masks.

Today, men are also going in for cosmetic surgery to improve their looks and look more youthful. Of course, hair transplant is one of the common areas. There is also a demand for Microdermabrasion or chemical peeling for removal of pits in the skin as an aftermath of severe acne. For those who are looking for a career in films, or modeling, or appearing in international beauty contests, cosmetic surgery is an option. Older men go in for removal of eyebags for a more youthful look. There is no doubt that apart from a certain amount of risk involved, one has to consider the high cost of cosmetic surgery.

I have devised natural, chemical-free, procedures like Veg Peel and Thermoherb for skin rejuvenation. The Shahnaz Husain Thermoherb Mask is a mini face-lift, which deep cleanses the skin, restores balances and also tightens the skin. It is based on an ancient thermal mask, which has been improved by the introduction of herbal extracts. A complete treatment in itself, it deep cleanses pores and nourishes the skin powerfully. It also improves cell respiration and renewal. First, the skin is cleansed and then massaged with nourishing cream for 10 minutes. After removing the cream with moist cotton wool, a quarter inch thick layer of cream is applied. Then, the Thermoherb mask is applied. It generates heat and creates the ideal temperature between itself and the skin, at which skin absorption is highly efficient. As the mask cools down, it hardens, tightening the pores, sculpting the facial contours, minimizing wrinkles and improving skin elasticity. The mask is then removed gently and excess cream is wiped off with moist cotton wool. Cold compress is given with a rose-based skin tonic.

Veg Peel is a powerful treatment for texturising the skin, making it clear, smooth and free from blemishes. It helps to restore health and beauty to the skin. It is especially good for minimizing scars and blemishes and also rejuvenates the skin. The herbal extracts not only help to heal and soothe the skin, but also aid the regeneration of new cells.

One of the latest non-surgical procedures is the thread facial lift. It is said that the procedure takes only an hour, but the results last for as long as two years. It is based on the fact that the supportive tissues and fat in our facial tissues and neck area tend to become weaker with age. The elasticity and resilience of the skin and connective tissue of the skin also suffer. Many areas of the face tend to manifest lines and furrows, while others become loose and flabby.

People do go in for surgical face lifts, although they are complicated and carry a certain amount of risk. The also have a longer recovery period. On the other hand, the new thread procedure takes only an hour and is not invasive. In this procedure “resorbable” threads are used. In medical terminology, “resorbable” means to absorb again. For example, a wound is stitched with resorbable suture, which is assimilated or absorbed again by the body. In the anti-ageing procedure, the thread is made with a material known as polydioxanone, used in surgery, which actually encourages the production of collagen in the skin, thus making the skin more firm and giving it a new lease of life.

The procedure entails introduction of the thread into the skin through a very fine needle, to “lift” the skin of that area. It is said that the results can be seen almost immediately, with the skin appearing firmer, smoother and more youthful. Fine lines, wrinkles and open pores appear less pronounced. Gradually, within the next few days, the results are also improved. The threads are used according to the area – for example lifting the jaw area, the eyebrows, area around eyes, or forehead. The thickness and length of the thread depends on the area of the face. The time taken to show results is certainly an advantage, apart from the non-invasive and no-risk factors.

Somewhere within the living cell is locked the fascinating mystery of the ageing process. Till we find the key to it, we will be seeing many such procedures. However, I believe that appropriate external care is also an important way of preserving youthful skin and delaying visible ageing signs.

Shahnaz Husain

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