While aging is a natural process, the anti-aging industry
often applies a myriad unnatural procedures or chemicals to reduce, or attempt
to avoid, the signs of aging. We begin losing approximately 1 percent of our
collagen production (the main structural protein found in our skin providing
structure, support and strength to not only our skin but also our muscles,
bones and connective tissues) every year from the age of 25.
There
are many steps that can be taken when fine lines and wrinkles begin to appear.
Many opt for Botox injections, but are unaware according to one published study
that these are derived from the “Botulinum toxin, one of the most poisonous
biological substances known,” which “is a neurotoxin produced by the bacterium
Clostridium botulinum. C. botulinum elaborates eight antigenically
distinguishable exotoxins (A, B, C1, C2, D, E, F and G).”
These injections “interfere with neural transmission by blocking the release of
acetylcholine, the principal neurotransmitter at the neuromuscular junction,
causing muscle paralysis.”
While
Botox, properly dosed, is believed to be safe, it doesn’t correct the problem,
only temporarily masks it, wearing off in approximately 12 weeks. In addition,
many find the injections become less effective after 10 to 12 years of use and
are discovering new wrinkles may form in areas that are near the paralyzed
muscle site(s).
There
are many natural aging options that help to “wake up” the body’s natural
ability to produce collagen, thereby filling in fine lines and wrinkles and
giving a tighter, more refreshed look to the face and neck.
At-home Hibiscus or Banana masks. Bananas
naturally boost skin health and help fade blemishes and dark spots. In
addition, potassium from bananas works as a moisturizing agent and provides
proper hydration to the skin. Simply mash a banana into a smooth paste, apply
to the face for 20 to 25 minutes then wash off with water.
Known
as the “natural Botox”, hibiscus is often used for its skin-firming abilities
and its ability to stimulate the production of collagen. Simply mix ground
hibiscus powder with avocado (which also stimulates both elastin and collagen
production), apply to the skin for 20 to 25 minutes then wash off with water.
Daily topical application of food-grade aloe
gel helps the
skin to remain hydrated, reduces inflammation and increases collagen while
protecting the skin from sun damage. Simply apply food-grade aloe gel daily to
the face, let dry and then rinse with lukewarm water to remove.
The use of natural oils (coconut, olive or avocado, for
examples) in cooking and topically for the face and neck all aid in anti-aging.
Cosmetic
acupuncture options to reduce the signs of aging include:
•Full Body
Cosmetic Acupuncture Treatments - Known as facial rejuvenation, or the
“AcuFaceLift”. These treatments involve complex placement of needles during a
six- to 12-week time period (depending on frequency of treatments scheduled per
week).
•Micro-needling
and/or Nano- needling – Micro-needling is a highly effective anti-aging treatment
with minimal downtime. During and after treatment, our body’s own natural
collagen and elastin production is stimulated and the skin begins to heal
itself. Within a matter of weeks, micro-needling treatments reduce the
appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, scarring, sun damage, stretch marks and
hyper-pigmentation while improving overall skin texture and firmness. The
treatment protocol ranges from four to six sessions that are scheduled
approximately one month apart. Nano-needling is a similar process except more
superficial and therefore can be used multiple times weekly. One benefit is it
can be performed in delicate areas, such as directly under the eyes and on the
pink of the lips.
An
advantage of choosing a licensed acupuncturist that is certified in micro- and
nano-needling over another practitioner is the additional insertion of
acupuncture needles on the body that support anti-aging protocols while the
micro/nano-needling treatment takes place.
These are
only some of the natural options to help us age gracefully and naturally. Diet
and lifestyle factors play a large part in aiding these processes as well.
These, and many other recommendations, can be made by a practitioner during an
initial consultation.
Jewel Sommerville, DACM, is the owner and founder of
Holistic Health Rhode Island, located at 990 Main St., East Greenwich, RI. For
more information or to make an appointment, call 401-398-2933 or visit HolisticHealthRI.com.
