If the idea of developing fine lines and wrinkles makes you panic, you’re not alone. While aging is a natural part of life, dermatological advances have now given us more control over the physical process.
What age, however, is it appropriate to turn to anti-aging cosmetic treatments to turn back the clock? Unfortunately, with genetic factors and your treatment goals playing a significant role, there is no definitive answer to this question.
While we can’t pinpoint an exact age to start receiving each type of anti-aging treatment, here’s a brief overview of the most common cosmetic procedures and the ages most experts agree you should commence at:
The Most Common Procedures Of Cosmetic Treatments
1. Botox
There are several schools of thought around the appropriate age to start getting Botox. In cosmopolitan, image-conscious cities, such as New York City, an aesthetician with Botox training may recommend you start preventative Botox as early as your mid-twenties. Although the procedure is approved for anyone aged over 18 years, the procedure’s efficacy is limited and there are no fine lines visible to treat.
For many people in their early 30s, preventative Botox is still appropriate and can be used to soften fine lines before they develop into deep-set wrinkles. However, for individuals in their 40s, 50s, and beyond, Botox is primarily used to reduce the appearance of existing wrinkles and increase skin volume, usually alongside other procedures such as fillers.
Although Botox is most effective when introduced in early adulthood, don’t be deterred if you’re not in this age bracket as patients can still achieve great results when starting treatment at ages 50-plus.
2. Dermal Fillers
Like Botox, dermal fillers are used to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. While some people opt to start getting filler in their early 20s (lip filler is common in this age bracket), the loss of collagen which impacts skin plumpness and elasticity often isn’t noticeable until the late 20s and early 30s.
Like Botox, dermal fillers are a great choice for individuals in their 30s and 40s. When injected correctly, fillers composed of poly-l-lactic acid and hyaluronic acid can help your body compensate for the diminished collagen production that occurs with age. This can prevent fine lines from turning into deeper wrinkles.
Research shows that the most common age to regularly undergo filler treatments is between 40 and 54. In this age range, dermal fillers can continue to combat new lines while reducing the depth of more pronounced wrinkles by plumping up the skin for a rejuvenated look.
3. Microdermabrasion
Unlike Botox and fillers, children as young as twelve can safely undergo microdermabrasion, which involves using fine crystals to abrade the skin and suction away dead skin cells. However, the most appropriate age to start dermabrasion treatments will depend on the individual’s treatment goals.
It’s not uncommon for teens or young adults to turn to microdermabrasion to tackle both acne scarring and active breakouts. When used alongside treatments like glycolic peels, the procedure is a powerful way to address skin concerns without turning to drugs, like isotretinoin, that can come with more serious side effects.
Not just for the young, microdermabrasion is also favored among women in their 50s and above for its ability to treat age spots and other areas of discoloration quickly and easily.
4. Facelifts
Though highly effective at treating wrinkles and improving skin tautness and texture, a facelift is an invasive cosmetic procedure with a lengthy recovery period of 30-plus days. Due to higher risks, more significant costs, and longer downtime, experts would typically suggest individuals in their 30s and below should first experiment with Botox or fillers to combat the first signs of aging.
Generally, people in their late forties and early fifties benefit most from the procedure, which involves removing excess skin and re-draping it over lifted contours to achieve a smoother complexion. However, individuals in their 70s can also achieve satisfactory results from the procedure.
From Botox to facelifts, most reputable practitioners agree that there is no ‘best’ age to start cosmetic treatments. The appropriateness of each procedure has less to do with a number and everything to do with the circumstances, aesthetic goals, and skin condition of the candidate seeking treatment.