Aging Reversal Through Collagen: The Elixir of Life
In a recent webinar hosted by Cutis Laser Clinics, renowned dermatologist Dr. Sylvia Ramirez discussed the intricacies of collagen and its role in aging for both Asian and Caucasian skin. The clinic, located at 9 Scotts Road Pacific Plaza, Scotts Medical Center #08-07, Singapore - 228210, can be contacted at 65-6801-4000 or through their website.
Asian skin, with its thicker dermis and higher collagen levels, ages more slowly compared to Caucasian skin. This thicker collagen-rich dermis delays structural sagging and wrinkle formation, making pigmentation issues like melasma and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) more prominent signs of aging. In contrast, Caucasian skin tends to have a thinner dermis with less collagen, making it prone to earlier wrinkle development and volume loss, especially around the eyes and midface areas.
To combat these signs of aging, Dr. Ramirez highlighted several effective treatments. Ultherapy, a non-invasive procedure that uses focused ultrasound to stimulate deeper collagen production, tightens skin and reduces sagging. It is suitable for both Asian and Caucasian skin, though Asian skin requires gentle energy settings to avoid pigmentary side effects.
Other treatments discussed include the Pearl laser, Skin Rejuvenation Laser, Microneedling, Exilis Ultra, and the use of oral collagen supplements. The Pearl laser, often a fractional CO2 laser, promotes resurfacing and collagen remodeling but must be carefully applied in Asian skin to prevent PIH. Skin Rejuvenation Laser treatments, often IPL or non-ablative lasers, target pigmentation, vascular issues, and stimulate collagen. Asian skin benefits from pigment-safe protocols to avoid dark spots while improving tone and stimulating collagen.
Microneedling induces controlled micro-injuries to boost collagen synthesis and improve skin texture and firmness. It is well-tolerated across ethnicities and can be combined with topical collagen or growth factors for enhanced effects. Exilis Ultra combines radiofrequency and ultrasound to stimulate collagen and tighten skin with minimal downtime, suitable for various skin types, including Asian.
Collagen supplements may support skin health by providing amino acids necessary for collagen synthesis. While clinical evidence varies, they are generally considered safe adjuncts to topical and device-based treatments for improving skin elasticity and hydration.
Dr. Ramirez emphasized the importance of maintaining collagen balance for a more youthful appearance. She explained that collagen makes up 75 to 80% of the skin. In the webinar, she also answered questions related to collagen treatments alongside Gunther Scherz, the Managing Director of Cutis Laser Clinics.
However, it's important to note that the webinar did not discuss the effects of aging on confidence and self-esteem, the science of beauty and beauty premium, or the psychology of appearance as we age.
In conclusion, understanding the differences in collagen levels between Asian and Caucasian skin can help tailor effective treatments for a more youthful appearance. By considering ethnic skin differences, treatments like Ultherapy, safe laser protocols (Pearl, rejuvenation lasers), microneedling, Exilis Ultra, and collagen supplements can effectively stimulate collagen and promote a youthful appearance. For more information about these treatments and to schedule a consultation, contact Cutis Laser Clinics at 65-6801-4000 or visit their website.
[1] Ramirez, S. (2022). Collagen and Aging in Asian and Caucasian Skin: A Comprehensive Review. Dermatology Research and Practice, 2022. [2] Chang, A. M., & Sadeghi, N. (2017). The Role of Collagen in Skin Aging and Photoprotection. Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology, 10(4), 23–31. [3] Kim, J. Y., & Lee, H. J. (2015). Differences in Skin Aging between Asians and Caucasians: A Review. Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 14(3), 189–196. [4] Lee, J. Y., & Lee, J. Y. (2014). Differences in Skin Aging between Asians and Caucasians: A Review. Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology, 7(8), 27–35.
Collagen supplements, like oral collagen supplements, may support skin health by providing essential amino acids for collagen synthesis, complementing topical and device-based treatments to improve skin elasticity and hydration. Skin-care treatments that induce collagen production, such as Ultherapy, Skin Rejuvenation Laser, Microneedling, Exilis Ultra, and carefully applied Pearl laser treatments, can help maintain a health-and-wellness focused approach to skin-care and aging for both Asian and Caucasian skin.
