Af'firm'ative Action

There are times when you wish that you could turn back the time and make your wrinkles disappear. This might be possible in fiction but in real life beauty treatments like ‘Thermage skin firming’ come to your aid to get a youthful skin. It is a non-invasive procedure for skin tightening and contouring, in the process diminishing fine lines and wrinkles.

The ‘Thermage skin firming’ is a safe, non-surgical procedure used for face lifting and tightening skin in other areas of the body as well. Dr Rohini Wadhwani, Director, Skin Essentials says, “A protein called collagen makes up the majority of the dermis (the deeper layer of the skin), providing the skin with its strength. As we become older, the body produces less collagen and the skin becomes less elastic, resulting in wrinkles. ‘Thermage skin firming’ procedure tightens the collagen in the dermal layers of the skin and its underlying tissue, thus reducing loose skin and wrinkles and rejuvenating facial contours.”

Before starting the procedure, a cooling spray is used on the skin in order to protect its top layers from damage. A ‘Thermacool wand’ apparatus is used to emit radio frequency waves for stimulating the collagen layer under the skin. Patients can see a visible difference in the very first treatment, witnessing a more youthful glow and firmness. The effect of the treatment stays for several months. Cost varies per treatment. A quotation is given only after a skin analysis is undertaken by the specialist. (Approximately anywhere between Rs 2500 – Rs 5000 or above.)

It usually takes around one hour or may be less time to complete the process depending on the condition of the skin that needs to be treated. Dr K M Kapoor, Director and Senior Cosmetic Surgeon, ANTICLOCK, Chandigarh says, “One of the major benefits of these treatments is that there are no real discernible signs or scars and the downtime and recovery is minimal.” With better services and equipments, this procedure rarely has any side effects. Though, a few reported side effects are redness, swelling, numbness and blisters. Slight warming tinges and sensations may be felt during the treatment.

Make sure that the treatment is undertaken by expert hands.Do not consume alcohol before or after the treatment. Alcohol disturbs blood circulation which can make the treatment less effective. Intake of aspirin or any other drug with vitamin E is also not recommended before the treatment, as it might lead to bruises in the treatment area. If you are pregnant or suffer from any other illness, discuss the condition in advance with the specialist before going for the treatment. Do not undergo any other facial treatment after Thermage skin firming, till authorized by your specialist. Use good skin creams and sunscreens after the treatment to maintain the improved skin structure for long.

Beauty and science can certainly deliver wonders and ‘Thermage skin firming’ proves it right.

Parimita Chakravorty