The New Hand Job
A new intenet selfie trend is emerging…the hand selfie!
Why are women taking pictures of their hands??? With the popularity of Instagram, Facebook and Twitter, many women who get engaged post pictures of their gorgeous ring on their hand for all to see. Also, nail art and creative polished manicures have become increasingly popular, and many women post pictures of their new nail color or designs.
What can we do to have the best looking hands? If you are under 40, all you probably need is a great manicure. For the over 40 crowd, there are some options to maintain young, smooth, wrinkle free hands.
As we age, fat and tissue that starts out very plump on the tops of the hands starts to diminish, leaving some women with bony and skinny hands. Tendons become apparent, and skin becomes loose and spotted with brown spots from sun exposure. This can be quite distressing when we spend so much time on anti -aging treatments on the face and realize that our hands have been neglected!
Fortunately, hand fixes can be done in the office with little to no downtime, and years can be removed in less than one hour!
For brown spots:
IPL and laser is a quick easy process that will lighten the sun spots caused from driving and general sun exposure. Though several treatments may be required, results can be seen after just one treatment. The dark spots will first get darker, then start to flake off.
Chemical peels are another option to lighten and fade away dark sun spots.
It is important to wear sunscreen and not expose the delicate skin on the hands during the series of treatments, usually 4-6 weeks apart. Wearing gloves while driving is a great way to protect the delicate skin!
For loss of tissue:
Fat Grafting:
Fat grafting is one option for restoring fullness to the hands. Fat is taken from one part of your body, such as the abdomen, then treated and re-injected into your hands. Some physicians do this while the patient is awake, and some do it under anesthesia. It usually depends on any additional liposuction being done. The fat can last in the hands for a year or more.
Radiesse is a calcium based filler that is often used in the face for cheek augmentation. It does last longer than an HA such as Restylane or Juvederm, which is why I like it for the hands. Injected into the hollow space between the tendons on the tops of the hands, it is virtually painless and can be done in less than an hour in the office. There may be mild swelling and minimal bruising, but the results are immediate and fabulous! This will last around 6 months to one year depending on the person.
As always, make sure that the healthcare provider you choose is qualified, and licensed to do injectables and/or lasers.
For nails:
Ladies, always have a manicure (and pedicure!) Keeping your nails groomed and polished will add to the beauty of your jewelry, make a great impression anywhere you go, and also will protect your nails.
