At Worcester Dermatology Associates in Worcester, MA, we are passionate about helping our clients achieve and maintain healthy, beautiful skin. We proudly offer a wide range of aesthetic services to promote healthy, beautiful skin, including Thermage, a non-invasive skin tightening treatment that uses radiofrequency energy to induce extra collagen production. Today, we’re taking a closer look at this treatment, including how long the results last.
How Long Do Thermage Results Last?
Thermage results usually last for one to two years. However, you should keep in mind that there are several factors that affect the longevity of your results. For example, the younger you are when you get treatment, the longer you can generally expect to enjoy your desired results. Additionally, as a general rule, you can expect your optimal results to last longer if you are only treating mild skin laxity.
Is There Anything I Can Do To Make My Results Last Longer?
Yes, there are lifestyle choices you can make to help extend the duration of your skin-tightening results. One of the most effective things you can do is to establish a daily skin care routine that includes gentle cleansing, moisturizing, and sun protection. We will evaluate your skin during your consultation and advise you on what the best cleansers for your skin are. We will also advise you on how often you should moisturize based on your skin type.
It is also a good idea to maintain a generally healthy lifestyle if you want to keep your skin tight, smooth, and healthy for as long as possible. For example, you should not consume tobacco products, and you should avoid excessive alcohol consumption. Additionally, you should get at least 2.5 hours of moderate aerobic activity and stick to a healthy diet most of the time. There are several nutrients that are essential for skin health, including:
- Omega-3 fatty acids
- Carotenoids
- Zinc
- Vitamin C
- Amino acids
- Flavonoids
What Can I Expect After My Treatment?
You can generally expect to resume your usual routine after your skin-tightening treatment session. Due to the non-invasive nature of this treatment, there isn’t usually any downtime required. However, you should keep in mind that you must be able to follow all aftercare guidelines. Depending on the nature of your job, you may need to take the rest of the day off.
What Aftercare Guidelines Will I Need To Follow?
After your Thermage session, there are several crucial aftercare guidelines you will need to follow. One of the most important rules you will need to follow is to avoid physical activity that is so strenuous it causes sweating. It is also crucial that you avoid exposure to excessive heat. Therefore, you will not be able to go back to work if you work in a very hot environment or have a very physically demanding job. Similarly, you will need to avoid:
- Steam rooms
- Dry saunas
- Hot tubs
- Hot showers
It is also essential that you protect your skin from the sun. If possible, the treated areas should not be exposed to direct sunlight. Additionally, you must wear a high SPF broad-spectrum sunscreen. If you have your facial skin treated, you should strongly consider wearing a brimmed hat when you go outside. Moreover, you will need to avoid using any skincare products containing strong chemicals for a few days post-treatment.
How Soon Will I Be Able To See My Desired Results?
It may take up to six months for your skin to produce enough extra collagen and elastin after treatment. Generally, you can expect to see an improvement in your appearance within weeks of your treatment. However, you should not expect to see your desired results within the first two months following your treatment. Note that there are several factors affecting how quickly the results of your treatment will become apparent.
For example, you can generally expect to see your desired results faster if you are getting treatment while you are in your 20s or 30s. As another example, the less severe your skin laxity is, the sooner you can expect to see your desired results. You should also note that this treatment differs from other skin-tightening treatments in that you will only need one treatment session to achieve the tight, smooth skin you desire.
Can I Do Anything To Hasten My Final Results?
Yes, there are steps you can take to help your skin produce collagen and elastin efficiently. One of the most effective steps you can take is to stay hydrated. Furthermore, it is important that you moisturize daily and avoid excessive alcohol consumption.
Learn How You Can Tighten Your Loose Skin Today
As a general rule of thumb, you can expect to enjoy your Thermage results for a year or two. Several factors affect the longevity of your results, including the severity of your initial skin laxity and how well you care for your skin after treatment. To find out if this is the optimal skin tightening treatment for you, schedule an appointment with us today at Worcester Dermatology Associates in Worcester, MA today. We look forward to helping you achieve your aesthetic goals.