Aging skin isn’t just about wrinkles—and it doesn’t wait until your golden years to start showing up.

From collagen loss in your 20s to changes in pigmentation and elasticity by your 40s, the skin’s natural aging process is complex, fascinating and yes—totally manageable when you know what’s happening beneath the surface.

Let’s break it down decade by decade—and explore what you can actually do about it.

In Your 20s: Prevention Is the New Glow-Up

Yes, your skin still bounces back—but collagen production starts to slow down around age 25. Think of it like your skin’s scaffolding: once that starts to taper off, fine lines, dullness and texture creep in.

Key moves: Daily SPF (even on cloudy days), antioxidant serums (like Vitamin C) and a retinoid starter routine if you’re not already on one. Trust us—future you will thank you.

In Your 30s: Goodbye Baby Fat, Hello Texture

By now, skin cell turnover is noticeably slower, leading to a rougher surface, uneven tone and the early signs of hyperpigmentation. Under-eye hollows may become more prominent as facial fat subtly shifts.

Key moves: Step up exfoliation (chemical peels > scrubs), consider microneedling or light lasers for texture and keep that collagen factory running with prescription-strength retinoids.

In Your 40s & 50s: Collagen, Estrogen and Elasticity Take a Hit

You’re not imagining it—your skin feels thinner and less firm. Collagen loss becomes more dramatic (you lose about 1% each year after 40) and estrogen dips in perimenopause affect hydration and elasticity.

You may also notice age spots, crepey skin around the eyes and deeper folds from volume loss.

Key moves: Moisture becomes mission-critical (look for ceramides and peptides), fractional lasers or RF microneedling can boost firmness and fillers may help with facial volume restoration.

In Your 60s & Beyond: Thin Skin, But Strong Strategy

The skin barrier is now more fragile, making it prone to dryness, bruising and delayed healing. Chronic sun damage (yes, even from that one beach trip in 1999) starts to fully show up as lentigines, actinic keratoses and more noticeable sagging.

Key moves: Keep skin nourished with lipid-rich creams, prioritize gentle over aggressive treatments and talk to your dermatologist about customized options like laser resurfacing, prescription topicals or hormone-safe skincare solutions.

We can’t stop aging—but we can absolutely age well. Today’s science-backed dermatology tools—from personalized skincare plans to in-office treatments—can help you support your skin at every stage.

At THE CENTER for Advanced Dermatology, we specialize in aging skin and offer tailored care plans backed by research, not hype. Book a consultation today and start giving your skin what it needs. Call 602-867-7546 or schedule online at WEBSITE. 

Just because aging is inevitable doesn’t mean looking older has to be. In fact, many people unintentionally speed up the aging process through common skincare missteps—despite their best efforts. The truth is, even the most expensive serums or popular TikTok hacks can’t reverse the clock if you’re making key mistakes in your daily routine.

At CLIENT NAME, we believe radiant skin at any age starts with education, expert insight and a routine tailored to your skin’s unique needs. Below are some of the most common skincare mistakes we see—and how to fix them for a fresher, more youthful look.

1. Skipping Daily Sunscreen
   Still treating SPF like a beach-day-only product? Think again. UV exposure is the #1 cause of premature skin aging, leading to fine lines, wrinkles, discoloration and sagging. In 2025, we now have sheer, antioxidant-rich formulas that wear beautifully under makeup and don’t clog pores—no excuses.

2. Over-Exfoliating (Or Not Exfoliating at All)
   Exfoliation helps reveal brighter, smoother skin—but too much can compromise the skin barrier, causing inflammation and accelerated aging. Not enough, and dead cells build up, making skin look dull and textured. A dermatologist can recommend the right balance using ingredients like lactic acid or polyhydroxy acids (PHAs), which are gentle yet effective for most skin types.

3. Ignoring Moisture and Barrier Health
   A common misconception is that oily skin doesn’t need hydration. But dry, dehydrated skin—regardless of your skin type—can exaggerate fine lines and make skin appear more tired. Use barrier-supportive moisturizers with ceramides, peptides and hyaluronic acid to maintain a plump, youthful glow.

4. Misusing Retinoids
   Retinoids remain one of the most proven anti-aging ingredients in dermatology. But applying them too frequently, too early or mixing them with harsh actives can lead to redness, dryness and irritation. Time-released and microencapsulated formulas have made retinoids more tolerable—when used properly. Start low and slow, and let a skincare professional guide your retinoid journey.

5. Chasing Trends Instead of Treating Your Skin’s Needs
   Not all viral products are right for your skin. Personalized care—especially in your 30s and beyond—will always beat chasing trendy actives. A dermatologist can assess whether your skin needs firming, brightening, hydration or collagen support, and create a plan with targeted treatments and products.

Bottom line? Aging gracefully doesn’t mean doing less—it means doing what’s right for your skin.

At THE CENTER for Advanced Dermatology, we help patients uncover their skin’s full potential through personalized evaluations, product guidance and treatment plans that blend science and artistry. Whether you’re just starting your anti-aging journey or ready to correct past mistakes, glowing skin is just an appointment away.
Call 602-867-7546 or visit WEBSITE to schedule your consultation. Your best skin starts here.

Is that hyperpigmentation? The now-famous TikTok meme has introduced a wide audience to a term dermatologists have been using for years—and while it might be trending online, it’s a very real skin concern for millions of people. 

So, let’s break it down. 

Hyperpigmentation is a fancy medical term for dark spots, uneven patches or areas of skin that look discolored compared to the rest of your complexion. It happens when melanin (your skin’s natural pigment) goes into overdrive, usually in response to inflammation, sun exposure, hormones or injury (hello, post-acne marks). 

Now, here’s the good news: You can treat it. But the secret sauce is not typically one miracle product—it’s a multi-step approach that protects, prevents and corrects discoloration over time. 

Step 1: Protect

No matter how good your skincare routine is, nothing works unless you are protecting your skin daily. Sunscreen is your hyperpigmentation ride-or-die. Broad spectrum SPF 30 or higher, applied every morning (even on cloudy days), is non-negotiable. Why? Because UV rays are one of the main triggers for excess melanin production—and without protection, you’re basically undoing your progress every time you step outside. 

Step 2: Prevent

Think of antioxidants as your skin’s internal bodyguards. They help neutralize oxidative stress and reduce inflammation, 2 major contributors to unwanted pigmentation. Look for ingredients like:

• L-Ascorbic Acid (Vitamin C)
• Niacinamide (Vitamin B3)
• Ferulic Acid + Vitamin E
• Green Tea (EGCG)
• Resveratrol

These not only brighten the skin but also support a more even tone over time. 

Step 3: Correct

To fade what’s already there, we need to talk about tyrosinase inhibitors. Tyrosinase is the enzyme responsible for kickstarting melanin production. When you block it, you help reduce the new pigment from forming. 

Some powerhouse ingredients that do this include: 

• Hydroquinone (prescription gold standard)
• Kojic Acid
• Cysteamine
• Arbutin
• Azelaic Acid
• 4-n-Butylresorcinol
• Licorice Extract
• Oxyresveratrol
• Retinoids (bonus: they also boost skin cell turnover)

These work at different stages of melanin production—before, during and after—and are often formulated to pair well with exfoliants and retinoids for enhanced results.

While your skincare does its best work while you sleep, hyperpigmentation won’t be cured overnight. Results vary by skin tone, depth of pigment and consistency of use. Stick with it. The ingredients doing the heavy lifting need weeks to months to show their full potential. 

So, stay consistent, protect your skin and be patient. With the right regimen and realistic expectations, you can outsmart those spots. 

And if you’re not sure where to start, come in and see one of our board-certified dermatologists for a full skin evaluation. We’ll help you build a customized treatment plan tailored to your skin tone, lifestyle and specific type of hyperpigmentation—because no 2 spots (or faces) are exactly alike. 
Give THE CENTER for Advanced Dermatology a call at 602-867-7546 or visit us online at WEBSITE for more information.

Secret RF isn’t just another trending treatment in aesthetic dermatology—it’s a serious multitasker that’s changing skin rejuvenation for the better. Think of it as microneedling’s smarter, more powerful cousin. At first glance, it may resemble a standard microneedling session, but what’s happening beneath the surface is far more sophisticated. The treatment’s name—Secret—says it all: while the results are anything but subtle, the method is. The radiofrequency energy is delivered deep below the surface through ultra-fine needles, working invisibly in the dermis to tighten skin, remodel collagen and even reduce fat, all while leaving the outer layer of skin largely undisturbed. That means minimal downtime, no obvious signs of treatment and results that seem to appear almost magically over time.

Here’s the science, simplified: as the microneedles create tiny, controlled injuries in the skin (the kind that tell your body, “Hey, let’s repair this with fresh collagen!”), they simultaneously emit RF energy into the deeper dermis. That heat doesn’t just sit there. It goes to work, contracting old collagen fibers, stimulating fibroblasts (your skin’s repair team) and encouraging the growth of new, healthy collagen and elastin. In other words, it tells your skin to regenerate from the inside out—and follows through.

But here’s the real twist: when Secret RF is dialed to target deeper layers, it can even reach the subcutaneous fat. That’s right—while it’s tightening and resurfacing your skin, it can also subtly contour areas like the jawline, under-eye bags or even a stubborn double chin by gently heating and shrinking unwanted fat cells. No surgery, no downtime; just a little targeted heat and a lot of skin confidence.

In 1 streamlined treatment, you get collagen renewal, skin tightening, texture refinement and even light contouring. It’s a full-spectrum skin reboot. Once you’ve experienced what Secret RF can do, traditional microneedling starts to feel a little… basic.

Ready to see what your skin is capable of? Whether you’re dealing with fine lines, uneven texture or just want that lifted, radiant glow without surgery, Secret RF is the kind of treatment that delivers visible results with minimal fuss. Our team customizes every session to your skin’s unique needs—no one-size-fits-all approach here. Schedule your consultation today and take the first step toward skin that looks as vibrant and confident as you feel.

One of the most common questions we get at THE CENTER for Advanced Dermatology? Whether Secret RF is more effective in the long run than regular microneedling—and the answer is a confident yes. Because it reaches deeper layers of the skin and activates more intense collagen remodeling with the added RF energy, most patients see more noticeable results in fewer sessions. Where traditional microneedling might require 4 to 6 treatments for visible improvement, Secret RF often delivers similar or better results in just 2 to 3. That means less time in the treatment chair, fewer appointments to schedule and a bigger return on your skincare investment. It’s not just a shortcut—it’s a smarter long-term strategy for skin that keeps improving over time.
Book today by 602-867-7546 or at WEBSITE.

Dry skin has a way of showing up at the worst times and sticking around. Whether you’ve always dealt with tight, flaky patches or it snuck up on you thanks to colder air, hot showers, or too much screen time in dry environments, the cause doesn’t really matter when your skin feels uncomfortable. What matters is how you treat it. Dermatologists agree: restoring moisture isn’t just about slathering on lotion and hoping for the best. Healthy, hydrated skin starts with rebuilding the skin barrier… and that takes more than a quick fix. So let’s ditch the generic tips and talk about what actually works.

Start with the right cleanser. If your face feels tight right after washing, that’s a sign your cleanser is too harsh. Go for oil-based or creamy formulas that clean without stripping your skin. Look for barrier-supporting ingredients like glycerin, ceramides or hyaluronic acid. And always use lukewarm water. Hot water can zap moisture faster than you can say “winter skin.”

Next, moisturize smarter—not just more. Applying moisturizer right after cleansing helps lock in hydration, but it shouldn’t just sit on the surface. Choose a formula with ingredients like squalane, niacinamide or urea that actually hydrate and repair. Layering a hydrating serum underneath, like one with hyaluronic acid, can help your skin retain moisture longer.

Hydration also starts from within. Drinking water is important, but your skin also needs healthy fats. Omega-3s from salmon, walnuts or chia seeds help your skin produce natural oils, while antioxidants from leafy greens and berries help fight off environmental stressors that lead to dryness.

A humidifier can also make a big difference. If you live in a dry climate or use indoor heating or air conditioning, adding moisture back into the air helps your skin stay balanced and less prone to flaking.

And yes, SPF still matters. Sun exposure damages the skin barrier, which can make dryness worse over time. Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher, and look for formulas made for sensitive or dry skin types.

Finally, be smart about sweat. Exercise is great for your skin, but post-workout sweat can trap dirt and bacteria. Always rinse your face and moisturize after a workout to prevent irritation and breakouts. Dry skin is already working overtime—don’t give it more to deal with.

Your skin can feel good again—with the right plan. If your current routine isn’t cutting it, it’s time to bring in the pros. At THE CENTER for Advanced Dermatology, our team can help you build a personalized skincare strategy that works for your skin—not someone else’s. Book your appointment today by calling 602-867-7546 or visiting WEBSITE. Dry skin doesn’t have to be your normal.

You know that moment when you catch yourself looking a little, or maybe in your mind a lot, unflattering in the self-checkout mirror or when your phone’s on selfie mode and suddenly you think — who is that old version of me staring back? It’s like a meme filter gone permanently wrong. Seemingly out of nowhere, fine lines, sagging and hollow cheeks make their unwelcome debut and you are left wondering where that youthful glow went. But here’s the good news: liquid facelifts are here; coming to your rescue. These non-surgical treatments work like a secret weapon against the top skin conditions that show up as we age—without the need for invasive surgery or lengthy recovery. Let’s dive into how this revolutionary procedure is transforming faces, one smooth, lifted contour at a time. 

Aging is the primary reason most people seek a liquid facelift, but it’s not just about age itself, it’s the visible effects of aging that show up more noticeably, typically in your 40s and beyond. By the time you hit age 40, a perfect storm of aging factors—like collagen and elastin depletion, fat pad shifting, bone resorption and hormonal changes—combine with years of environmental damage to dramatically change the way your face looks. Skin becomes thinner and less firm, fat begins to hollow or sag, bone structure subtly shrinks and estrogen decline leads to dullness, dryness and a crepey texture. Add in sun exposure, stress and lifestyle wear-and-tear, and suddenly those once subtle changes from your 20s and 30s snowball into a face that looks more tired, less lifted and not quite the “you” that you remember. 

A liquid facelift is a nonsurgical cosmetic procedure that uses a combination of injectables like dermal fillers (e.g. Juvederm, Restylane) and neuromodulators (e.g. Botox or Dysport) to lift, contour and rejuvenate the face. The goal is to mimic the benefits of a traditional facelift without the downtime, scars or surgery. Instead of cutting or pulling the skin, a liquid facelift works in the following ways: restoring lost volume (namely in the cheeks, temples and jawline), softening deep lines & wrinkles, lifting sagging areas, enhancing facial contours and smoothing and refreshing tired features. Ideal candidate traits include mild to moderate facial aging, good skin elasticity (not too thin or too lax), sagging but no hanging folds, good overall health including being a non-smoker or willing to quit and open to ongoing maintenance as results last from 6 to 24 months with necessary touch ups and likely additional combined treatments for best outcomes. Lastly, patients will need to have grounded and realistic expectations as a liquid facelift cannot remove or tighten excess skin especially in the neck or under the chin. Think of a liquid facelift as a refresher or subtle sculpting, ideal for those looking to age gracefully, enhance natural beauty or simply restore what time— and gravity—has taken away. 
Want a glow-up plan built specifically for aging skin? THE CENTER for Advanced Dermatology can tailor one based on your goals—whether you are looking for a non-invasive, yet radiant renewal or a more dramatic, snatched look, we have you covered. From subtle tweaks with liquid facelifts to tackling volume loss, fine lines and sagging with a combo of injectables and skin tightening, we can get your plan started right away. Call 602-867-7546 or visit WEBSITE to book your consultation.

Spotting a mole on your skin is usually no big deal. After all, they are incredibly common, especially for people with fair complexions. But how do you know when a mole is just a harmless spot or a sign of something more serious?

Moles, known medically as nevi, are small clusters of pigment-producing cells called melanocytes. They can range in color from flesh-toned to deep brown or black and may be flat or raised. Most moles are benign, meaning they aren’t dangerous. But certain changes in a mole’s appearance could indicate a warning sign for skin cancer, including melanoma-the most serious type. 

There are 4 main types of moles. Congenital moles are present at birth or soon after. These moles are usually harmless, although large congenital moles may carry a slightly higher risk for developing melanoma later in life. Acquired moles develop during childhood or adolescence, often triggered by sun exposure or hormonal shifts like pregnancy. These are the most common and are typically uniform in shape and color but still deserve attention if they start to evolve. Atypical moles, dysplastic nevi, are often larger than a pencil eraser, with irregular shapes, uneven coloring and jagged borders. Because these moles can sometimes evolve into melanoma, dermatologists keep a close eye on them. Spitz nevi are pink, dome-shaped and raised, commonly appearing in children and teens. They can look like melanoma, so dermatologists often recommend a biopsy if the mole changes or grows. 

So, when should you worry? The golden rule dermatologists follow is the ABCDEs of melanoma detection:

• Asymmetry-One half doesn’t match the other

• Border-Edges are irregular, ragged or blurred

• Color-Varies from one area to another, including unusual shade like red, white or blue

• Diameter-Larger than 6 millimeters (about the size of a pencil eraser)

• Evolving-Any noticeable change in size, shape, color or texture

Any mole that bleeds, itches or suddenly grows is an immediate red flag and should be checked by a dermatologist. While many moles are removed for cosmetic reasons, moles showing atypical traits or posing health risks should be evaluated and possibly biopsied for your safety.

Moles are not the only spots that appear on the skin. Several conditions can look strikingly similar, adding confusion and risk if misidentified. These include:

• Seborrheic Keratosis: Often mistaken for moles, these are waxy, wart-like growths that stick to the skin’s surface. While benign, their rough texture and irregular and irregular coloring can mimic more serious lesions. 

• Skin Tags: Small, soft, flesh-colored growths that dangle from the skin. Unlike moles, they don’t contain pigmented cells and are not linked to cancer. 

• Freckles: Flat and usually light in color, freckles are small clusters of concentrated melanin caused by sun exposure, not an overgrowth of skin cells. 

• Lentigines (Age Spots): These flat, darkened patches result from UV damage and are more common with age, often confused for moles but typically harmless. 

• Melanoma: The most serious look-alike, melanoma can initially present as a mole or develop from an existing one, making professional evaluation crucial. 

Regular skin checks, both at home and by a professional, are the best way to catch skin cancer early, when it’s highly treatable. If you’ve noticed a mole changing or fitting any description in the ABCDEs, don’t wait. Early detection can save lives. If you’ve noticed something unusual on your skin and you’re just not sure what it is? Trust your instincts and let us take a closer look. Your skin tells a story-let’s make sure it’s a healthy one. Give THE CENTER for Advanced Dermatology a call at 602-867-7546 or visit WEBSITE to schedule a personalized skin check.

Tired of spending time perfecting your makeup routine, only to end up with patchy foundation or cakey coverage that highlights every bump and pore? Yeah, we’ve all been there. The truth is, flawless makeup starts way before you even open your makeup bag. So how do you make your makeup actually work for your skin and not against it? In this post, we’re spilling the best skin-friendly makeup tips straight from a dermatology perspective to help you create a radiant, healthy-looking finish that feels just as good as it looks. No guesswork, just glow. 

Treat your face like you would a canvas. You wouldn’t paint the walls of your home without prepping and priming them first, consider the same for your makeup routine. It begins with skincare first. Hydration and exfoliation are your secret weapons in setting the stage for a smooth look. Before you even think about makeup, skincare is the real MVP. A gentle, non-stripping cleanser followed by a hydrating moisturizer lays the foundation for everything that comes next. And do not skip sunscreen, even if your foundation claims to have SPF. Look for ingredients like hyaluronic acid, ceramides and niacinamide in your routine. These ingredients hydrate, calm and create the smoothest base possible. 

When it comes to choosing your makeup products, “non-comedogenic” is your new favorite word. This simply means the product won’t clog your pores, essential for keeping breakouts at bay. And if your skin tends to be reactive, stick with fragrance-free formulas that won’t trigger irritation. Once you’ve got your products, resist the urge to go full glam all at once. Think light, breathable layers that you can build on gradually. Apply foundation with a damp sponge to avoid dragging or irritating the skin, aiding in allowing the product to melt into the skin more naturally. 

While matte finishes might be trending, they are not always the kindest to your skin. Instead reach for foundations or BB creams or tints with a satin or natural finish, ideally with skincare ingredients built in. These formulas allow your skin to breathe and move naturally, without feeling tight, cakey or mask-like. And let’s not forget about your tools—because even the best makeup products can backfire if your brushes and sponges aren’t clean. Over time, they collect oil, bacteria and leftover product, which can sneak right back onto your skin and cause breakouts or irritation. To keep things clean and skin-safe, give your brushes a good wash at least once a week and replace your beauty sponges every one to three months. Trust us—your skin will notice the difference.

Finally, how you take your makeup off is just as important as how you put it on. Harsh scrubbing or leftover residue can disrupt your skin barrier, leading to more irritation down the line. Use gentle cleansing balm or micellar water to dissolve makeup first, then follow with your regular cleanser for a thorough but gentle double cleanse. If you are trying something new, always do a patch test first. Dab a bit of product behind your ear or on your jawline and wait 24 hours. If your skin stays happy, you’re good to go. 

At the end of the day, makeup should celebrate your natural beauty—not compete with it. With a few thoughtful product choices and skin-smart habits, you can create a look that not only turns heads but also treats your skin with care. Your complexion will thank you! 
To learn more skin-friendly makeup tips that work best for your skin type, make an appointment with THE CENTER for Advanced Dermatology. Call 602-867-7546 or visit WEBSITE.

Take a deep breath. This too shall pass. Let it go. You’ve got this. While a mix of comforting, encouraging and sometimes cliché one-liners are offered in response to another person’s stress, it’s not always that easy to control and calm the chaos you are experiencing inside – and out. We’ve all felt the weight of stress, whether it’s looming deadlines, emotional upheaval or the nonstop noise of daily life. What many people don’t realize is that stress doesn’t just live in your head or your to-do list, it shows up on your skin. From unexpected breakouts to dullness, flare-ups and premature aging, your skin is often the first to reveal when life is a little too overwhelming. 

While stress may be inevitable, its impact on your skin doesn’t have to be. Understanding the stress/skin connection is the first step in breaking the cycle and reclaiming your glow. When you are under stress, your body kicks into fight-or-flight mode, releasing hormones like cortisol and adrenaline. These are lifesavers in an emergency, but when released continuously due to chronic stress, they wreak havoc on your skin in multiple ways. Cortisol signals your sebaceous (oil) glands to ramp up activity, leading to clogged pores, breakouts and sets the stage for acne-causing bacteria to thrive. Additionally, cortisol can impact the skin’s immune response, delaying healing and increasing the risk of scars or infection. Chronic stress disrupts the skin’s protective barrier, making it more susceptible to dryness, redness, irritation and environmental aggressors like pollution and UV rays. Stress also breaks down collagen and elastin, the proteins responsible for keeping skin firm and youthful. Over time, this leads to fine lines, sagging and wrinkles. 

Stress may be invisible but how it affects your skin can be noticeable for all to see. Managing stress can help your mind—and your skin—respond with resilience. Here are some ways to get started:

• Deep breathing, meditation and yoga. Try the 4-7-8 technique where you inhale for 4 seconds, hold your breath for 7 seconds then slowly exhale for 8 seconds, repeating several times, to improve heart rate variability, calm the nervous system and promote relaxation. 

• Your skin repairs itself while sleeping. Aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep every night.

• Eat a balanced diet rich in antioxidants, omega 3s and hydrating foods; limit sugar, processed foods and alcohol that can cause gut imbalance and inflammation to the skin

• Strengthen your skincare routine with gentle ingredients like ceramides, niacinamide, hyaluronic acid and aloe vera that work to repair the skin barrier

• Apply SPF daily as stress makes skin more vulnerable to UV damage

If stress-mitigating techniques aren’t resolving your skin issues, and flare-ups and stubborn skin issues persist, see a board-certified dermatologist. Treatments and interventions that target stress-related symptoms can be effective in restoring confidence of your appearance. 
Need personalized skincare support? Reach out to THE CENTER for Advanced Dermatology at 602-867-7546 or WEBSITE to book your skin health consultation today!

Mirror, mirror on the wall… why is my skin starting to fall? If you’ve noticed a little extra droop around your cheeks, jawline or neck, you’re not alone. Sagging skin is a universal struggle, thanks to the not-so-kind effects of aging. But before you blame it on just another birthday, let’s break down why gravity seems to be winning this battle—and what you can do to fight back.

Imagine your skin as a trampoline. When you’re younger, it’s tight, firm and bouncy—held together by collagen and elastin, 2 essential proteins that keep everything in place. But as we age, our skin slowly stops producing these proteins, causing it to lose its snap-back factor.

Gravity, of course, doesn’t help. Without enough collagen and elastin to hold things up, your skin starts to cave under the constant downward pull. But that’s not all—facial fat pads, which once gave you that youthful fullness, begin to shrink and shift, creating hollows and loose skin. Add in weakening muscles, hormonal changes (hello, menopause) sun exposure, smoking, poor diet and even weight fluctuations, and you’ve got the perfect storm for sagging skin.

So, what’s the fix? Skincare can only do so much, and a full-blown facelift feels a little extreme. Enter into the chat: Thread lifts. 

Think of thread lifts as the ultimate middle ground between fancy creams and full-on surgery. These tiny, dissolvable threads are placed under the skin to physically lift sagging areas while stimulating collagen production for longer-term firming effects. Unlike fillers, which restore volume but don’t actually lift, threads provide an instant tightening effect while continuing to improve skin texture over time.

Thread lifts are having a major moment and here are the reasons why: 

• Instant results – no more waiting for collagen to boost up, sagging skin is tightened right away
• No more overfilled look – subtle, natural results that don’t leave you looking puffy
• Minimal downtime – thread lifts are dubbed the “lunchtime facelift” for a reason
• Long lasting results for 1 to 2 years compared to Botox (3 to 6 months) and fillers (6 to 12 months)

Which thread lift is right for you? There are key differences in thread lifts based on a variety of factors. Let’s break them down:

PDO (Polydioxanone) Threads, also known as General Thread Lifts: 

• Material – PDO, PLLA or PCL (Polycaprolactone)

• Lifting mechanism – Barbed or smooth threads lift and stimulate collagen

• Collagen Stimulation – Varies based on thread type, PDO=moderate, PLLA/PCL=stronger

• Longevity – PDO (6 to 9 months), PLLA/PCL (12 to 24 months)

• Best Suited For – Skin tightening, mild lifting

• Immediate Results? – Yes, but may take weeks to fully develop

EuroThreads:

• Material – PDO (Polydioxanone) or PLLA

• Lifting mechanism – Barbs or smooth sutures hold and stimulate collagen

• Collagen Stimulation – Moderate collagen stimulation

• Longevity – 6 to 12 months

• Best Suited For – General lifting in various areas

• Immediate Results? – Yes, but improvement depends on thread type

Silhouette InstaLift: 

• Material – PLLA (Polylactic Acid) with bidirectional cones

• Lifting mechanism – Cones anchor the tissue for stronger mechanical lift

• Collagen Stimulation – Strong collagen stimulation induction over time

• Longevity – 12 to 24 months

• Best Suited For – Lifting and volumizing cheeks, jowls and jawline

• Immediate Results? – Yes, with continued improvement

Silhouette InstaLift has a unique advantage over thread lift options because of its PLLA material and cone technology, which provides both an immediate mechanical lift and long-term collagen regeneration. It’s best for patients looking for a noticeable lift with volume restoration in the mid-face and jawline. 

If you’ve been looking for a subtle yet effective way to refresh your look, thread lifts might just be the upgrade your skin has been waiting for. Ready to turn back time—without surgery? Threads are here to lift your spirits (and your skin)! Contact THE CENTER for Advanced Dermatology at 602-867-7546 or WEBSITE today.