Electronic cigarettes have become increasingly popular in recent years, being viewed as a healthier alternative to smoking. While it’s true that avoiding traditional cigarettes does limit your exposure to cancer-causing carcinogens, e-cigarettes still contain nicotine, which does have an effect on the skin.
Nicotine and Your Skin
So how does nicotine damage your skin? Well, it causes the blood vessels to become narrower over time. These are the same blood vessels that are transporting blood to the outermost layer of the skin, keeping it oxygenated and youthful. When the vessels become narrower the skin tissue is prevented from receiving all the oxygen and vitamins it needs. Over time, repeated use of nicotine, even in the form of e-cigarettes, causes wrinkles and a rougher skin texture.
Something else our Florida patients need to remember is that UV rays are harder on the skin when it is being damaged from nicotine, which means the sun rays are going to cause even greater damage.
Reversing the Aging Effects of Nicotine
All treatments will provide better, more long-lasting results when the use of cigarettes, electronic or otherwise, are stopped. However, from dermal fillers to a full facelift surgery, there are any number of cosmetic procedures that can minimize the damage from years of smoking:
Injectables
The Mack Center offers injectables to help counter the effects of smoking (or vaping). Some of the options include including BOTOX® Cosmetic, Dysport®, JUVÉDERM®, Restylane®, and Sculptra®, to name just a few. It’s best to discuss with your cosmetic surgeon which filler is best for you.
Pearl Laser Treatment
This is a laser peel treatment that is used to peel away the top layers of the skin, improving texture and reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
Ultherapy
Ultherapy is the only FDA-approved non-surgical procedure for lifting and tightening the skin. It uses ultrasound technology to stimulate the support layers below the surface of the skin and help your body to produce fresh collagen on its own.
If you are interested in talking to one of our professionals about helping you reduce the appearance of aging as a result of years of smoking (or vaping), contact us today. Our consultations are complimentary and our Tampa staff would be happy to help you.