MEDICAL MIMICS

The growing demand for anti-aging products has led to the development of “medical mimics.” These are new cosmetic alternatives to costly dermatologic procedures and surgeries. “Facial relaxers” are gaining popularity as an alternative to Botox injection. Argireline, a synthetic peptide that has been touted to relax facial muscles by inhibiting the neurotransmitter catecholamine, has been advertised as having impressive wrinkle reduction effect (17). Several companies have developed home products that mimic microdermabrasion. These products use lower dose crystals and sometimes a warming agent to smooth, polish, and resurface the skin, producing results similar to office dermabrasion. Utilizing lower levels and less aggressive chemical peel acid ingredients, at-home chemical peels have also become popular. While home laser treatments are not yet available, it is expected that low dose home lasers are in the not so distant future for skin texture improvement and hair removal. It is expected that the “medical mimic” trend will continue as women try to balance their busy lives.