Introduction
New York City, a bustling metropolis, is a melting pot of cultures and a hub for various medical advancements. Among the numerous concerns that people face, crow's feet wrinkles are a common aesthetic issue. In this article, we will explore how the Provincial Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine and Gulou Hospital might contribute to crow's feet wrinkle removal in New York City, while also delving into the broader landscape of crow's feet treatment and the role of traditional Chinese medicine in it.
Understanding Crow's Feet
What are Crow's Feet?
Crow's feet are the little wrinkles near the corners of your eyes. As you age, your skin undergoes gradual changes, and the delicate eye area is particularly susceptible to the signs of aging. These wrinkles develop over time due to tiny muscle contractions that occur every time you make a facial expression. There are two types of wrinkles: dynamic and static. Dynamic wrinkles appear during muscle contraction, and if your crow's feet are primarily visible when you are smiling, they are likely dynamic. Static wrinkles, on the other hand, are always visible, even when the face is at rest and may worsen with muscle contraction.
Causes of Crow's Feet
- Aging: With age, the skin loses its elasticity and collagen production decreases, making the skin more prone to wrinkles.
- Facial Expressions: Repeated facial expressions like squinting, smiling, and frowning can lead to the formation of crow's feet over time.
- Sun Damage: Exposure to ultraviolet (UV) rays from the sun can break down collagen and elastin fibers in the skin, accelerating the aging process and the development of wrinkles.
- Smoking: Smoking produces free radicals in the body, which damage the skin cells and make wrinkles appear sooner.
Conventional Treatments for Crow's Feet
Botulinum Toxin (Botox)
Botox is a popular treatment for crow's feet. It works by temporarily paralyzing the muscles responsible for the creation of these lines and preventing future wrinkle creation. Dr. Zuckerman's injectable treatment to the “crow's feet,” fine lines radiating outward next to the eyes, is the third most common injection site for musculo - paralytics like Botox Cosmetic after the forehead and glabella. For most patients, a recommended regimen involves three to four treatments per year to maintain a continual effect. The treatment takes approximately one week to set in and lasts three to four months. Each treatment usually takes 10 - 20 minutes and is often combined with forehead anti - wrinkle treatment and glabella “11's” treatment. Dr. Zuckerman recommends that patients take certain precautions before the injection to minimize bruising, such as avoiding NSAIDs like aspirin or ibuprofen a couple of days before and a day after, not drinking alcohol to excess a day before and a day after, and refraining from lying flat or working out within 2 hours after injection. The treatment involves little to no downtime, and patients can often return to work immediately after. Possible complications are rare but may include an inexperienced injector causing an overly frozen look, a drooping eyelid, or eyebrow, which is why it is recommended to visit a board - certified plastic surgeon. Generally, this area receives somewhere in the range of 6 to 12 units per side, and first or second - time patients are often advised to make a follow - up appointment 8 to 14 days after treatment for a touch - up.
Topical Creams
Both prescription and over - the - counter topical creams can be used to fight fine lines and wrinkles. Tretinoin (Retin - A) is widely used as it stimulates the production of new skin. There are also many anti - aging moisturizers that are effective in reducing the appearance of fine lines around the eyes, but they may not improve deep crow's feet. Results of topical creams are usually seen within 2 - 4 weeks.
Chemical Peels
Chemical peels can improve the appearance of crow's feet and promote younger, healthier - looking skin. There are three types: superficial peels, medium - depth peels, and deep peels. Superficial peels can be done with a certified esthetician, while deeper peels should be done in a healthcare provider's office. Superficial peels are relatively painless and require little or no downtime, while deeper peels can be very painful and may even require anesthesia. For best results, superficial peels should be repeated every 2 - 4 weeks and medium - depth peels every 6 - 12 months until the desired results are achieved.
Dermal Fillers
Dermal fillers, also called soft - tissue fillers, can be used to treat crow's feet. Some common types include Juvederm, Radiesse, Restylane, Sculptra, and Belotero. They are injected directly into the crow's feet with a small needle. Different fillers have slightly different components, and some are more permanent than others. Dermal fillers are particularly effective for static crow's feet, and their effects usually last anywhere from 3 - 12 months, but can last longer.
Laser Resurfacing
Ablative laser resurfacing is a procedure that removes the upper layers of skin, revealing newer, younger - looking skin. It works well for crow's feet as it heats up several layers of skin, promoting collagen production. Increased collagen production can help the skin around the eyes heal in a smoother, more even way. Patients may be given pain medicine before the procedure, and after the procedure, the face may be wrapped in a dressing for several days. Complete healing can take several weeks. Laser resurfacing tightens skin and claims to make you look 10 - 20 years younger, and the results last for up to 10 years. It may not completely eliminate crow's feet, so doctors may combine it with other techniques like Botox injections.
| Treatment | Effectiveness | Duration of Effect | Downtime | Cost (approximate) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Botox | Very effective for dynamic wrinkles, reduces appearance | 3 - 4 months | Little to no | $300 - $1000 per treatment |
| Topical Creams | Good for fine lines, may not improve deep wrinkles | Continuous use required, visible results in 2 - 4 weeks | None | $20 - $100 |
| Chemical Peels | Improves appearance, promotes new skin growth | Results can be long - term with repeated treatments | Variable depending on peel type | $150 - $3000 |
| Dermal Fillers | Effective for static wrinkles | 3 - 12 months or more | Minimal | $500 - $2000 per syringe |
| Laser Resurfacing | Tightens skin, long - lasting results | Up to 10 years | Several weeks | $1000 - $5000 |
Traditional Chinese Medicine and Crow's Feet
Principles of Traditional Chinese Medicine
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) is based on the ancient philosophy of balance between yin and yang and the concept of qi (energy) flow in the body. It views the body as a whole, and diseases or aesthetic issues like crow's feet are considered to be manifestations of imbalances within the body. TCM aims to restore the balance and harmony of the body's energy and functions through various treatments.
Herbal Medicine in TCM for Crow's Feet
Herbal medicine is an important part of TCM. There are many herbs that are believed to have beneficial effects on the skin. For example, some herbs may nourish the blood and yin, which can help improve the overall condition of the skin and reduce the appearance of wrinkles. However, the evidence for the direct effectiveness of herbal medicine in treating crow's feet is limited compared to conventional treatments. Some herbs used in TCM for skin health include ginseng, which is thought to enhance the body's vitality and improve skin complexion, and licorice root, which has anti - inflammatory properties that may be beneficial for the skin.
Acupuncture for Crow's Feet
Acupuncture is another traditional Chinese medical practice that may be used in the context of crow's feet treatment. By inserting fine needles into specific acupoints on the body, acupuncture is believed to stimulate the flow of qi and blood, regulate the body's functions, and promote overall health. In theory, it may also have a positive effect on the skin around the eyes by improving blood circulation and nourishing the skin tissues. However, more scientific research is needed to fully understand its effectiveness in treating crow's feet.
The Role of the Provincial Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine and Gulou Hospital
The Provincial Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine and Gulou Hospital, although their specific operations in New York City need further exploration, could potentially offer a combination of traditional Chinese medical treatments for crow's feet. They may have a team of TCM practitioners who are well - versed in the use of herbal medicine, acupuncture, and other traditional therapies. These hospitals could provide a holistic approach to treating crow's feet, taking into account the patient's overall health, lifestyle, and body constitution. For example, they might prescribe a personalized herbal formula based on the patient's yin - yang balance and qi status, along with acupuncture sessions to improve the skin's condition around the eyes.
Challenges and Controversies in Traditional Chinese Medicine
Use of Endangered Species
One of the major controversies surrounding traditional Chinese medicine is the use of animal parts from endangered species. Ingredients such as tiger bones, rhino horns, and bear bile have been used in some traditional remedies. This practice has contributed to the decline of these species and has raised significant ethical and environmental concerns. Although the Chinese government has established laws banning the use of endangered animals like tigers and rhinos in medicine, it still takes time to educate people. In New York City, in 2004, an undercover survey of traditional Chinese medicine shops identified illegal tiger and leopard bone, rhino horn, deer musk, and bear bile on the stores' shelves. While some efforts have been made to combat the illegal trade, enforcement is still not adequate, and the situation remains complex.
Lack of Scientific Validation
Many traditional Chinese medicine remedies lack scientific proof of their effectiveness and safety. TCM often draws on metaphysical rather than scientific principles and may slip under the radar of clinical tests and conventional scientific validation. For example, the use of certain animal parts is sometimes based on illogical cultural beliefs rather than scientific evidence. Some traditional Chinese medicine practitioners concoct cures for disease by examining relations between written Chinese symbols for certain animals and certain diseases, which has no scientific basis.
Preventing Crow's Feet
Prevention is always better than cure when it comes to crow's feet. Here are some preventive measures that can be taken:
- Limit Sun Exposure: Wear sunscreen with a sun protection factor (SPF) of 30 or more when in the sun, even for short periods. Also, wear a hat and sunglasses to protect the eye area.
- Wear Sunscreen Daily: Use a moisturizer or foundation with SPF 15+ on a daily basis.
- Eat a Healthy Diet: A diet rich in fresh fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and healthy oils can protect the skin from damage by free radicals.
- Exercise Regularly: Daily exercise gets the blood moving, bringing oxygen to the skin and promoting overall skin health.
- Wear Polarized Sunglasses: Keep the eye area protected with big sun - blocking shades to reduce squinting.
- Quit Smoking: Smoking produces free radicals that damage the skin and accelerate the aging process.
- Avoid Tanning Beds: Tanning beds expose the skin to harmful UV rays, increasing the risk of wrinkles.
- Use Moisturizers and Eye Creams: Look for products with collagen and antioxidants, such as vitamin C, to keep the skin hydrated and nourished.
Conclusion
In conclusion, crow's feet are a common aesthetic concern that can be addressed through a variety of treatments. Conventional treatments like Botox, topical creams, chemical peels, dermal fillers, and laser resurfacing have well - established effectiveness and durations of effect. Traditional Chinese medicine, on the other hand, offers a holistic approach to treating crow's feet, with potential treatments including herbal medicine and acupuncture. However, it also faces challenges such as the use of endangered species and lack of scientific validation. The Provincial Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine and Gulou Hospital in New York City could potentially play a role in offering TCM - based treatments for crow's feet, but further research and development are needed to better understand and improve their effectiveness.
If you are interested in exploring crow's feet treatment options, whether conventional or traditional Chinese medicine - based, it is advisable to consult a qualified healthcare professional. They can assess your specific situation, provide personalized advice, and guide you towards the most suitable treatment. Share this article with friends who may be dealing with crow's feet and explore related topics on health and beauty for more information.
