Wrinkles are indeed a key sign of skin aging, caused by changes in each of the skin's layers. However, should a 70-year-old, wrinkled patient undergo a facelift, her wrinkles would be gone, but she would still not look 40. Why not?

The truth: While wrinkles are a key sign of skin aging, there are four other tell-tale signs that should be targeted by any comprehensive rejuvenation treatment regimen:

* A citrin (yellowish) coloration of the skin * Brown spots (a.k.a., age spots) * Increased redness and broken capillaries * Increased roughness of the skin

When an esthetician diagnoses skin problems, she will be looking at texture, uneven pigmentation and skin tone. Hydration also plays a major part in the skin's appearance. The colored aspects of aged skin (both red and brown) as well as its rough texture are as important as wrinkling when diagnosing aging skin and recommending the best treatment options.

There are many ways to treat skin texture, tone and hydration issues. Treatments may include chemical peels, pulsed-dye-laser treatments or microdermabrasion. Facials are a fantastic treatment option to increase the skin's moisture levels. In most cases a combination of these treatment modalities will be recommended.

An ounce of prevention goes a long way in the skin's appearance. Wearing an appropriate SPF sunscreen while outside will certainly help to stave off wrinkles and discoloration for a longer period of time. Proper skincare maintenance will also help prolong your youthful appearance. Wearing a high quality moisturizer, exfoliating dead skin cells, and cleansing the skin with a quality product are all part of a good maintenance program.

However, when you can no longer counteract the normal aging process with preventative measures, these options are recommended before having surgery to correct the issue of wrinkling skin. Many women are choosing laser treatments, microdermabrasion and peels as a means to rid themselves of discolorations and wrinkles, and are very happy with the results. These treatment options cost far less and are pain free.

Melanie Vasseur is a chemist, esthetician and the founder of Vasseur Skincare. For more skin care tips and information, visit Vasseur Skincare at www.vsskin.com. (619-236-9095)