Dr Nerina Wilkinson explores the transformative art of hand rejuvenation, offering insights into why our hands age faster than other parts of the body and how to address these changes. She discusses both surgical and non-surgical treatments, including lipofilling and injectable fillers, to restore volume and improve skin quality. Additionally, Dr Nerina highlights complementary skincare treatments that enhance the youthful appearance of hands, addressing both aesthetic and functional concerns.
Have you ever looked at your hands and wondered, “Are my hands giving away my age?” While we often take great care of our face – investing in skincare, anti-ageing treatments, and even injectables – our hands, unfortunately, don’t always get the same attention. And yet, they are among the most obvious indicators of ageing.
Many of my patients have focused on maintaining a youthful face but find that their hands tell a different story. The truth is our hands age faster than we often realise.
Why do hands age faster than other areas of the body?
The ageing process of the hands involves volume loss and reduced skin elasticity. As we age, the fat that naturally cushions the hands begins to diminish, leading to a bony, veiny appearance, with tendons and bones becoming more prominent. Additionally, the skin on the hands becomes thinner and more prone to sunspots (age spots), rough texture, and fine lines.
The hands are also exposed to environmental stressors like UV radiation, pollution, and harsh chemicals more than other areas of our body. Often, we forget to apply sunscreen or protective skincare to our hands, which accelerates this ageing process. Over time, these factors lead to hands that appear significantly older than the face.
Hand rejuvenation with lipofilling: Restore and rejuvenate
One of the most effective ways to address volume loss in the hands is through lipofilling, or fat grafting. During the procedure, fat is gently harvested from areas like the abdomen or thighs, processed, and injected into the hands. This restores lost volume, softening the appearance of tendons, veins, and bones, giving the hands a fuller, more youthful look.
Lipofilling also offers more than just volume restoration. The fat used in the process contains regenerative stem cells, which enhance skin quality by promoting collagen production and improving elasticity. This not only rejuvenates the hands but also enhances skin texture and resilience, leading to a smoother, more vibrant appearance.
The power of stem cells: More than just aesthetic benefits
Stem cells in fat grafting do more than improve the skin’s appearance. In some cases, they reduce pain and inflammation in patients with conditions such as arthritis or inflamed tendons in the hands. For those dealing with both aesthetic concerns and joint discomfort, lipofilling is an ideal option that addresses both function and beauty.
Hand rejuvenation with injectable fillers: A non-surgical option
If you’re looking for a non-surgical solution, injectable fillers such as hyaluronic acid or calcium hydroxylapatite (CaHA) can restore volume to ageing hands. While these fillers do not have the regenerative benefits of stem cells, they instantly soften the look of veins and tendons, providing a smoother, more youthful appearance. They are a quick, minimally invasive option for those wanting to improve the look of their hands without the downtime associated with surgery.
Top skincare treatments for ageing hands
In addition to volume restoration, rejuvenating the skin’s surface is key to a youthful look. Combining lipofilling or fillers with other skin treatments can yield the best results. Procedures such as laser therapy, microneedling, chemical peels, and intense pulsed light (IPL) can improve skin texture, reduce sunspots, and smooth fine lines, providing a more comprehensive approach to hand rejuvenation.
The psychological impact of ageing hands
Ageing hands can have a significant impact on how we feel about our overall appearance. Even when the face looks youthful, aged hands can create a sense of imbalance. By addressing both volume loss and skin quality, you can achieve a more harmonious, balanced appearance – and feel confident that your hands reflect your true vitality.
A holistic approach to rejuvenation
Whether through the regenerative power of lipofilling or the convenience of injectable fillers, restoring the youthful appearance of your hands is possible. When combined with treatments that improve skin quality, these options offer a comprehensive solution for both cosmetic and functional concerns.
As a plastic and reconstructive surgeon, I believe in a holistic approach to rejuvenation. By caring for your hands alongside your face, you can ensure that your hands no longer betray your true age and instead reflect the vitality and beauty you feel inside.
MBChB FCS (Plast SA) Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeon
Dr Nerina Wilkinson is an Aesthetic Plastic Surgeon with over 20 years of clinical experience. Recognised by her peers and industry experts as a facial specialist with surgical, skin science, and aesthetic experience, she occupies a unique position when it comes to holistic facial rejuvenation techniques. Her innovative treatments combine surgical and non-surgical modalities and are based on in-depth scientific knowledge and her experience.
She is also the founder and director of Dr Nerina Wilkinson + Associates. Her private Aesthetic Couture Clinic is based in the prestigious V&A Waterfront. Here, she has assembled a group of clinicians and skin care specialists, each of them experts in their field, to be able to deliver the highest standards of care and state-of-the-art, evidence-based procedures. She is an active researcher in the field and has pioneered industry-changing minimally invasive rejuvenation techniques such as the StemCell4DLift™, EyeLight360™, and Natural-Lift™.
Using her detailed knowledge and surgical experience, she trains medical staff in the latest aesthetic treatments and how to deliver them with optimal, yet safe results. Dr Nerina Wilkinson is frequently invited to present her work at Plastic Surgery Conferences, educational forums, and women’s events and has also been highly represented in the media throughout her career where her opinion on current matters in Plastic Surgery and Aesthetic medicine is often sought.
Memberships:
- Association of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeons South Africa (APRASSA full member)
- International Association of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons (ISAPS full member)
- Fellow of the College of Surgeons South Africa (CMSA)
- AAMSSA (Aesthetic and Anti-Ageing Medicine Society of South Africa|). Active Board Member since 2012
- Dr Nerina Wilkinsonhttps://www.aestheticappointment.co.za/author/dr-nerina-wilkinson
- Dr Nerina Wilkinsonhttps://www.aestheticappointment.co.za/author/dr-nerina-wilkinson
- Dr Nerina Wilkinsonhttps://www.aestheticappointment.co.za/author/dr-nerina-wilkinson
- Dr Nerina Wilkinsonhttps://www.aestheticappointment.co.za/author/dr-nerina-wilkinson
