6 Alternatives to Injectables for Skin Rejuvenation

Looking for a way to achieve a healthy glow without needles? Or, perhaps, you’re new to skincare and would like to explore non-invasive procedures first. Whatever your reason, there’s a growing array of treatments designed to revitalise and rejuvenate your skin without the commitment of injectables.

Here are six of them.

Non-Injectable Treatments For Glowing Skin

1. Microdermabrasion

Microdermabrasion is a non-invasive treatment that gently exfoliates the top layer of dead skin cells. When done correctly, this process helps to improve your skin’s texture, reduce the appearance of sun damage, and brighten your complexion.

By sloughing off dull, rough skin, microdermabrasion can reveal a fresher, more radiant skin. It’s a popular choice for addressing concerns like acne scars, fine lines, and uneven skin tone. 

Traditional microdermabrasion uses a diamond-tipped instrument, but at ENRICH, we use a laser for a more precise and controlled treatment.

The procedure itself is quick—about 30 minutes—and relatively painless. You may feel a slight tingling, like a fine sandpaper going over the skin, with a warm, lightly sunburnt feeling afterwards. You can also expect slight redness and irritation that typically subsides within a day or two. 

Your dermatologist will recommend consistent sunscreen use to maximise results and protect the newly revealed skin.

While microdermabrasion is generally safe, it’s not suitable for you if you have:

• Severe acne or rosacea. The exfoliation process can irritate inflamed skin.
• Skin infections. Active infections can spread during the procedure.
• Open wounds or sores. Avoid this treatment until your skin has healed completely.
• Skin cancer. A dermatologist should evaluate any suspicious moles or growths before considering microdermabrasion.
• Diabetes. You may have slower healing times, increasing the risk of complications.

If you recently used isotretinoin or any strong acne medication, ask your doctor if microdermabrasion is appropriate. This medication can thin the skin, increasing the risk of complications.

2. Chemical Peels

Chemical peels are a more intensive approach to skin rejuvenation. They involve applying a chemical solution to the skin to remove damaged outer layers and reveal the smoother, fresher skin underneath when done by an experienced dermatologist.

There are different types of chemical peels for various skin concerns.

• Superficial peels: These types of chemical peels use mild acids to exfoliate the outermost layer of skin. They are ideal for addressing fine lines, acne, and dull complexion.
• Medium peels: These use more potent acids to penetrate deeper into the skin to treat sun damage, acne scars, and deeper wrinkles.
• Deep peels: These are reserved for more severe skin issues. Therapeutic-strength acid is used to penetrate the middle skin layer. They are effective for deep wrinkles and facial scarring but require significant downtime.

The duration of the procedure and recovery vary depending on the type and depth of the peel. The process can be anywhere from 30 to 75 minutes, and downtime can be from half a day to several days.

Chemical peels are generally safe, but if you have active acne or skin infections or are currently using certain medications, your dermatologist may not recommend this procedure. If you have a history of cold sores, you may experience an outbreak after the treatment, so ask your doctor if it’s advisable.

3. Microneedling

Microneedling, also known as collagen-stimulating therapy, is a minimally invasive cosmetic procedure that creates tiny punctures in the skin using a device with fine needles. This controlled injury stimulates the skin’s natural healing process, prompting it to produce collagen and elastin, the two proteins largely responsible for skin firmness and elasticity.

At ENRICH, we combine microneedling with radiofrequency (RF), both well-regarded skin rejuvenation techniques. We call this process The Secret.

When conducted by an expert, microneedling can improve the appearance of acne scars, fine lines, wrinkles, large pores, and uneven skin texture.

A typical micro-needling session can last 30 to 60 minutes, depending on the treated area. The procedure usually begins with cleansing the skin and applying a numbing cream. 

Once the cream takes effect, your dermatologist gently rolls or stamps the micro-needling device over your skin to create microscopic punctures. After the treatment, your doctor will apply a soothing serum or moisturiser to calm the skin.

Immediately following microneedling, your skin may appear slightly red and inflamed, similar to a mild sunburn. This redness typically subsides within a few hours or days. It’s also not uncommon to experience mild swelling, dryness, or pinpoint bleeding. 

Whatever the side effect, avoid touching the treated area, use harsh skincare products, and have excessive sun exposure during healing to prevent infection.

Microneedling is generally safe for most skin types, but avoid it if you have active acne, skin infections, or recent facial surgeries. Also, keloids or hypertrophic scars may increase your risk of complications. Ask a qualified dermatologist if microneedling is appropriate for your skin concerns.

4. Laser Treatments

Laser treatment, often referred to as laser resurfacing or laser peel, is a procedure that uses concentrated beams of light to improve the skin’s appearance. There are different laser devices. At ENRICH, we use the Fraxel laser or fractional CO2 laser.

Fraxel laser is a dual-laser technology that targets two skin layers at the same time. One laser is for the skin’s surface to tackle sun damage and pigmentation. The other penetrates deeper, stimulating collagen production to improve wrinkles, texture, and acne scars. Each session, including numbing, takes about an hour and a half. While mildly uncomfortable, the procedure is not excruciating.

Your skin must be clear of infections and breakouts to ensure optimal results for a Fraxel laser treatment. Your doctor may also advise you to avoid retinoids for a week before treatment. Depending on the severity of your skin concerns, you may need multiple treatments spaced a few weeks apart.

Fractional CO2 lasers are also used to improve the appearance of wrinkles, scars, uneven skin tone, and sagging skin. But unlike the Fraxel laser, which uses a dual-laser approach, this one delivers concentrated heat energy in tiny columns to the skin. Also, unlike its traditional counterpart, the fractional CO2 laser delivers laser energy in a grid-like pattern, which means it spares healthy skin. This translates to faster healing time and lower risks.

The treatment takes about 30 minutes, but you’ll need additional time for numbing. Your recovery time will vary based on the depth of treatment. It can be anywhere from 3 to 14 days.

5. Light Therapy (LED)

LED therapy, also known as low-level light therapy, is a non-invasive skin treatment that uses light-emitting diodes (LEDs) to emit specific wavelengths of light. These wavelengths penetrate the skin to stimulate skin rejuvenation and healing. At ENRICH, we call this diode for short. 

Different colours of LED light have varying benefits. For instance, red light is often used to reduce inflammation, stimulate collagen production, and improve skin texture, while blue light targets acne-causing bacteria.

A typical LED therapy session lasts 10 to 20 minutes. The treatment is painless and has no downtime, so it’s perfect for the “time-poor.”

LED therapy generally suits most skin types and has minimal side effects. You may experience temporary redness or dryness, but these symptoms usually subside quickly.

While LED therapy is suitable for a wide range of skin concerns, it may not be as effective for severe acne or deep wrinkles. Also, if you have skin conditions like lupus or porphyria, you should avoid LED therapy due to the potential risks associated with photosensitivity.

6. Facials Tailored For Rejuvenation

Facials are a more holistic approach to skin rejuvenation, combining cleansing, exfoliation, extraction, and hydration. There are many types; two popular skin revitalisation options are the China Doll Carbon Facial and the Hydro Active Facial.

China Doll Carbon Facial uses Picocare 450 laser with a specialised carbon serum. The latter draws out impurities and dead skin cells, while the former targets and breaks down this carbon to reveal a fresh, radiant complexion. 

The facial process begins with a thorough cleanse and a gentle laser pass. Next, your dermatologist will apply the carbon serum, which penetrates your pores. The laser is then used again to target the carbon, followed by a final laser pass and a hydrating finish to complete the treatment.

The immediate results include reduced oiliness, minimised pores, and a deep clean that eliminates blackheads. This treatment also stimulates collagen production, enhancing skin firmness and elasticity. 

While the laser is working, you may feel a warm, tingling sensation and hear a slight clicking sound. These are normal and painless, simply a sign that the treatment effectively removes impurities. You can resume your usual activities immediately after the treatment. 

A Hydroactive Facial, on the other hand, focuses on intense hydration and nourishment. This facial typically includes cleansing, exfoliation, extraction, and applying hydrating serums and masks. At ENRICH, we use advanced electroporation technology to ensure optimal serum absorption. Then, it concludes with an LED therapy session to stimulate collagen and elastin production. The entire process takes about 30 minutes.

Hydroactive facials benefit all skin types but are particularly effective for dehydrated or dry skin. They help to replenish moisture, improve skin texture, and create a plump, dewy complexion.

What Is The Best Non-Injectable Treatment For Skin Rejuvenation?

The best skin rejuvenation treatment is highly personalised. Your skin type, age, specific concerns, and lifestyle all influence the selection of the most effective approach.

Our dermatologist can conduct a thorough evaluation of your skin and create a skin treatment plan for you for optimal results. Schedule a consultation today.