The Age-Defying Blueprint: Combining Injectables, Lasers, and Biostimulators for Maximum Results in St. Louis Park & Woodbury
In the world of medical aesthetics, there is a common misconception that a single treatment—whether it be a syringe of filler or a quick laser session is the "magic bullet" for aging. However, at Physician Skin Services (PSS), our clinical experience in St. Louis Park and Woodbury, MN, tells a different story. The most natural, profound, and long-lasting results don't come from one modality; they come from stacking.
Stacking or Combination Therapy is the medical art of using different treatments to address aging at multiple depths of the tissue simultaneously. By targeting the bone structure, the fat pads, the dermis, and the epidermis all at once, we can reverse the clock in a way that looks completely natural, never "done."
This guide serves as your blueprint for total facial rejuvenation, designed by the experts at Physician Skin Services.
Phase 1: Rebuilding the Foundation (Structure & Volume)
Aging is not just skin deep; it starts with the bone. As we age, we lose bone density in the face, specifically around the eyes and jawline. This, combined with the deflation of fat pads, causes the skin to drape and sag.
The Role of Biostimulators
Before we worry about fine lines, we must restore the scaffolding. This is where treatments like Sculptra® shine. Unlike traditional hyaluronic acid fillers that simply "fill" a space, Sculptra is a poly-L-lactic acid (PLLA) stimulant. It works deep within the dermis to help revitalize collagen production and help restore your skin's inner structure and volume.
We have discussed the biological mechanism of this in our previous deep-dive, The Science of Collagen Stimulation: Which Treatments Actually Work?. As noted there, starting in your mid-twenties, you lose about 1% of your collagen every year. Reversing this requires a biostimulator that triggers neocollagenesis (new collagen growth), providing a subtle lift that develops over months and can last up to two years.
Dermal Fillers for Immediate Contour
While Sculptra builds the long-term foundation, Hyaluronic Acid (HA) fillers (such as Restylane® or Juvéderm®) act as the immediate architects. We use these to contour the cheeks, define the jawline, or balance the chin. In our Woodbury and St. Louis Park clinics, we often pair these with Sculptra: Sculptra for the global collagen boost, and HA fillers for precision highlighting.
Phase 2: Relaxing and Smoothing (Dynamic Lines)
Once the volume is restored, we address the "dynamic" wrinkles—the lines caused by movement.
Neurotoxins (Botox® and Dysport®)
You likely know them as "wrinkle relaxers." These injectables stop the muscle contractions that cause crow's feet, forehead lines, and "elevens" (glabellar lines).
The PSS Strategy: We don't just freeze the face. We use the right injectable techniques to soften lines while maintaining expression. When combined with the volume restoration from Phase 1, the skin sits smoother over the muscle, extending the visible results of your neuromodulators.
Phase 3: Resurfacing and Tone (Texture & Glow)
You can have perfect volume and no wrinkles, but if your skin texture is rough, pigmented, or dull, the face will still appear aged. This is where energy-based devices and lasers become essential.
Laser Treatments for Minnesota Skin
Living in Minnesota means our skin is subjected to harsh winters and intense summer UV exposure. This leads to photodamage (sun spots) and broken capillaries.
Laser resurfacing removes the damaged outer layers of skin, stimulating fresh, healthy tissue growth underneath. It is the gold standard for erasing years of sun damage. However, choosing between lasers and other resurfacing methods like microneedling can be confusing. As we detailed in our comparison article, Microneedling vs. Laser Treatments: How to Choose the Right Skin Rejuvenation Option, lasers generally involve heat to target pigment and redness, making them superior for tone correction, whereas microneedling relies on mechanical stimulation to improve texture and scarring.
At PSS, we often recommend a "Laser Facial" schedule during the fall and winter months in Minnesota to safely treat pigmentation when your tan has faded.
The "PSS Signature Stack"
So, what does a comprehensive anti-aging plan look like for a patient in St. Louis Park or Woodbury? Here is a typical annual protocol for optimal maintenance:
- Spring: A round of Dysport/Botox to smooth lines before summer social events.
- Summer: Maintenance Facials and Dermaplaning to keep skin hydrated and clear without downtime.
- Fall: A series of Biostimulator (Sculptra) treatments to rebuild collagen lost during the year.
- Winter: Heavy-hitting Laser Resurfacing to erase summer sun damage while the sun is weak.
Why Trust a Physician-Led Practice?
The distinction between a "med spa" and a "physician skin service" is crucial. Complications, though rare, can happen. Having a medical doctor like Dr. Annika Crosby overseeing your treatment plan ensures that your safety is prioritized above all else. Furthermore, medical-grade outcomes require medical-grade potency—something you cannot get at a day spa.
Ready to Build Your Blueprint?
Whether you are visiting us at our Excelsior Blvd location in St. Louis Park or our Donegal Drive clinic in Woodbury, our team is ready to analyze your unique facial anatomy. We don't sell products; we prescribe comprehensive aesthetic solutions.
Contact Physician Skin Services today to schedule your consultation and stop guessing about your skin health.
