Aesthetic medicine and longevity with Dr. Carmen Fernández Ayestarán

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In this training, Dr. Carmen Fernández Ayestarán, a specialist in regenerative and anti-aging medicine, a pioneer in Spain and recognized by Forbes, shares a 360º vision of aesthetic medicine: a regenerative approach where the skin is not treated as something isolated, but as the visible manifestation of the patient's internal state.

After more than 40 years of experience, Dr. Ayestarán proposes a clear paradigm shift: leaving behind the concept of anti-aging and evolving toward conscious pro-aging, where the goal is not to stop aging, but to reach each stage of life in the best possible condition.

Key takeaways

From anti-aging to conscious pro-aging

The traditional concept of “anti-aging” has become obsolete. It is not about fighting against aging, but about supporting it healthily.

  • Aging is not a disease; it is a natural process.

  • The key is to prevent from an early age.

  • The objective is well-aging: longevity with quality of life.

  • Spain, with its high life expectancy, now needs a scientific vision to accompany that process.

Aesthetic medicine is no longer just cosmetic; it is becoming preventive and regenerative medicine.

External factors that accelerate aging

The skin is a reflection of the systemic state. When we see deteriorated skin, we are often seeing internal inflammation.

Key factors:

Tobacco
Dulls tone, thickens the epidermis, and impairs skin quality.

Sun
Necessary in controlled doses (10 minutes daily), but excess exposure without protection is the main factor in aging.
Support: oral antioxidants like beta-carotene or resveratrol.

Alcohol
Abusive consumption is not the same as a glass of quality red wine. Resveratrol has an antioxidant effect, but excess generates inflammation.

Stress and lack of sleep
Elevated cortisol promotes inflammation, insulin resistance, and accelerated aging.
Sleep is the actual time for cellular repair.

Processed food
Chronic inflammation starts at the table. The Mediterranean diet is a competitive advantage if it is kept away from ultra-processed foods.

Aging at the cellular level

Aging does not begin in the skin; it begins in the cell.

  • Increase in free radicals.

  • Telomere shortening.

  • Thickening of the epidermis due to sun damage.

  • Thinning of the dermis and collagen loss.

Key tools:

Retinoids (Acid Vitamin A)
Diminish thickened epidermis and stimulate the dermis.

Stimulation of type I and III collagen
Reinforces the ligaments that support the skin and improves firmness.

The Gut-Skin axis

The gut is the second brain and has a hormonal function.

If there is intestinal permeability:

  • Inflammatory substances are absorbed.

  • Hormonal synthesis is altered.

  • The skin reflects that dysfunction.

Practical keys:

  • Probiotics (Bifidobacterium).

  • Prebiotics (inulin, fiber).

  • Legumes as a nutritional base.

  • Take care of intestinal integrity to improve absorption and hormonal balance.

Healthy skin starts with an intact gut.

Technologies that stimulate biology

Once the pillars are in order (sleep, nutrition, exercise), technology can boost regeneration.

HIFU with ultrasound
Reaches the SMAS (deep muscle layer), generates new collagen over three months, and repositions tissues.

Radiofrequency
Stimulates the superficial dermis with diffuse heat.

Microneedling radiofrequency
Deposits energy at a controlled depth. Ideal for scars or open pores.

Thermolifting (infrared)
Improves the epidermis and superficial dermis.

The key: not to correct, but to stimulate your own biology.

Supplementation: essential raw material

No technology works if the body does not have resources for regeneration.

  • Collagen + Vitamin C: Collagen provides amino acids; vitamin C is essential to synthesize it. The body will use it where it needs it most.
  • Omega 3: Reduces systemic inflammation and improves lipid profile.
  • Magnesium: Regulates stress and intestinal transit.
  • Ashwagandha and Rhodiola: Modulate cortisol, key in aging and insulin resistance.
  • Creatine: Prevents sarcopenia and has cognitive benefits.
  • Melatonin: Powerful anti-inflammatory and sleep regulator.

Without raw material, there is no regeneration.

Important conclusions

  • Aging is a multi-layer process: bone, muscle, fat, dermis, and epidermis.

  • The skin is not treated alone; the system is treated.

  • The goal is not to arrive sooner, but to arrive better.

  • Healthy skin is a consequence of an organism in balance.

  • The future of pro-aging also involves preserving cognitive function.

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