Microdermabrasion is considered skin polishing where the superficial layer of skin is gently abraded away giving an overall fresh healthy glow. Microdermabrasion is useful in treating dull skin and leathery skin, reduce mild acne scaring, smooth fine wrinkles, even skin tone and exfoliate plugged pores. Microdermabrasion stimulates the production of skin cells and collagen which gives the skin its youthful appearance. The results may be subtle, but it is a good alternative for people with skin that is sensitive to chemical peels.

Procedure:

A machine with a closed vacuum device with a diamond tip is applied to the skin surface. The machine mixes the gentle abrasion of the particles with suction to remove the uppermost layer of dead skin cells. The skin debris is vacuumed back into the tube and filtered for disposal. The diamond tip gently polishes your face and the suction stimulates collagen production and blood flow. Treatments last about 15-20 minutes with 6 to 12 treatments recommended, spaced 3-4 weeks apart to achieve optimal results. After the initial regimen is completed, periodic “touch-up” treatments may be beneficial to maintain results.

Side effects:

Some patients may experience mild redness, minor irritation and dryness after the procedure.

Chemical Peels provide significant benefits by helping smooth rough, dry skin, improve the texture of sun damaged skin, superficial acne scars, minimizing fine lines and softening deep wrinkles. Chemical peels are intended not just for cosmetic but for therapeutic purposes such as melasma (dark pigmentation on the face during pregnancy) and precancerous conditions such as keratoses. A series of peels is usually required to obtain the best results performed at intervals of 2 to 4 weeks. The strength of the initial peel is often milder and gradually increases with subsequent chemical peel treatments. For the first few days you will notice redness followed by scaling and flaking. Sun avoidance is a must during the peeling process and sunscreen with an SPF 30 should be worn one to two weeks following the peel.

Procedure:

Chemical peels usually begin with cleansing of the skin then the chemical is applied which penetrates the dead skin cells and stimulates the regeneration of a new epidermis contingent on strength. The peel may produce a warm or hot sensation that lasts about 5 to 10 minutes followed by a stinging sensation. Often a small fan is used to help alleviate discomfort, slight burning sensation during the treatment. For the first few days following treatment, gently cleanse with a mild soap and moisturize. Your provider may recommend using antibiotic ointment, steroid ointment or the use of Ibuprofen can be used as directed for swelling and tenderness. Sunscreen of an SPF 30 should be applied to protect you from sunburn, age spots and new wrinkles.

Side effects:

Some patients may experience pain, discomfort, redness, pigment changes which usually fade in time, cold sores which your provider may prescribe a medication prior to treatment to avoid outbreaks and sensitivity to environmental factors such as windburn, sun and irritants.