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What is a chemical peel?

A chemical peel uses acid to remove layers of damaged or aged skin, revealing newer, softer, younger-looking skin. The acids used range from very mild to very strong. Mild alpha hydroxy acids (AHA) can be used to remove a very minimal layer of skin, thus rejuvenating dull-looking skin. Stronger acids like trichloracetic acid (TCA) or phenol can be used for deep peels to correct acne scarring, serious pigmentation problems or fine wrinkles.

At what age and what skin type can a chemical peel be performed on?

A chemical peel can be performed at any age when there is enough damaged skin to be removed.  A chemical peel is also effective on any skin type (Fitzpatrick) as well.

What does a chemical peel consultation involve?

During a consultation you will meet with the physician and/or the skin care technician who will perform the peel to ask questions and find out what kind of a procedure you need for your skin type and condition. The first step is a full evaluation of your skin and its overall health, including its elasticity. The skin care specialist will also go over the types of chemicals used and explain which approach would be best for your skin.

How is a chemical peel performed?

A very minor peel can be performed by a trained skin aesthetician or technician as an outpatient procedure in a doctor’s office or medi-spa; deeper peels, especially if done in conjunction with another facial rejuvenation procedure like a facelift, are often done in a hospital setting with anesthesia. Before the peel, your skin will be cleansed and toned to remove natural surface oils. The chosen chemical will be applied gently to your skin in one or more layers. After a specified length of time, the physician or skin care specialist will neutralize the acid and remove it from your skin, which is then wiped clean and treated with a moisturizer or antibacterial ointment.

What should you expect after a chemical peel?

Your face will be red, scabby, and peeling for up to two weeks after your treatment; for this reason a burn dressing may be used to bandage the treated skin. After a light peel your skin may feel tight like it does after a sunburn. After a deep peel, expect several days of discomfort and tenderness as your skin becomes crusted and weeps clear fluid. It may be a few weeks until you see pink, new skin, which must be protected from the sun like a baby’s skin. Your doctor will give you explicit instructions which should be followed.

What are the risks of a chemical peel?

If the peel goes deeper than intended, there’s a risk of bacterial or viral infection to your skin before it heals. Likewise, if you develop a cold sore or fever blister before you heal, it can spread to the whole treated area and cause scarring. Hyperpigmentation and hypopigmentation can be a problem after a chemical peel, especially for darker-skinned people or those who do not take proper care of their face after the peel. Following all your physician’s instructions will help maximize your outcome and minimize the risks.

What are the results of the chemical peel permanent?

You will, of course, continue to age following your chemical peel. However, you will be starting with virtually new skin, so you have set the aging process back somewhat. Taking great care of your skin going forward will also maximize the benefits of your chemical peel, as will limiting sun exposure, quitting smoking, and limiting your alcohol intake.

Microdermabrasion

What is microdermabrasion?

Microdermabrasion is an effective, non-surgical way to get rid of acne scars, fine wrinkles and sunspots by exfoliating the top layers of the skin. No chemicals or laser beams are used, only aluminum oxide micro crystals that gently sandblasts your skin, leaving it smooth and fresh. Microdermabrasion also stimulates collagen production, helping your skin rejuvenate faster than normal.

What does microdermabrasion involve?

Your skin is first cleansed with a special cleansing gel or alcohol.. The aluminum oxide micro crystal flow is sandblasted through a small tube pressed against the skin. The tube also vacuums back dead skin cells and used micro crystals. After microdermabrasion, your skin is soothed with a special nourishing sun blocking cream, allowing you to go back to your daily routine immediately after treatment.

How much time does microdermabrasion require?

A typical microdermabrasion face treatment takes between 20 and 30 minutes. However, if you want your neck or other parts of the body treated, it may last up to an hour.

Is microdermabrasion suitable for me?

If the goal is to get rid of superficial acne scars, blotchy skin, large pores, age or sun spots, fine wrinkles or uneven skin tone and texture, you are a perfect candidate for microdermabrasion. All skin types and colors can be treated with microdermabrasion. However, talk to a specialist about your medical history because there are conditions such as rosacea which may make microdermabrasion unsuitable for you.

What can microdermabrasion do for me?

Microdermabrasion helps reduce fine lines and wrinkles, fight acne and remove acne scarring, even skin tone, diminish white and black heads, minimize large pores and revitalize dull skin. Microdermabrasion helps skin regeneration by increasing its elasticity and collagen production. The skin looks fresh and feels smooth as soon as treatment is over. With micro abrasion, there is no recovery time and no discomfort.

How many treatments are required?

Your skin care specialist will give you a rough idea of the number of microdermabrasion treatments needed for best results. Major changes are obvious after the fifth session, even though most patients say they observed improvements after the first two.  Generally   6 to 8 microdermabrasion treatments, scheduled around two to three weeks apart are recommended so the skin has time to recover between sessions. After the recommended number of sessions, you may have to schedule another abrasion once every two or three months, to maintain the effects.

How do I prepare for microdermabrasion?

One of the advantages of microdermabrasion is minimum pre-treatment requirements. No pre-medication is needed but you may be asked to stop using aspirin-based medicines, Retin-A, Renova, Differin or glycolic acid products. You should not have any waxing, laser treatments or excessive sun exposure at least a week prior to treatment.

How soon can I return to work?

You can return to work the minute you leave your doctor’s office. If your skin looks reddish, as in mild sunburn, you can cover it up with sunscreen and light makeup.

Is there maintenance treatment after microdermabrasions?

After a complete series of microdermabrasion treatments, you may want to keep your skin looking smooth and younger by scheduling a microdermabrasion-maintenance session once every 3 months.  Microdermabrasion can be combined with sunscreen and a good skin care regiment to minimize acne, pigmentation issues, and aging.

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