| Microdermabrasion or VibradermabrasionThese skin-rejuvenating treatments gently exfoliate the skin, removing the damaged outer layer of cells and revealing a new, more vibrant surface. Microdermabrasion also helps diminish the appearance of fine lines, age spots, and enlarged pores. Microdermabrasion uses very fine crystals to exfoliate the skin; the dead cells—and the crystals—are then suctioned away. Vibrodermabrasion uses textured paddles and gentle vibration to achieve a similar effect. Chemical peels The term "chemical peels" is a bit misleading. These treatments don’t actually peel the skin. Instead, they remove the dead skin cells (stratum corneum) that tend to build up on the skin’s top layer (epidermis). Once those cells are gone, your skin will look smoother and more radiant. Chemical peels also lighten age spots and other pigmentations, creating a more even skin tone. And they help diminish fine lines as well as mild scarring caused by acne. Chemical peels can also be used to enhance the results of other skin rejuvenation procedures. Lunchtime peels (which usually take about 20 minutes) use mild chemicals, including the alpha hydroxy acids (AHA) found in citric fruits and sugar cane. Stronger formulations are sometimes used for greater rejuvenation. After examining your skin and talking with you about your treatment expectations, your physician will advise you on which peel is right for you. Both procedures take less than an hour to complete, and cause little, if any, redness, swelling, or discomfort. Usually, a short series of treatments spread out over several weeks is needed for best results. |