Skin Resurfacing is commonly sought out by many individuals in their late 40s and above. There are many methods of skin resurfacing and the Internet is inundated with literature on 100s of creams, lotions, herbs and peels. The best way to determine what is the best procedure for you is to see a cosmetic physician.
The principles of skin resurfacing are simple and include:
- removal of abnormal or unhealthy skin
- improve the texture of the skin
- diminish the sagging skin
- remove skin discolorations and imperfections
- tighten the skin
Skin Resurfacing is used to treat
The three most common methods to resurface the skin include chemical peels, dermabrasion and laser.
All three procedures have the ability to remove the surface layers of the skin. Once the old skin is removed, it is replaced by newer, healthier, smoother and much younger looking skin.
Chemical peels remove the top layers of skin by the use of a harsh or caustic solution. Chemical peels vary a lot depending on their concentration and ingredient. The depth of the peeling is determined by the concentration, duration of contact and where the peel is compressed on to the skin. There are several; chemical peels which include phenol, Trichloroacetic acid and glycolic acid
In dermabrasion, a high speed rotating wheel abrades the skin and laser removes the skin layers by causing fragmentation. The amount of skin removed is dependent on the compression applied by the physician. The only downside to dermabrasion is the downtime. The recovery is somewhat prolonged.
Lasers are fast catching on as the preferred method for skin resurfacing. The lasers remove the skin layers by causing vaporization of the skin. The only downside to lasers is the cost which can range upwards of $ 5000 and above.
Radiofrequency Resurfacing: A modification of laser is the use of low frequency radiofrequency energy. This method has been shown to be effective in erasing wrinkles around the yes, nose and mouth. Compared to the other methods, the technique is less painful and has a rapid recovery.
In the final analysis, the results of skin resurfacing are highly dependent on your physician. All skin resurfacing techniques have a healing period afterward, during which the skin is red and sensitive.
And one should be aware that the deeper the procedure, the greater the risk for complications, including delayed healing, infection, loss of pigment (skin color), and scarring.