Narrowing Down Your Skincare Options

If you’re like most people, there are too many options for skincare to choose from. From home treatments to professional ones, from topical applications to surgery, there is every kind of method available on the market. So how do you select one? Here’s some information about some of the more popular ones to help you narrow down your skincare options.

Facial Peels

Facial peels, also called chemical peels, can only be performed in a clinic or doctor’s office. The process involves using a chemical solution to remove surface layers of skin. The light chemical peel produces mild results and lasts for no more than a month. Deeper chemical peels last for several months, but are much harsher on the skin and involve about two weeks of down time. The light peel works well on giving the skin a fresh glow and reducing fine lines while the deep peel works on moderate wrinkles and some scarring.

Microdermabrasion

The procedure of microdermabrasion involves a crystal tipped device or a device that sprays diamond dust on the skin Both operate the same way by gently rubbing the skin to exfoliate it while suctioning away dead skin cells. The procedure is mild, not painful, and carries low or no risks. Downtime is also minimal. The results are not long lasting, so the procedure will need to be repeated to maintain the look of rejuvenated skin. Works well on fine lines and for smoothing uneven skin.

Microneedling

This procedure involves using a device with a roller covered in needles that are rolled across the skin to create tiny wounds. It can be performed at home using a personal device or in a clinic by a professional. When used along with collagen or vitamin enhancing serums, it works ten times better than by microneedling alone. The method works well for very fine lines and wrinkles, stretchmark reduction, and light scar reduction.

Laser Skin Resurfacing

Lasers used for skin resurfacing perform as either ablative or non-ablative devices. Both types of use light-based energy to target skin cells. Ablative lasers vaporize cells on the skin’s surface to remove frown lines and wrinkles. Non-ablative cosmetic lasers work on the deeper skin layer to tighten the skin and prompt the skin to produce elastins and collagen to repair damaged cells.

Ablative lasers intentionally damage the surface of the skin in a controlled way to achieve results. The risks and recovery time are greater, but so is the result. Non-ablative lasers leave the surface of the skin intact so risks are minimal.

Home vs. Professional Skincare Treatments

Treatments at home are never as effective as those performed by a professional. One reason is that personal use devices are made safe for average consumer use, so are not as powerful. Another reason is that professionals must follow strict rules of being sanitary. While professional services will cost more, the end results are much better than any treatment that could possibly be done in a home setting. When in doubt, speak to a dermatologist or your physician for recommendations on the right treatment for your skincare needs.