Everyone wants beautiful skin. Washing your face regularly and wearing protective sun block are good ways to help preserve your skin's appearance. Those plagued by facial imperfections caused by acne, aging, scars and sun exposure, however, may want to consider undergoing a more extensive facial rejuvenation treatment. Many dermatologists and medical spas offer a number of facial treatments including microdermabrasion, botox, chemical peels and laser treatments that can help you achieve the clear skin you crave.
Microdermabrasion
Microdermabrasion is a painless, non-invasive facial treatment that removes dead skin cells, encourages new cell growth and helps improve the skin's texture. During this procedure, dermatologists use an instrument containing fine micro-crystals to gently remove the surface layer of skin, leaving behind skin that is softer, smoother and reinvigorated. Individual treatment sessions generally last about an hour. Patients will need to return for repeat treatments every few weeks.
Botox
For those frustrated by frown lines, wrinkles and crow's feet, botox may be the solution. Botox is an FDA-approved facial treatment that involves using a small needle to inject a substance called botulinum toxin into certain muscles in the face. These injections work by interrupting muscle nerve signals, thereby weakening the muscle and allowing it to relax. A few days after the first treatment, frown lines and wrinkles begin to fade, causing the face to look younger and display a more pleasant expression. Botox offers amazing results without the lengthy recovery time. However, its effects are not permanent, so patients will need periodic injections every few months.
Chemical Peels
While still less invasive than surgery, chemical peels require more extensive healing time than microdermabrasion and botox. Chemical peels are commonly used to treat scars, discoloration, wrinkles and lines. During a chemical peel, dermatologists apply a chemical solution to the face that causes the surface layer of skin to peel off. The result is skin that appears more even-toned and smooth, giving skin a healthy youthful glow. Patients can choose to have either a light, medium or deep chemical peel. The lighter peel delivers less dramatic results but has a shorter healing period. The heavier peel delivers more visible results but has a longer healing period.
Laser Resurfacing
Laser resurfacing is a facial treatment that dermatologists use to address skin concerns such as scars or birthmarks, sagging skin, lines, discolorations, enlarged pores, and damaged blood vessels. Laser resurfacing procedures use lasers to target and destroy damaged skin cells, leaving behind newer, more vibrant-looking skin. Patients can choose to undergo laser resurfacing on the entire face or on specific troublesome spots. Laser resurfacing treatments can take anywhere from 30 minutes to one hour and typically take two to three weeks to heal.
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