Many issues can affect the delicate skin of the face. Among them are acne, wrinkles, blotchiness, damaged blood vessels, sun spots and scars. These ailments can be embarrassing and difficult to hide. Fortunately, there are several cosmetic procedures that can help to minimize or even eliminate these conditions.
Laser Resurfacing
According to the American Academy of Dermatology, laser resurfacing can help to improve the appearance of many facial skin abnormalities. Lasers can rejuvenate the skin, treat skin discoloration, scars, sun damage, acne and broken blood vessels. Ablative lasers work by removing the top layer of skin and encouraging it to tighten while healing.
Some procedures provide fractional therapy, where only a portion of skin is damaged via tiny dots. The undamaged skin helps to encourage healing. Non-ablative laser procedures work beneath the surface layer of skin, stimulating growth of collagen. Healing time is much quicker, with few side effects evident.
Tissue Fillers
The Mayo Clinic explains that tissue fillers can be used to minimize the appearance of facial scars. With this procedure, scars, especially those caused by acne, can visibly be reduced. A dermatologist or doctor injects fat or collagen into the scar, helping to stretch and fill out the skin. Fat is often removed from one part of the body and injected into facial tissues. As a result, the scar becomes less noticeable. Although this procedure is effective, it is only temporary. Repeated periodic injections are necessary to maintain the appearance.
Dermabrasion
To remove deep lines, scars or acne, a dermatologist may chose to perform dermabrasion. Before treatment, a doctor may anesthetize the skin or use general anesthesia to completely sedate you. Using a handheld tool with an abrasive edge, a dermatologist carefully removes the top layer of skin. For the entire face, the procedure will take approximately two hours.
After the procedure, skin will appear sore and raw. Be sure to follow all of your doctor’s instructions, changing dressings and apply ointment as directed. Although new skin will appear in about 10 days, complete healing can take several months.
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