While the skin has processes to shed dead cells and regulate the balance of oil, sometimes facial skin needs extra help to improve overall appearance. This is where treatments such as a chemical peel or microdermabrasion can come in. Each treatment has its own considerations and benefits, yet both promise to offer fresher, younger-looking skin via treatments that do not necessarily require a significant amount of recovery time.
Definitions
A chemical peel applies an acid solution of varying levels to the skin to remove dead skin cells or damaged skin layers. When the acid is removed, the skin is smoother and more evenly textured. Microdermabrasion is a spa or medical treatment that utilizes a specialized wand with crystals on the end. When the microdermabrasion machine is on, the wand spins and is applied to the face. The wand gently abrades the skin, removing dead skin cells from the surface. The action also helps stimulate blood flow to the skin, which increases collagen production and thus reduces the appearance of wrinkles.
Function
A chemical peel helps to lessen fine lines, reduce the appearance of acne, improve skin discoloration and make the skin appear more refreshed. Microdermabrasion is not indicated for lessening skin discolorations such as age spots, but is recommended for reducing fine lines and acne scars and giving skin a more vibrant appearance.
Considerations
When administered in higher concentrations, chemical peels can be extremely invasive and require as long as a month of recovery time. However, more typically these peels, especially glycolic peels, are fairly mild and can be administered over a lunch break. They may cause side effects such as facial redness and slight tenderness. Microdermabrasion is also a mild treatment that can be given during a relatively short appointment. It may cause a sensation like fine-grain sandpaper touching the face and can result in redness or skin sensitivity that typically fades within a few hours.
Costs
According to docshop.com, mild chemical peels can begin at around $150; deep chemical peels can cost in the thousands of dollars. According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, the average price of a microdermabrasion treatment in 2008 was $200. The price often varies based on length of treatment time, expertise of the technician and materials and equipment used.
Warning
Neither the chemical peel nor microdermabrasion is associated with significant health risks or serious side effects, but according to docshop.com, people should carefully observe their skin for redness that does not reduce after several hours or a rash or itching or burning sensations that do not diminish over the course of the day. Patients with any of these symptoms should contact their skin care professional or seek medical help.
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