A skin resurfacing procedure can be a life-changing experience. However, before you set an appointment, make sure you know all your options. IPL, laser resurfacing, and chemical peels are some of the most common ones.
Why think about skin resurfacing? Most people choose one of these procedures to help with sun damage, fine lines, acne, and facial scars. All of these options are less invasive than traditional plastic surgery and have a much faster recovery time.
IPL – Intensive Pulsed Light
IPL is a photo rejuvenation process that is used to target cells that cause skin redness, sun damage, or pigmentation. It is considered gentler than traditional laser treatments and is often used on patients who only need a minor treatment option. Multiple sessions are often required to get the best results.
With IPL, several wavelengths of light are used to treat areas faster. In addition, it’s useful for multiple conditions. It can be used for acne scars, sun damage, birthmarks, stretch marks, rosacea, spider veins, hyperpigmentation, and melasma.
Laser Resurfacing
Laser resurfacing has been around for many decades. It uses beams of light to target water molecules and remove skin cells in problem areas. The top layer of damaged skin is removed so the fresh skin underneath can be seen. The typical downtime after the procedure is a week to 10 days as the skin heals.
Laser resurfacing can be used for acne scars, some non-melanoma skin cancers, cold sore scars, uneven pigment, sun damage, and mild or moderate wrinkles on the face.
Chemical Peels
Chemical peels use a variety of chemicals to remove layers of skin so the fresh skin underneath can be seen. This procedure can improve fine lines and wrinkles, improve scars and acne, and improve uneven coloring or other skin imperfections.
During the treatment process, a solution of safe, facial chemicals are applied to the skin. This causes a controlled depth injury to the skin so it peels off to show more youthful skin. The skin underneath often has a better smoothness with fewer apparent wrinkles and lines. It will also have a brighter complexion and a more even color.
Dermabrasion
Dermabrasion is a technique using a rotating tool to remove outer layers of skin on your face. It’s a common choice for those who want a better skin appearance. A professional will numb the skin before removing the outer layers. Dermabrasion is a quick procedure and you can go home after it is complete.
This procedure can be used to treat acne scars, tattoos, age spots, sun damage, fine wrinkles, scars from injury or surgery, precancerous skin, and redness or thick skin on the nose.
Final Thoughts
Each of these options can help create healthier and more aesthetically pleasing skin. However, it is up to you which procedure suits your needs.
