Spring is finally here and it’s a great time for a makeover! While you’re picking out those new outfits and heading to the salon for a new hairdo, you might want to consider finishing off your new look by refreshing the appearance of your skin. We’re not talking about anything drastic, just a little skin rejuvenation.
There are two treatments you may have heard of – glycolic peels and microdermabrasion. Both are great options to enhance your skin’s appearance. Understanding how each skin rejuvenation treatment works and consulting with your physician or esthetician is the best way to decide which is the right option for you. While the two processes are very different, both provide similar results and offer exfoliating, wrinkle-reducing and blemish-fighting properties.
Glycolic Peels
A noninvasive procedure, a peel is a skin care product that is applied to the face which helps painlessly remove the uppermost layer of dead and damaged skin. You won’t notice anything for a few days, then you will likely have the same type of peeling you’ve had in the past after a sunburn. There is a variety of over the counter products but the most effective peels are performed under the supervision of a physician or esthetician. A glycolic peel is a chemical peel that contains glycolic acid which is derived from sugar cane. Typically, the ratio of glycolic acid is less than 30%. The acid bonds with dead skin cells and eliminates them when the peel is removed, revealing the smoother, brighter skin below.
Currently a popular treatment for wrinkles and acne, glycolic acid helps stimulate the growth of collagen, which is responsible for the skin’s elasticity and breaks down with aging. Because it is derived from sugar cane, a natural humectant, glycolic acid can also help hydrate the skin. A glycolic peel can reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, resulting in younger looking skin. For those with acne, a glycolic peel can result in clearer and less oily skin.
Microdermabrasion
Also a noninvasive procedure, microdermabrasion uses a specialized wand which is applied to the skin. This wand showers the surface of the skin with tiny crystals which polish it. Like a peel, microdermabrasion removes dead skin cells to reveal the fresh, younger looking skin underneath. It also eliminates oil, dirt, and bacteria while stimulating collagen to help reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
There are over-the-counter products made for at-home microdermabrasion treatments. Again the most effective microdermabrasion treatments are those performed by a physician or esthetician. Over-the-counter machines and kits can’t provide the depth of skin abrasion or as complete a removal of dead skin cells that professional microdermabrasion offers.
Treatment Expectations
Wondering how long these skin rejuvenation procedures take? Microdermabrasion treatments typically take 30 minutes to an hour. Your physician or esthetician will determine how many treatments are necessary to achieve your desired results and it is best to wait for 2 to 3 weeks in between treatments. It is possible to see results instantly but may take up to 5 treatments to see significant results and is typically performed every two to three weeks for best results.
Glycolic acid peels typically take 10 to 15 minutes for the peel itself and you probably won’t see results immediately. Your skin will usually look better within a week after the peel. Certain skin issues such as hyperpigmentation and red marks may take multiple peels and it is best to wait 3 to 4 weeks in between treatment. Glycolic peels are sometimes used in conjunction with microdermabrasion for enhanced results.
After-Treatment Care
Both glycolic peels and microdermabrasion reveal sensitive skin underneath the epidermis, or outer layer of skin, making your skin more sensitive to the sun and sunburn. Your face may appear more red than usual for a short time and you will need to use sunscreen with a 30 SPF or above to protect your skin after either treatment. As both are considered mild forms of facial treatments, it’s unusual for you to experience serious side effects with either procedure.
Skin Rejuvenation at Vive
If you’re considering skin rejuvenation treatments to kick off spring, the professionals at Vive Aesthetics and Wellness can help you find the right option for your skin. In addition to a variety of microdermabrasion as well as other skin rejuvenation and aesthetic treatments, we are now offering NeoStrata Glycolic Peels. Schedule your consultation today and get ready to reveal younger, more vibrant looking skin.
