Microdermabrasion vs Chemical Peel : Which Exfoliation Method is Better for You?

Why Exfoliate?

microdermabrasion vs chemical peel Many factors come into play when evaluating the health of our biggest organ, the skin. It is always exposed to external elements, and hence sustains most potential damage.

When choosing the proper treatments and products to enhance your skin, you should take into consideration such factors as skin pigmentation, acne, fine lines, wrinkles, skin sensitivities, oiliness or dryness.

Exfoliation procedures can be physical or chemical. Which is best for you? The best way to decide on Microdermabrasion vs Chemical Peel is to review the benefits and expectations of each procedure.

Microdermabrasion

Microdermabrasion is the most common physical method for removing the very superficial level of skin. It is a manual exfoliation of the epidermis to remove dead skin cells, debris and impurities. Normally, an instrument, which combines suction and a wand made of diamond or small crystal particles, is used to remove these from the skin.

microdermabrasion vs chemical peel Microdermabrasion produces instant results, but may not be a good choice for inflamed, sensitive or rosacea type skin. In such cases look for resurfacing methods that utilize a dermafile, a manual exfoliation using diamond files. This technique reduces breakage of capillaries in someone with thin or sensitive skin. Microdermabrasion encourages collagen stimulation and a more rapid cell turnover in the skin.

Microdermabrasion wands consist of two main types:

Crystal tip – A mixture of fine aluminum crystals are used to abrade the skin, as the cells and debris are blown away.

Diamond tip – Very fine diamond particles are used to remove any dead cells, oils, or debris, as these are also suctioned away.

What can I expect from Microdermabrasion?

Microdermabrasion should leave the skin’s surface velvety smooth, soft, bright and glowing. This rejuvenation method is instant and in rare cases, a pinkness or sensitivity may occur a few hours directly after the procedure, lasting less then 24 hours. Microdermabrasion is a workhorse of all rejuvenation procedures. Although it is primarily used on the face, it can be used on any part of the body, from the neck to chest, to hands, etc. Microdermabrasion is frequently done on the same day prior to other rejuvenation procedures for maximum benefits.

How often should I use Microdermabrasion?

To maintain the healthy glow associated with Microdermabrasion, it is recommended once a month for optimum results. Appointments made too soon together could irritate and redden the skin. Microdermabrasion is recommended before a chemical peel to prepare the skin for penetration of the

Microdermabrasion is recommended before a chemical peel to prepare the skin for penetration of the chemicals used in peeling solutions. Microdermabrasion also helps you obtain the best results with topical application of creams and serums, cosmetic or medicinal, as it removes any interfering layers of impurities.

Chemical Peel

microdermabrasion vs chemical peel 3Chemical peels use topical applications of peeling solutions to rejuvenate the skin, address fine lines and wrinkles, pigmentation, tone and texture. They allow for cells that make collagen to function more effectively and remove any damage caused by the sun and other external forces that always act on our skin. Chemical peels are the preferred method in general for the treatment of the following;

* Counter fine lines and wrinkles

* Issues with skin pigmentation due to age or sun damage

* Acne and some acne scars

* General improvement in the skin’s texture, tightness and overall appearance

How do Chemical Peels work?

Whenever we take a step outside, or take a ride in a car our skin is exposed to harsh elements, pollutants, and harmful ultraviolet rays. With exposure to these elements, the skin is potentially damaged, leading to the aged appearance.

Chemical peels remove damaged cells; stimulate the growth of the new skin cells and collagen production. Different peels are used for different purposes. They can and should be customized for each patient’s particular skin types and problems. There are wonderful new combination peels that are safe, effective, and have minimal down time. Anyone undergoing a chemical peel must stay out of the sun from 6 – 10 days and needless to say continue to use sun block.

What types of Chemical peels are there?

AHA Peel The most common chemical exfoliation is a superficial or medium chemical peels using alpha hydroxy and beta hydroxyl acids (glycolic, lactic, malic, tartaric, mandelic, citric, or salicylic). Enzymes are typically derived from fruit acids such as pineapple, papaya or pumpkin. Enzymes break down dead skin cells on the surface and can often be used as at-home treatments. Great choice for a mild resurfacing, but one should be mindful of any skin sensitivities. These are wonderful and beneficial peels done routinely in the office and do not require any anesthesia.

Phenol Peel On the opposite end of the spectrum are Phenol peels. As much as an acid peel is considered mile, a phenol peel is very considerably strong. A phenol peel has the most dramatic results, but also the longest recovery time. This is due to the intensity of the concentration and may take upwards to 3 hours a session. These peels may be painful and require anesthesia.

Effects of the phenol peel can last 3 months, and it is several weeks before most patients feel comfortable enough with their appearance to go out in public. Phenol has natural bleaching properties; so this is not an ideal solution for people of color or without a fair skin type.

Trichloroacetic Acid Peel (TCA) – A Trichloroacetic Acid Peel falls between the mildness of an acid peel and the severity of a phenol peel. They are generally as a method to even out skin tone without a ‘bleached’ look, or any residual discoloration. The new peels available today, that contain TCA, are usually combination peels. In that they use TCA with other products for maximum benefit, greatest safety profiles for all skin types and colors and maximum rejuvenating and skin conditioning effects.

Microdermabrasion vs Chemical Peel ?

It is always best to consult your physician when determining what will work best for your individual case and to help you accomplish your rejuvenation and/or skin-improvement goals. Cascades MedSpa is a proud leader of non invasive skin procedures. Call today to schedule your FREE consultation! 321-397-1212