This procedure utilizes the long wavelength Q-switch Yag lasers which have successfully been used to remove pigmented lesions, tattoos, and excess hair. This procedure combines the laser s deep penetration to improve wrinkles while cooling the skin s surface to minimize the visible damage. With repeated treatments, this new technology produces a noticeable effect on moderate aging skin. By evaluating the patient s skin type, pigmentation, and degree of sun damage, a dermatologist can individualize the strength and depth of a peel to provide the greatest benefit to the patient. For the treatment of minimal wrinkles, very superficial chemical peels remove the top most layer of cells and stimulate a more rapid regeneration of the epidermis, the outer layer of the skin.
Superficial peels treat early aging skin and wrinkles which occur with facial expressions.
Since these peels remove a part or all of the epidermis, patients will experience a 48-72 hour recovery period as their skin heals from the peeling and redness. For more advanced aging skin, including weathered texture and stationary wrinkles, medium depth peels, such as combination peels, penetrate to the dermis, the middle skin layer, and smooth fine lines. Although microdermabrasion was invented in Italy 15 years ago, it was only introduced in the United States a few years ago. Since then, it has become one of the most popular cosmetic procedures in the United States promising skin rejuvenation with minimal recovery time. During microdermabrasion, crystals of aluminum oxide are blown onto the skin and then removed with a vacuum line.