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Medi-Spas are by definition Spas that include Medical treatments. Medical treatments such as Botox or Restalyne treatments should always be under the supervision of a licensed Dermatologist or Medical Doctor.
Facials, skin care treatments, chemical peels and microdermabrasions should be conducted by highly trained and skilled technicians.
But what is the difference between them?
Chemical Peels, are skin care treatments sometimes called dermabrasions, chemical exfoliations, and micro-dermabrasions. Basically chemicals are applied to the skin which will cause the skin to blister and “peel” away, thereby leaving the new regenerated skin as the surface. While this “new” layer of skin is often softer, smoother and less wrinkled, but it can be sun-sensitive for a time so be sure to protect your skin, especially on the face whenever you have or plan to have a chemical peel. Also, keep in mind that clients with fair skin and light hair respond best to chemical peels, although darker hair/skin can react well depending upon the type of peel and reason for treatment. But often, chemical peels and microdermabrasian can change the pigment of the skin, so you should be aware of this before scheduling.
Chemical peels will improve the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles from both age and hereditary reasons, as well as aid in some cases of severe acne. However, chemical peels will not give “new” looking skin to those with extreme wrinkles or sagging.
Also keep in mind that a chemical peel should be done by a doctor or trained specialist only. Prior to having a chemical peel you may be instructed to stop taking specific types of medications including those containing glycolic acid or Retina-A.
It is not uncommon to experience a stinging (and at times downright painful irritation to the area of the chemical peel during and directly after the application. Cool compresses can help relieve any discomfort.
Difference between Chemical Peel and Micro-Dermabrasion
While both treatments deal with the removal and refinement of fine lines in the skin, chemical peels rely on direct chemical contact with the skin using caustic materials such as glycolic acid. These peels can reach deeply into the superficial layers of the skin, changing its composition and remove the outer layer leaving the layer beneath much smoother and less wrinkled.
Micro-dermabrasion is more a resurfacing technique. It does not use chemicals but it is also less aggressive and does not react on deeper wrinkles. In micro-dermabrasion, small crystals of aluminum oxide are quickly and at times simultaneously applied to the skin, sanding the skin with a high powered instrument and then removing the crystals. This sanding of the superficial layer of the skin can remove small wrinkles and improve the appearance of the skin. It is not caustic and does not cause bleeding, but you will again, like chemical peels, need to be aware of sun exposure and protect your new skin from it.
Another difference is in the scheduling of treatments. Micro-dermabrasions can be done every one to two weeks for approximately 6 to 8 treatments, this is the same as a very mild chemical peel. If you have a medium strength chemical peel, it should not be repeated for several months and for deep chemical peels one treatment should be enough for optimal results.
Both chemical peels and micro-dermabrasion can leave redness or blotchy areas of the skin. However, in chemical peels this can last up to a month depending on the depth of the peel. Remember this before you schedule a micro-dermabrasion, chemical peel or facial. Since redness can last up to an hour or more after these treatments, don’t make dinner plans right after a treatment, especially if you enjoy wearing make-up.
Radiofrequency devices; Infrared heat devices and pulsatile suction devices. . . These are all tools that are being investigated in the never-ending fight against cellulite and will be reviewed shortly.
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