Microdermabrasion Vs. Glycolic Peel
Men and women alike want to put their best face forward. The first step is to have a clear and smooth complexion. Microdermabrasion and glycolic peels are two ways to obtain a virtually blemish-free face. Does this Spark an idea?
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Definition
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Yale Medical Group defines microdermabrasion as a lesser form of dermabrasion that uses tiny particles to remove the outermost layer of skin and promote new skin growth. A glycolic peel is a type of chemical peel that uses glycolic acid to remove the top layer(s) of skin to speed up skin regeneration.
Use
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Both microdermabrasion and glycolic peels are used to remove "old" skin and expose the new, "younger" skin underneath. The younger skin that emerges often has fewer or no wrinkles, scars or dark spots, so the skin appears younger and blemishes are diminished.
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Benefits
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According to the American Academy of Dermatologists, microdermabrasion is non-invasive, has little or no discomfort associated with it, no anesthetic is needed and there is virtually no recovery time needed. Glycolic peel concentrations can be adjusted to provide a deeper peel (dissolve more skin tissue) to remove old scars and deeper wrinkles.
Side Effects
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There are no reported adverse side effects associated with microdermabrasion. ChemicalPeel.org advises that glycolic peels leave your skin red and very dry with peeling for a few days after treatment. In addition, an increased sun sensitivity requiring the use of a broad-spectrum sunscreen lasts for several weeks after treatment.
Considerations
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According to Yale Medical Group, superficial wrinkles and blemishes benefit from microdermabrasion. However, if you have older scars and deep wrinkles, the glycolic peel will give you better results.
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References
Resources
- Photo Credit Image by Flickr.com, courtesy of The Consumerist