Although the terms skin rejuvenation & skin resurfacing are often used interchangeably, there is a distinct difference.
Rejuvenation is anything that makes the skin look better
Skincare products, treatments or in-office procedures. While resurfacing refers to a treatment or procedure that physically removes the top layer of the skin. Simply put, skin resurfacing is just one way to accomplish skin rejuvenation.
Skin resurfacing takes many forms
Lasers, acids or other means remove damaged cells on the skin’s surface. While deep laser resurfacing can require numbing cream and significant downtime. There are gentler, less invasive ways to obtain skin rejuvenation via skin resurfacing.
Here are the top three ways:
Chemical peels:
Either at home or in the dermatologist’s office. Peels generally use acids (such as glycolic) to remove the uppermost layers of the skin. A series of eight to 10, spaced a few weeks or so apart; can improve fine lines and discolouration without any recovery time. These peels are not effective for deeper wrinkles. They may also cause skin discolouration when performed by inexperienced providers. So, be sure to seek out a properly trained professional.
Microdermabrasion:
This treatment “sands” the surface of the skin by propelling abrasive particles (usually aluminium oxide crystals) at the skin before they’re vacuumed away. Microdermabrasion can be performed in a series of 5 to 10 treatments, spaced 10 to 14 days apart; or whenever skin begins to look dull. On the plus side, this treatment can help chemical peel ingredients penetrate better. It can also be used on darker skin tones without the risk of pigment changes.
Laser resurfacing:
There are many types of laser resurfacing; they all remove the uppermost layers of skin in a controlled fashion. They can be “dialled up” or “dialled down” to adjust the depth and intensity. This has an impact on the amount of time it takes for skin to heal. These treatments are usually performed with numbing cream to keep you comfortable. You can also opt for a series of lighter treatments or one deeper treatment. The results are permanent as long as you avoid sun exposure after treatment. As well as use the proper skincare products. They have the ability to improve fine lines, moderately deep wrinkles and excess pigment, although they cannot be used on dark skin.
Micro-Needling:
One of my favourite treatments for skin rejuvenation (though not skin resurfacing) is Micro-needling. This treatment creates trauma to the skin, tightens existing collagen and prompts the production of new collagen. It is a great way to infuse serums deep into the skin through the micro-channels. It’s ideal for instant brightening, tightening skin on the face and neck in just one or two treatments.
Diet
Even if your budget doesn’t allow for in-office treatments to help rejuvenate your skin, you can prevent ageing by eating the right foods. Blueberries, pomegranates and acai berries are very high in antioxidants that neutralize the free radicals that cause visible signs of ageing. Omega-3 fatty acids found in salmon help fight inflammation at the cellular level, which plays a role in skin ageing. Just remember, when it comes to skin rejuvenation, you can be as close as a bite away from healthier, younger-looking skin.
Skin Rejuvenation & Skin Resurfacing Treatments at Prime Aesthetics, Sevenoaks
If you’re looking to improve the appearance of your skin, get in touch for a tailored skin assessment. We will recommend the right treatments and also skincare products for your skin concerns and needs!
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