Using Chemical Peels As The Latest Trend In Skin Rejuvenation (NAPSA)—With today’s booming interest in non-invasive treatments to slow the effects of the aging process, chemical peeling has re-emerged as an exciting skin rejuvenation procedure, especially with other complementary antiaging techniques. In fact, dermatologic surgeons find that the youthprolonging results of chemical peels can be significantly enhanced by what is now regarded as the ultimate in skin rejuvenation—combination therapy. Top favorites among skin surgery specialists include chemical peels in conjunction with: Laser and light-based techniques to stimulate collagen remodeling and remove pigmented lesions and broken blood vessels Non-surgical radiofrequency treatment to tighten andlift sagging skin Topical prescriptions, including Retin A, Tazorac and Avage to renew aging skin * Soft tissue fillers and Borox to contour the “hills and valleys” andrelax wrinkles No longer for faces only, chemical peel combos can now be applied to the chest, shoulders and arms to soften lines and reduce freckles or age spots. For example, Lauren, aged 23, found years of swimming as a teenager left her fair complexion mottled with freckles and moles covering her face, shoulders and chest. “When I visited my dermatologic surgeon, I asked about options to get rid of all the terrible sun damage on my face and upper body,” she recounts. “My doctor said I was a good candidate for laser therapy along with chemical peeling to remove the blotches, improve the skin texture and refresh my complexion.” Lauren adds, “My face looks totally smooth and mychest is almost spot-free now. I can wear sleeveless tops and lower necklines without worry. My mother was so impressed with the results that she’s thinking of having her face and chest treated, too.” For decades, dermatologic surgeons have applied various chemical solutions to the skin to produce an exfoliation that causes the top skin layers to separate and eventually peel off. This stimulates the growth of new, regenerated tissue which is usually smoother, more even in color and less wrinkled than the old skin. “In the right hands, chemical peeling is a safe and proven method for revitalizing a patient’s appearance and boosting self-confidence,” says Dr. Ronald Moy, president of the American Society for Dermatologic Surgery (ASDS), who advises consumersto select a physician qualified to administer the peel and provide follow-up skincare through the healing stages. According to Dr. Moy, the combination of chemical peeling with other rejuvenating techniques is an ideal approach for patients who want to proactively combat the early signs of aging, maintain their attractive looks and keep up their active lifestyle. For example, they can have a series of smaller, less invasive procedures at a younger age whentheir skin heals quickly rather than endure a major operation with a prolonged recovery. Also, the results are subtle and natural so patients look refreshed but not radically altered or “done.” Plus, by choosing a dermatologic surgeon, treatment can be customized according to each patient’s skin type, skin damage and desired results. “The ultimate benefit of chemical peels accompanied by other non-invasive, youth-enhancing solutions is that patients of any age can effectively look younger longer,” adds Dr. Moy. Chemical peels are typically performed in a dermatologic surgeon’s office as an outpatient procedure. The type and concentration of the peeling agent control the depth of the wound used to achieve superficial, medium and deep peels. Your dermatologic surgeon will determine how deep the peel needs to be to obtain the optimal benefit. As a rule, the deeper the peel, the longer the recovery time. In all cases, it is imperative to avoid the sun immediately after a chemical peel and to use sun block during the healing process since the new skin is fragile and more susceptible to injury. For more information on cosmetic skin surgery and to find a dermatologic surgeon nearby, log on to www.aboutskinsurgery.org.
