Any given Michigan summer weekend, many of us can be found in the yard, at the beach, or on the water. While that outdoor time is good for the soul, it can wreak havoc on your skin.
Fall is the perfect time for treatments that repair that damage—and while fall may still be a few months away, it's not too early to start planning. Dr. Jack Dekkinga and esthetician Stephanie Jones of The Skin Revitalizing Center describe what can be done to repair the harm a summer in the sun might have caused.
There are a variety of approaches to repairing skin damage, and trained estheticians can help you to identify which treatments are appropriate for your budget, skin condition, schedule, pain tolerance, and desired results.
At an initial consultation, a Visia Complexion Analysis uses imaging technology to show characteristics underneath the skin's surface, providing information necessary to individualize treatment. Following the initial consultation, many options are available. The first step is to check for anything precancerous and eliminate it, which can be done through the use of Photodynamic Therapy, aka PDT, or "Blue Light Treatment." In addition to eradicating precancerous cells, PDT also smooths the skin.
Stimulating collagen production by inserting microneedles into the skin is a popular treatment for reducing the appearance of scars, fading stretch marks, reducing fine lines and wrinkles, tightening skin, and reducing the appearance of hyperpigmentation and large pores. "The SkinPen treatment stimulates the skin to repair itself," said Jones. "The results are phenomenal. I can see changes in clients' skin before they even leave." A study published by the Journal of Cutaneous and Aesthetic Surgery concluded, "Microneedling therapy is a simple and effective treatment option for the management of atrophic facial scars." Ninety-four percent of subjects achieved a significant reduction in the severity of their skin damage, and more than 80 percent assessed their treatment as "excellent." The study found no adverse effects in any patient.
Chemical peels are a quick, convenient way to improve complexion. Depending on your skin type, peels can be used to treat acne, fine lines, and age spots with minimal recovery time. Heavier peels can effectively reduce the appearance of deeper wrinkles and precancerous spots. Laser treatments can eliminate broken blood vessels, scarring, large pores, wrinkles, and sagging skin. Microdermabrasion can be used to brush and vacuum away dead skin cells, providing relief from blackheads, softening fine lines, and providing a healthy glow.
To learn more about treatments that can improve your skin's appearance, click here to read this article in its entirety in the digital edition of West Michigan Woman magazine.
Photos courtesy of Jennifer Reynolds.
