Skin rejuvenation: know the limits

If you’re interested in skin rejuvenation - and who isn’t - and you go to see a plastic surgeon or dermatologist they are likely to offer a range of skin resurfacing techniques.

Skin resurfacting involves removing the top layer of the skin to reveal the newer younger looking skin underneath. Typical of this type of skin rejuvenation are dermabrasion or microdermabrasion and chemical peels.

You may think that skin rejuvenation is less invasive or non surgical approach to achieving a younger look. And in some ways you’d be right. But removing the top layer of skin on your face - or anywhere else for that matter - is not a trivial matter.

Before you consider booking yourself in for any kind of skin rejuvenation treatment you need to be clear about what the treatment will do - and more importantly - what it can’t do.

Skin resurfacing is good for:

fine lines and wrinkles

small acne scars

facial scars

freckles

sun-damage including ‘age spots’, uneven pigmentation and rough or uneven skin texture

blood vessel damage

And the limitations:

• It won’t eliminate deep wrinkles
• It won’t get tighten loose or sagging skin
• It won’t inject new life into the underlying face muscles or add volume or hydration to aging skin

If you want a facial treatment that goes deeper than skin resurfacing you need to look at other alternatives like face exercise and facial toners, or even facial surgery if you are prepared to go down that route.

Skin resurfacing can be combined with active topical treatments for maximum skin rejuvenation. Many dermatologists for instance recommend regular use of a cream microdermabrasion or exfoliating treatment to top up and prolong the time between visits to the clinic.

As with any facial treatment - skin resurfacing will only go so far. It’s the total approach - diet, lifestyle choices and skin care - that will bring you the best possible results and younger looking skin over time!

Related articles:

• Dermabrasion - ten most frequently asked questions
• Home microdermabrasion: where do you start?
• Laser resurfacing - a dozen FAQ