Microdermabrasion

Exfoliation is absolutely vital to maintaining a clear, healthy and glowing skin. The only snag though, is that as we gradually age, the exfoliation process tends to dramatically slow down.

This results in a massive build-up of dry skin on the surface that effectively blocks pores…which in turn causes breakouts and contributes to the wrinkling of your skin. In order to prevent this from happening, you want to speed up the exfoliation process, so your skin renews itself much much faster.

Keep reading to discover just how you can achieve this, by using 2 powerful methods recommended by many experts:

Method #1: Peels

There’s a huge variety of peels available on the market right now, so it’s pretty hard to zero in on one. Having said that, here are the most popular choices of peels amongst acne sufferers, right now -

Glycolic Acid Peel: This is very similar to the rather strong version of the alpha hydroxy fruit acid concoction, and works by loosening the skin cells that are dead and ready to flake off.

A glycolic acid peel is perfectly safe to use and does not cause any harm to live cells instead, it leaves the skin looking even more toned and beautiful. It generally takes up to around 2-4 treatments of glycolic acid peel, over a month, for significant results to start showing.

Phenol Peel: This particular type of peel reacts in pretty much the same fashion as TCA Peels do. (see below) The only difference between the two however, is that a Phenol peel tends to be a lot stronger than its counterpart. Thus, they are only performed by an experienced medical professional.

Although Phenol peels have been around for a while, they are now being replaced by much milder and more effective peels such as Glycolic and TCA.

TCA Peel: A TCA peel is known as a ‘true acid peel,’ and is usually performed by a professional skin specialist or a certified salon aesthetician. You’ve got to be prepared to endure a little bit of pain, as this type of treatment burns the outer layers of the skin and may carry with it, the risk of infection.

That said, the TCA peel provides you with almost instant results. Once your old skin peels off, you’ll not only find yourself with a new, very even skin tone, you’ll also notice a vast reduction in spots and wrinkles.

Method #2: Alpha and Beta Hydroxy Acids

You can easily get your hands on one of these, as they don’t cost much, and are freely available at drug stores nationwide. Alpha and Beta Hydroxy Acids are also the mildest form of fruit acids used to effect skin peeling, and work to speed up the exfoliation process. In fact, visible results can be expected within just 6 weeks.

Method #3: Dermabrasion

This has been likened to the process of sanding an object with a sandpaper. The main goal of Dermabrasion is to remove the outer layers of the dermis.

If you’re experiencing a severe attack of acne, then this might be a good option. Of course, you’ve got to keep in mind that this process of exfoliation often comes with a hefty price tag attached to it! In addition to this, Dermabrasion usually requires a lengthy recovery period.

On the upside though, it does succeed in effectively removing much of the outer layers of skin, so if you prefer this type of treatment, go for it!

By: Daniel Millions

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If you want the same amazing skin that you see most celebrities and models to have - then often a skin peeling is a way to achieve that. You will in this article learn the pros and cons of the most common skin peeling products.

Skin peeling products are classified into 3 groups:

1) Light peels

2) Mediums peels

3) Deep peels

The light peel products usually contain AHA, Glycolic or Lactic Acid in various strengths. No matter how “strong” they are then the ingredient itself only works superficially on your skin and thereby also results in superficial improvements, too.

The deep peels are performed at a doctor’s place only and under heavy sedation. The product used is called Phenol and is a very toxic to your heart and can cause you heart failure and liver damage. Therefore, the doctor will only treat a small area of your face at a time before moving on to the next area and so forth in order to reduce the risk of you having a heart attack.

Phenol causes permanent skin lightening of the treated area and will cause you to wear makeup forever in order to disguise the line between the lighter treated skin area - and the darker non-treated area of your skin.

Phenol also carries a risk of scarring your skin since it goes so deep into the skin. However, a phenol peel is usually only made 1 time since it does work so deep.

You probably want to go for a medium depth peeling instead which is quite safe and still very effective indeed.

What results to expect from a TCA peel?

Peelings done with TCA product gives excellent results and even after just 1 peeling you will notice 1 or several of the improvements below:

1) Rough or dry spot areas of your skin will have reduced

2) Un-even pigmentation or blemishes have decreased

3) Wrinkles will have softened or disappeared altogether

4) If you have acne or other skin problems then they will likely have improved also

5) Your skin will look and feel tighter. Sagging skin will appear like having been “lifted” somewhat. Some call that a “non-surgical facelift” though a real facelift does gives more significant results than by peeling alone.

With continued peelings a few weeks apart then your skin will continue to improve gradually. Once you have achieved your desired appearance then you simply need to do maintenance peelings every now and then.

It is important to use a good sun-block cream with minimum SPF 20 or SPF 30 in order to protect your new skin which is more sensitive to light than your old skin.

Some users do not like the dis-comfort from the burning and stinging when peeling with 25% TCA or stronger. For those users then a special formula called “Celebrity Perfect Skin” has been developed that contains a special formula that makes the entire peeling process totally relaxing and comfortable.

And, the best thing is that the kit contains a special booster formula that gives you the same results as a 50% TCA but totally pain free. So, you get optimum results in just 1 peel session and get that beautiful skin you want.

Click now to learn more about TCA peelings - and learn a secret about how to get even faster and better results than with a TCA peeling.

By: Jakob Neubert

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While it is true that physical beauty is just skin deep, it is still no reason why people, particularly women, should disregard basic skin care. Since the skin is our outermost layer, it is exposed to the harsh elements of the environment. And because it is not uncommon for people to base judgments from our cover, with the face being the first thing they look at, it is only proper that we go to great lengths to keep our skin looking clean and fresh.

There are a lot of skin care products in the market today. Unlike before when a normal bar of soap was used for skin cleansing, cosmetic companies are now producing a wide variety of skin care treatments that can address various skin concerns. However, there are cases when treatments need to be more aggressive, especially for those who have aging or blemished skin. Most, if not all, of the over-the-counter products are topical in nature, meaning it only affects the epidermis or the outer layer of the skin. Aging or blemished skin needs to be treated down to the root of the problem to see definite changes.

This is where skin peeling comes in. While OTC medicines treat minor skin irritations, skin peeling makes use of more concentrated drugs to accelerate the removal of dead skin cells from the surface of the skin, thus producing regeneration of new and younger-looking skin cells. Out of all the skin peeling procedures available, the TCA skin peel is the most popular.

TCA Peel, which stands for Trichloroacetic Peel, used trichloroacetic acid to remove superficial blemishes such as post-acne scars, correct pigment problems (melasma) and smooth out fine surface wrinkles. On some occasions, TCA Peel has even been used to remove and prevent the growth of pre-cancerous lesions. It is an intermediate to deep peeling agent that is normally used in 10 to 35% concentrations, depending on the extent of peeling that the patient wishes to achieve.

According to Dr. Jean M. Loftus, an American plastic surgeon who is recognized as an expert in the field of cosmetic surgery, claims that the TCA peel is “perfect for women who want to have more than superficial peel but cannot afford the expense or recovery time of a deeper treatment. A good alternative to having the treatment done at a clinic would be through one of the medically-certified kits available online.

Unlike more aggressive modes of treatment, the TCA skin peel is considered as a minor office procedure and can be done within 15 minutes to an hour. Since TCA is a chemical that will slough off the dead surface of the skin, patients may feel a burning sensation once it is applied. Some surgeons offer their patients pain killers or sedatives in order to tolerate the pain of the procedure. After taking the medicine, TCA is then applied to the problem areas, one area at a time. It is only normal that the face turns slightly red after the chemical has been applied - this means that the TCA is already working its purpose. Iced saline is applied on the face after the procedure, to avoid further discomfort brought about by the chemical. The face will achieve to its normal color after 15 to 45 minutes. To finish off the procedure, an oil-based or steroid ointment will be slathered on the face to prevent the skin from being overly dry and to retain its normal moisture level.

By: David Maillie

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In the recent years fashion and looks have become a billion dollar industry and as expensive life altering procedures become less expensive and more affordable it looks like this trend will continue for many years to come. Everyone is questing for the fountain of youth and apparently it can be found in the field of plastic surgery. They can make your skin look younger, tighter and more youthful for a price. One of the most popular treatments is the skin peel. They consist of everything from light peels like fruit and sugar derived (glycolic) peels and deeper peels like TCA and phenol. These peels can reveal younger skin and rejuvenate your face. Some of them are quite literally even considered to be the fountain of youth in a bottle (like the TCA peel).

There are basically four different kinds of peels and they range from light and superficial peels like glycolic to deeper peels like the TCA peel and phenol peels. We will not discuss phenol peels as they are dangerous and are rarely ever used. The deepest peel doctors use today is the TCA peel, which is the most effective and safest of all the skin peels. The basic function of a chemical skin peel is to loosen bonds between cells in the top most layers of skin through a mild and controlled chemical burn to cause peeling and to reveal more youthful skin from underneath. This process when done regularly can result in a reduction of wrinkles, fine lines, age spots and other symptoms of aging skin. In the case of the TCA peel it is also been proven to be highly effective in the treatment of acne and resultant acne scarring.

The light or superficial peels are generally glycolic and salicylic acid. There are many off shoots of these like fruit acids, the pumpkin peel, etc. Any of these acids that you see available at your local store have a concentration or strength that is so low that it is basically ineffective. For these light peels to have any visual effect at all the concentrations must be in the range of at least 30 percent. Regardless, even when done in a doctors office they must be redone every 2-3 weeks for any lasting effect. And at $100 to $300 per peel it can become expensive quickly.

The salicylic peel is a little different from the rest of these lighter peels as it is oil soluble and the others are water soluble. This gives salicylic the distinct advantage of being able to migrate deeper into oil blocked pores and to help with pimples and very light acne. This is why it has recently been added to some current acne products like Murad. This is why Murad is more effective than Proactiv. The problem is that just like glycolic it must be used at a higher concentration to have lasting and visual effect. Low concentrations and strengths, like in most over the counter acne products, is ineffective in fighting acne. Concentrations of at least 10 percent are recommended by dermatologists.

Then there is the TCA peel. TCA stands for trichloroacetic acid. It is a synthetic acid that has the ability to do everything that all the lighter peels can and more. It can completely kill acne causing bacteria and rid the facial skin of it for good. It can reduce and minimize scarring, tighten the facial skin and rejuvenate the skin. It can treat more skin problems than any other skin peel. From skin blemishes, pigmentation problems, acne, aging skin, and even precancerous and cancerous skin legions. The TCA peel is offered in almost every dermatologist and plastic surgeons office as it is the most effective treatment outside of actual surgery. Its results also last the longest, up to 6 months or more depending on the strength and depth desired or achieved. It has even ben stated in numerous medical journals that the TCA peel is every bit as effective as Accutane, the strongest acne medicine available, without the bad and very serious side effects. The TCA peel normally runs between $300 and $500 per application at your doctors office, but can now be purchased for under $30 for in home use.

Skin peels can be very effective in treating both aging skin and acne and it is obvious that the TCA peel is the best of these.

By: David Maillie

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Corns and calluses can cause great discomfort and are actually a very common problem. They can result from improperly fitted shoes, overly dry skin, foot movement or pronation problems and other reasons. Corns and calluses make walking and other similar activities painful and difficult. There are many over the counter remedies, but the problem is most do not work at all or marginally at best. Here is a treatment regimen that really works and is actually used by podiatrists in their offices.

Most of the time, removing the source of the callus or corn will be sufficient. This can be as easy as obtaining better fitting shoes or more cushioning inserts or soles. It can also mean bunions and other bone problems or pronation that may need orthotics or corrective shoes and devices or even surgery. This your doctor can best prescribe for you. Better fitting shoes that remove the friction that causes a corn or callus will prevent reformation.

To remove a current corn or callus we must first understand what they are. Generally a corn or callus is thickened skin that covers a toe joint (corn) or can occur usually on the balls and heel of the foot or palm of the hand (callus). This toughened skin the rubs or presses inward against nerves, bone and tissue causing discomfort and as long as the friction that causes this thickened skin is allowed to persist, the corn or callus will continue to grow slowly increasing the discomfort and pain along with them.

Many times a little tender loving care is all that is needed. Soak the affected area in warm water until the skin softens (usually about 10-15 minutes). Then remove the loosened skin with a pumice stone or other device specifically for corn or callus removal. The rough, thick skin will come off in small pieces due to the abrasion effect of the stone. Do not over do this on the first treatment. Soaking and pumice will take several or even many treatments to make a great difference in the size of the corn or callus.

Another effective method is using a strong chemical peel like the TCA peel (trichloroacetic acid) to remove the corn or callus. A TCA peel is very effective as it will only affect the corn or callus, unlike sanding with a pumice stone which will remove skin on areas around or near the affected area. A TCA chemical peel is a controlled chemical burn which will result in the corn or callus peeling away harmlessly in a few days. Depending on the thickness of the corn or callus more than one treatment may be necessary. The TCA peel is a very effective skin treatment with many uses and is available for in home use.

By: David Maillie

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The Obagi Blue Peel has been featured on numerous talk shows, reality shows, and even on Oprah. So, what exactly is the infamous Obagi Blue Peel and what makes it so famous or desirable? Why do womens magazines rave about it and why do women wait in line to pay $500+ per peel? This article will fully explain the Obagi Blue Peel, pure TCA alternatives, pre and post skin care treatments, what one can expect, and how to save big on a TCA peel and post treatment.

The Obagi Blue Peel is really a blue green cream invented by Dr. Obagi with dyes that color the skin so doctors, dermatologists and plastic surgeons know where the skin peel has and hasn’t been applied. It actual doesn’t have any acid in it until it is added by the doctor. Obagi Blue Peels are used with trichloroacetic acid (TCA), the active ingredient, which must be obtained seperately (for more information on the leading manufacturer of TCA for skin peels please see the link below) and then added in various strengths to the Obagi cream. Many doctors have found that using the TCA by itself in strengths of 20-50% has had better and longer lasting results and quicker application times (this results in happier patients).

The purpose of any chemical skin peels is to remove the top most layers of the skin revealing fresh, younger looking skin. Chemical skin peels range in strength from light glycolic acid to deeper TCA and phenol skin peels (we won’t mention phenol peels as thay are highly toxic, can cause skin bleaching and most doctors will not even offer them). TCA peels, like the Obagi Blue Peel mixture are the most effective of the chemical peels and have been used by tens of thousands of dootors to treat acne, rosacea, wrinkles, fine lines, age spots, aging and sun damaged skin, etc… TCA has also been found to increase the production of collagen which can result in younger, more elastic and plump skin.

The Obagi Blue Peel cream slows the activity of the TCA and also weakens it so pretreatment with alpha hydroxy solutions is necessary for best results. Pure TCA, on the other hand, is a very fast acting acid and requires no pretreatment other than removing excess oil with a good soap or cleanser. The Obagi Blue Peel is applied in layers, depending on the depth desired and skin problems being addressed. Pure TCA is applied in sections. The skin will turn red and/or whiten indicating it is done and needs to be neutralized. The pure TCA is then neutralized with a soothing mixture of water, ice and baking soda. The Obagi Blue Peel does not usually need to be neutralized as it is a much weaker solution and will self neutralize on the skin.

Post peel, for any chemical peel, solutions and creams to promote healing and prevent bacterial infections are necessary. There are many over priced solutions on the market, but none work better than Neosporin antibacterial crème or its generic equivalents. Neosporin costs at most $3 (compare this to the cost of some of the post treatment cremes available as they can cost up to $100 and aren’t any more effective). Obagi Blue Peel will usually cost $500+ and requires several applications and expensive pretreatments (the required pretreatment, Obagi Nu Derm, can cost $250+) as it is a weaker peel. Pure TCA, is now available for in home use at a tremendous savings (see the link below) and requires fewer treatments for significant results.

By: David Maillie

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When it comes to beauty, a general rule of thumb is “the less the pain, the less dramatic the gain.” Keep this in mind if you’re looking for big results. For instance, if you’d like to create a satiny-smooth finish on pockmarked skin, eradicate moderate lines, or restore firmness to a slack area of the face, the quick “lunchtime” procedures we have just described probably won’t give you what you want. However, there are more intensive procedures available.

Not all big-deal treatments are performed in hospital. In fact, many are done in a dermatologist’s in-office surgery suite.

TCA peels

With the advent of laser resurfacing, PhotoFacials, and microbrasion treatments, the TCA peel has waned in popularity. Named after its active ingredient, trichloroacetic acid, the TCA peel is a medium-deep treatment that “freshens” the skin, removes some sun damage and rough scaly patches, reduces freckles and irregular pigmentation, and softens fine wrinkles. There is some evidence that it may also reduce the risk of skin cancer by destroying precancerous cells. The treatment involves painting trichloroacetic acid onto clean skin until the skin whitens.

During the 24 hours following the procedure, your skin will be slightly swollen and red. Over the next few days, the treated skin dries to a crispy brown; to keep things moist, your doctor may suggest coating your face with a thick layer of Vaseline. Things get uglier: between days 5 and 7, the leathery skin begins peeling in large sheets.

As irresistible as picking at skin is after a skin treatment, let it peel at its own pace: pulling it can cause deep scars and infections. As soon as “lour face is done shedding, you can return to your regular skin-care routine.

Jessner’s peel

The Jessner’s peel resembles the TCA peel: a medium­deep treatment that is designed to remove the top layers of skin, thus evening pigmentation, improving the skin’s texture, and minimizing fine lines. Instead of containing trichloroacetic acid, however, the Jessner’s peel consists of a mixture of salicylic acid, lactic acid, and resorcinol.

The Jessner’s peel solution is applied to clean skin. Immediately afterward, your skin will be red and slightly swollen, and after 3 or 4 days, it will become dry and tight. At this point it should begin to crack and peel; to keep things moist, your doctor may suggest coating your face with a thick layer of petroleum jelly. After 5 to 7 days, skin should be healed enough for you to return to your regular skin-care routine.

On dark skin, olive-toned skin, or skin that scars easily, chemical peels, laser treatments, and dermabrasion can cause scarring, light­ colored patches, or dark patches. Do not consider any of these resurfacing treatments before getting a dermatologist’s evaluation.

By: Alien

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In the past, the best skin peel was only available from a dermatologist or salon. This is no longer true. You can now have the benefits of a medical grade facial peel in the comfort of your own home. The most effective peels on the market contain Tricholoracetic Acid (TCA). TCA is a non toxic chemical that has been used for over 30 years and is considered completely safe. It is one of the deeper peels, used to rejuvenate the skin and improve the condition of the skin.

TCA peels successfully treat a variety of skin conditions, including acne, wrinkles, blotchy skin, blackheads, discoloration from sun exposure, age spots, acne scarring, excessive oil and dull complexion. The pores of your skin are unblocked, revealing clearer skin. Your complexion will be smoother with improved texture. Fine lines and wrinkles are softened after treatment. The skin is tightened for a younger appearance.

Esthetician’s Choice is the best skin peel and is now available for home use.

Before Treatment:

Talk to your doctor if you are taking prescription medications. Accutane is one medication that should not be used after a peel. Talk to your doctor and stop taking the medication before having a peel. You should avoid using other exfoliation products in the week before you use a home TCA peel. Also, avoid tanning either outside or in a tanning bed.

Directions for a Home Peel:

Esthetician’s Choice can be used in two strengths. Use the product full strength for a deeper peel to improve bad acne, wrinkling or skin discoloration. The product can be diluted for a gentler, surface peeling. Follow the included directions for diluting the product. The peel can be used once a month for very damaged skin. It’s important to wait at least four weeks between treatments to allow the skin time to heal completely.

Apply the product with a cotton swab. The peel should be left on the skin for about two to four minutes. Rinse well with slightly cool water to remove the product. Don’t rub or use a washcloth. Most people will feel a slight tingling sensation when it is applied. You should feel little or no discomfort after it is rinsed away. If you do experience slight irritation, apply icy water or ice to soothe the skin.

Immediately after treatment, you will notice a slight red color to the skin, like mild sunburn. This fades in a day or so and the skin continues to peel for the next few days. Once peeled, clearer, firmer skin is revealed. Taking good care of your skin after the peel will result in better, faster healing.

After the Peel:

o Gently wash the skin with a very mild cleanser in the days after. Use only your hands and not a washcloth or a scrubber, which can cause irritation. o Keep the skin moist with an oil free moisturizing project. o Don’t use any other exfoliation products for at least a week after the peel. o Avoid sun exposure and tanning. This can cause discoloration. If you go outside, wear a good sunblock with an SPF of at least 30. o Don’t use make up for at least a week. After this time, use high quality, natural make up that won’t clog the skin. Look for oil free products to avoid clogging the pores again. Natural products or mineral make up is best. o Avoid harsh prescription ointments and medications such as Accutane. These can cause scarring and discoloration. o Taking good care of yourself speeds the healing process. You will look better and feel better. o Drink plenty of water to flush the skin and replenish the moisture in your body. o Get enough sleep. At least eight hours each night. This is important for healing and is good for the complexion. o Eat healthy foods and take vitamins. Good nutrition is important for your skin and your overall health. o Practice good skin care to keep your complexion clear and soft. Use natural products that are made for your skin type. o Prayer, reading the Bible and meditating on Scripture helps reduce stress, which aids in healing. Prayer has been proven in studies to increase healing in all areas of the body.

By: David Maillie

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When it comes to plastic surgery, many patients look to a chemical peel for returning to a more youthful skin texture. Chemical peels are noninvasive facial plastic surgical procedures and offer recovery options to meet every patient’s needs. However, as with all cosmetic procedures, chemical peels involve an unavoidable level of risk. Learn more about the risks and benefits to decide if a chemical peel is the right choice for you.

There are different levels of the chemical peel– each with its own set of risks and benefits. Procedures can be light, medium or deep. All chemical peels work to exfoliate damaged outer layers of the skin. Chemical peels also reduce acne and acne scars, eliminate sun damage and produce an even skin tone.

The Risk and Benefits Associated with Light Chemical Peels

Light chemical peels are performed with alpha-hydroxy acids. The solution is made according to the chemistry of your skin. Commonly referred to as AHA peels, light chemical peels are a perfect choice for patients wishing to create an even skin texture, reduce acne scars, fine lines and mild sun damage. The result is fresh looking, healthier skin.

The AHA peel treatment is performed in an outpatient facility and takes as little as 15 minutes. Side effects are mild and patients can immediately return to normal activities. Following the procedure, the patient may feel slight irritation or redness. Flakes and dryness are other common side effects.

Because the AHA peel is mild compared with other chemical peels, your treatment plan may require repeat treatments to achieve desired results. Your doctor may also prescribe facial creams filled with alpha-hydroxy acids to maintain results. Sun protection is also necessary, as skin is more susceptible after any chemical peel.

Medium Chemical Peels: Risks and Benefits

Medium chemical peels use solutions with trichloroacetic acid. The medium chemical peel, or TCA peel, goes deeper into the skin to reduce acne and acne scars. It also helps reduce wrinkles, fine lines, age spots and other signs of sun damage.

The TCA peel is a midpoint between mild and deep chemical peels. This type of chemical peel can also be used on various parts of the body. The procedure usually takes about 15 minutes.

Depending on your circumstances, a medium peel may provide better results. But this level of cosmetic plastic surgery requires some recovery time. Following the procedure, the skin may begin to crust and form scabs. Patients may also experience facial swelling, throbbing, irritation and redness.

Recovery time usually lasts about one week. Keep in mind that while a TCA peel does not prevent you from producing pigment, slight discoloration of the skin is a possible risk. Your doctor may recommend a treatment plan, scheduling a series of TCA peels in intervals separated by a few months.

Deep Chemical Peels: Risks and Benefits

Deep chemical peels involve a one to two hour procedure performed with a phenol solution. Phenol peels provide a dramatic improvement to the skin, penetrating deep wrinkles, restoring pigmentation and eliminating pre-cancerous growths. No follow up treatments are necessary and results are long lasting.

Phenol peels require a lengthy recovery period. While you may be able to return to most daily activities after a couple of weeks, the healing period can take several months. Substantial facial swelling, crusting and scabbing are common. Symptoms usually subside within the first two weeks.

Phenol peels are not recommended for patients with dark skin or freckles. This type of facial plastic surgery permanently lightens the skin tone and can only be performed on the face. Treated areas will no longer will able to produce pigmentation. Sun protection is necessary indefinitely.

Patients with a history of heart disease may not be eligible for a deep chemical peel. If you have a skin condition that produces cold sores, you will need to take medication prior to the procedure to avoid outbreaks. If your skin is prone to keloid formation, a deep chemical peel may not be an appropriate choice.

An important thing to note about the chemical peel is that it will not stop your skin from aging. Chemical peels also cannot eliminate sagging skin.

By: Keion Moradi

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