Even people who are the most diligent about wearing sunscreen can experience sun damage on the skin over time. Years of overexposure to the sun’s harmful UV rays can dull the skin and cause premature wrinkles and fine lines to form. If you are seeing signs of sun damage surface on your skin, consider one of the following non-surgical cosmetic treatments for a rejuvenated appearance.
Chemical Peel
Chemical peels are the most popular cosmetic treatment for sun damage, according to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS). A chemical peel uses a blend of chemical solution to remove the dead top layer of skin, promoting the growth of new skin cells for a fresh glow. Chemical peels are most commonly used to improve facial skin but can also be used to improve the skin on your neck and hands. There are several types of chemical peels available, each with a differing degree of chemical concentration and depth of skin treated. Superficial peels only treat the topmost layer of skin, while deep chemical peels target deeper layers of skin. A chemical peel can treat:
- Acne or acne scars
- Age spots
- Fine lines and wrinkles
- Freckles
- Irregular skin pigmentation
- Rough skin
- Deep facial wrinkles (deep chemical peel only)
Superficial chemical peels require no downtime while a deep chemical peel may require a few days up to two weeks of recovery. With any chemical peel, it is recommended you avoid all makeup and stay out of the sun for several weeks. Apply sunscreen of 15 SPF or higher before going outside.
Dermabrasion
During dermabrasion, the plastic surgeon uses a machine-driven wire brush or rotating wheel to safely and effectively scrape the skin and remove dead skin cells. This promotes the growth of healthy, new skin cells and a refreshed layer of skin. Cosmetic surgeon Dr. Alghoul performs dermabrasion to treat the following:
- Deep wrinkles around the mouth
- Facial scars
- Fine lines
Dermabrasion is performed using moderate sedation and local anesthesia. It may take patients seven to 10 days to recover from the treatment.
Laser Treatment
Dr. Alghoul offers several laser treatments, which use pulsating beams of focused laser light to vaporize old, damaged skin cells in the topmost layer of the skin. The body responds by producing new, healthy skin cells in its place and new collagen for a smoother, refreshed complexion. Laser skin resurfacing is effective for:
- Fine lines, wrinkles around or under the eyes, forehead or mouth
- Acne scars
- Aged or sun-damaged skin
- Skin discoloration
- Enlarged oil glands on the nose
Your recovery may take a few days to two weeks, depending on the technique used and the depth of treatment. Immediately after your procedure, the treated area may be covered with petroleum jelly or another protective ointment mixed with local anesthetic gel. A recovery kit containing a cleanser, moisturizer, barrier cream and sunscreen is provided and must be used as the skin recovers.
Skin Care Products
Skin care products are used to treat an aging skin and more importantly to maintain a healthy youthful skin. Dr. Alghoul can recommend a skin care regimen to help revitalize your skin. His Chicago plastic surgery practice carries several skin care lines that include nourishing cleansers, moisturizers, exfoliators, skin lightening creams, and sunscreens.
To learn more about your skin care options for sun damage, schedule a one-on-one consultation. Please call (312) 695-6022 today.
