Skin Treatments – Chemical Peels
March 17, 2009 by admin · Leave a Comment
Chemical peeling is a procedure that is carried out to improve the appearance of the skin and can be performed in a clinic or as an outpatient. A chemical solution is applied to the face which causes the skin to blister and peel – a little like peeling heavily after being sunburnt. The new skin that is underneath and revealed by the peel, is usually smoother and fine lines can be erased.
Chemical peels can be done on the face, the neck and the hands. Some sun damaged areas will be improved and surface lesions may be removed altogether. Chemical peels will not help deep wrinkles or tighten the skin but will give a younger fresher look to the skin.
What happens during a peel?
The skin is thoroughly cleansed to remove all traces of oil. A chemical solution, commonly glycolic, salicylic or lactic acid is brushed on to the skin. There will be a feeling of heat from the area treated and a stinging sensation as the peel does its work. Cold compresses are typically applied to alleviate discomfort. If you have a deeper peel you may need to have pain killing drugs as well and some doctors will prescribe an antibiotic to minimise the risk of any infection.
What to expect after a peel
There will be a range of reactions depending on the individual and on the depth of the peel. You will experience a reaction that is very similar to a bad case of sunburn. The skin will be red initially and then begin to peel, usually taking between three to seven days to complete the process.
If you have a deeper chemical peel you may experience swelling as well and as in a severe case of sunburn – blisters may form. Depending on the individual the area treated with the peel will form a crust and peel off in a period of one to two weeks. You will need to give yourself enough time to heal depending on how comfortable you are being back in the public eye.
Tips:
- Make sure a in depth consultation is given by the doctor you choose. Be clear about what you are trying to achieve and what will be involved in the treatment and the healing process.
- Choose a doctor that has had considerable experience in the process – don’t be afraid to ask for a referral.
- Let your doctor know if there is any history of pigmentation in you or your family.
- Inform your doctor of any history of unusual scarring or scar tissue formation as this can affect the results.
- Let your doctor know if you are subject to herpes outbreaks as medication can be taken to lessen the chance of an outbreak.
- New skin is very susceptible to sunburn – great care must be taken to use sun block every time you go outdoors.
- Use a skincare regime that is formulated for sensitive skins with no ingredients that could irritate the new skin that will be revealed.
- XXX Skinsaviour cleanser and moisturiser is ideal after treatment as it will help to calm and soothe and support the healing process.
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Rosacea – Treat Me Gently
March 3, 2009 by admin · Leave a Comment
What is rosacea?
Rosacea (which can be pronounced as ro-zay-sha) is a skin disease that causes redness and pimples on your nose, cheeks, chin, and forehead. Rosacea can come and go with people suffering from flare-ups. Tiny red veins can form on the face that look like a cobweb of red veins – these are permanent. People sometimes call rosacea “adult acne” because it can cause outbreaks that look like acne and often happens to us as we get older. Sometimes there can be an associated soreness of the eyes and the eyelids. Although rosacea should not affect your vision, it can cause eye problems and a doctor should be consulted if you experience any symptoms. Rosacea can cause a lot of embarrassment and discomfort for sufferers but there are things we can do to minimise flare-ups.
What causes rosacea?
There is some evidence that people with fair skin and who have a tendency to blush are more prone and that a family history can also predispose you to developing rosacea. In an attack of rosacea the blood vessels in the face expand, filling with blood and causing the face to redden. While there is no one cause for all people there are certain common triggers it would be best to avoid. Some attacks may last minutes or in severe cases can last for days. If you can work out your own personal triggers it will help you manage your rosacea and some people find keeping a trigger diary helpful.
Some triggers include:
Exercise or heavy exertion
Exposure to the sun and wind
Alcohol
Spicy foods
Hot food and drink
Stress or anxiety
Emotional changes such as embarrassment or laughing
Hot baths and showers
Menopause
Some medications – ask your doctor
Medical help should be sought and exposure to triggers reduced as rosacea can worsen and turn into advanced rosacea where bumps on the nose and cheek area can form, giving the area a swollen, lumpy look. While there is no cure medical treatment includes antibiotic creams and drugs. Laser treatment can also help to reduce the size and number of the veins.
Prevention by avoiding triggers is an important part of learning to manage and lessen rosacea attacks.
- Cut down on food and drink that causes symptoms
- Try shorter work outs more frequently when exercising
- Have lukewarm showers and baths and keep them short
- Drink plenty of water in hot conditions
- Cool the face with a damp, cold washcloth if you become overheated.
- Keep alcohol to a minimum – it doesn’t cause rosacea but it can make it worse.
- Always hear sunscreen and a hat when outdoors
- Use a skin care regime that has products with no perfumes, colourings or fragrances that will help soothe and not irritate the skin such as skinsaviour cleanser and moisturiser.
- XXX Skinsaviour Cream and Cleanser are specially formulated for skin that is sensitive and easily irritated.
The entire content of XXX Skinsaviour is for information purposes only.
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