Younger skin naturally exfoliates every 15-20 days. Aging, environment, nutrition and even cosmetics inhibit natural exfoliation, permitting the dead skin cells to build up on the skin, thereby producing a dull, aged appearance to the complexion. Microdermabrasion acts similar to a mini "sandblaster" to manually exfoliate the surface of the skin resulting in a smoother, younger, fresher appearance. And MegaPeel, the specific microdermabrasion device Dr. Rasmussen uses has been demonstrated in clinical trials to promote neocollagenesis, i.e., the formation and deposition of collagen in the skin.
Typically, Dr. Rasmussen recommends to her patients a medically supervised skincare program, incorporating quality skin care products in conjunction with microdermabrasion treatments using the Mega Peel. Dr. Rasmussen places her patients on a physician strength glycolic acid skin care program for at least 2 weeks prior to microdermabrasion. Then she recommends a series of 4-6 weekly to every other week microdermabrasion treatments, followed by monthly maintenance which may range from micropeels, microdermabrasion or a combination of the two. Treatments may be performed more frequently, depending on the basic nature of one's skin and the results desired. This is particularly true for "problem" skin types, such as those with acne, pigmentation changes, keratosis, and severe fine wrinkling.
An important note, the microdermabrasion treatments done in a physician's office can be more effective than those done in salons for multiple reasons. First, physicians can supervise "skin fitness programs" and permit the microdermabrasion aesthetician to be "therapeutic" and not "pampering": the treatment should feel like a cat is licking your skin, not like a cat is scratching your skin. Secondly, aestheticians in salons do not have access to the same skin care products or equipment that physicians do by the very nature of the physician's advanced training and qualifications. The procedure itself is, however, very technician dependant, and results can vary accordingly. Dr. Rasmussen employs medically trained aestheticians in her office to provide the most effective treatment.
Dr. Rasmussen's aestheticians tailor each treatment to your personal needs. Using lower settings and fewer passes, we can provide a gentle MegaPeel treatment, resulting in moderate exfoliation and little to no skin irritation. For a more aggressive peel, we increase the setting, time, and peel abrasiveness. The more aggressive treatment will yield more dramatic results, but may cause increased redness and mild irritation. The immediate end result is a pink tinge to the skin color that may last from 5 to 10 minutes in those with a ruddier complexion, to as long as 1 to 2 hours in those with fair skin. The long term results will achieve a smoother, younger, fresher appearance.
Long term results are best achieved with the combined use of the MegaPeel microdermabrasion maintenance program in conjunction with the daily use of recommended skin care products. Obviously, if you discontinue the treatments, the skin exfoliation rate returns to your normal baseline. Like cutting or coloring your hair, or having a manicure or pedicure, regular maintenance is an important part of sustaining your more youthful and radiant appearance.
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