The media industry has glamourised certain perceptions of beauty over time, inducing insecurity in some, and a simple obsession with youthfulness in others. Truth be told, we’re all at least mildly plagued with looking more youthful over time. Another certitude is that, sometimes, anti-aging and even skin tone creams just don’t work as effectively as they should.
Luckily, you don’t have to resort to surgery to achieve younger, more youthful skin. There is a wide range of non-surgical treatments available that have proven results. Today, we discuss two of them: microneedling and chemical peels. Keep reading for everything you need to know regarding the techniques, benefits, and results of these non-invasive treatments.
Microneedling (Collagen Induction Therapy)
Firstly, microneedling is not to be confused with microdermabrasion. Microdermabrasion involves the use of a mechanical device to exfoliate the skin’s surface with an ablative material, such as sodium bicarbonate crystals, to scrub off and remove dead and dull skin cells. While exfoliating, it also concurrently uses suction to stimulate circulation.
The result is one of brighter, smoother skin. Microneedling, on the other hand, provides more extensive benefits, as it penetrates the epidermis (surface layer) of the skin. This is done by piercing pinprick needles into the skin, causing microscopic punctures in the skin’s outer layer to induce and stimulate the body’s collagen and elastin production during the wound-healing process.
The process is undergone after numbing cream is applied to the skin surface as the procedure can be quite uncomfortable, and sometimes even mildly painful, for some. There is little to no downtime after the treatment is complete.
Microneedling targets:
- age spots (ie. sun spots)
- acne scars
- fine lines and wrinkles
- large pores
- other types of scars
- reduced skin elasticity
- uneven skin tone
By activating the wound-healing process, microneedling:
- promotes the healing of scars and minor wounds
- promotes the healing of stretch marks
- has anti-aging benefits
- results in a brighter and more even complexion
After-care
It is imperative to follow the instructions of the skin therapist or dermatologist post-treatment. Avoid applying any skincare products or makeup to the area concerned for 48 hours after the procedure, providing time for the microchannels of the skin to seal.
Wear a hat when exposed to the sun. You may experience some light peeling, similar to that of sunburnt skin, a few days after your microneedling session, but nothing that should throw you off your normal routine.
Chemical Peels
A chemical peel is a skin-resurfacing treatment that uses a solution of a range of chemicals that are applied to the skin. The chemicals cause the skin to peel, removing dry, dull debris to reveal smoother, softer skin underneath the surface.
After the top layer of the skin peels, increased production of collagen and hyaluronic acid is activated, both of which have anti-aging benefits. Ensure that you begin cleansing and moisturising the skin about two to three weeks before the peel.
It is important to know which peel is right for your skincare needs and the results you desire – ensure that you consult your therapist beforehand.
With an estimate of a mere three treatments, peels:
- reduce the look of fine lines
- pigmentation
- reduce the look of acne or breakouts
- smooth skin texture
- reduce the look of blemishes
After-care
You may experience tingling or burning, itching, dryness, redness, or tightness after the treatment, as well as the onslaught of the peeling process.
Discomfort as a result of the peel should diminish within three to seven days, depending on the strength of the peel. Stronger peels may take up to fourteen days before discomfort wears off.
Proper self-care after a peel can help minimize sensations or side effects of a peel.
Here are some helpful tips:
- Wash your face with cool water.
- Hydrate and moisturise with a medium-to-thick moisturiser and drink lots of water.
- Apply a sunscreen of at least SPF30.
- Avoid direct sunlight.
- Avoid strenuous workouts, saunas, and steam rooms (increased blood circulation to the face can worsen tingling/burning sensations) – avoid these before your treatment, too!
- Avoid over-exfoliating, and wait until you feel like your skin can handle it. Peels are high-level exfoliants, so avoid exfoliating for at least three to four days after the treatment.
Now that you’re all clued up on the differences and benefits of both treatments, have a look at our deals below and take that leap of faith toward smoother, younger-looking skin!
Have a look at some of our Microneedling Vouchers from Daddy’s Deals :
- Reduce Wrinkles With a Microneedling Treatment from La Glace Empire.
- Get regenerated skin at Olive’s Beauty Salon.
- Clearer skin treatment at La Glace Aesthetics Sea Point.
- Choose microneedling for smoother skin.
- Get brighter younger-looking skin with a microneedling session.
- Visit Shona’s Laser Aesthetics & Beauty Clinic for a whole host of spa treatments.
Please note: All deals were accurate and available at the time of publication.
