A skin care spa offers various types of personalized treatments to pamper yourself with, with facials being among the most common. If you're looking for a more youthful and radiant appearance, with a way to diminish the effects of aging skin, make an appointment for anti-aging treatments at your skin care spa. Three common methods for anti-aging include microdermabrasion treatment, a glycolic peel and a vitamin C facial.
So if you are approaching middle age and concerned about the effects of aging skin, or if you want to minimize the appearance of superficial fine lines on your forehead or around the mouth, your esthetician may recommend one or more of the following anti-aging treatments for you:
1. Microdermabrasion
This is one of the more commonly performed anti-aging techniques offered at many skin care spas. Perhaps you've heard of microdermabrasion but you're unfamiliar with the technique and what it may accomplish for you. Basically, microdermabrasion involves removing a layer of dead skin cells from the outer skin layer (epidermis) to reveal healthier, more radiant skin. It may also smooth fine lines and wrinkles, making it a popular choice for anti-aging.
This non-invasive procedure is often performed using a "wand" or special equipment that includes a pump and "vacuum". The wand may project a stream of ultra-fine crystals containing aluminum oxide, magnesium oxide and sodium chloride over the skin. In doing so, your skin is exfoliated and dead skin cells are peeled away. Microdermabrasion may also help counteract uneven skin pigmentation that may cause age spots or uneven skin tone.
Although this procedure is considered safe, there is a possibility of minor side effects in some individuals, particularly those with sensitive skin. Temporary redness and irritation of the treated area may occur, although this will often diminish after a day or two. Some individuals also experience minor bleeding and abrasions or skin bruising. If you are currently taking blood thinners, you might want to ask your physician if microdermabrasion is right for you.
2. Glycolic Acid Facial Peel
The main objective of a glycolic acid facial peel is to smooth the skin by removing outer layers of dead skin cells, much the same way that microdermabrasion works. You may receive this treatment in conjunction with microdermabrasion at your skin care spa, or you may request this facial peel only. Alpha-hydroxy glycolic acid is obtained from natural sugar and fruit acids and is often used to diminish the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
Before the peel is applied, your esthetician may gently clean your skin with a face wash. Most commonly, the peel is applied with a sponge and will be left on your face for a short period of time before being removed. It is uncommon to experience side effects from this treatment, although slight skin irritation may be felt. This may be relieved with over the counter pain medication such as ibuprofen. Your face may also be somewhat red, as the layers of dead skin continues to peel for up to a day or more.
3. Vitamin C Facial
Vitamin C is known to have a positive effect on the skin, which is why many skin care spas use this for anti-aging treatments. Vitamin C, or ascorbic acid as it is sometimes called, is a vital component in helping your body produce collagen. Collagen helps strengthen the skin and keep it firm, as well as renew blood cells. It may also help diminish the effects of free radical skin damage.
Prior to the facial, you may receive a complimentary face and neck massage. This service may consist of a pre-treatment skin cleansing an exfoliation using special enzymes. The vitamin C facial is typically applied as a mask or peel. You may note that the vitamin C facial is typically your least expensive option.
If you aren't sure which treatment will work best for you, reach out to a local spa, like Changes Of Cherry Creek/ Denver's Day Spa, for more information. In addition, if you have health concerns, it's advisable to discuss these with your physician before seeking spa treatments.
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