Don’t Let Smile Lines Compromise Your Beautiful Smile
Ready to do something about those laugh lines you’re noticing at the corners of your mouth? You have several options to treat them so they don’t detract from your beautiful smile.
Microneedling and chemical peels are two popular non-surgical options that aim to correct cosmetic imperfections while rejuvenating the skin. Determining what option is best for you begins with scheduling a consultation with Adams Dermatology located in Columbia, MD. Dr. Melanie L. Adams is a highly trained practitioner who specializes in cosmetic dermatology services that can restore youth and fight the signs of aging.
Microneedling is a minimally invasive cosmetic procedure that works by boosting collagen production in your skin. It is also useful in targeting harsh lines, age spots, scars, increased pigmentation, under-eye bags, large pores, or sagging skin.
Before treatment begins, Dr. Adams will discuss your goals with you and review your medical history to determine if you’re a good candidate for microneedling. The session should take about two hours, depending on your skin type.
Most patients do not experience discomfort with micro-needling, nor is any downtime necessary to heal. Using 20 ultra-thin needles that create small openings in your skin, micro-needling promotes faster skin cell turnover by stimulating your body’s natural production of collagen and elastin.
Dr. Adams is proud to offer AquaGold® technology, a system that uses a micro-needling device in combination with microchannel technology. The needles are infused with hyaluronic acid, retinol, and vitamin C. The hyaluronic acid helps plump your skin while retinol acts as an antioxidant countering the effects of sun damage.
Microneedling is famous for the post-treatment glow it gives your skin. Because microneedling relies on your body's response to treatment to rejuvenate your skin, results will begin to improve over a few days steadily.
Side effects like mild redness and irritation should fade, but if they persist beyond a few days or become severe, you should seek medical attention. Avoid excessive sun exposure for up to two weeks after treatment. You should also avoid exfoliating products for up to 48 hours after surgery.
A chemical peel is a skin resurfacing procedure that aims to reveal a healthier, younger-looking appearance. The process works by taking the top layers off the surface with the help of a strong, acid-based solution. When the skin grows back, it is smoother, revealing new cells. The process is used to address skin discoloration, acne scars, wrinkles, or uneven texture and tone.
A chemical peel is conducted in-office and begins with an evaluation of your medical history where Dr. Adams will determine if your skin is right for the procedure. There are different types of chemical peels which are used to address various concerns. The strength of every chemical peel depends upon your treatment goals and the amount of damage that needs to be addressed.
A light peel is used to treat fine lines, acne, or uneven skin tone and can be performed every two to five weeks. A medium chemical peel removes skin cells from the top and middle layer of your skin. It is useful in treating deeper wrinkles, acne scars, or uneven skin tone. This procedure can be repeated every three to nine months.
Deep chemical peels are best at producing more dramatic results but also require longer recovery times for your skin to properly heal. These types of peels remove skin cells from the mid and lower layer of your dermis. This type of treatment is recommended for deep-set wrinkles or precancerous growths and should only be performed once.
After the procedure, you should follow Dr. Adams’ post-care directions for achieving and maintaining the best results. The results of a chemical peel may not be visible for a few months as it takes time for skin cells to build up on their own. In the meantime, avoiding sun exposure, hair removal, or bleaching systems could help extend your results and prevent irregular pigmentation.
If you’re interested in one of these treatments to address fine lines and wrinkles, contact our office or book an appointment online today.
