Vitalize chemical peel: The healthy treat for skin
If you pay attention to radio, television, or internet, you probably hear all sorts of opinions about what is bad for your skin – sunlight, caffeine, chlorinated pools, makeup, hot showers, hairspray, and more. While some of that input may be valid, Dr. Jeanine Downie believes it is equally important to share information about treatments that are GOOD for your complexion. One of her personal favorites is the Vitalize chemical peel, and it is available at image Dermatology ® P.C. in Montclair, NJ.
The glow of good health
The average person has more and one and a half trillion skin cells – about 19 million on every inch of the body. The base or deepest layer is the subcutis. It includes fat to cushion organs and act as emergency fuel for the body. The dermis or mid layer is full of elastin and collagen fibers that keep skin supple, and blood vessels to regulate body temperature. Nerve receptors for temperature, touch, and pain reside in the dermis. Here you will also find sweat glands and hair follicles.
The outermost layer or epidermis is comprised primarily of keratinocytes, cells made of the tough protein called keratin. New cells form in the lower portion of the epidermis. They start out square and fat, flattening as they rise to the surface. As they grow outward, the oldest, exterior cells die and flake off at a rate of up to 40,000 per day.
At any given time, the surface of your skin is about 20 layers deep in dead skin cells, a covering called the stratum corneum. As you might imagine, those dead cells look dull and depleted. In a child, skin cells you see today will gone in roughly a month. Cellular turnover slows to 45 to 90 days as we age and is further impacted by certain medical conditions. That is why we associate radiant skin with youth and health.
Vitalize – the chemical peel Montclair, NJ dermatologist uses on herself
The key to a fresh, glowing complexion is accelerating turnover to reveal vital skin cells underneath.
Techniques such as microdermabrasion and dermaplaning involve removal of exterior skin cells by mechanical means. A chemical peel accomplishes exfoliation without abrasion, scraping, or slicing. A chemical peel breaks down bonds that hold skin cells together, in essence dissolving outer layers. When the formulation (along with sloughed-off cells) is removed, younger cells, now at the surface, are stimulated to rejuvenate themselves as part of the natural healing process. Skin looks smoother, younger, and healthier.
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The Vitalize skin peel is produced by Allergan’s SkinMedica division. Allergan is one of the most trusted names in aesthetic medicine, in this country and globally. While this FDA-approved peel is safe for all skin types and very effective, it is real medicine. Vitalize peels may only be administered by a physician, or a medical professional under the supervision of a doctor.
Dr. Downie recommends Vitalize to improve the appearance of:
- Fine lines
- Wrinkles
- Rough skin texture
- Pigmentation irregularities
- Discoloration from acne scarring
- Dull complexion
This type of peel is safe for all skin types and tones, and may be used on the neck and chest as well as face.
Dr. Downie is so confident in the benefits of Vitalize, that she treats herself to this gentle, effective peel on a monthly basis.
What to expect from Vitalize
First, skin is cleansed and prepped with a special solution. Then the Vitalize formulation containing a proprietary blend of salicylic acid, resorcinol, lactic acid, panthenol, and other components is smoothed over skin. As it acts, you may feel tingling or stinging, but treatment is well tolerated. Then skin is cleansed again and protected with moisturizer and sunscreen.
The procedure takes under 15 minutes to complete. Though treatment time is tailored to the patient’s tolerance, those with sensitive skin may have temporary redness. Skin may also have a yellow cast for a few hours. However, you may camouflage it with makeup, and return to normal activities without downtime.
Over the next few days, surface skin flakes off. It is important to follow post-procedure instructions for daily cleansing with gentle products and using sunscreen.
Within a week, you see noticeable improvement in overall skin condition. Dr. Downie may recommend a series of three to six peels spaced about a month apart for optimal improvement in lines and wrinkles, smoother texture, more even tone. Please note that peels are a cosmetic treatment, not covered by insurance.
Skin clarity starts here – image Dermatology ® P.C. in Montclair, NJ – (973) 509-6900.
