Having beautiful and clear skin is as much a part of genetics as it is proper maintenance. A good skin regime should include a cleanser, toner, daily moisturizer, sunscreen and regular exfoliation. While all these steps are important, consistent exfoliation removes dead skin cells and impurities, revealing smooth and clear skin.
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As recently seen on The Doctors, the #1 way to keeping skin young and beautiful is through proper and regular exfoliation. Dr. Drew Ordon demonstrates the importance of exfoliation by simulating the effects of natural oil, dirt, pollution, dust and makeup on skin. Sitting on the skin, these things sink into the pores and as we try to wash them away, more of it gets trapped within. The cause of many acne outbreaks and skin issues, this build-up can easily be removed with regular exfoliation.
While there are many types of exfoliating scrubs available, professional microdermabrasion combines deep exfoliation and gentle suction to remove dead skin cells and impurities. After removing the top layer of dead skin cells, the device reveals a smoother layer of skin below. Largely free of sun damage and fine lines, the new layer of skin shows improved skin clarity and diminished visible pore size. Many patients undergo this treatment for Crows Feet around the eyes and as a form of Acne Treatment.
Boca Raton dermatologist Dr. Janee Steinberg offers the Silk Peel microdermabrasion system that combines deep exfoliation with skin-specific solutions for more precise skin care. "Microdermabrasion devices typically have crystals in them to treat the entire surface of the face for pigment, fine lines and pores," says Dr. Steinberg, "With the Silk Peel, non-invasive microdermabrasion is combined with medication that is specific to the needs of the patient's skin."
Dependent on the patient's main concern about their skin, a solution is used in conjunction with the device to ensure the most customized treatment for the patient. "For patients who are oily and have concerns with acne, there is a solution that is based on salicylic acid. For patients who are concerned with pigment, there is a solution that can brighten skin and for patients who are experiencing dry or sun-damaged skin, we have a hylauronic acid based solution for them," describes Dr. Steinberg. Many of her patients have found the Silk Peel microdermabrasion to be very rejuvenating for the skin.
Depending on where in the country you are, treatment cost may vary from $100 to $300 per microdermabrasion session and typically, several sessions are required for the best results.
For patients who are looking for a more economical version of microdermabrasion, there are now systems available for use at-home. One such system, which was recommended by Dr. Ordon, the Olay Pro-X uses a rotary technique and scrubs away impurities from the pores. Although not as powerful and strategic in treatment as professional microdermabrasion, regular use may yield similar results. Available in drugstores, pharmacies and online, the Olay Pro-X costs approximately $30.
Making an exfoliating scrub is as easy as going to your kitchen for ingredients that you may already have. From the pages of the new book Heal Your Skin by renowned dermatologist Dr. Ava Shamban, a simple DIY exfoliation scrub can be made with brown sugar, yogurt and egg whites. First, combine 2-3 tablespoons of brown sugar with half a cup of yogurt. Then, whisk the combination together with egg whites for an all natural scrub for the face.
To make an exfoliation scrub for the body, you will need 1/4 cup of olive oil, a teaspoon of vanilla extract, 1/2 cup of fresh coffee grinds and 1 cup of raw sugar. First, combine the olive oil and vanilla extract in a small bowl. Next, combine the coffee grinds and raw sugar in a medium bowl. Mix the olive oil/vanilla extract into the medium bowl of coffee grinds and raw sugar to create a thick paste. Use in the shower and follow immediately with a moisturizer for the best results. Please note, this scrub is not recommended for the face or sensitive skin.
Regardless of the budget that you're working with, beautiful and clear skin is within reach. Regular exfoliation removes the top layer of old skin to show the smooth and clear skin beneath and may spare or move back the time for expensive laser and surgical treatments down the line.
