Purpose

Peels and dermabrasion are techniques used to deal with skin surface problems such as wrinkles and irregularities from scars. They are alternatives to the use of Botox, injectable fillers and radiofrequency, light and lasers in various situations.

Details

Chemical peel has a relative long history. The principle of this intervention is to apply corrosive liquid in a controlled manner to remove the epidermis and superficial dermis of the skin so that new skin that regenerates is fresher and tighter as a result of the injury.

Dermabrasion conventionally is done mechanically with a wire brush or diamond wheel to produce a partial thickness skin injury often in an attempt to smooth out skin irregularities such as post acne scars on the face.

It may be difficult to control the exact degree of injury with these conventional techniques. Recovery is usually long compared to newer techniques. The new skin often remains red for a prolonged time and pigmentary changes may occur in orientals.

A related approach called micro-dermabrasion is a more recent introduction and involves the use of a machine which either blows a blast of minute crystals towards or sweeps a wand repeatedly on the skin surface in order to exfoliate the epidermis. The principle remains the same as the older techniques but injury is better controlled and more superficial and therefore the procedure is safer.

Caution

Peel and conventional dermabrasion are less often used nowadays with the evolution of alternative methods of treatment which are usually more predictable in effect and safer.