To cap off our New Year’s theme of self-care, we’re dedicating a blog post to the most popular cosmetic treatment trends of 2018. In this installment, we’ll give you the scoop on why people seek out treatments like microneedling, dermaplaning and laser re-surfacing. More importantly, we’ll give you tips on how to prep for and recover from any cosmetic treatments you might have planned.

How Cosmetic Treatments Work

Many current and emerging cosmetic treatments have one thing in common–they intentionally, gently break the skin so that it can repair itself. Said another way, technology has made it possible to trigger collagen production and cell turnover (both of which are important for looking youthful) in minimally invasive ways. Below is a breakdown of a few popular treatments of 2018.

Microneedling Treatments

How it Works:

Just like it sounds, microneedling is the process of inserting thin, short needles into the skin. Some techniques employ skin rollers, while others use a device that resembles a pen. For the best results, regular sessions are recommended.

The Benefits:

This procedure increases collagen and elastin in the skin by a whopping 400% if you undergo sessions once a month. Also, if you combine this treatment with collagen-stimulating skincare products, your results will likely be more impressive. This is because the tiny punctures are believed to aid in product absorption.

Recovery:

Expect your skin to look pink and extra plump after a session. Don’t be alarmed if you notice temporary swelling as the skin recovers. Don’t plan a beach vacation or day by the pool after this procedure, as your skin will be sensitive.

Dermaplaning Treatments

How it Works:

In the simplest terms, dermaplaning is like getting a straight razor shave, but it’s much more thorough. Using a small (and sterile) blade, your aesthetician removes dead skin cells and facial hair from your face.

The Benefits:

Getting dead skin cells and hair out of the way can improve the results you get from skincare products like serums and moisturizers. The process also encourages cell turnover, leaving your skin looking brighter and healthier. Plus, if you use foundation or blush, the “clean canvas” left after dermaplaning allows for smoother, less cakey makeup application.

Recovery:

There’s no downtime for this procedure. Many people opt for it just days before big events.

Laser Re-Surfacing Treatment

How it Works:

Laser re-surfacing sounds a little scary, but actually isn’t. There are more than a dozen different types of lasers used in medical offices that direct short, controlled “laser beams” into the skin with no more discomfort than a feeling of warmth or mild stinging. The beams gently disrupt the skin and, in some cases, underlying tissues.

The Benefits:

Laser re-surfacing is perfect for erasing acne scars and light-to-moderate facial lines. Results are not often immediate because the subsequent collagen production after the procedure can take up to several months.

Recovery:

It is important to understand what type of laser is being used, and how deep the beams of energy are traveling. Some laser treatments have very little downtime. Others can require healing periods of up to two weeks.

Chemical Peels 

How it Works:

Depending on your skin goals (acne scar reduction, age spot fading, fine line minimizing), varying levels of acid are applied to skin. Application times also vary, based on skin sensitivity and desired outcome. The acid dissolves bonds between skin cells, encouraging old cells to slough off and new cells to generate.

The Benefits:

Peels have long been used for anti-aging benefits. They somewhat literally erase old skin so that new skin can grow in its place.

Recovery:

Mild peels result in pinkish skin for a couple of days, but have very little downtime. Stronger peels can cause blistering, scabbing, swelling and several weeks of true downtime. Just like with laser re-surfacing, it is very important to have a full discussion (and comfort level) with the person applying the peel. Make sure you know exactly what to expect, and what to do if you need help with your recovery. Also plan to stay out of the sun for several weeks post-treatment.

Why Skin Treatment Prep Matters

Of course, you’ll do your homework to select a credible doctor’s office or medspa to perform a procedure. But your homework should not stop there. Before any cosmetic treatment that breaks the skin, it is essential to properly cleanse the area to be treated. Because if there are bacteria on your skin when it is broken during a cosmetic procedure, that bacteria can enter your skin and cause infection. Dr. Romine of Camelback Dermatology & Skin Surgery is well-known for cosmetic treatments. Her practice has all patients cleanse with CLn BodyWash  before treatment, as it is specially designed for skin prone to infection.

Why Post Treatment Care Matters

During the recovery period, your skin rebuilds and repairs itself–it’s incredible! However, broken skin is more susceptible to an infection, and an infection could interfere with the benefits of the treatment. Make sure you understand the post treatment protocol, and consider using a cleanser designed for skin prone to infection like CLn Facial Cleanser or CLn BodyWash if your doctor deems it appropriate.

Any cosmetic treatments that improve the appearance of your skin are great for your self-esteem. You’ll feel even better if you know how to protect yourself from an embarrassing and painful infection. We hope your entire year is filled with the selfcare you deserve, and remember that CLn Skin Care is always here to answer questions!

 

The post Prep Before You Primp: Cosmetic Treatment Trends of 2018 appeared first on CLn® Skin Care Blog.

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