Q: I had a great summer, but have acquired a lot of sun damage and now I am even seeing wrinkles. There are so many options for skin rejuvenation- which one is best for me?
A: There has never been a better time to reverse the effects of aging and sun damage. With all of the options, however, it can sometimes be confusing. Here are a few options and who they may be best suited for:
IPL, or Limelight Facial, has been around for sometime, but is still a great option for those looking to remove “reds and browns” from years of sun. While not a great option for deep wrinkles, it does offer skin rejuvenation with little downtime. Treatments are done in our office and most patients have little discomfort. Most skin types can receive IPL and the procedure can be easily done again down the road if that mild sun damage returns.
For those looking for more of an improvement with facial wrinkles and sun damage, but still not too much downtime, Active FX may be right. Like IPL, this can be done in the office. Downtime is a little longer- 3-6 days depending on how strong the treatment. After the procedure, fine and even medium depth wrinkles will be softened, brown spots reduced and the skin will have a refreshed look. With Active FX there are no longer term concerns about skin lightening or extra precautions with the sun.
CO2 laser provides the most dramatic results possible; even deep rhytids will be softened if not eliminated. Brown spots are reduced or removed . Patients note that their skin looks and feels much softer, smoother.
Patients do have more downtime- up to two weeks. In addition, CO2 laser is not for everyone. Patients in general have to be of fairer skin and committed to be being “done with the sun”.
