Facials vs. Peels – Which is Right for You?

Yearning for a luminous, glowing complexion? The dry winter months are especially harsh on our delicate skin, exacerbating the appearance of fine lines, acne scars, pigment irregularities and sun damage. Fortunately, there are skin care treatments that restore a youthful appearance by exfoliating dead cells, cleaning out pores, hydrating and nourishing.

In the world of skin rejuvenation, two of the most popular – and pampering — treatments are facials and chemical peels – both of which are available in the NYC aesthetic plastic surgery office of Dr. B. Aviva Preminger.

If you’re over 30, you’ve probably discovered that maintaining a radiant, healthy complexion takes more than just a good cleanser and sun screen. Periodic facials and the occasional peel should be a mainstay in your skin care regimen. With regular treatments every 6-12 weeks, you’ll notice fewer acne breakouts, a smoother texture, and brighter skin that looks ageless.

Chemical peels and clinical facials can be used in conjunction with microdermabrasion to reverse the effects of aging and sun damage.

Benefits of facials

Facials are one of the most effective treatments for keeping skin moisturized, cleansed and exfoliated. Using anti-oxidant rich serums and natural fruit enzymes, facials can help re-balance the skin and re-hydrate from the inside out.

At Preminger Plastic Surgery, our specially formulated facials are an indulgent, relaxing way to nourish and refresh stressed out skin, helping to:

• Improve skin texture
• Remove acne-causing bacteria
• Extract blackheads
• Rebalance skin tone
• Stimulate cell regeneration
• Minimize the appearance of fine lines
• Restore the skin’s natural protective barrier
• Refresh lackluster or dull skin

Chemical peels

Chemical peels use natural acids to exfoliate or strip away the damaged surface layer of skin. Depending on the concentration and type of acid used, recovery times can range from 20 minutes to 10 days, as the dead cells peel away, revealing fresh, dewy skin underneath. Most people note a slight to moderate tingling sensation during the treatment, which is often used to:

• Reduce the appearance of fine lines
• Address sun damage, freckles and sun spots
• Help diminish the appearance of acne scars
• Improve texture
• Correct hyperpigmentation or dark patches

Some of our most requested chemical peels at Preminger Plastic Surgery include:

• Mandelic Acid Peel for sensitive skin prone to redness
• Anti-aging TCA Peel for a youthful glow
• Eye & Lip Peel to correct smoker’s lines and crow’s feet

Generally speaking, chemical peels are better for more advanced skin problems or signs of aging, as facials tackle more superficial issues. When used together, both skin treatments promise lovely, younger-looking skin.

Which facial skin treatment is right for you?

Only an experienced plastic surgeon or dermatologist can determine which treatment is right for your skin type. People with darker complexions, acne-prone or extremely sensitive skin are at risk for developing inflammation, hyperpigmentation, blotchy discoloration and broken capillaries with aggressive or inappropriate treatments.

Preminger Plastic Surgery is proud to offer a variety of deep cleansing facials and chemical peels suited for all skin types and colors. Call 212.706.1900 to request a private appointment today!