Aging and other factors can create a build-up of dead cells in the top layers of the skin, leading to a dull complexion, and uneven skin texture.

The skin appears coarser and the facial wrinkles and fine lines become more obvious. One of the most effective cosmetic skin care treatments is microdermabrasion, which is an exfoliation procedure to remove the upper skin layer and reveal softer, youthful looking skin.

Microdermabrasion procedure can be performed in-office, and involves no downtime and minimal recovery. Dr. Steven Zimmet is a stellar and committed dermatologist providing microdermabrasion and various other innovative and advanced skin procedures to patients in Austin, TX, and surrounding locations.

Candidacy

Any individual seeking softer, radiant and youthful skin may be a good candidate for microdermabrasion procedure. The candidate should be in good health with relatively minor skin imperfections or conditions. A good candidate will apply sunscreen every day and follow a good skin care routine prior to the treatment.

Treating Acne Scars

Microdermabrasion cosmetic dermatology procedure can be an ideal solution to treat patients with active acne, mild acne discoloration, pick marks, and superficial or raised acne scars. The procedure will help to unclog pores and clear acne. It is often combined with light chemical peels and medical acne extractions to promote acne clearing.

How does it work?

Microdermabrasion procedure involves the spraying of tiny microscopic crystals across the surface of the skin in the affected areas while suction is applied. The procedure will help to gently remove the outer, older skin layer. Most patients experience minimal discomfort during this treatment. Side effects and complications are rarely reported.

A single treatment session of microdermabrasion can be completed in 30 to 40 minutes. To achieve optimal results, a patient may require at least five treatments, with each treatment spaced about a week to 10 days apart.

Post-Treatment Care

Once the treatment session is over, the treatment provider will apply a special lotion to the patient’s face. They will also recommend an appropriate moisturizer for everyday use. The patient will be able to use makeup immediately after the treatment. However, patients should note that the skin will appear flushed for up to 48 hours following the procedure.

Sunscreen must be applied daily because the fresh skin layer is more delicate and prone to sunburn. Following each treatment session, the patient will be advised to refrain from using products with ingredients that may irritate the skin. To further minimize the risk of irritation, the patient should also avoid the use of facial brushes or sponges.

Results

Once the first few treatment sessions are over, the patient may be able to notice:

• Reduced effect of enlarged pores, mild acne scars, fine lines and blackheads
• Smooth skin texture and even skin tone
• Improvement in sun damaged skin

Microdermabrasion has only minimal potential side effects and is considered a very safe treatment. Minor skin tightness, redness, sensitivity and bruising may occur in a few cases for a temporary period. Accomplished dermatologist Dr. Zimmet receives patients from Austin, TX and other cities and neighborhoods in this area of the state for microdermabrasion.

If you would like to learn more about the procedures and treatments by Austin TX Cosmetic Dermatologist, Dr. Steven Zimmet, please contact us at (512) 485-7700.

UVA and UVB rays of the sun can cause harm to the skin if the sun exposure occurs over repeatedly and over a long time period. One of the skin disorders that may occur in this situation is the Actinic Keratosis (AK). It involves thickening of the outer layer or skin along with the formation of flat, rough and scaly lesions that are brownish or somewhat pink in color.

Face, neck, ears, forearms, chest, and backs of the hands are commonly affected with AK, especially among fair skinned and light haired people whose skin can get burns due to sun exposure. People who have outdoor jobs are also at a higher risk of actinic keratosis.

Profound and judicious dermatologist Dr. Steven Zimmet provides cutting edge solutions for AK and various other skin conditions to patients in Austin, TX, and surrounding communities and cities in this region of the state.

Treatments

The lesions of actinic keratosis are pre-cancerous, which makes it necessary for a patient to seek professional skin care to get rid of this problem. Liquid nitrogen is one of the common solutions for this condition, which will freeze the lesions and cause them to detach from the healthy skin underneath. Other treatment options include topical anti-cancer medications, chemical peels and photodynamic therapy.

The patient will be required to protect the treated areas against sun to avoid any complications. They should wear long sleeves and a brimmed hat when outdoors during daytime, and use a sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher. The sunscreen should be applied 15 to 30 minutes prior to the sun exposure, and used regularly.

Topical Therapies

Topical dermatology therapies may be recommended for larger affected sites. A topical treatment will take more time to deliver results, but the AKs can also be controlled for a longer time with it. Topical medical may have to be applied daily over a certain time period to achieve the targeted reaction over the affected area.

Significant reactions may occur in case of multiple lesions. Although scarring usually does not occur with topical therapies, but temporary side effects such as redness, oozing, and crusting in the treated sites may occur.

Cryotherapy

Cryotherapy involves application of liquid nitrogen in the affected areas. This is designed to create a blister that will flake off within a few weeks, and will be replaced with new skin. The AK will be quickly frozen with this process, but the blister can take up to 72 hours to develop. Cryotherapy has no significant side effects except temporary redness in the skin.

Chemical Peels

The dermatology expert will recommend a customized light, medium or deep chemical peel treatment, depending on the skin condition. Depending on the peel’s depth, the skin will peel off in a few days and fresh skin will replace it in the treated area. Redness and swelling may occur for some time as a side effect of chemical peel treatment.

Photodynamic Therapy (PDT)

In this treatment, a sensitizing chemical is applied to the affected sites for a short time. The skin is then exposed to a blue light, which activates the chemical and destroys AKs. Dedicated, fantastic, and intelligent dermatologist Dr. Zimmet receives patients from Austin, TX, and other communities and cities around this part of Texas for AK treatment.

If you would like to learn more about the procedures and treatments by Austin TX Cosmetic Dermatologist, Dr. Steven Zimmet, please contact us at (512) 485-7700.