To Peel or Not to Peel...and Other Skin Care Questions
When it comes to skin care, there are a million treatments, peels, routines, and regimes you could follow. So how do you know which one is right for you? We've tapped into our skin care expert Dr. Eric Schweiger, M.D. to have him set the record straight on our saving face issues.
Q: I have a big event coming up, and I want smooth, flawless skin. How long beforehand should I get a peel?
A:In general, I recommend giving it a week between a vigorous facial with extractions and a big event such as a wedding. Peels come in many different strengths. For a superficial peel (such as low-percentage glycolic), sometimes one to three days recovery is enough. But for a stronger peel like TCA, you should give your face at least three to four weeks to recover.
Q: Is it possible to shrink my pores with skin-care products?
A: I have many patients that ask this question, and while it is possible to shrink or diminish your pores, results are quite variable. The best treatment is probably the Fraxel Re:Store laser, and many of my patients have had success reducing the visibility of their pores with three to four treatments with it. Remember, though, it is normal to have pores on your face, so don't expect perfection!
Q: What percentage of benzoyl peroxide should I look for in a spot treatment?
A: Concentrations of benzoyl peroxide products for acne range from 2.5 percent to 10 percent. This includes both over-the-counter and prescription options. Studies show that there is very little difference in effectiveness among the percentages, but the higher concentrations are more irritating. I recommend patients start out with a 5-percent concentration, and if it is well tolerated they can try increasing to 10 percent. If it is too irritating, I suggest decreasing to 2.5 percent. In general the back and chest are less sensitive than the face, so you can often use a stronger formula for those areas.
Q: What's the difference between salicylic acid and benzoyl peroxide?
A: These are two different acne medications that are available over the counter. They work differently and target different components of acne.
Salicylic acid is a beta hydroxy acid that works by being an exfoliant, promoting the removal of dead skin cells. It is best for comedonal acne (whiteheads and blackheads).
Benzoyl peroxide is an antibacterial and works to kill the bacteria on the skin that cause acne. It is best for inflammatory acne (red bumps and pus bumps).One is not better than the other; it just depends which type of acne you have. Both are available in creams, gels, and washes.
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Reprinted with permission of Hearst Communications, Inc.
