Microdermabrasion is a safe, comprehensive, progressive approach to skin care that has been approved by the FDA. This non-surgical, facial smoothing treatment will enhance the condition of the skin, combat the signs of aging, and help correct sun-damaged skin.

Glycolic Therapy

Glycolic therapy utilizes varying strengths of glycolic acid to improve the appearance and texture of the skin. In lower strengths the treatment exfoliates, and in higher strengths it is used as a mild peel. Unlike a chemical peel, glycolic therapy produces changes gradually with minimal impact on an individual's appearance and daily schedule.

In addition to medical strength glycolic peels, GOLDCOAST medspa, Ltd. offers a line of skin care products including glycolic creams for our clients' in-home use.

Microdermabrasion can be used to improve many common skin conditions: sun damage; fine lines; wrinkles; irregular pigmentation; acne scarring, and large pores. It can also be effective in the treatment of oily skin and skin that is dry, dull, and rough.

How is microdermabrasion used to improve the appearance and condition of skin?

Microdermabrasion accelerates the cellular turnover process revealing healthier, younger- looking skin. It allows your body to gradually resurface your skin without the risks, side effects, and downtime required with more aggressive approaches.

Microdermabrasion is performed with a stream of crystals that are delivered to the surface of the skin and then removed with vacuum pressure. This process loosens old and damaged cells to reveal fresh, invigorated skin. The stimulated blood flow to the surface of the skin increases oxygenation, which speeds up cell renewal and collagen re-growth.

What should I expect during treatment?
You will be asked to close your eyes and relax in a comfortable reclining chair while a registered nurse treats your face. Most people describe microdermabrasion as stimulating to the skin—like being brushed with a loofah sponge. Afterward a soothing lotion and cooling compresses will be applied to your skin.

How long does one treatment take?
Each treatment will last approximately twenty to forty minutes.

What results should I expect after my microdermabrasion treatment?
Within several minutes of the treatment your skin may become slightly red. This reaction will subside, and within a few hours, your normal coloring will return. Microdermabrasion does not burn or cut the skin. Clients may return to their normal activities immediately. Improvements in appearance and texture will occur with successive treatments.

How many treatments will I need?
Most clients require four to six treatments spaced every two weeks to substantially reduce pore size, smooth irregularities, and even-out facial skin tone. Many people choose to continue treatments on a regular basis when they see continuous improvement in their skin's appearance.

Are there any potential side effects?

Most patients report no side effects. You may notice a slight redness or skin sensitivity, usually lasting no more than one day. You may also experience slight skin flaking three to four days after your treatment. This will disappear in a few days.

How much does microdermabrasion cost?
Microdermabrasion is priced by the individual session. Our prices are competitive, and discounts are available to clients who purchase a series of treatments. These details will be discussed with you during your complimentary consultation.

• We accept Visa and MasterCard. Most health insurance plans and policies do not cover cosmetic procedures. Please consult your carrier for more information.
  

What is a glycolic peel and how is the process used safely?

Glycolic acid, which is a naturally occurring substance (alpha hydroxyl acid) found in sugar cane, softens and loosens the dry, dead cells that form a barrier layer on the surface of the skin. During the glycolic peel process, the skin sheds these dead cells, and a new layer of cells is revealed resulting in a smoother, moister, and fresher skin surface.

Glycolic therapy stimulates your body's natural production of collagen and elastin. New skin cells retain more moisture, which reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

Glycolic therapy also loosens built-up oil and dirt in the pores, thus reducing the development of pimples and blemishes while minimizing the appearance of the pores.

What specific skin conditions show significant improvement with glycolic therapy?

The process of glycolic therapy can improve conditions resulting from: acne, sun-damage, melasma, or other excessive pigmentation problems. Glycolic therapy can improve the feel and appearance of dry, dull, or lifeless skin.

What should I expect during a glycolic peel?
Your skin will be thoroughly cleansed with a mild cleanser. As the glycolic substance is applied you may feel a mild tingling or a slight stinging sensation. The peel will remain on your skin for one to three minutes. It is then neutralized with the application of a gel that makes the glycolic acid inactive; your skin is thoroughly rinsed with warm water, and soothing compresses are applied.

You may leave the office immediately after treatment. You will be asked not to apply oil-based products for the first two hours after the glycolic peel. Specific skin-care products may be recommended to enhance the results from your procedure.

How long does one treatment take?

Each session lasts approximately thirty minutes.

What results should I expect after my glycolic peel?

You may experience mild redness and light flaking of the treated area. As you progress through the series of treatments your skin will appear smoother and softer. Inconsistent skin tones will even out. Fine lines and wrinkles will be minimized. Your skin will appear healthier, evenly toned and an overall more improved in its condition.

How many treatments will I need?

Four to six applications of glycolic acid at the appropriate strength are recommended. These treatments are performed in a series of peels every seven to fourteen days. Three to five single-session follow-up treatments annually are suggested to maintain the skin's improved condition. We recommend that our clients compliment their treatments with an at-home skin care regimen.

Are there any potential side effects?

Most patients report no side effects. You may notice a slight redness lasting no more than a day. You may also experience slight skin flaking three to four days after the treatment. This will disappear.

How much does a glycolic peel cost?

Glycolic peels are priced by the individual session. Our prices are competitive, and discounts are available to clients who purchase a series of treatments. These details will be discussed with you during your complimentary consultation.

• We accept Visa and MasterCard. Most health insurance plans and policies do not cover cosmetic procedures. Please consult your carrier for more information.