Dear Dr. Winder:
Q. I have mild acne scars that I am really tired of; can you offer me any treatment other than dermabrasion?

A. I am very excited to let you know that I can now offer my patients an alternative to traditional dermabrasion for acne scars and other skin conditions, as well . . . "micro-dermabrasion" along with the use of "Alpha-Lipoic Acids". Of course, it would be necessary to see you in order to make a definite treatment recommendation; in the meantime, I'll provide some info for you that I hope you'll find to be helpful.

For severe skin conditions, traditional dermabrasion, chemical peeling or laser skin resurfacing may still be your best option; these treatments have an initial healing period of approximately 2 to 3 weeks and are not suitable for all skin types because of the potential for pigmentary changes. Many people, however, do not have this amount of "down-time", or do not want to subject themselves to the potential change in pigmentation. Micro-dermabrasion is done multiple times, but has little or no down-time, is relatively painless, does not require anesthesia and does not cause hyperpigmentation. The simple process consists of lightly abrading away the superficial dry dead cells of the outer layer of skin by propelling aluminum oxide crystals onto the skin while simultanelously "vacuuming" them away. To enhance your results, we would also recommend the use of Alpha-Lipoic Acids, a very powerful, non-irritating anti-oxidant (research shows it to be 20 to 50 times more powerful than other anti-oxidants such as Vitamins C &;amp E), which increase cell energy allowing cells to better repair themselves.

Micro-dermabrasion, when done in a physician's office, and Alpha-Lipoic acids can also effectively treat fine lines & wrinkles, sun-damaged skin, "age spots", superficial pigmentation, enlarged or oily pores, blackheads and whiteheads and stretch marks.

And, remember that we have a terrific skin care regime that utilizes Alpha-Hydroxy acids from Physician's Choice of Arizona for both oily/acne and normal/dry skin. My best suggestion to you would be to come in for a consultation so that I may best advise you.

Read more about dermabrasion.
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