Looking younger doesn’t have to mean going under the knife. You can turn back the clock with facial treatments that are quick, painless, and require minimal downtime. In fact, new technology is constantly emerging that claims to reverse signs of aging.
Of these techniques, popularized by celebrities such as Kim Kardashian West, is the vampire facial. Though the name can be off-putting, it’s a simple procedure many swear by. But it is as effective as some of the other, more tech-heavy treatments available? Let’s take a look at some vampire facials alternatives and how they compare to this Insta-famous procedure.
Vampire Facials
First, we’ll explore the basics of vampire facials. They do involve blood, which is where they get their supernatural-inspired name. Said blood is drawn from each patient, run through a centrifuge, then used in the patient’s facial. The centrifuge is important because it separates platelets from the other kinds of cells. Platelets are integral to healing in the human body, which is why they’re ideal for the rejuvenation process.
Before the platelets are massaged onto the face, patients receive microdermabrasion to open small holes in the top layer of the epidermis, allowing the platelets to penetrate deep into the skin. This is usually done with a microneedle roller and shouldn’t cause discomfort. After undergoing a vampire facial, you can expect the following effects:
- Increased collagen
- Better hydration
- Increased elasticity
- Decreased visibility of fine lines and wrinkles
The procedure itself takes only half an hour, and recovery ranges from one to two days. This is generally due to microdermabrasion, which may leave skin temporarily tender and sun-sensitive.
Chemical Peels
Chemical peels are a staple of most spas. There are a variety of chemical strengths that you can try, but they all accomplish the same thing: to remove the damaged upper layer of the epidermis to reveal fresh, newer cells beneath.
The process is usually quick, and skin may be left temporarily tender, red and sun-sensitive. If you have sensitive skin or allergies, this option may be off the table. However, if you’re able to undergo the treatment, you should see a reduction of wrinkles, fine lines, and sun damage.
Electro-Mesotherapy
If you’re not a fan of needles, electro-mesotherapy may be a more attractive option. An electrical field performs the function of microdermabrasion by affecting the cell-plasma membrane, thereby making it more permeable. This allows serums to penetrate deeper into the skin.
Supposedly, this procedure can remedy a long list of facial woes:
- Dark circles under the eyes
- Wrinkles
- Discoloration
While this treatment may be appealing for those who would rather skip the needles, there’s mixed feedback on the results. It appears that the electrical field doesn’t always provide access to the dermis as well as microdermabrasion does.
Laser Treatments
Treatments involving lasers are increasingly popular for their quick recovery time and non-invasive nature. In these procedures, different wavelengths of light are used to bypass the epidermis and stimulate the tissue underneath.
There are a couple of popular laser facials to choose from:
- Pulse Dye Laser: This procedure treats fine lines, stretch marks, spider veins, birthmarks, rosacea, vascular lesions, and broken capillaries by shrinking blood vessels.
- Carbon Dioxide Laser: With a track record of over 50 years, this treatment can reduce the appearance of warts, wrinkles, sun damage, sagging, and scars.
- Alexandrite Laser: This treatment targets pigment deep in the skin to eliminate dark spots, unwanted hair, tattoos, and birthmarks.
While useful for many patients, one of the biggest drawbacks of lasers is their reduced effectiveness on darker skin tones.
If you want to look younger, Vanguard Plastic Surgery PLLC can help. We offer a variety of services, including skin rejuvenation. For more information, give us a call at 954-563-4500 or contact us online.
Image Credit: Getty Images / Milkos
