SilkPeel Dermalinfusion®

What is it?

Microdermabrasion is a technique in which small crystals are used to blast away the top layer of dead skin. While this technology proved effective, it had several limitations and has since been superseded by a device that applies topical solutions (in addition to removing dead skin cells) to stimulate various skin responses for the treatment of acne, skin pigment problems, and even basic hydration.

The new SilkPeel Dermalinfusion® is the latest technology in topical skin care. The diamond tip is used to precisely remove a specific amount of the top dead skin layer (stratum corneum) and special infusions, tailored to treat a patient’s given skin problem(s), are applied within the same treatment.

Whether you are having problems with acne or desire a deep hydration treatment, our topical cosmeceutical preparations (applied at the same time) can help resolve your skin issues and stimulate the growth of new healthy cells.

Typically, topical solutions are blocked from entering the skin by the top layer of tissue, preventing full effectiveness. By first removing this barrier layer, an infusion of collagen stimulating preparations can directly enter the tissues. Used together, we can now offer unprecedented combinations of treatments to help you look your very best!

Who can have this treatment?

The other amazing benefit of this new technology is that persons of colour, including those of Indian, Asian and African descent can all benefit. Previously, concerns about post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (the skin changing colour as an undesired effect of treatment) meant that microdermabrasion use was limited. Now, even patients with a history of pigment change problems can safely be treated with this technique.

Does it hurt?

The SilkPeel feels like a typical exfoliation treatment. Your skin may feel tight and slightly irritated, but it will be smooth and silky to the touch.

How does it work?

SilkPeel Dermalinfusion® uses precision diamond tips to remove the dead skin layers, so that medicated topical skin solutions can be applied to the surface of your skin under controlled pressure and temperature conditions. We can now target your skin problems and deliver the medicine that your skin needs to look its best.

What are the qualities of great looking skin?

1. Smoothness: healthy skin is smooth. Little bumps on the skin from blocked pores (comedones) can be safely treated with Silkpeel Dermalinfusion, because removing the plug allows the normal sebum to escape.

2. Colour: Healthy skin has a normal color variation, but there should be a smooth transition between areas. Blotchy and/or darker areas look unappealing and can sometimes be difficult to hide using cosmetics. Our dermal infusions can bleach out these areas faster and more effectively than topical bleaching creams alone.

3. Luminance/Radiance/Translucency: Healthy skin has a property which is difficult to describe in words, but you’ll know it when you see it. Silkpeel Dermalinfusion helps you get that youthful glow back into your skin. It looks healthier because it is healthier.

When will I see results?

Typically, a patient requires six treatments, two weeks apart, for maximum effectiveness, but acne-scarred patients may need a longer treatment program. Each treatment lasts about 20 to 30 minutes, but the first treatment will likely take a bit longer because we like to explain what we are doing.

Your results will last several months, but depending on your skin type, exercise regimen, lifestyle, diet and smoking history, you may require ongoing maintenance.

What do I have to do to maximize the results?

After your skin assessment, we will recommend a course of skin care products that will amplify the results of your Silkpeel Dermalinfusion. If you have a history of cold sores or “fever blisters”, we will recommend a specific antiviral treatment (typically Valtrex®) starting on your initial treatment day.

IT IS VERY IMPORTANT that you tell us if you have a history of cold sores, since these viral infections can spread to the treated skin areas and in some cases (though rare) result in permanent scarring.

How long will I be off work?

Most people can apply cosmetics immediately following their treatment. Typically, there is no downtime, except for some redness following the first couple hours post-treatment.

If you have significant acne scars, we may have to treat your skin more aggressively; this may result in some temporary crusting and/or peeling.

Some patients will experience a transitional period of skin pigment change that can be covered with cosmetics. We are happy to assist you with hiding these effects, until your skin has healed.

How long will my treatment plan last?

If necessary, an ongoing maintenance program, tailored to suit your specific skin condition(s), will be discussed with you. It is too early in the process to plan long term treatment maintenance at your initial consultation, since treatment response is an important consideration in timing plans.

You will be reassessed during the treatment program, and the need for an ongoing maintenance plan will be determined based on your clinical response to treatment.

Some patients desire treatments on a regular basis (every three months, for example), while others want more frequent treatments in conjunction with periods of increased sun exposure, hormone-related breakouts or high stress periods at work. Some patients only require a few treatments per year.

We will work with you and your schedule to determine what works best for your specific needs.