When your skin feels dull, uneven, or marked by fine lines, you may want to explore treatments that promise a refreshed look. At Total Body Renewal in Columbia, Illinois, Dr. Kelly Wood and Becky Hammon, FNP-C, offer multiple professional options for skin rejuvenation, including microneedling, chemical peels, and IPL (Intense Pulsed Light) treatments. While all three aim to improve skin tone and texture, each works differently and is best suited for specific concerns.

If you’re not sure which direction to take, here’s a clear breakdown to help you make an informed choice.

When Microneedling Is A Good Fit

Microneedling uses a device with tiny needles that create controlled micro-injuries in the skin. This process triggers the body’s natural healing response, encouraging collagen production and skin renewal. It’s often chosen for fine lines, acne scars, enlarged pores, and general skin texture improvement.

Microneedling is especially appealing because it doesn’t involve heat or chemicals. It’s a solid option for many skin types and for people with sensitive skin. While there’s some mild redness for a day or two, downtime is usually minimal.

Where Chemical Peels Come In

Chemical peels use specially formulated solutions to exfoliate the top layers of skin, revealing fresher, smoother skin underneath. Peels range from light to deep, depending on the ingredients and strength. At Total Body Renewal in Columbia, Illinois, lighter peels might target mild discoloration or rough patches, while medium peels are used for sun damage, age spots, and more pronounced fine lines.

Expect some peeling or flaking in the days following the treatment, especially with medium-depth peels. That’s part of the process as older skin layers shed. Chemical peels are an especially good skin rejuvenation choice for those looking to even out pigmentation and refresh their overall skin tone.

Why IPL Might Be Your Best Choice

IPL, or Intense Pulsed Light therapy, is often recommended for reducing redness, brown spots, and visible blood vessels. Unlike laser treatments that focus on a single wavelength, IPL uses broad-spectrum light to manage multiple skin concerns at once. It’s commonly used to treat sun damage, rosacea, and uneven pigmentation.

Dr. Wood’s patients often choose IPL when discoloration is their main concern, rather than wrinkles or texture. Sessions are relatively quick, and there’s usually minimal downtime aside from some temporary redness or mild swelling.

Make The Choice That Fits You

At Total Body Renewal, no skin rejuvenation plan is one-size-fits-all. Dr. Kelly Wood and Becky Hammon, FNP-C, work with each patient to evaluate their skin type, personal goals, and lifestyle needs before recommending a treatment. Some patients may even benefit from a combination of services over time.

If you’re ready to refresh your skin but aren’t sure where to begin, we invite you to reach out to our Columbia, Illinois, team for a consultation. Call (618) 719-2011.