What is Vitamin C Iontophoresis?

All those days spent at the beach, enjoying the sun and getting a tan, can translate into skin damage that accumulates over the years. Genetics can also play a factor when it comes to skin health. Over time, skin can accumulate uneven deposits of pigment, resulting in an older appearance. Although they are usually harmless, these irregular colorings can make us uncomfortable and self-conscious about the way we look. That is why the board-certified dermatologists of Metro Dermatology offer effective treatments like Vitamin C Iontophoresis to restore young-looking, healthy skin.

What Causes Skin Pigmentation?

Before introducing you to our vitamin C Iontophoresis treatment, it is important to understand why our skin changes color. Skin color is due to a pigment called melanin. Melanin is made up of melanocytes, a type of cell that resides deep within our skin. These pigments move to the upper layers of the skin and are deposited there.

The greater the amount of melanin, the darker our skin gets. The production of melanin can increase due to exposure to the sun, estrogen imbalance, medications that we may be taking, and hyperpigmentation due to inflammatory processes. Other factors that can have an impact on the increase of skin pigmentation are smoke, pollution, and UV radiation. All of these issues produce free radicals that damage skin and increase coloring.

To the Rescue: Vitamin C

Vitamin C is readily available, and it plays a vital role in maintaining skin health.

Vitamin C inhibits the enzyme tyrosinase, which decreases the production of melanin. As an antioxidant, vitamin C fights free radicals that cause the skin to darken and age. Studies show that vitamin C repairs damaged skin when applied after exposure to the sun. It also works as a mild exfoliant. By getting rid of dead skin cells which may contain melanin, the skin becomes smoother and lighter.

Vitamin C Iontophoresis: How Does it Work?

Despite the marvel that is vitamin C, taking it orally will not reach your skin in sufficient amounts to solve the coloring problem. Also, applying vitamin C solutions directly onto the skin also allows an insufficient amount to penetrate it. That is why at Metro Dermatology we recommend Vitamin C Iontophoresis. This system uses a controlled electrical charge to propel the molecules that make up this vitamin straight into your skin. Here is what you can expect from treatment:

• The skin receives a solution containing Vitamin C.
• The device is moved slowly over the surface.
• Each treatment lasts about 30 minutes.
• You can resume your daily activities immediately.
• Your doctor will determine the frequency and number of sessions you will need.
• As a side effect, collagen production will increase, resulting in the reduction of fine lines and wrinkles.

You need not live with uneven or discolored skin tone any longer. Vitamin C Iontophoresis offers you a way to achieve lighter, brighter skin. For more information about Vitamin C Iontophoresis, or our other treatment options, schedule an initial consultation with the board-certified dermatologists at Metro Dermatology in New York today!