Doctors remove dead skin using a process called debridement. This involves removing dead or unhealthy tissue from a wound or burn to help it heal. Doctors may use various methods for debridement, depending on the type and severity of the wound. Here are some common methods:
- Surgical Debridement: This involves using sharp instruments like scalpels, scissors, or curettes to remove dead tissue.
- Mechanical Debridement: This method uses physical force to remove dead tissue, such as wet-to-dry dressings, hydrotherapy, or specialized tools.
- Enzymatic Debridement: This involves applying a topical enzyme solution to break down dead tissue.
- Autolytic Debridement: This method uses the body's natural enzymes to break down dead tissue.
Doctors may also recommend medicated creams containing alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) to help remove dead skin cells, particularly for conditions like keratosis pilaris.
It's important to remember that debridement can be painful, and doctors will usually administer pain medication before the procedure.
