Microdermabrasion

What is microdermabrasion?

Microdermabrasion is a minimally invasive cosmetic procedure for your skin. A dermatologist provider uses a special instrument to gentle exfoliate (sand away) the uppermost layer of your skin.

 You can get microdermabrasion on your face, neck, back, hands or chest.

Microdermabrasion:

• Helps new skin cells grow.
• Reveals newer, undamaged skin.
• Thickens collagen, which is a protein that keeps your skin firm.

What are the benefits of microdermabrasion?

Microdermabrasion removes the uppermost layer of skin. This can improve the look and feel of your skin, revealing smoother, more youthful-looking skin. Microdermabrasion can make the following skin conditions less noticeable:

Enlarged pores or blackheads.
Fine lines or wrinkles
Mild scars, especially those from acne
Skin discoloration or uneven skin tone.
Stretch marks.
Sun damages
Age spots

What are the disadvantages of microdermabrasion?

Microdermabrasion is a safe cosmetic proedure and doesn’t have serious risks. But some people may notice:

Brusing, which might last for a few days after the procedure.

• Discoloration or darkened skin on the treated area.
• Flaky or dry skin.
• Increased sensitivity to sunlight, so be sure to wear sunscreen.
• Most people need multiple treatments.

Who shouldn’t have microdermabrasion?

Microdermabrasion might not be right for everyone. Talk to your healthcare provider before getting this procedure if you have:

• Acne or are taking medication for acne.
• Frequent skin rashes or contact dermatitis or cold sores.
• Moles, freckles, skin tags or other growths that change in size or shape or bleed.
• Skin conditions such as eczema or psoriasis  

• What kind of results can I expect?
• Will my skin be red or very sensitive after treatment?

What do microdermabrasion facials do?

You don’t need topical or local anaesthetic to numb your skin before microdermabrasion. The procedure usually isn’t painful, but you might feel a scratching, stinging, sucking or vibrating sensation on your skin.

Your healthcare provider uses one of two techniques to remove dead or damaged cells in microdermabrasion:

• Crystal microdermabrasion: Using this method, your dermatologist shoots tiny crystals through a tube. The crystals loosen and knock off dead skin cells. Then, your provider vacuums up the debris (the crystals and dead skill cells) using the same tube. It’s like sandblasting only much, much gentler.
• Diamond microdermabrasion: In this method, your dermatologist uses a diamond-tipped wand to remove (and vacuum up debris from) the top layer of your skin. This works a little more like an electric sander, but it’s much, much gentler.

What happens after microdermabrasion?

You can go home right after your procedure. Your skin might be a little red, swollen, or sensitive for up to 24 hours. Your healthcare provider may provide a cream for your skin, which can calm the irritation.

Most people get between one and four treatments each month to achieve their desired results. Monthly treatments after that can help you maintain the results.

Recovery and Outlook

How long does microdermabrasion last?

Microdermabrasion results vary from person to person. Your skin will feel softer and smoother after your first treatment. But the results of microdermabrasion build up over time. Most people need multiple treatments to achieve their desired cosmetic goals.

Microdermabrasion is one good way to improve the look of your skin. But microdermabrasion doesn’t stop your skin cells from aging and dying. Your healthcare provider will evaluate how well you heal after your first treatment to determine how soon you can have your next treatment. After you reach your desired results, talk with your healthcare provider about how often they think you’ll need to repeat the treatment to keep the results.