Fact Sheet: Microdermabrasion
Sunday, November 22nd, 2009
What is Microdermabrasion?
Microdermabrasion is a safe, non-surgical, exfoliating treatment that leaves skin feeling soft, and silky with a healthy glow. It speeds up the cellular turnover process, which is slowed down by:
- Poor health and nutrition
- Diet
- Aging
- Stress and
- Nature’s elements
and brings you closer to having healthier, younger looking skin.
It can be used aggressively to achieve dramatic results, but does not take the place of surgical or laser procedures.
It improves the skin without the risks, side effects, and downtime that is typically associated with some of the more aggressive alternatives, and can efficiently produce satisfying results in as little as 20 minutes. Further improvements in the appearence and texture of the skin’s texture will occur with each treatment, and may be used alone or in combination with other treatments, like Light Therapy or Chemical Peels, in a maintenance program, recommended by your skin therapist.
Who can perform microdermabrasion?
Microdermabrasion can be performed at a Medical Spa by certified Estheticians, as well by Dermatologists and other qualified Medical Physicians in their practice.
Microdermabrasion treatments may be customized for mild to aggressive treatments that remove more superficial layers of the skin’s surface. Care must be taken by the skin therapist not to go into deeper layers of the skin as here there is the possibility of imparting permanent damage to the skin.
What does it treat?
Microdermabrasion is not a miracle procedure. It cannot totally eliminate, but, after just one treatment it can visibly reduce the appearance:
- Acne scarring
- Sun-damaged skin
- Sun-induced pigmentation like melasma and age spots
- Freckles
- Fresh stretch marks
- Fine lines and minor wrinkles
- Scars
- Rough, patchy skin
- Whiteheads and blackheads
- Acne and blemishes
- Excessive oiliness
- Scar and callus reduction
It can also be used as:
- A pretreatment for cosmetic surgery
- To blend lasered and non-lasered areas after laser skin resurfacing.
Treatment is not limited to the face; it can be performed just about anywhere – on the face, neck, chest, hands, back, elbows, feet.
How does it work?
Microdermabrasion is performed using a jet of fine crystals, which are propelled unto and then vacuumed across the skin’s surface. This removes dead skin cells in an exfoliating motion, to reveal fresh, invigorated skin. Skin is restored to a more youthful appearence while you relax in the treatment room.
Treatment recommendations
To achieve a good result, several treatments are recommended.
Treatment is usually scheduled one to two weeks apart and would depend on:
- Skin type and condition and
- Lifestyle – e.g. drinking and smoking habits, outdoor activities spent in the sun.
Progressive improvements in skin are attained through a treatment program. Your skin care specialist will be able to recommend the number of treatments required to achieve your desired results.
Pre-treatment recommendations
- No sun baking
- No waxing for 7 days prior to treatment
Post treatment recommendations:
After treatment you will be required to adhere to the following:
- No sun baking and must wear high sun protection, SPF 30+ to prevent against hyper-pigmentation or darkening of skin, especially for medium to dark skin types.
- No swimming in chlorinated pools for 24 hours
- No waxing for 7 days
- No exercise for 24 hours as perspiration may cause a stinging sensation
- Preferably avoid wearing makeup for 24 hours
- No exfoliation for 7 days
- Proper hydration. Skin my feel drier than usual and must be thoroughly cleansed and moisturized daily, also increase water intake.
What are the side effects of microdermabrasion?
The vast majority of clients do not receive any side effects from microdermabrasion. Clients with sensitive skin are at a higher risk of developing any side effects, which are usually mild and temporary, and appear only on facial skin. They include:
- Redness
- Flaking
- Dry skin
- Itching
These side effects are similar to sun-burn. There is no need to seek medical attention when experiencing any of the above, as they usually subside within a day or two.
Skin flaking may take between 2-4 days to appear and is just a part of the skin healing itself.
Who should NOT receive microdermabrasion treatments?
Microdermabrasion provides minor trauma to the skin. Still it may aggravate the following conditions:
- Active, uncontrolled or brittle diabetes
- Viral lesions, herpes simplex or shingles
- Eczema or seborrheic dermatitis
- Rosasea
- Skin cancer and auto immune disorders such as AIDS or HIV
- Vitiliago
- Telangectasis or visible broken blood vessels
- Sunburned skin
Also not recommended for people taking oral blood thinners.
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So now you know.
If you believe that Microdermabrasion may work for you, contact your skin care therapist to set up a consultation.
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Supernova
Related GC post 10 Top Skin-Care Faux Pas
Great post, You make valid points in a concise and pertinent fashion, This is a really good read for me, thank you for your time.
[Reply]
You’re welcome Annmarie. Thank you for reading!
[Reply]