Do you ever look in the mirror and wish you could get rid of a few stubborn acne scars or maybe wanted a more even skin tone? Have you considered getting a treatment or procedure done, but just don’t have time to commit to a long recovery process? If you’ve answered yes to any of these questions, you may want to consider microdermabrasion. Microdermabrasion is one of those cosmetic procedures that most people have heard of, but don’t know much about.
What is Microdermabrasion?
Microdermabrasion is a cosmetic procedure where a skincare specialist removes the top layer of dead skin to reveal a clearer, brighter, and smoother complexion. It is a minimally invasive procedure used to renew overall skin tone and texture. The procedure uses a special applicator or hand-held device with an abrasive surface such as crystals or fine particles that will gently exfoliate the outer layer of your skin to reveal a more youthful appearance.
Benefits
Microdermabrasion can treat many skin conditions or concerns with exfoliation such as:
- Improving age spots or blackheads
- Reducing signs of hyperpigmentation
- Lessening the appearance of acne and acne scars
- Improving dull-looking complexion, uneven skin tone, and texture
- Treating sun damage
- Minimizing enlarged pores
Microdermabrasion can also help to stimulate collagen production resulting in a younger-looking complexion.
Treatment
If you’ve ever seen a sandblaster, you will have a good idea of how microdermabrasion treatment works. It uses microparticles or fine crystals to remove the top layer of dead skin and reveal younger, healthier-looking skin.
Microdermabrasion is minimally invasive so there is little to do before treatment. You may be told to avoid sun exposure, tanning creams or booths, and waxing before treatment. Exfoliating creams, masks, scrubs, or practices should also be discontinued a week before the procedure takes place.
Microdermabrasion treatment is typically an in-office procedure that usually takes about an hour. It is not necessary to use anesthesia or numbing agent, but it can be provided for patient comfort if requested.
There are two methods or devices that may be used: crystal-tip method or a diamond-tip method. Crystal-tip microdermabrasion uses a crystal-emitting handpiece to gently spray fine crystals onto the patient’s face to remove the top layer of skin. During the exfoliation process, the dead skin cells are vacuum suctioned back into the machine. The diamond-tip wand method is similar but instead uses crystal particles to remove dead skin cells.
Common side effects include sensitive skin, slight bruising, mild tenderness, swelling, and redness. A mild scratching or vibration sensation may be felt during treatment. Afterward, the skin may feel similar to that of a sunburn for several days.
There is no downtime or recovery needed for microdermabrasion. Moisturizer should be used to minimize dry and flaky skin. Consistent use of sunscreen will also be important for several weeks as your skin will be sensitive to sunlight after treatment. Be gentle with skincare products and avoid using topical acne medications for several days following your procedure.
Most patients schedule a series of treatments to achieve their desired results. Due to the ease of the procedure, appointments can be scheduled weekly until the patient’s goal has been met and then treatments can continue periodically for maintenance.
If you think microdermabrasion might be right for you, ask your general physician if you are right for the procedure. For more information or to schedule a consultation, please contact Malik Medical Aesthetics & Wellness Center today.
