Microdermabrasion

What Is Microdermabrasion?

Microdermabrasion is a mini-procedure that exfoliates the skin using aluminum oxide crystals. These mild abrasives remove the upper layer of skin along with dead skin cells. This process promotes the production of new cells in the basal (deepest) layer of the dermis. 

Microdermabrasion cleans pores and can hinder any future breakouts if used on a regular basis. It also stimulates collagen to further even out skin texture and appearance.

Are You a Candidate for Microdermabrasion?

The best candidates for microdermabrasion are individuals with acne prone and blotchy skin, small scars, rhytides (wrinkles), keratosis, large pores, milia (non-inflamed whiteheads caused by keratin-clogged pores), or sebaceous hyperplasia. Microdermabrasion is also useful in eliminating the appearance of sun damage or uneven texture. 

Microdermabrasion is not recommended for those who have active keloids, undiagnosed lesions, recent herpes outbreaks, warts, active, weeping acne (stages 3-4), active rosacea, unstable diabetes or auto-immune system disorders. 

Does Microdermabrasion Hurt?

Microdermabrasion does not hurt and is sometimes likened to the feel of a cat licking your face. The patient normally "works up" to a level as they go to increase the penetration to the skin. Your skin may feel a little hot and appear a little pink for the first day. 

Preparing for Your Treatment

There really is no preparation, although you should not be on Retin A or have undergone Glycolic Acid or Lactic Acid peels, etc. 2 to 3 days beforehand, as this can irritate your skin and make it very sensitive. However, some skin specialists may instruct you to do so if they deem this process beneficial to your skin. 

Also refrain from getting any sunburn or windburn beforehand for the very same reason. You don’t want to damage your skin further with microdermabrasion - you want to repair it or lessen the visual damage. 

Your Microdermabrasion Treatment

Patients have attributed the sensation of a microdermabrasion treatment to a slight windburn. Depending upon the level that you wish to reach, the discomfort is usually quite minimal, if at all. The treatments typically last 40 minutes for the face.