Microdermabrasion Procedure, Benefits, and Care
Microdermabrasion is a dermatologic, non-invasive procedure that exfoliates the top, thick layers of your skin to achieve an even-toned skin and reduce the signs of aging.
Microdermabrasion has the benefits of low risk and less downtime compared to other dermatologic procedures such as chemical peeling, dermabrasion, and laser resurfacing.
What is Microdermabrasion?
Microdermabrasion involves the use of a specialized dermatology tool that has an abrasive surface. This specialized tool is rubbed onto the surface of the skin and it gently exfoliates or removes the top layers of the skin, leaving the skin rejuvenated and glowing. Microdermabrasion can also involve the sprinkling of fine particles of aluminum oxide or sodium bicarbonate to get the same outcome as using the abrasive tool.
During this procedure, you will be seated in a reclining chair. Your skincare specialist or dermatologist will use the hand-held tool to exfoliate the top layers of your skin. It is not necessary to apply a numbing cream before this procedure but you can request your provider to use numbing cream if you wish. After the procedure, your provider will apply a moisturizer and sunscreen to your skin.
This procedure takes 30 to 40 minutes for the face and you may notice slight swelling and a sunburn-like feeling after the treatment. You need to receive at least 5 to 16 sessions of this treatment, spaced at an interval of 2 weeks, to see the full results. One thing to keep in mind is that the results of microdermabrasion are not permanent.
Who is the Ideal Candidate
Microdermabrasion is useful for people who have an uneven skin tone, superficial acne scars, mild acne, discoloration, or signs of aging such as wrinkles and fine lines.
However, this procedure is not useful if you have deeper acne scars or wrinkles.
The top 6 Benefits
The aim of this treatment is to achieve a younger-looking skin and fight the signs of aging. Additional benefits of this treatment are listed below:
- Smoothens the complexion and texture of your skin
- Reduces the appearance of acne scars, age spots and sun damage
- Evens out skin tone
- Best treatment for patients with a complaint of melasma, a dermatologic condition in which dark spots or patches form on the skin.
- Reduces the appearance of large pores and blackheads
- Improves hyperpigmentation
Are there any Side Effects?
The side effects of microdermabrasion include:
- Swelling
- Bruising
- Increased sensitivity of the skin to sunlight
- Redness
- Burning sensation
- Mild tenderness
Moreover, this treatment may not be suitable for patients who scar easily or have a keloid forming tendency in their bodies. Patients who have taken the anti-acne medication, isotretinoin in the past 6 months must consult their dermatologist before starting this treatment.
Safety and Convenience
It is advisable to apply sunscreen and avoid unnecessary sun exposure after the treatment to reduce the risk of side effects and ensure the best results. Also, avoid the use of tanning creams, exfoliators, and waxing before and after the treatment.
References
MICRODERMABRASION: FAQS. (n.d.).
Retrieved from American Academy of Dermatology Association.
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