A person’s skin takes a beating everyday. Exposure to the elements, particularly to the sun, dust, and pollution can hasten the aging of the skin, resulting in wrinkles, undesired pigmentation, age spots, and fine lines.
However, spas and other cosmetic clinics have developed a non-invasive, non-chemical procedure that aims to fix these problems of the skin, and it comes in the form of microdermabrasion.
How does Microdermabrasion Work?
Microdermabrasion peel works by having a surgeon or dermatologist use a device that literally sprays fine crystals onto the skin. This acts as scrubs, that acts gives gentle abrasion, removing the dead and old layer of skin cells to be replaced by the skin underneath.
A microdermabrasion session takes only around 30 minutes to an hour, depending on the area being treated. Patients are encouraged to return between 6 to 12 times every 2 to 3 weeks or so to achieve the best results.
Microdermabrasion Procedure
This procedure uses microdermabrasion crystals, sprayed to remove dead, dry skin cells located on the outermost layer of the skin, revealing the healthy, younger, and new skin underneath.
This process results in having a rejuvenated look, improving the skin’s appearance and overall feel to the touch. This is also gentler than its sister procedure, dermabrasion, which is aimed to tackle deeper wrinkles and scars.
There is an important requirement, however. Potential patients of microdermabrasion cannot have taken a medication called Accutane, a drug used to treat severe acne, anywhere in the past 12 months. This is because it can cause complications that can result in having worse skin than before. This is why it’s imperative for the patient to completely divulge their medical history before engaging in the procedure.
Microdermabrasion for Acne Scars and Hyperpigmentation
One of the most popular uses for microdermabrasion is the treatment of acne scars and hyperpigmentation. By removing the outer layer of skin, microdermabrasion helps fade dark spots and smooth out uneven texture caused by past breakouts.
When combined with a targeted skincare routine that includes brightening serums or retinoids, results can be even more effective. Patients often notice improvements in skin clarity, reduced pore size, and a more radiant complexion after several sessions.
For optimal results, dermatologists may recommend combining microdermabrasion with other cosmetic treatments like LED light therapy or microneedling.
Good Candidates for Microdermabrasion
Microdermabrasion is suitable for a wide range of skin types and tones, making it an ideal treatment for anyone seeking to refresh dull skin, reduce the appearance of light scarring, or even out skin tone.
It’s especially popular among individuals looking for non-surgical facial rejuvenation without downtime. However, those with active rosacea, eczema, or widespread acne should consult a dermatologist to determine whether microdermabrasion or an alternative skincare treatment would be more appropriate.
The procedure is also highly recommended for people with age-related skin changes, including sun spots and mild pigmentation.
Microdermabrasion Recovery and Post-Treatment Care
One of the biggest advantages into having microdermabrasion treatments is that it is very fast. Perfect for people who cannot afford to waste any time for other, more time consuming treatments.
The same goes for its recovery time, which is practically non-existent, save for a little redding on the area and a sensation that is similar to being sun or windburned.
However, microdermabrasion needs post-treatment care, through the use of moisturizers and following important instructions, such as avoiding direct sun exposure and not wearing make-up until the skin has healed.
As long as these and other precautions given by the dermatologist are followed, the best results possible will be seen, in the form of eliminated fine lines, reduction of acne’s visibility, the removal of patches of rough and uneven skin, and more.
For people at home, microdermabrasion kits are available in the form of creams and other devices. These take a great deal of care and strict following of instructions and procedures so the patient achieves the best possible results.
Microdermabrasion vs. Chemical Peels
Patients often compare microdermabrasion to chemical peels when evaluating skin resurfacing options. While both treatments aim to exfoliate the skin and stimulate cell renewal, microdermabrasion is mechanical, using crystals or diamond tips, whereas chemical peels rely on acids to dissolve dead skin.
Microdermabrasion is gentler and preferred for individuals with sensitive skin or those seeking a gradual improvement without peeling or prolonged redness.
Chemical peels, however, may yield more dramatic results for deeper wrinkles and more severe discoloration. Understanding the differences can help patients make informed decisions based on their specific skin concerns.