What is microdermabrasion?
Microdermabrasion is a minimally invasive exfoliation treatment for skin. During treatment, a gentle stream of aluminum oxide crystals exfoliates the outer layer of skin, after which the dead skin cells and crystal particles are vacuumed away to reveal healthy, fresh skin. Microdermabrasion is less invasive and has a faster recovery time than many other skin resurfacing treatments.
What does microdermabrasion treat?
Microdermabrasion is used to treat a variety of mild-to-moderate skin problems, including acne, scarring, sun damage, age spots and fine wrinkles. Because it only affects the outermost layer of skin (epidermis), it is not effective for repairing deep tissue damage, or removing congenital marks, tattoos, moles and scars.
What are the benefits of microdermabrasion?
Microdermabrasion safely and effectively, with no pain and no downtime, improves the color, tone and texture of skin.
Microdermabrasion is considered safe for all skin types, and is especially effective for Asian and dark-skinned patients who may be at risk for skin discoloration with other types of treatment.
The vacuum used during dermabrasion enhances circulation and lymph flow, rejuvenating the skin internally as well as externally.
Is it necessary to wear sunscreen after microdermabrasion treatment?
After microdermabrasion is performed, the newly exposed layer of skin is vulnerable to sun damage, so wearing sunscreen is necessary. Avoiding the sun the first few days after treatment is recommended.
How long do microdermabrasion's results last?
Microdermabrasion's results are temporary. To sustain results and/or for continued improvement, microdermabrasion should be repeated at 2- to 4-week intervals.
What are the risks of microdermabrasion?
There are no serious risks associated with microdermabrasion. Possible minor side effects of microdermabrasion include skin tightness, redness, minor bruising, fine broken blood vessels, post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, and cold sore reactivation around the lips. Patients older than 70 may have a slightly escalated risk of bruising and skin abrasions.
