If you have or have had acne, discolorations, superficial lines and wrinkles, uneven texture or sun damaged skin -- you may be a candidate for Microdermabrasion. Microdermabrasion cannot be expected to removed deep scars or wrinkles, birth marks or tattoos. If you have no history of hypo/hyper-pigmentation or keloid scarring in your family, you should consider microdermabrasion as an alternative to a deeper invasive peel.
What is Microdermabrasion?
Microdermabrasion is a mini
procedure that involves the skin being "sandblasted" by aluminum oxide
crystals to remove the top layer of the skin; dead skin cells. And to
promote the production of new cells in the deeper layer of the dermis.
It can clean your pores incredibly and hinder any future breaks outs if
used on a regular basis. Microdermabrasion also stimulates collagen
networking to further even out skin texture and appearance.
When
is Microdermabrasion usually performed?
Microdermabrasion can be
performed anytime, with sessions at 10 days apart from each other for
best results. It is best for women to schedule this procedure in the
first two weeks after their menstrual cycle as, the skin is more
sensitive nearing and during this time.
How is Microdermabrasion
performed?
A cleansing toner is applied to the skin to remove
excess oils for better application and penetration. A self contained
wand is manually passed over the skin in areas of damage or all over the
face, which is usually the case. The machine delivers fine, sanitary
aluminum oxide crystals to the face that "sand blasts" away dead skin
and impurities. The procedure lasts about 20 to 30 minutes, depending
upon the 'depth' or 'strength' of the peel. Afterwards a cotton ball
saturated with a soothing toner is passed over the face then a
re-hydrating cream and sun block are applied.
What should I
expect after Microdermabrasion?
You can expect to feel as if you
have a mild sun burn or windburn. You skin will feel very dry and may
peel. This is natural and is the purpose of the procedure. It is
extremely rare that there is swelling at all after Microdermabrasion.
This procedure is very un-invasive, yet it really works.
Does
Microdermabrasion hurt?
Microdermabrasion does not hurt although it may sting slightly around the eye area. Your skin may feel a little hot and appear a little pink for the first day.
Will Microdermabrasion get rid of my fine lines, wrinkles and acne scars?
In most cases, yes. Although severe scarring will not be lessened in appearance with solely Microdermabrasion. Sometimes a regimen of Retin-A and or Glycolic treatments in conjunction with Microdermabrasion will increase your chances the best results possible.
When can I return to work?
There is no downtime involved with Microdermabrasion. You can return to work immediately with the application of a little loose powder. Many patients schedule it on their lunch break and return with pink skin.
When will I be able to see the results?
Results are often times, immediate. We're not talking life-altering results here, but a nice, clean, smooth feeling is apparent directly after. You will notice that your skin is more even-toned, especially after a series.
Is there maintenance with Microdermabrasion?
Not really maintenance, but it is recommended that you schedule a session every few months for general upkeep.