subject: Microdermabrasion - What Every Patient Should Know About the Lunch Hour Facial [print this page] Microdermabrasion is a very popular cosmetic procedure used to treat the appearance and texture of the skin. During a microdermabrasion session, tiny particles are used to take off the top layer of skin, exposing softer and healthier skin underneath. This aggressive form of exfoliation rubs away the top layers of the skin. It is deeper and more effective than chemical peels, or gentle exfoliation, but shallower than dermabrasion, which carries greater risks.
There are many different microdermabrasion machines on the market today, but all work in essentially the same way. The machine pulls special crystals across the skins surface using a steel or glass wand. The system has a vacuum to pull used crystals and dead skin particles into the waste container. Some microdermabrasion systems use a sandpaper-like handpiece rather than crystals to abrade the skin. Because this method removes the top layer of skin, it is known as an ablative procedure.
Microdermabrasion requires no anesthetic and is an outpatient procedure. This cosmetic procedure should be performed by licensed and trained professionals, though there are a few models of microdermabrasion machines available for home use.
During this process, old and dead skin cells and damaged skin layers are removed. Microdermabrasion is effective at treating sun-damaged skin, raised scars, dark areas on the skin, and some other superficial skin conditions. Afterwards treatment, you can expect the skin to feel smooth and ultra-clean. Although you should see results after the first treatment, many people go through five to ten sessions for more drastic results. Some conditions do penetrate the skin farther than microdermabrasion can reach; these may require dermabrasion or laser procedures. These conditions include severe scarring, tattoos, and birthmarks.
The microdermabrasion process may be a little uncomfortable, but the recovery process is quite short. The entire procedure takes less than an hour, and you can return to work or other activities immediately. The skin may be sensitive and a little more pink or red than normal. It may feel a bit like your skin has been sunburned. It is important to keep the skin hydrated and avoid the use of chemical products for a week after the procedure.
