Microdermabrasion And How It Works

Microdermabrasion is a safe, progressive approach to skin care that was developed in Italy in 1987. Using vacuum, and sometimes positive pressure, the machine and the specially-designed handpiece allow micro-fine crystals to pass over the skin. As the crystals make contact, they actually blast off a thin layer of the outer skin (dermis). The handpiece then vacuums off the dead skin and crystal particles. The procedure exfoliates the dry, dull skin, while stimulating circulation and collagen production. Each treatment removes one to two layers of dead skin cells, depending on the condition that is being treated. The depth of treatment is determined by the trained operator and controlled through the speed of the handpiece, crystal flow and the number of passes. Since each treatment is customized, patients can be treated at their own comfort levels.

 

Candidates For Microdermabrasion
Unlike traditional dermabrasion, laser resurfacing or chemical peels, microdermabrasion is safe for men and women of all skin conditions and colors. The best candidate for microdermabrasion is one who wishes to improve the appearance of their skin and is willing to take an active role in protecting and maintaining the results. Microdermabrasion improves the overall appearance and tone of your skin; collagen production and circulation are improved; and the skin surface is smoother and healthier.

 

Customized Treatment Plan
After your initial consultation, a customized plan will be developed for you. Microdermabrasion is a progressive skin treatment. Your success depends on multiple treatments on a strict schedule. Often called “The Lunch Time Peel,” each session may take between 30 minutes to one hour, depending on the areas being treated. Your skin may be slightly reddened for 20 minutes to one hour after the treatment but it is perfectly safe to apply your make-up and return to normal activities. There is no recovery or “down time” associated with microdermabrasion.

 

Number of Treatments
Your personalized regime will be determined by the skin condition being treated and your desired results. The number of treatments can vary from 4 to 12, depending on the severity of your condition and treatment goals. Stretch marks and acne scars require the greatest number of treatments.

Microdermabrasion treatments should be performed 7 to 10 days apart. It is vitally important that you adhere to the scheduled that is developed for you. Waiting longer than 14 days between treatments can interfere with your progress.

After your desired results have been achieved, you will want to have maintenance treatments at least every three months.

 

Advance Preparation
If you are using any skin care products containing Retin-A, hydroquinone, or glycolic acid, you will want to stop using them 48 hours before your treatment. You may resume their use 24 hours after treatment. Skin that has been overexposed to the sun and is sunburned should not be treated.

 

How Soon Will You See Results?
Remember, microdermabrasion is a progressive procedure. You will definitely feel softer, smoother skin and may see subtle improvement after only one visit. You will see visible improvement after four treatments. The benefits continue to multiply with each additional treatment as increased circulation is noted within the dermis and newer, healthier skin cells are seen at the surface.

 

Is Microdermabrasion Painful?
For normal treatments, you will experience the sensation of vacuum suction and crystal particles making contact with your skin. This should not be a painful experience. Sensitive areas around the eye and upper lip may feel more tender, but the technician will adjust the machine in these areas to prevent discomfort.

 

Special Products Before or After The Procedure?

Dependent upon the goals of your treatment protocol, certain prescription medications may be recommended, as well as a special series of skin care serums formulated for use specifically during and after microdermabrasion treatments.