Microdermabrasion is the exfoliating technique of removing the dead skin cells in a gentle way by using an abrasive micro diamond piece. This procedure thoroughly smoothes and brighten the skin. It is a high-performance latest in beauty technology and it wastes no time in delivering immediate and tangible results. So, if you are looking for an effective treatment for your skin rejuvenation and resurfacing microdermabrasion might be the solution for you.
Microdermabrasion doesn’t hurt and you will only feel a slight suction effect and rough but gentle texture. This happens as the vacuum works to extract the dead skin on your face.
This unique technique is very good in terms of rejuvenating the complexion of your skin by polishing away the epidermal flaws. The skin is stimulated into producing fresh new cells. This is one way of minimizing the most difficult skin conditions you could experience. If you are experiencing any form of sun damages, reduction in fine lines and pigmentation, microdermabrasion provides dramatic results in the most gentle and effective way.
To achieve optimum results, you will require a series of treatments which will leave your skin with a healthy look and feel. Imagine your skin with a radiant glow that can be seen and felt instantly? That is amazing, right? Microdermabrasion treatment basically uses the minimally abrasive instrument to sand your skin gently, remove the thicker and uneven outer layer.
This is one of the best ways to treat light scarring, discoloration, sun damage and even some stretch marks. You can bet that microdermabrasion can be able to greatly improve age spots and black heads. It is also able to improve the dark patches on your skin, skin exfoliation which will make your skin to have a refreshed appearance. How about lessening the appearance of stretch marks and reducing or eliminating the enlarged pores? Not only that, but it can also treat acne and the scars that are left by acne.
You can easily achieve a younger looking complexion through microdermabrasion which helps in thickening your collagen. Remember, collagen is a protein in human body skin that is abundant to a child’s skin making it appear taut and smooth. You can also achieve such a skin even as an adult. The reason as to why our skins loosen and become uneven is because the production of collagen declines as you grow older.
How much does microdermabrasion cost?
The national average cost of microdermabrasion treatment according to the ASAPS was $139 back in 2016. Generally, the total cost will depend on your geographic location and the fees your provider will charge you.
What are the preparations for the microdermabrasion procedure?
Ideally, it is a non-surgical, minimally invasive procedure and so there is nothing to worry about. Actually, there is nothing much needed to prepare anyway. To be on the safe side, ensure you consult with your skin care professional to know if microdermabrasion is the right fit for your skin. You can also discuss any past cosmetics procedures and surgeries. Don’t forget the allergies and medical conditions as well.
There are things you may be told to avoid and the basic ones may include stopping the use of exfoliating creams and masks approximately 3 days to your treatment. You should also remove any makeup and cleanse your face before you begin the microdermabrasion treatment.
How exactly does microdermabrasion work?
The procedure will take about an hour and it’s an in-office procedure. The microdermabrasion treatment is typically performed by a licensed skin care professional so microdermabrasion at home is not quite recommended. They may be under the supervision of a healthcare provider but even if they are not, they will still do a commendable job. Basically, this will depend on which state you live in. Check out these different procedures and be informed.
a) A diamond-tip handpiece
This microdermabrasion machine will gently exfoliate dead cells on your skin. In fact, it will also suction them off very fast. Depending on the duration this suction is allowed to remain on your skin or the pressure exerted on the handpiece, the depth of the abrasion can be affected. This type of microdermabrasion applicator is quite gentle and it is mostly used around more sensitive facial areas like close to your eyes.
b) Crystal microdermabrasion
This one is used to gently rib away outer layers of the skin in a very gentle way. Just like the diamond-tip handpiece, this one will also suction off the dead skin cells immediately. Aluminum oxide and sodium chloride are the different types of crystals that can be used.
c) Hydradermabrasion
This is actually a newer method compared to the first two. With this method, it is done by combining simultaneous dermal infusion on products and crystal-free exfoliation. Ideally, this procedure is entirely meant to stimulate collagen production and maximize blood flow to your entire skin.
Note that using anesthesia or a numbing agent for microdermabrasion is not even necessary. You will use a reclining chair during your appointment. Your skin care provider will check the targeted areas and use a handheld device to sand away the outer layer of the skin in a very gentle way.
Does microdermabrasion work?
You must be eager to know what you expect to be the results after the procedure. To begin with, there is no known downtime after microdermabrasion and so you should be able to go back to your daily activities just like it never happened in the first place. Secondly, remember to keep your skin hydrated all the time and use very gentle skin care products. Wait for at least a day to start using topical acne medications treatment. One of the things you should always remember is the importance of always protecting your skin with sunscreen. Due to all these, it is advisable you have microdermabrasion before an event or an occasion.
That is because your skin may be more sensitive to the sun in those few weeks after the treatment. It is most probably you will be satisfied with the results if they were done by a professional.
Microdermabrasion has a generally satisfaction rate of 95 percent. This is according to the 2016 consumer survey which was conducted by the American Society for Dermatologic Surgery.
What are the possible side effects of microdermabrasion?
The common side effects of micro include mild tenderness, swelling and redness on the skin. However, they should not worry you because they will go away within a few hours after the treatment. Your skin care provider may advise you to use a moisturizer so as to minimize the dry and flaky skin. If minor bruising occurs, it may have been caused by the suction process during the treatment but that is nothing to worry you.
What to consider before undergoing microdermabrasion
There are studies that suggest the risks associated with aluminum oxide-based microdermabrasion machines. The small particles are feared to enter the lungs if breathed in. There is also fear of scratching the eyes and that is why most microdermabrasion clinics are using an eye protector during the procedure.
Since the procedure is non-invasive, the recovery time is as little as one day or two at most. Furthermore, this is something you could do during your lunch hour break and go back to work looking pretty fabulous although you should not forget to observe the rules for your skin to heal faster and in the right way.
It is a non-surgical facial resurfacing technique. Series of about 6 to 10 treatments are enough to mechanically exfoliate the outermost layer of dead skin cells by vacuuming them away and leaving your skin looking younger and vibrant.
Differentiating between dermabrasion and microdermabrasion
Dermabrasion was basically developed to improve acne scars, pox marks, and scars from accidents or even a disease. However, when it comes to treating congenital skin defects, pigmented birthmarks, most moles or even the scars caused by burns it is not effective. People with fair skin are generally safe with dermabrasion but for people with darker skin, dermabrasion can result in scarring or discoloration.
On the other hand, microdermabrasion is effective for all skin types and colors. That’s because as it makes subtle changes, it doesn’t cause any skin color change or scarring. For deeper problems such as scars, stretch marks, wrinkles or deep acne scars, microdermabrasion is not the most effective mechanism.
What do you need to do before you get dermabrasion or microdermabrasion?
First of all, you will consult with the professional who is responsible for conducting the procedure. In case of dermabrasion consultation, the things you will discuss include but not limited to goals, the procedure risks and benefits and the types of anesthesia to be used.
This is also the time you will have to discuss all the instructions to follow before and after dermabrasion. You can even take photos so that you compare them with your results later. When it comes to microdermabrasion, although the consultation is similar, you won’t talk about anesthetic and risks because this procedure is not complicated so much.
How do these two procedures work?
For dermabrasion, the procedure is done in the doctor’s office. You may also have medication to relax you before you undergo the procedure. You will also get shots of numbing medicine to anesthetize the area to be treated. Your skin will be cleansed thoroughly as well. A high-speed instrument with an abrasive wheel or brush will be used by the doctor to remove the outer layers of your skin. This will remove any irregularities on the surface of your skin.
In case of microdermabrasion, there are tiny crystals that are sprayed on the skin to remove the outer layer of your skin in a very gentle way. In this procedure, you won’t need numbing medicine because the procedure is less aggressive. The importance of this technique is basically to exfoliate and rejuvenate the skin so as to leave your skin looking softer and brighter.
What happens after dermabrasion and microdermabrasion procedures?
For a few days after dermabrasion procedure, your skin will feel like it has been brush-burned. Due to this, your doctor may recommend medications to ease any discomfort you may be feeling. However, within seven to ten days, healing should have taken place. Your pink sink will gradually develop to the normal color. Within six to eight weeks are ideal for the pinkness to largely face in most cases. As soon as the skin heals, you are free to use make-up.
Within seven to 14 days after dermabrasion, most people can generally resume their normal activities. It is important to avoid sunlight for a few weeks after the pink color has disappeared. If you have to go outdoors, then use a broad spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or more and wear a wide-brimmed hat just to be on the safe side. After you undergo microdermabrasion, your skin will not only be pink but it will also feel dry and tight like someone with sunburn or windburn for about the next 24-hours after the procedure.
The possible side effects and complications due to dermabrasion and microdermabrasion
The side effects of dermabrasion include the uneven changes in skin color which can be temporal or permanent. Others include the formation of a scar, swelling, infection, and darkening of the skin which in most cases is temporary although it may turn out to be permanent.
The darkening can turn out to be permanent in case of exposure to the sunny days or months after the procedure. When it comes to microdermabrasion side effect is mostly the irritation from crystals getting into unprotected eyes.
What is the required care after dermabrasion and microdermabrasion?
For dermabrasion, you should follow up with appointments soon after the procedure. Before the end of 48 hours, don’t drink alcohol at all. For one week afterward, avoid taking aspirin, any product containing aspirin or ibuprofen. Don’t smoke either. If you can, avoid sun exposure as best as possible for the next 3 to 6 months. If you underwent microdermabrasion remember to use moisturizers and sunscreen all the time or a cream such as Stemuderm. Immediately after the procedure avoid the sun exposure as best as you can.