The Procedure, Benefits and Risks associated with Microdermabrasion

According to statistics published by American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, microdermabrasion is one of the most popular nonsurgical cosmetic procedures. It has proved to be an excellent solution for the treatment of scars, sun spots and wrinkles. Microdermabrasion peels off the upper layer of skin. As the healing process continues, new layer is formed that appears smooth, less wrinkled and scar free.

Skin conditions that microdermabrasion treat

• Acne scars
• Sun spots
• Wrinkles
• Brown spots
• Enlarge pores
• Milia
• Melasma
• Hyperpigmentation

Age limits for having a microdermabrasion

Anyone older than 12 years and not more than 65 years of age can benefit from microdermabrasion. However, people that do not lie in this range can undergo microdermabrasion in the supervision of a cosmetic surgeon or dermatologist. Older and younger skins bear high risk of bruising and increased skin abrasions.

The procedure

The length of the procedure depends upon the skin condition and the size of the area to be treated. However, the procedure usually lasts for 30-45 minutes. A pump is used to create high pressure stream of crystals that abrades skin. Then a vacuum sucks dead skin cells and crystals from skin and leaves skin fresh and smooth.

As microdermabrasion is non-invasive and abrades only the upper layer of skin, it may show you the results a little slowly. You will need repeated sessions (usually 5-12 sessions) to see the desired results. After completing the initial regimen, you will need regular sessions to maintain the results.

Risks and complication:

• Redness of skin is a common side effect. It occurs when crystals rub the skin harshly and skin becomes irritated. People who have acne are more prone to develop redness.
• Sometimes discoloration of skin occurs. It is more common in people who have darker skin tones. Usually it disappears within 2 to 3 days after treatment.
• Dryness and itching in the treated area are common and do not take longer to disappear.
• Like all other cosmetic procedures, microdermabrasion carries some probability of skin infection due to unsanitary equipments or dirty crystals.

At-home microdermabrasion kits:

Some companies offer microdermabrasion kits that you can use at-home. These kits contain exfoliators, cleansers and skin care brushes and cost significantly lower than the professional treatments offered at clinics and spas.

At-home kits cannot compare the results that a professional microdermabrasion treatment provides. Every individual is different and needs a customized treatment but these kits are prepared according to “one size fits all”. If you want to get rid of every single wrinkle, scar and fine line on your skin, professional microdermabrasion is the best answer because at-home dermabrasion kits do not offer comparable results.