Microdermabrasion is a popular cosmetic procedure designed to rejuvenate the skin and address various skin concerns. It is a non-surgical method of mechanical exfoliation that gently sloughs away dead surface skin cells, creating a smoother, softer appearance. This article explores the benefits, procedure, and considerations associated with microdermabrasion.
What is Microdermabrasion?
Microdermabrasion is a cosmetic procedure that removes dead cells using crushed crystals or a diamond-tipped wand. It is a non-invasive skin resurfacing technique used as an alternative to chemical peels and other methods to treat scars, hyperpigmentation, photodamage, fine lines, wrinkles, and coarse skin. The primary goal is to improve the skin's texture and appearance, giving it a smoother and more refreshed look.
How Microdermabrasion Works
Microdermabrasion is a mechanical exfoliation treatment. A medical-grade vacuum is attached to a cylindrical handpiece that has a thin layer of crushed crystalline solids or a diamond tip. The cosmetic specialist traces the tip along the surface of your skin as suction is applied. This creates a uniform pressure as the diamond dust or crystals remove the topmost layer of skin cells. The dead skin cells get vacuumed up into the filter of the microdermabrasion device. This process helps to exfoliate the dead skin, allowing your skin to breathe.
The procedure stimulates the skin to repair itself by removing the top skin layer. This, in turn, helps to thicken collagen, a protein in your skin that declines with age, affecting the skin’s appearance.
Benefits of Microdermabrasion
Microdermabrasion offers a multitude of benefits for the skin, making it a sought-after procedure for those looking to improve their complexion.
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- Improved Skin Texture and Tone: Microdermabrasion gently exfoliates the skin, removing dead skin cells and revealing smoother, softer skin underneath. This can lead to a more even skin tone and a reduction in the appearance of rough or coarse skin.
- Reduction of Fine Lines and Wrinkles: By stimulating collagen production, microdermabrasion can help reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, giving the skin a more youthful look.
- Diminished Acne Scars and Spots: Microdermabrasion can help improve the appearance of acne scars and spots by removing the damaged top layers of skin and promoting the growth of new, healthy skin cells.
- Treatment of Hyperpigmentation and Sun Damage: Microdermabrasion is effective in treating age spots, uneven skin discoloration, and sun damage by exfoliating the affected areas and encouraging the development of a more even skin tone.
- Enhanced Product Absorption: After microdermabrasion, the skin is better able to absorb topical skincare products, making them more effective.
- Overall Skin Rejuvenation: Patients can expect their skin to feel refreshed, soft, and smooth after a microdermabrasion treatment. The procedure helps to deeply cleanse the skin, removing excess oils and dirt, and stimulating new cell growth.
Who Can Benefit from Microdermabrasion?
Microdermabrasion is suitable for a wide range of individuals looking to improve their skin's appearance. It is particularly beneficial for those who struggle with:
- Age spots
- Uneven skin discoloration
- Sun damage
- Acne scars
- Coarse skin
- Fine lines and wrinkles
Microdermabrasion is appropriate at any time of the year and for any skin color.
Preparing for a Microdermabrasion Session
To get the most out of a microdermabrasion session, it is important to follow certain pre-treatment guidelines:
- Discontinue Exfoliative Products: Avoid using any exfoliative products or procedures seven days in advance of the appointment. This includes retinoid products (products with tretinoin, adapalene, or tazarotene as active ingredients), glycolic and salicylic acid, and physical scrubs, including ultrasonic brushes.
- Avoid Cosmetic Treatments: Refrain from any other cosmetic treatments one week in advance of the procedure, as these can make the skin fragile and more susceptible to damage.
- Limit Smoking and Alcohol Consumption: Smoking and alcohol consumption can affect the way your skin heals. Avoid these activities at least a week in advance of the therapy to ensure it is more effective and causes less downtime.
- Refrain from Tanning: Avoid all forms of tanning, including natural sun exposure, tanning beds, and spray/lotion tanning, for 2-4 weeks before the treatment.
- Stay Hydrated: Hydration is key to healthy skin.
The Microdermabrasion Procedure
The microdermabrasion procedure typically takes 30 to 40 minutes for the face and an additional 20 minutes for the neck. Salons, day spas, and medical spas often include microdermabrasion in a full facial treatment, along with a mask and facial massage. The procedure generally follows these steps:
- Preparation: The technician will take you to the treatment room and have you change into a gown. You will lie on your back, and the technician will cleanse your face to prep your skin for the procedure.
- Microdermabrasion: The technician uses a device to gently exfoliate your skin, removing the top layer of dead skin cells. During the procedure, you may feel some minor skin tugs, but it should not be painful. Some people describe the feeling as gritty.
- Post-Treatment: After crystal microdermabrasion, the technician will cleanse your skin to remove any stray crystals.
Potential Side Effects and Risks
Microdermabrasion is considered safe when performed by a skincare professional, such as a dermatologist or esthetician. However, like any cosmetic procedure, there are potential side effects and risks to be aware of:
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- Redness and Sensitivity: For a day or so after microdermabrasion, it might feel like you have a minor sunburn.
- Dryness and Flaking: The skin may become dry and flaky as it heals.
- Hyperpigmentation: In rare cases, microdermabrasion can cause temporary hyperpigmentation, especially in individuals with darker skin tones.
- Infection: Although rare, there is a risk of infection if the skin is not properly cared for after the procedure.
Aftercare and Maintenance
Proper aftercare is essential for maximizing the benefits of microdermabrasion and minimizing potential side effects:
- Moisturize Regularly: Keep the skin well-hydrated by applying a gentle, fragrance-free moisturizer several times a day.
- Use Sunscreen: Protect the skin from sun exposure by applying a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher.
- Avoid Exfoliating Products: Refrain from using exfoliating products for at least a week after the procedure.
- Follow Skincare Professional's Instructions: Adhere to any specific instructions provided by the skincare professional.
How Much Does Microdermabrasion Cost?
The average cost of skin resurfacing, including microdermabrasion procedures, is $1,829, according to 2024 data from the American Society of Plastic Surgeons. A spa-type session may cost several hundred dollars instead. The cost can vary depending on the location, the type of provider, and the specific treatment plan. If you’re on a budget, you can find microdermabrasion machines and exfoliating scrubs online or in cosmetics stores.
Microdermabrasion vs. Other Exfoliation Techniques
Microdermabrasion is a more intense type of exfoliation technique. Exfoliation is the action of removing dead skin cells that are closest to the surface, leaving behind smooth, fresh skin. At-home exfoliation techniques can include scrubbing down your body with a loofa, or using an exfoliating cleanser or an exfoliation cleanser tool on your face. Anyone can benefit from exfoliation, since even those with sensitive skin can control the level of intensity from an at-home exfoliation session.
Results and Expectations
Microdermabrasion will leave your skin looking bright and feeling softer with one session, but you'll likely need a series of procedures to successfully treat a specific skin problem. Microdermabrasion’s benefits are usually temporary, lasting for up to a month. Since your skin is always forming new, healthy cells to replace dead ones, the results of microdermabrasion may last until the skin cell turnover process is complete. You may see the benefits of microdermabrasion last longer if you use daily sun protection.
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