Microdermabrasion

Microdermabrasion is a term applied to a skin rejuvenation procedure. In this procedure where very small grains of crystals are applied to peel off the outermost surface of the skin. A plastic surgeon or dermatologist usually performs it. However, nowadays a non-medical person can easily perform it. It is carried out in clinics, spas and hair salons.

Usually microdermabrasion is performed in two sections: First, an exfoliating material similar to diamond or crystals are spread to the face. Second, a machine-based suction is applied to softly elevate the skin during the process of exfoliation and remove the crystals. This is a preferred procedure over dermabrasion and is less hostile. Microdermabrasion causes an ablation of superficial layer of the skin, mainly the epidermis; as a result, this method is useless for deeper scars or wrinkles.

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Microdermabrasion Benefits

It has numerous benefits, helping to treat common skin problems that include:

Scarring due to acne
Wrinkles
Sunburn
Problem of a mild discoloration

Pre-requisites

This is a simple procedure so there is no question of pain. It helps to remove the dead skin cell by the application of abrasive crystals and suction. There are no injections or needles here and no anaesthetic agent is used. A good germ-free environment, facial scrub and a machine comprising a vacuum suction are all that’s required.

Who are Good Candidates for Microdermabrasion?

This procedure can usually be performed on anyone between the ages 12 – 65.
Anyone suffering from common skin problems.
People with fine lines or scars
People with acne discoloration or sallow or dull skin

History of Microdermabrasion

Microdermabrasion history dates back to 1985. It was first developed in Italy. It gained popularity across the Europe and its popularity spread to the United States. This technique offers the benefits of being the least invasive, has rapid recovery and any associated risks are low in comparison with other conventional resurfacing methods.

The Procedure

Microdermabrasion is a cosmetic method whose main objective is to eliminate the uppermost layer of the skin known as the stratum corneum. By doing so it produces a revitalizing effect. A pump produces a high-pressure stream of crystals that include sodium chloride, aluminium oxide, sodium bicarbonate and magnesium oxide. This stream of crystals abrades the skin, loosening the dead skin cells, oil, dirt and debris. Then a vacuum causes removal of the exfoliated skin cells as well as the inert crystals. The skin is broadened to attain tension in the area to acquire the finest abrasion. For the very best effects, professionals suggest 6 – 12 treatment sessions. Microdermabrasion may prove to be a good skin therapy for people with superficial skin problems and stressful routines. Those around 65+ may have a fairly mature skin and this procedure may therefore put them at slightly greater risks of skin abrasions as well as bruising. The treatment can be repeated within a period of 2 weeks, depending on the sensitivity of the skin as well as its tolerance. Furthermore, it is said that the normal skin usually regenerates itself every month, so this procedure has to be carried out regularly to get a better result and significant skin improvement.

Risks and Complications

It’s not a very difficult procedure. It is a simple process of changing the skin appearance and perking it up. Like any procedure, it is, of course, a must to ensure a hygienic environment and sterilized instruments to prevent the risk of infection. As long as the practitioner meets these simple prerequisites – which offer a procedure with least complications – then you can choose freely. Being free of any kind of risk and adverse outcomes makes it a safe and recommended procedure, easily repeated a number of times. The main purpose is to enhance your skin and make it look better or ‘fresher’.

Though no risks and complications are noted, exceptions always exist. In a few people Microdermabrasion may lead to some complications, which are easily managed. These include:

Infection
Hypopigmentation/ hyperpigmentation
Bleeding
Scarring of the area where Microdermabrasion is performed.
Perforation
Redness of the skin which has undergone Microdermabrasion

These however occur rarely and Microdermabrasion is overall one of the safest procedures for skin rejuvenation available today.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q. Who should not have a Microdermabrasion procedure?

A. People suffering from serious skin and other body conditions are not allowed to undergo this procedure. These include warts, active rosacea, herpes virus infection, autoimmune system disorders and uncontrolled diabetes mellitus.

Q. How often should this skin rejuvenation procedure be carried out?

A. It is recommended to carry out Microdermabrasion at regular intervals and it can be performed 6-12 times within a couple of weeks.

Q. What can be treated by microdermabrasion?

A. Microdermabrasion can be used to treat numerous symptoms of premature-aging skin. These include age spots, wrinkles and, fine lines. It also treats sunburns, acne scars, enlarged pores hyperpigmentation, and scars of the chicken pox. Microdermabrasion offers a more youthful skin appearance by disposing of the dull skin.

Q. What are the protections after a microdermabrasion treatment?

A. There is no particular protection necessary, but as some people experience skin dryness after it, they are advised to apply a good moisturiser.

Q. How soon will the results of microdermabrasion appear?

A. The results of Microdermabrasion are usually noticeable instantly. However, these may further improve with many treatments and differ depending on the texture and quality of the skin.