Microdermabrasion is a skin resurfacing technique that features the use of a diamond tipped head to remove the outer layers of the epidermis. You can compare it to a gentle "sand-blast" process for the skin. Immediately after the procedure, you may experience some erythema (redness) for 1-2 hours.
Is Microdermabrasion for every skin type or ethnicity?
It is commonly said that microdermabrasion can benefit all people regardless their skin type or ethnicity. We use microdermabrasion especially on people with oily, thick skin. Microdermabrasion really makes the skin less oily. It is also useful for ethnic skin. African-American people usually complain about uneven skin texture and pigmentation and microdermabrasion works very well for them. Superficial pigmentation responds very well to microdermabrasion too. We do not use microdermabrasion on anyone who has very thin, delicate skin or rosacea (spider veins) because we found that you get a significant redness and you can induce more spider veins.
Why does the skin benefit from Microdermabrasion?
Approximately every 28 days we create a new layer of skin. As new cells form they push their way to the surface and then dead cells settle on the surface. This can cause enlarged pores, clogged pores, a bumpy uneven texture, and a dull appearance. As we age this process slows down leading to the appearance of older skin with less radiance.
Except skin aging, is there any other indication for microdermabrasion?
Yes. As we already mentioned, microdermabrasion is excellent to retexture the skin, minimize pore size and reduce oiliness. So, it is an excellent procedure to improve oily, thick skin. Microdermabrasion works on superficial acne scars, stretch marks. Microdermabrasion can be used to treat hyperpigmentation. Because microdermabrasion exfoliates the skin surface, it helps the penetration of bleaching products which then work better.
How many treatments do you need?
This treatment is meant to be progressive not aggressive. Generally results are more noticeable after the third treatment. After the first session the skin will appear fresher, cleaner, smoother and softer for some clients. Usually treatments are performed every 4 weeks, but can be done more frequently. A typical course of treatment is a series of six Microdermabrasion sessions. Maintenance treatments are suggested once every one to one and a half months.
How long does it take?
The actual treatment usually takes 30-40 minutes, depending on the body area.
Are there any precautions before and after a microdermabrasion?
Pre-Microdermabrasion:
- Avoid sun tanning or tanning creams/sprays for at least a week before treatment
- You must NOT have recently had laser surgery or used Accutane
- Candidates who have had a recent chemical peel or other skin procedure, such as collagen injections, should wait two to three weeks before undergoing microdermabrasion.
- Prospective patients should also refrain from waxing or tanning the skin to be treated for a few weeks prior to microdermabrasion treatment.
- Wash your face and neck with a non-oily, non-soap based cleanser before each scheduled treatment.
Post Microdermabrasion:
- Keep the new skin clean and moisturized
- Anti-inflammatory creams or cold compresses may be used as necessary
- Use a gentle cleanser.
- Trauma such as scratching or picking the treated area should be avoided.
- It is important to avoid irritating the treated skin with harsh chemicals, rubbing or tanning for one week.
- Although some peeling may occur in the treated areas, moisturizer should help minimize this effect.
- Avoid staying in the sun for at least 7 days after the microdermabrasion treatment to prevent UV rays from damaging your skin which slows down the recovery.
- Patients who absolutely cannot avoid sun exposure should use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher.
- Do not use glycolic, alpha hydroxy, beta hydroxy, retinol, benzyl peroxide or topical acne medications for 24-48 hours following treatment.
- You may resume prescription retinoid products (Retin A, Renova, Tretinoin, Avita, Alustra or other brands f Tretinoin and other prescription retinoid products (Adapalene, Avage, Differin, Tazorac, Tazarotene) 3 - 7 days after last microdermabrasion treatment or as instructed by your technician.
If you are receiving a series of treatments, do not resume any of these products until after you have completed your last medical microdermabrasion treatment.
Other Important Points for the first 3 days:
- You may apply makeup 3 to 4 hours after your treatment.
- Avoid abrasive sponges for 1 week after your treatment.
- DO NOT pick, peel, scrape, scratch or wax your skin.
- If your skin is dry use moisturizer as many times a day as you like.
- It is very important NOT to EXERCISE for 24 hours after a treatment. Perspiration will produce a stinging sensation on newly treated skin which can take several hours to dissipate.
Do you recommend specific products with the microdermabrasion?
After a microdermabrasion, your skin is like a sponge for few days and will absorb very well everything you apply. We will recommend skin care products appropriate to your skin concern.
