
Microdermabrasion is a cosmetic procedure that uses aluminum oxide crystals and a special vacuum device and handpiece that gently exfoliates the skin in order to remove excess dead skin cells and keratin. By doing this in a series of 3 to 6 treatments the skin of the area treated (usually the face, upper chest, and hands) feels smoother and looks brighter and more youthful.
The procedure is good for rough skin and fine wrinkles. It also helps the yellowish-brownish color changes associated with aging and sun damage. It has been shown to reduce acne, but it’s usually best to try medical therapy for acne first. People who have the procedure often say they need less makeup and enjoy smoother skin and better skin tone.
Microdermabrasion can actually feel pleasant overall. There might be a mild tingling or even mild stinging sensation during part of the procedure, but this is due to the somewhat more aggressive treatment in our office since we use a medical grade machine and want to achieve more than a spa treatment alone would accomplish.
With just one treatment your skin will feel very smooth and soft the next day. In order to get the best results, a series of 5 treatments done roughly 2 weeks apart is recommended. After that, patients often come in for a maintenance treatment every 2 to 3 months.
Generally no. It is very important to use good sun protection during the 2 weeks following a procedure since the skin is more susceptable to sunburn after treatment. In general you’ll look like you have a mild sunburn for a day or two after microdermabrasion. |