Microdermabrasion

How Microdermabrasion Works

At a spa or a surgeon or dermatologist’s office, a special tool similar to a light sandblaster is used to exfoliate the top layer of dead skin cells. Small abrasive crystals are sprayed across the face. The crystals are usually aluminum oxide (due to the inert and oil absorbing qualities), although other substances can be used.

After the crystals have been sprayed on the face, they are suctioned up into a vacuum along with the dead skin cells. It usually takes about 30 to 60 minutes to complete the entire procedure.

For maximum results, between 5 and 10 treatments are usually recommended, with approximately one week between treatments. Occasional follow-up procedures should be done for maintenance. Doctors or skin care specialists may recommend a moisturization and anti aging skin care regimen to care for skin after treatment.

Who Should Get Treatment

Microdermabrasion treats a variety of skin conditions, most related to aging. Because it stimulates new skin cell and collagen growth, it is a good treatment for the following afflictions:

• Fine lines and wrinkles
• "Crow’s feet" (small wrinkles around the eye area)
• Age spots
• Uneven pigmentation
• Acne scars

This is an especially effective treatment for those who are sensitive to drugs like Retin-A. Side effects are few, with most patients experiencing only mild swelling and light redness that usually disappears within an hour or, at longest, within a day. A slight non-painful tingling may be felt during or after the treatment.

This exfoliation treatment can help other creams and lotions work better, as it enables them to be absorbed more deeply into the skin.

Microdermabrasion is not recommended for use on those with the following skin conditions:

• Rosacea
• Herpes
• Dermatitis
• Warts
• Severe acne
• Open sores/lesions
• Psoriasis
• Eczema

It is important to be honest with your physician about your medical history and any conditions you may have. Additionally, physicians may recommend quitting smoking or ending aspirin regimes before undergoing the procedure.

Finding a Practioner

To find a physician near you, visit surgery.org or plasticsurgery.com. You can also get recommendations from friends or your family physician. Schedule a pre-treatment appointment to go over expectations, costs, and results before beginning treatment regimes.

At-Home Treatment

Because fees at a doctor’s office can cost anywhere from $150 to $200 per treatment, many people choose to use an at-home abrasion treatment. While not as strong as office procedures, they can help reduce minor or early signs of aging.

Some kits come with tools to use during the abrasion process, while others simply rely on massaging an exfoliating cream into skin and then rinsing it off with water. At-home treatments frequently come with a moisturization lotion or cream built into the treatment, or as a second step.

One treatment to try is the Mary Kay TimeWise Microdermabrasion Set. This set includes an exfoliating treatment, along with a replenishing serum filled with vitamins, nutrients, and antioxidants.

Another kit to try is the L' Oreal ReFinish. Use the exfoliator first to smooth and polish skin. Then follow up with the moisturizer that contains SPF and Vitamin E to help protect against more sun and environmental damage.

Scores of at-home kits are available. To help narrow it down, check out a website that gives consumer reviews to a variety of products.