Microdermabrasion

Having radiant, flawless, and glowing skin is not a dream anymore. With the advances in cosmetology, a variety of aesthetic treatments can be offered to improve your skin tone and texture. Microdermabrasion is the easiest and quickest way to improve dull skin and uneven texture. This is a popular, non-invasive cosmetic procedure (does not involve any surgical instruments, cuts, or bleeding) for treating skin imperfections like acne scars and fine lines. Microdermabrasion is an exfoliation method that scrapes off your superficial skin layer (epidermis) to reveal a healthier and more radiant layer underneath.

Keep reading to learn about microdermabrasion, including its uses, benefits, procedure, side effects, etc.

What is Microdermabrasion?

Microdermabrasion is a gentle, non-invasive, painless aesthetic procedure performed by a skilled dermatologist (a doctor who specializes in diagnosing and treating diseases and conditions related to the skin, hair, and nails). A unique device with an exfoliating tip is used to remove or scrape the skin's superficial (top) layer. This is interpreted as micro-injuries, which form new collagen (a protein that includes the building block of your skin, nails, hair, ligaments, muscles, and other connective tissues). Thus, a more radiant, flawless, and healthy skin is revealed underneath. 

What Are the Types of Microdermabrasion?

There are three types of microdermabrasion based on the type of device used:

Crystal Microdermabrasion

• The device used in this procedure contains aluminum oxide crystals.
• At a high speed and temperature, the device releases the microcrystals that produce a vacuum effect. This blasts off the dead skin cells, removing them.

Diamond Microdermabrasion

• A wand-like device consisting of a diamond tip is used in this procedure to clear the dead skin cells.
• It has a special vacuum that sucks the dirt and dead skin cells.

Hydradermabrasion

• The exfoliation is performed using a device that has a vacuum pump tip containing a bristle-like head.
• These bristles introduce a mixture of special serums like salicylic acid and hyaluronic acid into the skin.
• The vacuum effect helps absorb the products effectively, boosting circulation and collagen production and improving skin quality. 

When Is Microdermabrasion Needed?

Microdermabrasion is a non-invasive epidermal resurfacing procedure that helps the following skin-related concerns: 

• Hyperpigmentation, age spots, and brown spots
• Fine lines and wrinkles
• Acne and acne scars
• Sun damage
• Melasma
• Uneven skin tone and texture
• Dull-looking skin complexion
• Stretch marks 

Who Shouldn't Get Microdermabrasion?

Microdermabrasion can address various skin concerns; however, it may not suit everyone. This procedure may not be effective and thus contraindicated for the following situations: 

• In case of active acne
• If you are taking treatment for acne
• Frequent skin rashes or cold sores
• Moles, freckles, skin tags, or other skin growths that constantly change in shape and size
• Certain skin conditions like eczema or psoriasis 

Procedure for Microdermabrasion

Microdermabrasion is a non-surgical, non-invasive procedure; hence, little preparation is needed. But be sure to inform the doctor about your past cosmetic surgeries, allergies, surgeries, and any underlying medical condition (if present).

Preparation

• Your doctor may instruct you to avoid sun exposure a week before the treatment.
• You would be asked to stop using exfoliating creams three days before the procedure.
• You will be asked to remove any makeup before the procedure

Procedure

Microdermabrasion is an outpatient procedure performed in the office and generally takes 30 minutes to 1 hour. Local anesthesia (a numbing agent) is not used in most cases. 

The procedure is as follows: 

• You will be made to sit on a reclining chair.
• Your skin will be cleaned at the clinic just before the dermatologist begins the procedure.
• Your doctor will move a handheld device over your skin. The device will spray tiny crystals on your skin, gently removing the outer layer that contains dead cells.
• A moisturizer and sunscreen will be applied to your skin after the completion of the procedure. 

You may require multiple sessions in specific intervals to achieve the desired results. 

Post-procedure

Not much post-procedure aftercare is involved, and you can resume your daily routine activities immediately. 

Follow the steps below to maintain the effects of the result:

• Keep your skin well-hydrated
• Use gentle skin care products
• Avoid using any topical acne medication for at least one day after the treatment
• Avoid using makeup for at least one-day post-procedure
• Protect your skin from sun exposure by using a sunscreen 

You may be able to see noticeable results immediately after the treatment. The number of sessions required depends on the severity of your skin condition and your expectations and will be planned and executed accordingly by your dermatologist.

Potential Benefits of Microdermabrasion

Microdermabrasion is a popular cosmetic procedure that offers an array of benefits.  

• It is a safe, quick, and simple procedure
• Can be used to address a wide range of skin-related concerns
• It does not require hospitalization
• It does not involve any cuts, incisions, bleeding, or suturing
• There are only mild side effects post-procedure
• You can return to your routine activities the same day
• The recovery is quick
• Offers effective and long-lasting results 

Side Effects of Microdermabrasion

Microdermabrasion is a relatively safe procedure, but it may involve certain side effects which can be mild and may resolve gradually. These include: 

• Swelling
• Skin tightness
• Redness
• Minor bruising
• Mild skin dryness and flakiness
• Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation
• Increased skin sensitivity

Can You Do Microdermabrasion at Home?

Currently, many microdermabrasion home kits are available in the market and online. Various salons also offer this procedure. However, speaking to your dermatologist before undergoing the procedure outside a clinical setup is best. This is especially necessary to handle any complications after the procedure. 

Takeaway

Microdermabrasion is gaining immense popularity among the female population due to its increased effectiveness in providing a spotless, glowing, and even skin tone. It has many benefits of being painless, non-invasive, and fewer side effects than other skin-related treatments.

For skin-related problems, contact your dermatologist, who can give you the kind of skin you desire.