Microdermabrasion is a technique to resurface facial skin. It can revitalize dull skin, shrink large pores, minimize fine lines and wrinkles, get rid of raised scars and age spots, reduce rosacea and acne, and generally make skin look younger and healthier. It does so by buffing away the top layer of skin in a noninvasive way.
The Procedure
Microdermabrasion may be done in a doctor's office, spa, or at home. In general, doctors and estheticians apply lotion onto the patient's face, then use a wand that sprays tiny aluminum oxide crystals onto the face to exfoliate the skin, and use suction to clean out pores and remove dead skin. The wand may have a diamond tip instead of crystals, which is a newer technique. The microdermabrasion procedure makes the skin less congested and can provide a "healthy glow" as it minimizes large pores.
Time Frame
Plastic surgeon Teanoosh Zadeh MD says that in general, it will take five to 10 treatments for complete results. "The nice thing about microdermabrasion is that it requires no downtime; no anesthesia is required. It takes about 20 to 30 minutes to do, so often it's called a 'lunchtime peel,'" he tells a reporter from WatchMojo.com.
Side Effects
There might be some pulling, tingling or stinging sensation, but there should not be any pain. Afterward, skin may be red or pink and a little sensitive for a few hours. Some people compare it to what it feels like when a cat licks your skin--a little like sandpaper.
Limitations
Microdermabrasion is not for deep wrinkles. It can remove superficial fine lines, but it can't go deep into the skin--that would be painful and dangerous. For the same reason, it can work for scars that are raised, but not scars that are deep in the skin, and has limited use for stretch marks and acne. The procedure is also not recommended for people who have psoriasis, or who have taken isotretinoin, because it can cause permanent scarring. Patients are told not to go tanning soon after microdermabrasion.
At-Home Kits
Home microdermabrasion kits are less expensive than visiting a doctor or spa, and can have similar results. Most use the same basic technique of using tiny crystals to abrade the skin, but there are varying degrees of effectiveness. If you have more serious skin problems, always consult with a doctor or licensed esthetician before using an at-home kit.
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