An In-Depth Guide to Microdermabrasion

The first microdermabrasion machine was approved by the FDA in 1996. Since then, there has been countless devices in the market from state of the art ones used in clinics, to the best at home microdermabrasion machines.

What is Microdermabrasion?

Microdermabrasion is a non invasive method of skin renewal and rejuvenation. The device used is a hand piece with very small pieces of gentle abrasives suctioning dead skin off the surface of the epidermis. This process exfoliates the skin while removing it of impurities and rejuvenates the skin. The new layer is now new, more supple, and youthful.

This process is then repeated periodically for best results. There will be an increase in collagen and elastin production, improving then skin's appearance in the long run. It can address hyperpigmentation or skin discoloration, superficial acne scars, sagging skin, fine lines, and wrinkles.

What can microdermabrasion treat?

• Fine lines and wrinkles
• Superficial acne scars
• Age spots
• Dull skin
• Sun damaged skin
• Pimples, blackheads, and whiteheads

Who is microdermabrasion ideal for?

• Those who can't afford down times caused by chemical peels
• Those who have sensitive skin that can't tolerate chemical peeling
• Acne prone and oily skin
• Mature skin who are looking to rejuvenate
• Those suffering from skin discoloration like acne scars and age spots

What areas of the body can you use microdermabrasion on?

• Face and décolleté 
• Hands
• Elbows and knees
• Abdomen and belly for stretch marks

What type of skin can it be used on?

Microdermabrasion can be used on all skin types and skin color.

How safe are the treatments?

The process is very safe, as the strength will start very low. There is very little to no side effects as long as the proper procedure is observed. Anesthesia or numbing creams are also applied prior to the treatment.

For those with extra sensitive skin, a faint sunburn sensation can be felt. Just make sure to avoid the sun and application of heavy makeup at least 12 hours after the procedure to avoid irritation.

It's microdermabrasion covered by insurance?

Yes, but this depends on your insurance provider and current skin condition. This procedure is most reimbursable.

The Benefits of Microdermabrasion

As we grow older, cell renewal decelerates. This can also cause dead skin cells to build up and halts the production of new collagen.

Microdermabrasion is a treatment that helps with skin rejuvenation by removing dead skin cells and activates production of collagen to uncover fresh skin. Microdermabrasion can also heal skin imperfections like hyperpigmentation, acne, wrinkles, and fine lines.

1. For Acne – light therapy from the device can stimulate the skin and have antibacterial effects. The mixture of the light and microdermabrasion promotes tissue healing and repair. This is particularly helpful for pimples and acne.

2. Skin Hydration – The younger skin will be youthful and suppler, which helps retain moisture in the skin. A hydro masque can also be followed quickly after for increased absorption.

3. Hand Treatments – hands are usually a good indicator of age. Microdermabrasion devices can also work to rejuvenate the skin in your hands to improve circulation and blood flow.

4. Hyperpigmentation – Continuous treatments can remove superficial layers to the skin, thus shedding uneven skin tones and stimulate cell turnover.

5. Stretch Marks – Using a combination of microdermabrasion and light therapy, scar tissues can be naturally repaired. Stretch marks can be less visible through time.

All About Microdermabrasion

Skin exfoliation treatments can be classified into two major types: chemical and mechanical exfoliation.

Examples of chemical exfoliation are glycolic peels and salicylic acid peels.

Physical exfoliation includes over the counter microbead scrubs, laser dermabrasions, and microdermabrasions.

Microdermabrasion is a non-invasive procedure for mechanical skin exfoliation. It is one of the most popular procedures used for skin resurfacing and rejuvenation.

Microdermabrasion can vary in depth and skin penetration.

The principle behind in exfoliation treatments is wound healing. By creating microscopic wounds in the skin, cell renewal is stimulated. This results in regeneration of new collagen and elastin. Skin hydration is also improved as is the dermal function. All of this results in a healthier epidermis and dermis.

Studies have shown that repeated sessions of microdermabrasion results in more supple and younger looking skin.

Microdermabrasion is also used to treat photodamaged skin. There is reliable improvement in skin texture, refinement of pores, and hyperpigmentation.

Regular treatments also improve fine lines and acne scarring (superficial).

Certain microdermabrasion tools have also shown great improvements for certain skin ailments like comedonal acne and rosacea.

Microdermabrasion includes non-ablative and ablative laser resurfacing. This means utilizing a dull scalpel on the skin.

The procedure has no downtime so to speak, in comparison with chemical peelings. They have no visible skin peeling or flaking.

Dermal infusions of topic products like vitamin C and collagen are done after the treatment. This takes advantage of the healing time that begins right after to distribute medications. This enhances absorption to the skin and expedite efficacy.

Microdermabrasion is one of the most common cosmetic procedures in the US. According to the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, almost half a million procedures are done annually.