The Facts About Microdermabrasion
Learning the Basics About This Popular Beauty Treatment for the Skin
Exploring some of the finer points of microdermabrasion and knowing whether or not it's right for you.
Microdermabrasion is a non-surgical treatment that generates new skin cells through the use of mineral crystals.
How Does Microdermabrasion Work?
Using a machine, usually referred to as a Derma Pod, and a small hand-held tool, micro-crystals gently remove the surface layer of the skin, revealing fresher, younger looking skin. The Derma Pod also lightly vacuums the skin’s surface to stimulate blood flow and help with the skin’s regeneration process.
Is it Safe?
This non-invasive procedure is performed slowly, over a series of treatments, to ensure the client's safety.
There is no pain or discomfort felt during the microdermabrasion treatment. However, those with sensitive skin may experience a mild burning sensation, resembling a light sunburn, after the treatment is complete.
What Makes a Good Candidate?
Your esthetician will examine your skin and decide with treatment is best for you. Microdermabrasion is used to provide treatment for various skin conditions.
- Acne scarring
- Fine lines and wrinkles
- Sun-damaged skin
- Pigmentation issues
- Blackheads
- Some stretch marks
What Makes a Bad Candidate?
There are several conditions that may restrict receiving microdermabrasion.
- Active acne or rosacea
- Lesions
- Dermatitis
- Eczema and psoriasis
- Cold sores
- Hepatitis
- Active diabetes
- Fragile capillaries
- If you are taking blood thinners
Determing Factors
Age and skin condition play a major role in determining the number of sessions one will require. Lifestyle is also a deciding factor in one’s microdermabrasion regiment. For example, a golfer exposes their skin to a vast amount of sunlight, and if sunscreen is not applied often(or at all), they may need more treatments than someone who uses sunscreen regularly.
Maintaining Healthy Skin
On average, five to ten treatments are suggested, and although improvements can be seen after just one procedure, undergoing treatments regularly will help to keep the skin young and rejuvenated. It is important to use a good moisturizer and sunscreen after receiving microdermabrasion.
It is recommended to avoid sun exposure and tanning of any kind for at least a week following the procedure because hyper-pigmentation (unusual darkening of the skin) may occur. Makeup may be applied directly after the treatment, but a slight tingling may be experienced. Exfoliating creams should not be used two days prior or after a microdermabrasion treatment.
It is important to understand that microdermabrasion is not used to improve the look of severe scars or old stretch marks; it simply buffs away the top layer of the epidermis. There are kits that make microdermabrasion at home possible, but the end result will not compare to a professionally completed procedure.
