Microdermabrasion and Dermabrasion

Microdermabrasion works to refinish the skin's top layers through a controlled surgical scraping. The treatments help soften the sharp edges of your skin irregularities, giving the skin a smoother appearance.

Microdermabrasion is commonly used to improve the look of facial skin that has been left scarred by accidents or previous surgery, or to smooth out facial wrinkles. It is also occasionally used to remove pre-cancerous growths called keratoses. It can be performed on small areas of skin or the entire face.

What to expect

In a dermabrasion consultation you will

• Discuss the procedure with your doctor.
• You will discuss your goals for the procedure as well as any risks .
• You will also discuss the type of anesthesia that will be used.
• You will also get instructions to follow for before and after procedure.
• And you may have "before" photos taken so you can compare with your final results.
• Dermabrasion is done in the doctor's office.
• You may get medication to relax you before the procedure starts.
• Your skin will be thoroughly cleansed.
• You'll get shots of numbing medicine to anesthetize the area to be treated.

With microdermabrasion, the consultation is similar but with less talk about anesthetics and risks because it is a simpler procedure

• Microdermabrasion takes only 1 hour and has no downtime.
• Your skin is first cleansed with a special cleansing gel.
• Your doctor then starts the micro-abrasion procedure using a hand-held device.
• Your doctor slowly moves the wand across your entire face, not just on treated areas That way you don't experience inconsistencies in skin texture or color.
• After microdermabrasion, your skin is soothed with a special nourishing sun blocking cream, allowing you to go back to your daily routine immediately after treatment.
• A first microdermabrasion consultation doesn't take more than a few minutes. Discuss your medical history and decide whether microdemabrasion is right for you.
• Your doctor will establish your skin type, explain what's involved and help you set reasonable goals and expectations.
• Ask about any contraindications and involved risks.

Common questions about dermabrasion and microdermabrasion

What Is microdermabrasion?

Microdermabrasion is an effective, non-surgical way to get rid of acne scars, fine wrinkles and sunspots by exfoliating the top layers of the skin. Microdermabrasion helps skin regeneration by increasing its elasticity and collagen production.

Are chemicals used?

No chemicals or laser beams are used, only aluminum oxide micro crystals that gently sandblast your skin, leaving it smooth and fresh. Micro dermabrasion also stimulates collagen production, helping your skin rejuvenate faster than normal.

What is the difference between microdermabrasion and dermabrasion?

Dermabrasion

• Dermabrasion is a mechanical procedure that uses a hand-held device to remove the top layers of the skin. You may need a general or a local anesthetic, depending on the treated area.
• Dermabrasion procedure takes between a few minutes and two hours, depending on the depth and area of the skin resurfacing.
• After dermabrasion treatment, the skin is red, swollen and extremely sensitive for about 10 days.
• Dermabrasion can offer visible improvement by treating deep wrinkles, scars, and hyperpigmentation.

Microdermabrasion is much less invasive.

• It can be performed in a doctor's office.
• A doctor uses a sandblaster-like hand-held device to spray and circulate high pressure flow of aluminum oxide crystals onto the skin leaving the skin clean and smooth.

Is microdermabrasion for me?

If the goal is to get rid of superficial acne scars, blotchy skin, large pores, age or sun spots, fine wrinkles or uneven skin tone and texture, you are a perfect candidate for microdermabrasion. All skin types and colors can be treated with microdermabrasion. But before you go ahead, talk to a specialist about your medical history because there are conditions which may make microdermabrasion unsuitable for you.

Microdermabrasion is not recommended to keratosis sufferers, people with undiagnosed lesions, active rosacea or acne, weeping acne (stages 3 to 4), diabetes, auto-immune disorders, fragile capillaries, eczema, dermatitis, psoriasis or lupus. Discuss your medical history with your doctor if you are unsure.

How many treatments do I need?

Most doctors suggest 6 to 10 microdermabrasion treatments, scheduled about two weeks apart, so the skin has time to recover between microdermabrasion sessions. Discuss with your doctor what is best for you.

Does microdermabrasion hurt?

Micro abrasion treatment is painless.

How soon can I return to work?

You can return to work the minute you leave your doctor's office.

When do microdermabrasion results become visible?

Some patients reported changes after the first treatment. Your skin will look cleaner and healthier after a few microdermabrasions, but major changes (like reduction of wrinkles and scars) become visible after five treatments.

Are there any side effects to dermabrasion or micodermabrasion?

Dermabrasion side effects include:

• Uneven changes in skin color (temporary or permanent).
• Formation of a scar.
• Infection.
• Darkening of the skin (usually temporary but may be permanent). This is caused by sun exposure in the days and months following the procedure.

Microdermabrasion side effects include:

• Irritation from crystals getting into unprotected eyes. This is why we have you wear eye protection.