How Microdermabrasion Works, Considerations and Recovery

August 11, 2012 0 Comments

We’re all hunting for the fountain of youth, for ways to keep our skin looking and feeling young despite the passing of time. There are countless products promising reduced wrinkles; cosmetic surgery to tuck and tighten; and endless contraptions to wear, use and sleep in that guarantee better skin. In truth, some of these products and processes work while others are simply capitalizing on what sometimes seems an obsession with looking young.

If you are looking for a less invasive and proven effective way to resurface your skin, reduce the appearance of fine lines and improve its overall clarity and balance, you’re in luck–microdermabrasion can do just that.

Dermabrasion is a cosmetic process that entails the stripping away of surface layers of skin, allowing fresh, unblemished skin to regenerate. While traditional dermabrasion was more painful and recovery lasted longer, microdermabrasion is a fast, less painful and effective means of achieving the same goal.

How does microdermabrasion work?

This depends on the type of microdermabrasion you receive–some treatments are done mechanically and others by laser. Crystals or an abrasive wand are moved across the skin and a small suction device follows to gather the removed particles during manual or mechanic microdermabrasion. Other skin specialists prefer to use a laser to remove the damaged layers of skin.

Unlike more invasive dermabrasion, microdermabrasion is considered superficial, meaning it can only remove skin to a relatively shallow depth. For this reason, it is not the recommended cosmetic procedure for treating deep wrinkles.

If not deep wrinkles, then what exactly does microdermabrasion treat?

Just a few of the skin conditions microdermabrasion has been successful in treating are: hyperpigmentation, sun spots or other forms of discoloration, light scars, fine wrinkles, Rosacea, age spots, clogged pores and blackheads.

Recovering from a microdermabrasion treatment is a relatively smooth process. Directly following the treatment, your skin will appear red and raw, but this is only temporary. Your skin care specialist may recommend some form of over the counter or prescription moisturizer because it is important you keep the freshly exposed skill well moisturized while healing. You will also be sun sensitive, so prepare with hats, sunglasses and proper topical applications. If there is bruising or swelling, pain medications and cold compresses are effective in reducing these side effects.

Determining whether or not microdermabrasion is right for you is the first step you should take. Do your own research, but also make time to schedule consultations with a few estheticians, skin care specialists and/or cosmetic surgeons. If you have deep scarring, skin sensitivities or thin blood–either from an illness or medication– you may need to explore other treatments. Be upfront about previous skin treatments you’ve had, any medication you take and any underlying conditions you’ve had or currently have to ensure there will not be any complications with your procedure.

If you have more questions about how microdermabrasion works and whether or not it’s right for you, consult the doctors and estheticians at the Atlanta Center for Cosmetic Surgery.

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