Microdermabrasion

Microdermabrasion is a cosmetic procedure for your skin that has the advantages of low risk and rapid recovery compared to the other more invasive resurfacing methods.

Microdermabrasion is a very popular, machine-assisted skin-exfoliating treatment. Microdermabrasion has the advantages of low risk and rapid recovery compared to the other more invasive resurfacing methods such as dermabrasion, chemical peeling, and laser resurfacing. Since microdermabrasion produces only a very superficial depth of skin removal, it works best on improving conditions on the surface of the skin such as early photoaging (sun damage), fine lines, age spots, acne, and superficial scarring, although the results are not dramatic. The face is the most common area for microdermabrasion but any skin area, including the neck, chest, back, and hands, may be treated. Microdermabrasion is sometimes referred to as "Microderm," lunchtime peel, Parisian Peel, and Diamond Peel.

What is a microdermabrasion facial?

Microdermabrasion is a noninvasive, cosmetic skin treatment that helps rejuvenate and improve the appearance of the skin. It involves gently removing the top layer of dead skin cells, promoting the growth of new, healthier skin cells. This process enhances the skin's texture, tone, and overall appearance, making it an effective treatment for various skin concerns, such as fine lines, wrinkles, acne scars, and uneven skin tone.

Procedure:

• The microdermabrasion facial procedure typically begins with a thorough cleansing of the skin to remove dirt, oil, and other impurities.
• The skin is then prepared for the treatment by applying a gentle exfoliating agent to enhance the effectiveness of the procedure.

There are two primary methods used in microdermabrasion:

• Crystal microdermabrasion: This involves the use of microfine crystals that are sprayed onto the skin and then vacuumed back up, similar to a high-powered scrub.
• Diamond microdermabrasion: This involves a diamond-tipped wand that exfoliates the skin without using crystals.

Both methods are designed to effectively remove dead skin cells, resulting in smoother, more radiant skin.

During the treatment, the chosen method of exfoliation is applied to the skin in gentle, circular motions. This process helps remove dead skin cells and stimulate collagen production.

The patient lies on a comfortable table, and the aesthetician uses a handheld device to apply the exfoliating agent to the skin. The device also has a vacuum that sucks up the crystals and loosened skin cells, leaving the skin feeling smooth and refreshed.

Microdermabrasion procedure can be used to address a range of skin concerns, including:

• Fine lines and wrinkles: Microdermabrasion helps reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles by boosting collagen production and removing dead skin cells that can contribute to their formation.
• Acne scars: By removing dead skin cells and promoting the growth of new skin cells, microdermabrasion can help reduce the visibility of acne scars and other skin imperfections.
• Uneven skin tone: Microdermabrasion can help improve the overall appearance of the skin by removing dead skin cells and promoting the growth of new, healthier skin cells.
• Dull skin: The treatment helps remove dead skin cells and stimulates collagen production, leaving the skin smoother and more radiant.
• Large pores: Microdermabrasion can help shrink the appearance of large pores by removing dead skin cells and boosting the growth of new ones.

Microdermabrasion facials are a gentle yet effective way to achieve brighter, smoother, and more radiant skin without the need for downtime or recovery. To ensure the best results from microdermabrasion, it is crucial to follow proper aftercare instructions and to maintain a consistent skin care routine. Additionally, patients should consult with a qualified aesthetician or dermatologist to determine if microdermabrasion is the right treatment for their specific skin concerns and needs.

How long does microdermabrasion last? Typical microdermabrasion sessions can last anywhere from 5-60 minutes. Minimal to no recovery time is required after microdermabrasion and most people immediately return to daily activity after a session. Makeup and nonirritating creams can usually be applied right after microdermabrasion. Studies have shown that microdermabrasion can even temporarily facilitate the absorption of some topical medications by increasing the permeability of the skin.

How many layers of skin does microdermabrasion remove? Microdermabrasion works by removing a few of the top layers of the skin called the stratum corneum. Much like brushing your teeth, Microderm helps to gently remove "plaque" and skin debris. Since human skin typically regenerates at approximately 30-day intervals, skin improvement with microdermabrasion is temporary and needs to be repeated at average intervals of two to four weeks for continued improvement. Multiple treatments in combination with sunscreen, sun avoidance, and other skin-care creams yield the best results.

Microdermabrasion should not be confused with dermabrasion which is an invasive surgical procedure performed typically by dermatologists or plastic surgeons under local or general anesthesia. Dermabrasion is a procedure for deeper acne scars. Dermabrasion requires anesthesia and would be too painful otherwise. Dermabrasion is also performed for certain types of deep scars.

While results can vary from person to person, it is possible to see results after just one microdermabrasion session. Patients often report the following results after one session:

• Immediate improvement in skin texture: After just one session, many people notice an immediate improvement in the texture of their skin. The exfoliation process removes dead skin cells, leaving the skin feeling smoother and softer.
• Brighter complexion: Microdermabrasion can also help reveal a brighter complexion by removing dull, dead skin cells and promoting cell turnover. This can give your skin a more radiant and youthful appearance.
• Reduced appearance of fine lines and wrinkles: While one session may not completely remove fine lines and wrinkles, some individuals notice a temporary reduction in their appearance after microdermabrasion. The exfoliation can enhance skin plumpness and reduce the visibility of fine lines.
• Reduced hyperpigmentation: Microdermabrasion can be effective at reducing hyperpigmentation, such as age spots and sun damage. Over time, regular treatments can help lighten these areas and even out skin tone.
• Temporary redness: It's common to experience some redness immediately following a microdermabrasion session. Depending on the individual's skin sensitivity, this usually subsides within a few hours to a day.
• Increased product absorption: After microdermabrasion, your skin may be more receptive to skin care products, as the barrier of dead skin cells has been removed. This can enhance the effectiveness of moisturizers, serums, and other skin care treatments.

While you may see noticeable results after just one session, the full benefits of microdermabrasion are typically achieved through a series of treatments. Most professionals recommend a series of four to six sessions spaced about two to four weeks apart for optimal results. Achieving and maintaining the full benefits of the procedure typically requires multiple sessions and ongoing skin care.

Microdermabrasion is somewhat useful for people with dull or sallow skin, mild acne, acne discoloration, pick marks, and very superficial acne scars. Microdermabrasion may be a good treatment option for patients with superficial skin problems and busy lifestyles who are looking for minimal benefits with virtually no side effects or downtime. Individuals with deeper acne scars may expect a much longer series of treatments or likely benefit from physician-performed surgical dermabrasion, chemical peeling, or laser resurfacing.

While there are no specific age or sex restrictions, typically children over age 12 up to adults age 65 can get microdermabrasion. While there is no age maximum, mature skin over age 70 may have slightly higher risks of bruising and skin abrasions. Individuals younger than age 12 may sometimes also receive treatment under the care of a dermatologist or plastic surgeon.

Microdermabrasion can be done as frequently as weekly or up to every eight weeks depending on your skin's tolerance and desired cosmetic effects. Many people choose to start with weekly treatments for three sessions, then change to a monthly maintenance regimen.

Much like brushing your teeth, microdermabrasion helps to gently remove skin debris. Since human skin typically regenerates at approximately 30-day intervals, skin improvement with microdermabrasion is temporary and needs to be repeated at average intervals of two to four weeks for continued improvement. Usually, multiple treatments (6 to 12 sessions) are recommended to see a significant improvement.

Microdermabrasion can be done as frequently as weekly or up to every eight weeks depending on your skin's tolerance and desired cosmetic effects. Many people choose to start with weekly treatments for three sessions, then change to a monthly maintenance regimen.

Much like brushing your teeth, microdermabrasion helps to gently remove skin debris. Since human skin typically regenerates at approximately 30-day intervals, skin improvement with microdermabrasion is temporary and needs to be repeated at average intervals of two to four weeks for continued improvement. Usually, multiple treatments (six to 12 sessions) are recommended to see a significant improvement.

The vacuum part of microdermabrasion has four basic roles:

• It gently pulls and lifts a small section of skin for micro abrasion.
• It can spray a stream of crystals across the targeted skin area.
• It focally stimulates blood circulation and creates mild swelling in the skin.
• It collects the used crystals and dead skin in a receptacle for easy disposal.

What are microdermabrasion benefits? Generally, softer and smoother skin that feels fresher and more rejuvenated is the expected outcome after microdermabrasion. Before starting the microdermabrasion treatment, eye protection such as eye pads or goggles may be placed. Often the skin may be prepared and cleaned of makeup and oils. Yet, no local anesthetic is required. The skin will be stretched to provide some tension to achieve the most effective abrasion and vacuum. The handpiece is moved over the skin with repeated single, smooth passes. Usually, two to four passes per area are sufficient.

The mild pinkness of the skin is the desired outcome and usually resolves within minutes to hours after microdermabrasion. In addition, mild exfoliation of the skin may occur as well. Continuously apply moisturizer or ointment if exfoliation occurs. Patients may also experience a mild sunburn-like sensation for a few days. Moreover, liberal application of sunscreen is recommended as photosensitivity may be increased after treatment.

Microdermabrasion may help stimulate the production of collagen, thereby helping skin rejuvenation. As age spots from photoaging and fine lines are diminished, the skin may become softer and smoother. The results are modest, however.

Microdermabrasion may be very useful for people with active acne, mild acne discoloration, pick marks, and very superficial or raised acne scars. Dermatologists use microdermabrasion to help unclog pores and clear acne. Often used in combination with gentle glycolic peels and medical acne extractions, Microderm can help speed up acne clearing.

Individuals with deeper acne scars might be candidates for surgical dermabrasion or laser resurfacing.

Yes, microdermabrasion treatments can help treat melasma and other types of hyperpigmentation. Optimal melasma treatment might typically include biweekly or monthly microderm combined with glycolic acid peels, fading creams like hydroquinone 4%, and daily sunscreens. Multiple treatments in combination with sunscreen, sun avoidance, and other creams help yield the best results, although permanent improvement is not to be expected.

Microdermabrasion can help temporarily improve the appearance of keratosis pilaris (especially on the upper arms). Optimally, the microdermabrasion is given biweekly or monthly and is combined with lactic-acid lotions like Lac-Hydrin lotion or AmLactin and weekly glycolic-acid peels. Don't expect great results in this condition.

The potential side effects of microdermabrasion are minimal and this is a very safe procedure. Potential drawbacks are very limited in that Microderm only affects the epidermis, which is the outermost skin layer. Common minor, temporary side effects include slight skin tightness, redness, bruising, and sensitivity. As a general rule, the greater the potential benefits of a cosmetic treatment, the greater the potential risks and side effects. The possible risks with more aggressive treatments like dermabrasion and laser are much greater than microdermabrasion.

Possible side effects of microdermabrasion include:

• Skin tightness
• Redness
• Minor bruising
• Skin sensitivity
• Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH)
• Small skin abrasions
• Spots of bleeding
• Eye-skin bruising (especially if you are taking aspirin or other blood thinners)
• Fine broken blood vessels (telangiectasia)
• Cold sore reactivation around lips

Cold sore reactivation may uncommonly occur after a Microderm around the lips. If you have had a lot of previous cold sores, consider either avoiding treatment around the lip borders or asking your doctor about taking an antiviral pill prophylactically. A typical cold sore prevention regimen may be to start an antiviral pill like acyclovir (Zovirax) 800 mg or valacyclovir (Valtrex) 1 gram once a day starting the day before and continuing for one to two days after your treatment. Antiviral creams are not effective in cold sore prevention.

Overly aggressive Microderm may cause breaks in the skin and result in post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH). Also, overaggressive treatment may cause an increased risk of bruising (ecchymosis), especially if you are taking aspirin or other blood thinners like warfarin (Coumadin) or clopidogrel bisulfate (Plavix). Since microdermabrasion only causes superficial skin removal, scarring and pigment changes are very rare if the procedure is performed correctly.

There may be a small possibility of increased surface blood vessels (telangiectasia), particularly if you have very thin skin, scleroderma, lupus, severe sun damage, taken long-term prednisone (Deltasone, Orasone, Prednicen-M, Liquid Pred), or other conditions where your skin is abnormally fragile and prone to forming telangiectasia.

In addition, if an individual is on isotretinoin (Accutane) or has taken this medication within the previous 6 to 12 months, resurfacing treatments such as microdermabrasion may not be appropriate due to the potential increased risk of scarring. As the potential risk is very slight, some dermatologists may treat patients on isotretinoin with gentler sessions.

Here are five main disadvantages of microdermabrasion:

• Limited effectiveness for deep skin issues: Microdermabrasion only affects the epidermis, which is the outermost skin layer, so it cannot address deeper skin issues.
• Temporary results: Microdermabrasion is a superficial treatment with temporary results. Repeated sessions are required to maintain the desired appearance. This can be frustrating for individuals seeking longer-lasting results.
• Increased skin sensitivity to sunlight: After microdermabrasion, the skin becomes more sensitive to sunlight. This increased sensitivity can lead to sunburns, premature aging, and even skin cancer if proper sun protection measures are not taken.
• Risk of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH): Microdermabrasion can cause PIH, a condition where the skin becomes darker in areas where inflammation has occurred. This can be particularly problematic for individuals with darker skin tones, as it can lead to uneven skin tone and discoloration.
• Bruising and swelling: Microdermabrasion can cause bruising and swelling, especially if the suction device is too aggressive or if the individual has a history of bleeding disorders. These side effects can be uncomfortable and may take some time to resolve.

Additional disadvantages of microdermabrasion include:

• Risk of infection: Improper sterilization of equipment or poor hygiene practices during the procedure can increase the risk of bacterial or fungal infections. It's crucial to ensure that the facility adheres to strict cleanliness standards to minimize this risk.
• Risk of eye injury: During facial microdermabrasion, small crystals or abrasive particles used in the procedure can accidentally enter the eyes, causing irritation, corneal abrasions, or other eye injuries. Proper eye protection should be worn by both the patient and the practitioner to prevent this.
• Not effective or suitable for every skin type or concern: Microdermabrasion may not be suitable for individuals with certain skin conditions such as rosacea, eczema, or psoriasis, as it can exacerbate them.

There are two types of home microdermabrasion: creams and machines. Creams may seem less expensive initially but require continuous replenishment. A quality Microderm machine may potentially be a good investment and typically should not have many consumables or disposable parts costs over its lifetime.

Many microdermabrasion at-home creams cost $10-$95, which usually provide about 20-30 treatments, while some can be over $100. Once the jar is used up, so is your initial investment. These creams often use aluminum oxide crystals or other sand-like fine debris to help manually exfoliate the skin. Multiple vendors, including L'Oréal, offer a microdermabrasion cream kit for an average of $10-$30.

More recently, a new series of mini home microdermabrasion units have become available and are sold commercially. New home units retail from $150-$300 and may be available at Sephora.com and Amazon.com. A novel home unit called vacuubrasion will be made available for under $50.

There are multiple ways to exfoliate the skin:

• Use a pumice stone, loofah, or Buf-Puf.
• Use beach sand to gently exfoliate.
• Prepare homemade brown sugar and honey rubs.
• Apply sea salt rubs.
• Apply Epsom salt scrubs.

Microdermabrasion is almost always considered cosmetic and is not covered by traditional medical insurance companies. Since Microderm is often used to treat medical conditions like acne, acne scarring, melasma, and keratosis pilaris, it may be possible to deduct some costs as medical expenses. In appropriate cases, payment options may include using benefits of plans like health savings accounts (HSA) or health remittance accounts (HRA) to pay for Microderm. You will want to check the specific benefits and provisions of your plan and also review your tax deductions with a tax professional.

There are two types of home microdermabrasion: creams and machines. Creams may seem less expensive initially but require continuous replenishment. A quality Microderm machine may potentially be a good investment and typically should not have many consumables or disposable parts costs over its lifetime.

Many microdermabrasion at-home creams cost $10-$95, which usually provide about 20-30 treatments, while some can be over $100. Once the jar is used up, so is your initial investment. These creams often use aluminum oxide crystals or other sand-like fine debris to help manually exfoliate the skin. Multiple vendors, including L'Oréal, offer a microdermabrasion cream kit for an average of $10-$30.

More recently, a new series of mini home microdermabrasion units have become available and are sold commercially. New home units retail from $150-$300 and may be available at Sephora.com and Amazon.com. A novel home unit called vacuubrasion will be made available for under $50.

Microdermabrasion costs may range from $100-$250, the average cost being around $100 per session. Costs have decreased considerably over the last 5 to 10 years as these units have become more readily available. Professional microdermabrasion can usually be obtained in a doctor's office, typically dermatologists or plastic surgeons, as well as aesthetic spas, and facial clinics. Microdermabrasion facials are quite affordable and much less expensive than other skin-resurfacing treatments such as dermabrasion or laser peels, which may cost around $2,500. However, they are not nearly as beneficial as the more expensive procedures.

The treatment of microdermabrasion can be performed by a physician, a nurse, an aesthetician, or other trained medical personnel. It is recommended for patients to consult a dermatologist or medical aesthetician before starting any resurfacing treatment. Careful evaluation of the patient's skin for changes in texture, the severity of photoaging, depth of scarring, and the type of skin from a specialist will help patients select the proper resurfacing modality to address the skin problems effectively.