What is microdermabrasion?
Microdermabrasion is a skin restoring process, commonly referred to as "the lunch time peel". Microdermabrasion uses highly controlled vacuum and pressure to move microscopically abrasive crystals over the surface of the skin.
How does microdermabrasion work?
Tiny crystals, which are similar to sand, are blown onto the skin using a specially designed handpiece. These tiny crystals have microscopically rough surfaces. As these crystals pass over the skin, they gradually remove the outer layers of skin one layer at a time. The specially designed handpiece sucks the crystals and any debris up into a chamber and is discarded.
Does it hurt?
Since the crystals are so small, minimal discomfort is felt.
Do I need anesthesia?
No!!! Nearly all patients tolerate the procedure well with minimal or no complaints of discomfort. Extremely sensitive patients may apply a topical numbing cream one hour before the procedure.
How long does a treatment take?
Most treatment sessions take twenty to forty minutes.
How long do I need to recover?
For most peels, one can return to normal activities IMMEDIATELY! Some patients with sensitive skin may complain of redness for 24-hours or longer.
Can I wear make-up after the procedure?
Most people can wear make-up IMMEDIATELY following the procedure.
How long has microdermabrasion been available?
Used at exclusive European spas since the early 1990's, this unique rejuvenation technique has received clearance from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in the United States in the late 1990's.
What are the benefits of microdermabrasion?
Microdermabrasion may help improve age spots and wrinkles, remove clogged pores, and improve acne. Most patients experience softer, smoother skin IMMEDIATELY after the procedure, although multiple sessions are usually recommended for maximal benefit.
What areas can be treated?
Most areas of the body can be treated. Most commonly the face, neck, and arms are treated.
How does microdermabrasion compare with other cosmetic procedures?
|
Microdermabrasion |
Light chemical peel |
Laser resurfacing | |
|
Skin smoothness |
Most benefit |
Some benefit |
Some benefit |
|
Fine wrinkling |
No to slight benefit |
Some benefit |
Most benefit |
|
Deep wrinkles |
No effect |
No effect |
Little effect |
|
"Age spots" |
Some to good improvement if used in conjunction with other treatments |
Some to good improvement |
Most improvement |
|
Acne |
Some improvement |
Some improvement |
No improvement |
|
Recovery time |
Little or none needed |
Some |
Most |
As with any cosmetic procedure, one need weigh the risk of the procedure, the potential benefit, the downtime, and the cost. Of course the "optimal" procedure would give the most beneficial result, have no risk, and have no downtime. Unfortunately, there is no "perfect" procedure. Microdermabrasion offers many benefits that include no downtime for most patients and affordability.
As with any cosmetic procedure, one need weigh the risk of the procedure, the potential benefit, the downtime, and the cost. Of course the "optimal" procedure would give the most beneficial result, have no risk, and have no downtime. Unfortunately, there is no "perfect" procedure. Microdermabrasion offers many benefits that include no downtime for most patients and affordability.
