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What is Microdermabrasion?

Microdermabrasion is a skincare treatment where tiny particles “sand” or “polish” the skin. They remove the surface layer of scarred or dead skin cells to reveal the healthier layer underneath. This stimulates the underlying layers of skin to generate more collagen and elastin, giving your skin a younger, firmer and healthier appearance.

Spa Treatments

Professional quality microderm abrasion uses aluminum oxide crystals and is applied by a doctor or trained aesthetician. Only licensed professionals can use these machines which can be found in salons and spas. The treatments can be costly and up to 12 are usually required.

Diamond microdermabrasion systems do not need crystals. In this case a diamond tipped head makes contact with the skin and rubs against it. With both crystal and diamond microdermabrasion systems the dead skin cells are sucked away from the face.

Home Microdermabrasion

Personal systems are becoming and popular alternative to professional treatments. They are inexpensive and very easy to perform. They are not as powerful as the professional salon quality machines, but they can still produce good results. Most of the best skincare brands have launched their own home systems including Neutrogena, Youthful Essence and Olay.

Average skin renewal takes four to five weeks when we are young and healthy. As we get older this process slows due to age and abuse. Additionally overexposure to sunlight can result in a thicker surface layer of skin. This protects the under-layer to prevent further damage, but also leaves a leathery and worn look. Microdermabrasion will promote the lower layer to speed up cell renewal.

The procedure does not have any serious, known risks or side effects. Those with very sensitive skin may experience some irritation. If you have concerns about the procedure in this regard be certain to talk to your skincare professional.

Acne Scars and Wrinkles

Microdermabrasion is also often used to get rid of acne scars and to reduce the appearance of wrinkles through collagen regeneration.  For deep scars, such as those from acne, an esthetician may use a needle to break up the deeply buried scar tissue and a home microdermabrasion system then accelerates the regeneration of new, healthy skin.

The skin resurfacing process is relatively quick; sometimes completed in as little as 20 minutes. Further improvements are seen after successive treatments. Microdermabrasion can be applied aggressively to achieve dramatic results, but is not a substitution for laser treatments or surgery.

Microdermabrasion Cost

The cost of the treatments will vary depending on, among other things, the amount needed. The cost is also affected by the professional’s skill and specialty, with doctors generally charging more than aestheticians for example.