Microdermabrasion Treatment

Between 1997 and 2007, the number of surgical and nonsurgical cosmetic procedures performed in the United States increased by over 9 million. Americans are obsessed with physical appearance, particularly with staying youthful. The number of anti-aging products in the cosmetics market has skyrocketed, and, so, too, has the number of patients seeking the latest medical cosmetic treatments for the skin. Microdermabrasion is one such skin treatment aimed to deliver a more youthful appearance in the skin with both corrective and preventative effects.

Purpose

Microdermabrasion, most commonly performed on the face, is a straight forward, non-invasive cosmetic procedure that revitalizes and rejuvenates dull skin, diminishes fine lines and wrinkles, reduces skin pigmentation caused by sun damage, reduces scars, and shrinks large pores. The typical microdermabrasion patient is concerned with crow's feet, age and liver spots, acne scars, and fine lines and wrinkles.

How it Works

Microdermabrasion is a non-invasive cosmetic procedure, meaning that it requires no surgical incision or entrance into the body through any cavity. It uses a combination of an exfoliating skin product and a small device, commonly a skin "brush" with fine teeth. The small machines used to "sand" the skin are composed of a compressor and pump that blend both abrasion and suction in order to peel the most outter surface of the epidermis skin layer. Tiny crystals are swept across the face to slough away that dead skin and promote a rapid replacement of new skin cells. This "unveiling" of new skin leaves an immediate visible difference.

Benefits

While laser resurfacing and chemical peels offer more dramatic effects on combating the signs of aging, microdermabrasion offers plenty of benefits in comparison to its alternatives. It is the least invasive dermatological procedure, and therefore poses the least risk (versus possible skin reactions, irritations, and scars that can result from laser surgery and chemical peels). It works on all skin types, regardless of age and color. There is no pain, no anesthesia is needed during the procedure, and there are no side effects--once the treatment session is finished, the patient can easily return to normal daily activities. Also, microdermabrasion is more affordable than other cosmetic skin care treatments.

Effects

The intensity of the effects of microdermabrasion depend on the skin condition and age of the patient, as well as the type, quality and frequency of treatment. One treatment, usually lasting between 30 and 60 minutes, guarantees that the skin's complexion is visibly improved. However, as with other skin rejuvenation techniques, more frequent and extensive treatments may be necessary to correct hyperpigmentation and get rid of fine lines and wrinkles. The American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery recommends visit intervals of two to three weeks in order to experience the full potential of microdermabrasion, which include ridding and preventing age spots, ridding acne scars, and evening the skin tone overall, just to name a few long-term effects.

Where to Go For Microdermabrasion Treatment

While microdermabrasion was once a service offered only in the offices of dermatologists and plastic surgeons, its availability is now much more widespread and accessible. Since the procedure is non-invasive and does not run the risk of using harsh chemicals, it is safe to have microdermabrasion performed at a spa or beauty salon by a non-medical professional. Also, many big-brand cosmetic companies have come out with home microdermabrasion kits: Neutrogena, DermaNew, L'Oreal, Olay, and Youthful Essence, to name just a few. Consider quality and cost--while a home kit might be more cost-effective, it might not deliver the quality of results otherwise offered from having the procedure performed at a dermatologist's office, where the average cost is $150 to $200 per treatment.

Warning

Microdermabrasion procedures, since they leave the skin "peeled" and the top layer brand new, also result in more sensitive skin, especially just after the procedure. The new skin has increased sensitivity to UV rays, may be prone to flaking or redness, and may be more irritable in general. Therefore it is doubly important that you use a strong SPF, and treat the skin with care and delicately; for example, don't touch your face often, and cleanse and moisturize morning and night.

References

• Cosmetic Plastic Surgery Statistics Reported by the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery
• "Does Microdermabrasion Really Work?"

Resources

• Find an ASPS Surgeon
• Microdermabrasion Guide and Review of Products