Does Micro Dermabrasion Work for Acne?
Finding the right acne treatment isn't easy, but that doesn't mean it's impossible. So many people try creams, cleansers and even laser resurfacing to eliminate acne breakouts. One thing often overlooked is micro dermabrasion. Typically thought of for use on wrinkles, micro dermabrasion is also an effective acne treatment and in some cases, can make your skin clear up for good. Does this Spark an idea?
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Identification
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Micro dermabrasion is a skin treatment that involves using a crystalized substance to slough off the top layer of skin. A highly exfoliating cream may be rubbed into the skin or an abrasive tool resembling fine sandpaper may be applied against the skin to remove the top layer. Recovery time is generally brief and there are even micro dermabrasion kits you can purchase and use at home.
Acne Definition
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Acne is a skin condition that causes clogged pores and the appearance of blackheads, whiteheads, pustules, papules or cysts. It can cause redness and inflammation on the skin and may even be painful. In some cases, the acne may be so severe that it leaves scars behind that are difficult to get rid of. Prompt treatment is necessary to reduce the risk of scarring and to help acne heal in a healthy way without added inflammation.
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Effects
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Micro dermabrasion is effective on mild to moderate acne. It works by exfoliating the skin, which allows the skin to breathe and allows the pores to unclog. This helps remove impurities from the skin and helps acne heal. It also helps to soften the look of old acne scars. Redness left behind by acne breakouts is also reduced by micro dermabrasion, though several treatments are usually necessary to achieve the desired results.
Side Effects
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As with any medical treatment, micro dermabrasion does come with some side effects. For instance, you may notice redness following the procedure along with tightness and dry skin that persists for a few weeks. In some cases, your skin may peel or become blotchy. Rarely, the skin's pigment will change, leaving some areas of the skin lighter than others. The important thing to remember is side effects can usually be reduced by following your dermatologist's aftercare guidelines, using gentle cleansers, keeping the skin moisturized and staying out of the sun.
Warning
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Even though micro dermabrasion is effective on some forms of acne, it's not effective on every type. If you have moderate to severe acne, micro dermabrasion will likely only worsen the condition. Likewise, if you have very deep scars, auto-immune disorders, diabetes or a recent outbreak of herpes, micro dermabrasion is likely not the right treatment option for you.
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