Positive Effects of Professional Microdermabrasion

Microdermabrasion is an anti-aging cosmetic skin care treatment, used for both preventative and corrective purposes. The treatment's ultimate intention is to yield more youthful, radiant skin. Microdermabrasion users vary greatly in age and skin condition, as the treatment's non-threatening, gentle application and one-size-fits-all benefits appeal to the vast majority of cosmetics consumers. Microdermabrasion has grown so popular that it's become as significant to the average skin care regimen as moisturizer. Anti-aging uses are fairly consistent, as far as the patient's objective is concerned, and microdermabrasion is more effective for some purposes than others, as outlined below.

How it Works

Microdermabrasion treatment expedites and intensifies the skin's natural exfoliation process. It involves a hand-held device and a skin-exfoliating substance, usually made of aluminum oxide crystals, baking soda or salt granules. The fine-toothed "sander" sweeps over the skin's outermost layer (the stratum corneum) in circular motions, combining suction and abrasion functions to collect and slough off old, dead skin cells. This nudging along of the cell turnover process encourages rapid production of new skin cells. The removal of old cells reveals a new, healthy skin layer that appears more youthful and radiant. Results are immediate (though they improve with consistent and continual use) and are temporary.

Effects on Complexion

Shedding the old, dead skin cells to expose the new layer offers an immediate improvement for dull skin. Microdermabrasion's "new" skin layer is visibly more vibrant and radiant. The overall complexion is revitalized. Skin tone appears more even, as well, contributing to the younger complexion. The exfoliation reduces red patches, often around the nose and chin, and sloughs away dry, scaly cells that make skin spots appear flaky and whitish, and contribute to the "aged" look of the skin. The new skin layer, generated by microdermabrasion, feels softer, and often more hydrated. An even skin tone and an almost "dewy" radiance are important attributes of a youthful, lively complexion.

Improvement in Appearance of Skin Irregularites

Microdermabrasion is not as aggressive as some of its anti-aging alternatives, such as chemical peels and laser surgery. The absence of harsh chemicals makes it a safer, gentler skin care solution. While more abrasive treatments might be optimal to rid the skin of deep wrinkles, scars and other more severe skin irregularities, microdermabrasion is effective in reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Consistent treatment can be effective from a preventative standpoint, as stimulaton of new cell growth prolongs wrinkle development. Microdermabrasion must be performed with realistic expectations: correction of severe skin ailments is not a reason for this treatment, and microdermabrasion is often used to supplement a more aggressive solution. The rejuvenated skin tone and radiance that results from microdermbrasion, however, helps camouflage irregularities.

Effect on the Pores

Youthful skin is not only soft, supple and even-toned; it also has another important quality: small pores. New, healthy skin cells bind closely together, versus aging, dying skin cells that separate and weaken, especially in their protective capability. Exfoliation reveals the new "glued" skin cells, drawn tightly, and working to protect the skin against free radicals and dirt build-up, to which large pores are susceptible.

Benefits of Microdermabrasion Over Alternative Solutions

First, sessions range from 15 minutes to an hour, and regardless of technique and source of treatment, patients can immediately return to normal activities at its conclusion. There is no downtime. Second, the treatment is painless. Third, since neither the chemicals nor the device used are particularly harmful, risk is small to none, and possible side effects are few, making it an option for sensitive skin. Finally, this treatment seems the most cost-effective anti-aging solution. While not the cheapest option out there, microdermabrasion systems for home use, manufactured by reputable yet lower-priced brands, produce results and effects comparable to expensive anti-aging products of high-end brands. Neutrogena's home microdermabrasion system, for example, has a stable, positive reputation. Also, spending $100 to $300 per session to have the treatment performed by a dermatologist, or in a high end spa or salon, may not only guarantee more dramatic, immediate results than those of home-kits, but the cost is still less expensive than chemical peels, laser surgery, and blatant age-reverse solutions, like face lifts.

Misconception

Microdermabrasion and dermabrasion treatments are not the same. Dermabrasion is a more intense, more aggressive skin care treatment that, unlike microdermabrasion, requires extensive pre-treatment preparation and post-treatment care. Dermabrasion technique involves the removal of the outermost skin layer. It is commonly used to treat severe acne scarring. Anesthesia is typical, and rather lengthy post-treatment downtime is necessary.

References

• Cosmetic Plastic Surgery Statistics; American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery
• Microdermabrasion, Will It Really Take Years Off?

Resources

• MIcrodermabrasion Products