What Is a Microdermabrasion Facial?
Skincare today is often aimed at quenching the ever growing thirst for younger looking skin. There are countless surgical procedures that can help those looking to reverse the signs of aging, but these are usually expensive and may be tied to weeks of down time. A microdermabrasion facial is a relatively inexpensive alternative that will rejuvenate skin and give it a young healthy glow. Does this Spark an idea?
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Definition
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A microdermabrasion facial is a relatively quick and inexpensive skin treatment offered by most medical and day spas that utilizes a microderabrasion machine. It is considered a non-invasive procedure. It is most beneficial for those who are just starting to see signs of aging on their skin. These may include small age spots and fine lines and wrinkles. It rejuvenates aging skin and stimulates collagen production and skin elasticity.
How Microdermabrasion Works
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The LocateADoc.com website's article on microdermabrasion basics explains the microdermabrasion process when it says, "The skin is sandblasted with aluminum oxide crystals through a wand-like device that suctions itself to the skin. The technician controls the suction and level of the blast."
That "sandblast" action gently removes the top layer of dead, dull skin cells uncovering a smoother and healthier layer of skin. The suctioning action involved in microdermabrasion stimulates collagen production and skin elasticity that both make skin look healthier and younger.
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What to Expect
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During a microdermabrasion facial you will wear protective eye pads. The procedure will then begin with a light cleansing of the skin. Then the technician will begin the microdermabrasion. They will pass the microdermabrasion wand over each area of the face, neck and cheek. You will feel a light suction and scratching on the skin. It should not hurt. Each area of the skin will be passed over at least twice, and maybe even three times, if your skin is especially rough and dry.
After the procedure, the technician may apply a chemical peel or she may do a relaxing facial massage, apply a mask and moisturize the skin.
Expect a microdermabrasion facial can last anywhere from 30 minutes to an hour. Microdermabrasion is usually performed in four to eight treatment sets over an eight to sixteen week period.
Benefits
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There are many benefits to a microdermabrasion facial. There is no down time involved in this procedure. You can return to your daily routine right after having it done. Skin will instantly look younger and healthier and feel softer. It will significantly reduce fine lines and wrinkles. It will also reduce hyper-pigmented age or sun spots and make scars less prominent.
Warnings
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Although microdermabrasion has many benefits, some people should not have it done. If you have acne, microdermabrasion will only irritate it and turn pimples into painful lesions. If you are on any acne medication be sure to inform the technician. Some acne medications weaken the skin and procedures like microdermabrasion will rip it right off. Microdermabrasion works wonders for fine lines, but is not recommended for those with deep wrinkles.
Always consult an esthetician or dermatologist before having a microdermabrasion facial.
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References
- Photo Credit getting a facial image by Kelly Kane from Fotolia.com