Face Abrasion Treatment

A face abrasion treatment is what the name implies. It can be likened to sanding away unwanted layers of skin, and it is often as painful as it sounds. Facial abrasion treatments are called dermabrasion, and while there are benefits, it is not without risks.

Dermabrasion

Dermabrasion is a procedure wherein a surgeon uses an abrasive rotating brush to slough away layers of skin and thus remove skin imperfections.

Purpose

Dermabrasion can reduce and, in some cases, even remove wrinkles and scarring. Dermabrasion is often used to remove scarring caused by acne.

Side Effects

Dermabrasion can be very painful. It may cause swelling, redness, scabbing and a burning sensation.

Pain

Pain may be controlled (during the procedure) with general anesthesia or a local spray-on anesthetic called freon.

Long-Term Risks

Ironically, dermabrasion, which is intended to reduce scarring, may cause permanent scarring. This procedure may also cause permanent changes to the skin's coloring. As with any surgical procedure, patients undergoing dermabrasion run the risk of infection.

References

• University of Virginia Health System: Dermabrasion
• University of Maryland Medical Center: Dermabrasion Risks