About Microdermabrasion

The cost of face lifts, injections and chemical peels can be prohibitive, so more women and men are turning to microdermabrasion as a means of improving their appearances. In addition to being more affordable than plastic surgery, microdermabrasion is among the least invasive dermatological processes.

What Microdermabrasion Does

Microdermabrasion is a procedure that helps improve the skin, and is mainly done on the face. It revives dull skin; reduces enlarged pores; erases fine lines; and reduces the visibility of wrinkles, sun spots, acne scars and blemishes. Blotchy skin, uneven skin texture and tone, stretch marks, and excessively oily skin all appear revitalized after microdermabrasion treatment.

How Microdermabrasion Works

Microdermabrasion involves the application of small, rough grains designed to buff away the topmost layer of the skin, known as the stratum corneum. The grains remove imperfections at this level, not affecting the lower dermis layer of the skin. The disruption causes the skin to react by creating new, healthy skin cells to replace those that were lost in treatment. Specialized tools may be used to shoot, and then remove, tiny crystals that have been sprayed onto the surface of the skin. These crystals can be made from aluminum oxide, sodium chloride or sodium bicarbonate. Some tools include a diamond-tipped wand that is used on the skin in place of crystal-like particles. Clients are generally given creams or lotions to apply to the skin that has been treated. It is advisable to wear sunscreen post-treatment.

Who Performs Microdermabrasion?

Plastic surgeons, dermatologists, other physicians, licensed aestheticians and nurses perform microdermabrasion. It is wise to ask treatment providers about their credentials, training and how frequently they perform microdermabrasion. The cost of microdermabrasion varies. Cost can depend on the treatment provider’s experience and credentials. Aestheticians and nurses generally charge less for microdermabrasion than plastic surgeons or dermatologists.

Time and Money

Microdermabrasion treatments take about 30 to 45 minutes. The number of treatments you may require depends on the condition of your skin. After consulting with your practitioner, you can generally purchase treatment packages in which the individual cost of each treatment is reduced the more treatments you buy.

Suitability

Treatment of the face with microdermabrasion may not be suitable for you if you are suffering from diabetes, fragile capillaries, extreme active acne, eczema, undiagnosed lesions, dermatitis, autoimmune disorders or psoriasis, are pregnant or nursing or have some other medical conditions. Be sure to tell your dermatologist or the person performing the procedure about your health status and any medications you are taking.