What Is Microdermabrasion?

Microdermabrasion is a non-chemical, non-invasive procedure that uses a high-quality fine diamond encrusted head to remove the outermost layer of dry, dead skin cells and reveal younger, healthier-looking skin. Microdermabrasion also encourages the production of a new underlying layer of skin cells with higher levels of collagen and elastin, which further improves your skin’s appearance. Candidates Patients with fine facial lines or wrinkles, age spots, sun damage, uneven pigmentation, clogged pores, skin texture problems, or minor scars are good candidates for microdermabrasion. Patients with rosacea or acne may also benefit from microdermabrasion treatments. The gentle spray of microcrystals can eliminate or improve skin imperfections and conditions by removing the upper layer of dead and damaged skin cells to reveal new, fresh skin.

Ideal Candidates

The ideal candidates for microdermabrasion are healthy adults who have relatively minor skin conditions or imperfections and realistic expectations about what microdermabrasion can and cannot do. Because microdermabrasion is a mild, non-invasive procedure that cannot remedy sagging skin or correct deep facial creases or folds, such issues must be addressed with procedures such as face lift, laser skin tightening, and Thermage. Microdermabrasion for Acne Microdermabrasion can be used to treat acne and the scars that acne causes. Microdermabrasion treatments can eliminate or greatly reduce the appearance of lighter scarring. However, for deep acne scars (known as "pock marks" or "ice-pick acne scars") microdermabrasion may not be able to provide desired results.  Patients with active acne may also benefit from microdermabrasion treatments, which exfoliate the skin and clear clogged pores of oil and dirt. Because the polishing action of the diamond and the removal of skin cells can aggravate acne, however, a consultation with our Licensed Esthetician is advised to help determine whether a patient's acne or acne scars can be effectively treated with microdermabrasion. Microdermabrasion for Rosacea Rosacea is a chronic inflammation of facial skin characterized by redness, prominent blood vessels, swelling, and/or skin eruptions that look similar to acne. Microdermabrasion can be used to decrease the redness associated with rosacea. However, if you have been diagnosed with rosacea and are considering microdermabrasion, you should consult a dermatologist or cosmetic surgeon prior to treatment because microdermabrasion can negatively affect active rosacea.

Who Is Not a Good Candidate?

Microdermabrasion is not recommended for people who have deep scars, active keloids, undiagnosed lesions, a recent herpes outbreak, warts on the face, active acne (stages 3 and 4), an auto-immune system disorder, or unstable diabetes. Pregnant women should not undergo microdermabrasion. Candidates who have had a recent chemical peel or other skin procedure such as collagen injections should wait a two to three weeks before undergoing microdermabrasion. Prospective patients should also refrain from waxing or tanning the skin to be treated for a few weeks before microdermabrasion treatment. Individuals with deep scars, facial creases, or other moderate-to-severe skin defects should consider a stronger treatment such as a chemical peel, dermabrasion, or laser skin resurfacing.

Risks and Benefits

Microdermabrasion is a safe, non-surgical, "lunch hour" procedure that provides many benefits. Microdermabrasion reduces or eliminates fine facial lines, wrinkles, and other signs of aging; it improves the appearance of acne scars and other light scarring; and it gives skin of all colors and types a fresh, healthy-looking glow. It does all this with virtually no side effects. And because microdermabrasion uses non-allergenic diamond to treat the skin, it is an excellent treatment for skin that is sensitive to chemicals. Microdermabrasion does not present any serious risks when it is performed by a qualified provider. Some people may experience slight skin irritation after microdermabrasion. Since everyone's skin and health history differ to some degree, Microdermabrasion helps produce thicker, healthier skin layers; multiple treatments are vital because they encourage the production of a new layer of skin cells that contains higher levels of collagen and elastin. Both of these components are essential for vibrant, healthy skin, and they will further improve your complexion and the overall appearance of your skin. Approximately five to twelve treatments spaced two to three weeks apart are usually necessary to reap full microdermabrasion benefits. Convenient and virtually painless, the microdermabrasion procedure takes only 30 to 60 minutes and is commonly referred to as the “lunch hour facial.”

Is the Procedure Painful?

The microdermabrasion procedure exfoliates dead cells from the skin’s surface. While it is not painful, the treatment can cause a slight warming sensation as the abrasive microdermabrasion diamond gently sloughs away old and damaged layers of skin. Some patients have likened the experience to having a facial massage. After a microdermabrasion treatment, the newly revealed layer of skin is usually more sensitive and requires extra protection from the sun. You should not feel uncomfortable, but you should be particularly careful about wearing sunscreens. Applying moisturizing creams to hydrate and calm the skin can also prevent any potential irritation. One of our Licensed Estheticians will be able to suggest a facial cream or lotion that is best suited for your skin type.

Recovery and Results

Microdermabrasion is often called a "lunch hour" treatment because it's a quick procedure that can be performed on your lunch hour with little or no discomfort. The treated skin may be pink after the treatment, but this will usually fade within a few hours. You can apply makeup soon after undergoing microdermabrasion to conceal any visible signs of the treatment.

Is microdermabrasion painful?

No, microdermabrasion should not be painful or leave the patient with any lingering discomfort. However, microdermabrasion does cause a mild warming or tingling sensation that most patients describe in positive terms.

What type of results can I expect following treatment?

The results of microdermabrasion can be seen almost immediately. Just one microdermabrasion session can improve the skin's color, tone, and health. After treatment, the face should have a fresh appearance and a smooth, soft texture. However, the microdermabrasion system is most effective when a patient receives multiple treatments at intervals of two to three weeks.

Is microdermabrasion safe?

Yes. One of the important benefits of microdermabrasion is its safety. It is a non-invasive procedure with minimal risks. When performed by an experienced Esthetician, microdermabrasion can significantly enhance the complexion without affecting the deeper layers of the skin.

Will microdermabrasion eliminate acne scars?

Microdermabrasion can improve minor acne scars, but it is not intended to completely eliminate deeper scars or keloids caused by severe acne.  

What are the side effects?

Normal side effects associated with microdermabrasion are increased skin sensitivity and risk of sunburn. However, these side effects are usually mild and brief. Microdermabrasion risks are minimal, but problems such as infection can occur if the treatment is not properly performed.