What is Microdermabrasion?

Microdermabrasion is a skin resurfacing cosmetic procedure that is also called microderm. It abrades the top slayer of the skin, It was invented in Italy in 1985. This skin procedure is popular and can be done at skin care clinics or even day spas. The microdermabrasion procedure consists of a light abrasion that removes the outer layer of skin to remove dead skin cells. This method also can remove some sun damaged skin. Microdermabrasion can also diminish or eliminate some skin scars. Microdermabrasion may also reduce and eliminate brown spots on the skin. The procedure does not require an anesthetic and isn’t really painful. When used for a raised scar, microdermbrasion can be very effective in reducing its appearance.

Typical Uses For Microdermabrasion:

  • Cleaning out skin pores
  • Treating certain kinds of acne
  • Treating melasma with 4-5 treatments
  • Rejuvenate skin texture
  • After skin laser treatments

Microdermabrasion Types

At one time microdermabrasion was done by using abrasive crystals. With this technique, tiny crystals were blasted onto the skin at high speeds in order to remove the dead skin cells. There has been some concern of regular usage of aluminum oxide crystals over prolonged time periods.

Today, there are several different methods because of the new developments that have occurred over the years. One of these new methods is diamond microdermabrasion. Diamond microdermabrasion utilizes a microdermabrasion tip that is covered with tiny diamonds. There are different diamond tips that are used based on the skin type. The removal of dead skin cells helps skin care products penetrate the skin more efficiently.

You can buy home microdermabrasion kits now and do it yourself at home. Though the home kits are not as effective as some of the professional treatments are but you will save money. Some day spas and beauty salons will charge up to $200 for a microderabrasion treatment. These microdermabrasion kits use very small particles to abrate, as well as, polish the skin. Home microdermabrasion will offer good results with recurring usage. If perhaps you don’t want to buy a microdermabrasion kit, you could buy a microdermabrasion cream to exfoliate your skin.

Benefits of Microdermabrasion

  • Affordable
  • Painless
  • Can reduce stretch marks
  • Can diminish brown spots or liver spots
  • Least invasive skin procedure
  • You can do it yourself with a home kit
  • Few side effects
  • No anesthetic is needed
  • Improves skin appearance – gives you younger looking skin

Some Side Effects of Microdermabrasion

  • If you are using this procedure to reduce acne, you may at first see an increase of acne when the pores are opened up.
  • You could experience some redness, itchy, and/or flaky dry skin.  Most of the time this is mild and goes away quickly.
  • People with dark skin tones could experience skin pigmentation imbalances, in other words, your skin tone may be uneven.

Some Cautions:

If you have eczema you should not use microdermabrasion on the afflicted area. If you have any moles or any other skin lesions, you should consult with your doctor before having this procedure done. Always see you doctor if you have any concerns or questions about microdermabrasion.