Answers to Your Top 7 Questions About Microdermabrasion
Microdermabrasion has become increasingly popular in recent years as a solution to help remove skin blemishes, acne scars, fine wrinkles, and sun spots. But, with so much publicized information, it’s easy to get overwhelmed by everything out there. Take a look below to find out what microdermabrasion actually does and find out if it’s the right solution for you and your skin.
What is microdermabrasion?
You can opt for microdermabrasion for a number of reasons. The most popular reasons include getting rid of fine wrinkles, sun spots, or acne scars. The technique exfoliates the upper layers of the skin with aluminum oxide microcrystals. These gently sand the surface of the leather, leaving it smooth. The procedure, which takes less than an hour, also stimulates collagen production, which helps the skin rejuvenate faster than with other types of skin treatments.
How do I know if I am a candidate for microdermabrasion?
Before undergoing the procedure, you should meet with a licensed professional to determine if the treatment is right for you. Microdermabrasion can be performed in salons, medical spas, and similar businesses, but it should always be performed by a well-trained plastic surgeon, dermatologist, or beauty specialist.
At your appointment, discuss your medical history with your doctor and let him or her know which treatments and medications have worked and which have not. At this time, your doctor can examine your skin, learn your history, and decide if microdermabrasion is a good treatment option for you. Take advantage of this time to ask any questions you have about the procedure, including the risks, potential complications, and your expectations of the outcome.
Typically, people who experience acne scars, enlarged pores, sun spots, or blemished skin are all candidates for the procedure, as it is suitable for all skin types. However, certain aspects of your medical history can make you an unsuitable candidate.
The procedure uses aluminum oxide – is it safe for all skin types?
Aluminum oxide crystals will not cause adverse skin reactions, they are safe and non-toxic. During the procedure, your eyes will be protected with glasses so that the crystals do not enter your eye. As an added safety measure, the wand is designed to suck in the crystals, so the chances of inhaling them are very low.
How many treatments are required to see results?
Your doctor should be able to give you a rough idea of how many treatments you will need to get the results you are looking for. For most people, the results are obvious after the fifth session, but many doctors recommend 7 to 10 treatments, with a couple of weeks between each. This gives your skin adequate time to heal so that it is ready for the next session.
If I decide on treatment, how do I prepare for the procedure?
A great advantage of microdermabrasion is that virtually no pre-treatment is needed. However, your doctor may ask you to stop taking certain medications, Retin-A, Differin gel, or glycolic acid for the week before your procedure. For those who smoke, it is also recommended that they stop smoking during the previous days; This will help improve blood flow.
What can I expect during a microdermabrasion treatment?
To start, the doctor will apply a cleansing gel to your skin. They will then use a handheld device to sandblast the aluminum oxide onto your skin. The device also sucks up dead skin cells at the same time. The wand is passed over the entire face so that the texture and color of the skin remain consistent. Finally, the doctor will apply a sunblock cream to your face. This allows you to resume your daily routine immediately after treatment.
Most people who undergo microdermabrasion experience little or no discomfort from the treatment. Others have reported mild itching or stinging as the procedure begins, but it usually goes away as the skin gets used to the crystals.
What can I expect after the treatment?
After the procedure, you will be given a sunscreen moisturizer that will help prevent any sun damage to your skin. You may experience dryness or redness of the skin, but this is likely to go away in the first 24 hours. To help with your comfort, apply plenty of moisturizer to the affected area for a few days after treatment. And, to keep your skin looking smooth and looking smooth, you may want to schedule a follow-up “maintenance” appointment every 3-4 months.