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Microdermabrasion – A Skin Treatment for Exfoliation
Microdermabrasion is a skin treatment that uses suction and a diamond tipped stainless steel wand which glides across the surface of the skin to loosen dead skin cells and gently remove them. When dead skin cells are removed at a rate faster than the body sheds them your body renews your skin at a rapid rate signaling the fibroblast in your dermis to produce collagen, thus plumping fine lines and wrinkles and tightening pores, pigmentation slowly pushes to the surface and lightens after several treatments. Acne breakouts are reduced by keeping the pores clear of dead skin and oil. By removing the dead skin cells, blackheads and whiteheads are minimized.
Different Types of Microdermabrasion
There are several types of microdermabrasion on the market. Microdermabrasion first started using corundum or aluminum oxide crystals that spit out of the handpiece to break up the surface of the skin. These machines are still used in some areas, but they tend to give inconsistent results and are messy, getting in they eyes and ears of the client.
The new generation of microdermabrasion machines used diamond tipped wands to break up the surface of the skin. These give consistent results and are not as irritating as the crystals used to be. There are differences in the types of tips out there. A good diamond tipped machine should not leave a client red or streaked looking. After a treatment the skin should be lightly pink with no distinguishing marks.
What are the Benefits of Microdermabrasion
Approximately every 28 days we create a new layer of skin. As new cells form they push their way to the surface and then dead cells settle on the surface. This can cause enlarged pores, clogged pores, a bumpy uneven texture, and a dull appearance. As we age this process slows down leading to the appearance of older skin with less radiance.Before any skin treatment, your skin and medical history will be evaluated, however, for the most part, all skin types can benefit from microdermabrasion. Microdermabrasion is perfect for clients who want an exfoliation, but do not want the inconvenience of a chemical peel.
Microdermabrasion can:
- Minimize fine lines and wrinkles
- Minimize acne scarring
- Lighten hyperpigmentation and melasma
- Revitalize dull or dehydrated skin
- Clear up blackheads and milia
- Clear up oily and/or acnaeic skin
*People with thin skin, pustular acne and Accutane users cannot have microdermabrasion
What to Expect During a Microdermabrasion
The entire procedure takes about 30 minutes. While some clients report a scratchy sensation, most find it very relaxing.
What Happens After a Microdermabrasion
Your skin will feel smooth and healthy. You can be slightly red to pink for two hours, but makeup can be applied immediately. This is sometimes called a lunch-time peel because there is no down-time.
How Often Should You Receive a Microdermabrasion
Ideally, once every four to six weeks for optimum skin care. For certain skin conditions, microdermabrasion can be done every one to two weeks for initial correction.
By: Mary Hayse, Licensed Esthetician
Mary,
Nice summary on microdermabrasion! It’s nice to see a licensed Esthetician dropping knowledge especially when they probably have experience administering the treatment.
Best,
Elize