MICRODERMABRASION

What is Microdermabrasion?
Microdermabrasion is a non-surgical, non-chemical, non-invasive method of skin resurfacing that utilizes fine crystals or a diamond head to provide effective exfoliation and rejuvenation of the superficial layers of the skin.  When a more aggressive treatment is necessary, vacuum pressure can be increased to evenly penetrate deeper layers of the skin.  Increasing the blood supply provides nutrients necessary for skin regeneration, repair, and increased cellular turnover.  In return, improving the skins’ elasticity and texture, as well as balancing the pigment.

How does the treatment work?
The skin is washed to remove excess oil and dirt.  Then, a medical professional targets a stream of fine aluminum oxide crystals over the area.  The crystals abrade away old, dead skin cells, which the vacuum then picks up with gentle suction.  This promotes the growth of collagen and new, rejuvenated skin.  Moisturizers and sun block are then applied to the treated area.

How many treatments are required?
Initially 4 to 7 treatments spaced 7-10 days apart are recommended for most people.  Acne scars and or discolorations may require more treatments.  Monthly maintenance treatments every 2 or 3 months may be necessary to maintain results.

Is Microdermabrasion safe?
Microdermabrasion is a safe and common procedure.  There is no downtime to allow for healing and recovery.  But, as always, provide your full medical history and follow your pre and post-treatment instructions.

Can I go back to work after a microdermabrasion treatment?
YES! A few patients do notice their skin feeling tight immediately after the treatment as if the skin has been exposed to the sun or wind.  You might experience a slight dryness of the skin depending upon your skin type.  An effective moisturizer is applied after the treatment to prevent this drying of the skin.  The skin might appear slightly red for the remainder of the day.  Additionally, the patient is asked to refrain from using makeup on the day of the treatment to give the skin chance to breathe and regenerate itself.

Initially, you may feel a very mild scratching sensation as the crystals make contact with the skin.  As the treatments continue, this experience compares to a deep massage.  Mild redness may occur for ½ an hour to one day depending on the aggressiveness of the program.

Will there be any downtime?
One of the advantages of Microdermabrasion is that it has no downtime.  You can return to your normal routine and apply cosmetics directly after treatment.

What are the results?
Our Medical-Grade Microdermabrasion equipment provides a gentle alternative in facial rejuvenation.  It has proven to be effective in the treatment of the following conditions:
fine lines; enlarged or clogged pores; mild acne and complexion issues; sun damage; superficial age spots; scaly skin lesions also called keratoses; hyper-pigmentation; uneven skin tone; oily skin; dry/patchy skin; acne scarring; black/white heads;  and dull, lifeless skin.  In addition, most patients experience dramatic improvements in the color, tone, and texture of treated areas.

In general, microdermabrasion results in thicker, healthier, more youthful looking skin.  Over the course of a full set of treatments, the body will produce new layers of skin containing higher levels of elastin and collagen.  This, in turn, improves the complexion and gives the skin a more radiant, vibrant glow.

How soon will results appear?
Microdermabrasion results are usually immediate and noticeable.  Results improve with multiple treatments and vary depending on your individual skin quality.

How long does a Microdermabrasion treatment last?
A Microdermabrasion facial treatment lasts approximately half an hour.  Additional time is required for added areas.

Who are candidates for Microdermabrasion?
The ideal candidates for microdermabrasion are healthy adults who have relatively minor skin conditions or imperfections and realistic expectations about what microdermabrasion can and can not do.  Microdermabrasion works well for damaged skin, whether affected by acne, sun damage or aging; and skin of any type or color.

What are the benefits of Microdermabrasion over other procedures?

• Less time
• Less discomfort
• Quick recovery
• No disruptions to normal activities
• Chemical peels and laser resurfacing are most effective on the face; but not as safe and less effective on the neck, chest and hands. Microdermabrasion is safe and effective on the face, hands, chest, neck, knees and even elbows.

Who should avoid Microdermabrasion?
Microdermabrasion is not recommended for people who have deep scars, active keloids, undiagnosed lesions, a recent herpes outbreak, warts on the face, skin cancer, active acne (stages 3 and 4), sunburns or active rosacea, eczema, an auto-immune system disorder, or unstable diabetes.  Pregnant women should not undergo microdermabrasion.  Individuals with deep scars, facial creases, or other moderate-to-severe skin defects should consider a stronger treatment such as a chemical peel or laser skin resurfacing.

How does the treatment feel?
Microdermabrasion does not require anesthesia, although it may be mildly uncomfortable. Tightness and heat are common effects and quickly fade.  The feeling is often compared to a cats’ tongue licking your face.

How long do the results last?
Lasting effects are dependant on proper skin care.  Additional treatments will renew your youthful appearance.  A series of six treatments over a few months is recommended for best results, followed by regular maintenance treatments.

What are the limitations of Microdermabrasion?
Microdermabrasion is designed for minor imperfections and general improvement.  Those with very large or dark spots, moderate to deep wrinkles and serious scars should seek an alternative treatment.