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WHAT IS MICRODERMABRASION?
If you've been asking yourself, "What is microdermabrasion?", this page will serve as an introduction to the topic.
Often referred to as the 'lunch time peel' because of the lack of noticeable after-effects, microdermabrasion is a non-invasive, gentle process of using diamond chips or crystals to abrade the epidermis or outermost layer of the skin. This results in a fresher looking, blemish-free complexion.
 | The microdermabrasion machine is a closed system of airflow generated by compressors. The crystal particles are mixed into the airflow and propelled through a sterilized hand-held tube or wand onto the surface of the skin. The crystals and cellular debris are then vacuumed back into the machine and deposited in a separate compartment for disposal.
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The strength of the abrasion is controlled by the practitioner and depends on:
1. The speed of the airflow
2. The number of crystal particles per second applied to the skin
3. The number of passes of the wand across the skin
4. The thickness of the patient's skin
In answering the question, "What is microdermabrasion?", it's important to look at its multi-pronged approach to skin repair. The microdermabrasion process consists of three distinct phases:
1. Lymph Drainage/Collagen Production:
Prior to the abrasion process, the vacuum function is used to stimulate lymph drainage, blood flow resulting in faster cell renewal, and collagen production.
2. Abrasion:
In the abrasion phase, micro-fine crystals are jetted onto the skin's surface to remove dead and damaged skin cells.
3. Debris Removal
In the final phase, the vacuum removes the crystal debris and abraded skin cells.
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To watch three short videos on the phases of the microdermabrasion procedure, go to Microdermabrasion Videos.
FAQs
Here are some of the most frequently asked questions on the subject of microdermabrasion:
1. What skin problems does microdermabrasion work with?
A short list of skin problems that respond to microdermabrasion includes:
- Acne prone skin
- Acne scars
- Age spots
- Congested skin
- Fine wrinkles
- Frown and lip lines
- Ingrown hair
- Open pores and comedones
- Pigmentation and discoloration
- Premature aging
- Scar tissue
- Skin blemishes
- Stretch marks
Microdermabrasion does not work with the following skin conditions:
- Active acne
- Dermatitis
- Eczema
- Herpes simplex (active)
- Psoriasis
- Skin cancer
- Telangiectasia
- Vascular lesions
- Viral lesions
Microdermabrasion should also be avoided if any of the following apply to you:
- You suffer from uncontrolled diabetes
- You use oral blood thinners
- You are pregnant (first trimester)
2. What is the main benefit I can expect from microdermabrasion?
Because microdermabrasion stimulates the production of new, living cells at the deepest level of the skin, your skin will appear healthier, fresher and firmer.
You'll see an immediate improvement in dull and stressed looking skin, even after one procedure. Your skin will feel smoother and cleaner, and after the third treatment it will begin to glow. There is no down time where you need to avoid going out in public.
You should also see a substantial improvement in the specific skin problems that prompted you to seek microdermabrasion.
3. How will the microdermabrasion procedure feel on my skin?
The procedure is hygienic, painless and safe, and can be customized for your special skin concerns. Some patients report a 'scratchy' feeling during the abrasion part of the process, but the strength of the abrasion procedure is easily modified.
To read one client's account of her first microdermabrasion procedure, visit My First Microdermabrasion Experience.
4. How many treatments will I need?
Depending on the type of skin problem you wish to correct, your microdermabrasion program will consist of between 5 and 8 sessions. Ideally, your practitioner would schedule your sessions 7-14 days apart. Your skin needs ample time to regenerate between treatments, so this is a workable schedule. Your practitioner will advise a program based on your skin's condition and your ultimate goal.
For more information on microdermabrasion, click on microdermabrasion articles.
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