microdermabrasion
Microdermabrasion is a process that involves gentle exfoliation of dead skin and stimulation of collagen regeneration. The procedure sends very finely powdered salt against the skin. This powder is then instantly vacuumed away. Unlike aggressive treatments, microdermabrasion involves minimal discomfort and virtually no side effects. Multiple treatment sessions at 10 to 21 day intervals maximize the effects.
In conjunction with a good home skin care regimen and adequate sun protection measures, this procedure may be helpful for patients with mild acne, mild texture abnormalities, melasma (“the mask of pregnancy”) and superficial sun spots.
The procedure takes about 30 minutes to perform. Expect mild redness for up to a day. Most individuals apply sunscreen and makeup immediately after the procedure. This means you can go right on with your daily activities. It is important to limit exposure to sun, dust and wind for 72 hours after the procedure. Many people will also find it more comfortable to avoid the use of alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs), topical acne treatments, bleaching agents, Retin A, and similar products for a couple of days before and after each procedure.
Please let your health care provider know if you have a history of facial fever blisters or cold sores. It may be necessary for you to take anti viral therapy the day of the procedure. Patients with severe or inflammatory acne, active eczema, sunburn, warts, molluscum, or on Carac/Efudex therapy should wait until the inflammation or viral process is calm before having this procedure. Patients who have had recent eye surgery such as cataract surgery or LASIK should also wait until cleared by their surgeon to have microdermabrasion performed. Contact lenses should be removed prior to therapy to avoid having particles of salt trapped under the lenses.
Microdermabrasion is well tolerated by almost everyone. Expect to see a smoother skin texture and the return of a “healthy glow” to your skin. Occasional side effects include bruising, swelling, pigmentation changes, and an increased number of small facial vessels in those who are so disposed. Scarring extraordinarily rare.