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Microdermabrasion

Microdermabrasion is an increasingly popular cosmetic procedure employed to repair facial skin by reducing fine wrinkle lines, age spots, acne scars, and 'crow's feet'. The goal behind microdermabrasion is to stimulate the production of collagen and skin cells, combating the effects that age and sun exposure have on facial skin.

There are several different techniques that can be used, however the goal of each is to remove the dead skin cells from the outermost layer of facial skin. Gentle abrasion of this outermost layer removes these dead skin cells and stimulates the production of new, healthy cells. Often, several treatment sessions are required to remove fine lines and the darker pigmentation known as age spots.

Microdermabrasion procedures do not require anesthetic, and are not very painful. The procedure can be successful in removing facial scars that are raised from the surrounding skin, such as acne scars, but are rarely very effective in removing deeper facial scars.

The history of microdermabrasion starts in Europe. The technique has only become popular in the United States over the past 15 or so years. It is often performed in day spas and doctor's offices.

Microdermabrasion Techniques

Microdermabrasion techniques work to cleanse skin pores, thereby healing acne, and by removing the outermost layer of dead skin cells. There are four primary techniques used.

1) Peeling

The peeling technique uses microcrystals that help to pull debris from the skin pores. This is an easy technique that is typically quite comforting - often referred to as a deep tissue massage. Peeling can be done at spas, outpatient clinics, and at home, using store bought products. Microdermabrasion peeling typically follows a regiment of 4 or 5 peels at 1 or 2 week intervals, followed by peels every 6 to 8 weeks.

In this technique, a small machine is used to exfoliate and clean the skin's surface. This machine gently blasts very fine sand particles at the skin's surface, creating friction that removes dead skin cells from the surface of the skin.

2) Corundum Crystal Machines

Microdermabrasion using corundum or aluminum oxide crystals are the most popular of crystals used. They are uneven, course, hard crystals that don't tend to cause allergic reactions with skin. This prevents skin itching, eczema, or psoriasis. They are ideal for treating acne, due to their bactericidal properties.

These crystals are emitted from a microdermabrasion machine and gently blast the skin's surface.

3) Other Crystal Machines

Sodium chloride crystals, sodium bicarbonate crystals, and magnesium oxide crystals are also used in microdermabrasion machines. These crystals are typically cheaper than corundum crystals; however, they are less effective in removing the outermost skin cells.

4) Crystal-Free Microdermabrasion

Crystal free microdermabrasion involves the use of a diamond tipped instrument that gentle blasts the skin cells. This procedure is typically less painful and messy than crystal methods. Because aluminum oxide crystals are toxic, crystal free microdermabrasion is believed to be more hygienic than other methods, both in terms of patient safety and the safety of the doctor or aesthetician performing the microdermabrasion procedure.

Although each of these four methods is used for microdermabrasion, the crystal free procedure is becoming increasingly popular with patients and doctors. The procedure is safe, requires no medical oversight, and is very effective. Patients should discuss the various microdermabrasion techniques with their doctor or aesthetician to determine what method best suits their desired outcome.

Patients should understand that microdermabrasion is not recommended for the treatment of deep facial scars or deep wrinkles. However, those who desire a light polishing of facial skin can benefit from microdermabrasion, as it is quick and painless, does not require anesthesia, and can be repeated frequently.