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Frequently Asked Questions About
Microdermabrasion
1. Am I candidate for Microdermabrasion?
2. What is Microdermabrasion?
3. When is Microdermabrasion usually performed?
4. What does a typical Microdermabrasion consultation entail?
5. How is Microdermabrasion performed?
6. What are the differences in the machines that perform Microdermabrasion?
7. What should I expect after Microdermabrasion?
8. Does Microdermabrasion hurt?
9. Will Microdermabrasion get rid of my fine lines, wrinkles and acne scars?
10. Is there a lot of swelling involved with a Microdermabrasion?
11. When can I return to work?
12. When will I be able to see the results?
13. What are the risks of Microdermabrasion?
14. Is there maintenance with Microdermabrasion?
If you have or have had acne, discolorations,
superficial lines and wrinkles, uneven texture or sun damaged skin -- you may be a
candidate for Microdermabrasion. Microdermabrasion can not be expected to removed deep
scars or wrinkles, birth marks or tattoos. If you have no history of
hypo/hyper-pigmentation or keloid scarring in your family you should consider
microdermabrasion as an alternative to a deeper invasive peel.
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Microdermabrasion is a mini procedure that involves the skin being
"sandblasted" by aluminum oxide crystals to remove the horny (top) layer
of the skin; dead skin cells. And to promote the production of new cells in the basal
(deepest) layer of the dermis. This procedure may not work for everyone but it works
for me and Marc. It can clean your pores incredibly and hinder any future breaks outs if
used on a regular basis. Microdermabrasion also stimulates collagen net working to further
even out skin texture and appearance.
Microdermabrasion can be performed anytime, with sessions at 10 days
apart from each other for best results. Although this procedure can nit be expected
to remove serious sun damage. It is best for women to schedule this procedure in the first
two weeks after their menstrual cycle as, the skin is more sensitive nearing and during
this time
There really is no consultation, per se.
This is such a non-invasive
mini procedure that the details can be explained in 5 minutes and the rewards for such a
long period of time if a series is undergone. Although maintenance sessions every few
months should be sought.
A cleansing toner is applied to the skin to remove excess oils for
better application and penetration. A self contained wand is manually passed over the skin
in areas of damage or all over the face, which is usually the case. The machine delivers
fine, sanitary aluminum oxide crystals to the face that "sand blasts" away dead
skin and impurities. The procedure lasts about 20 to 30 minutes, depending upon the 'depth'
or 'strength' of the peel. Afterwards a cotton ball saturated with a soothing toner
is passed over the face then a re-hydrating cream and sun block are applied.
There are all types of machines on the market today, although many of
them are not high quality. A very dependable and high quality machine is available from a
company called Power Peel. Power Peel is reportedly the originator of the machine and technique
although many copy cat systems have risen on the market in the last year. Then
again, I have heard that Derma Genesis is, as well. Who knows? Plus I really
don't care. As long as it works, for a reasonable price.
Many spas or
salons have the cheaper variety, although dermatologists and plastic surgeons may have
bought a cheaper model as well -- charging full price on a cheaper, less effective peel.
I
personally have used a system called Smart Peel.
You can expect to feel as if you have a mild sun burn or windburn.
You
skin will feel very dry and may peel. This is natural and is the purpose of the procedure.
You should regularly apply a high quality moisturizer as well as a high protection sun
block. Do not expose your face to sunlight for long periods of time, not even
tanning beds. You should not use any exfoliating scrubs or lotions beforehand or
afterwards for at least 3 days. Your skin will be smoother and the damage will be
lessened. Although for serious damage a series (of 4 to 6 sessions) can be scheduled at
5 day intervals. It truly depends upon your technician.
Microdermabrasion does not hurt although it may sting a little around
the eye area. The patient normally works up as they go to increase the
penetration level. Your skin may feel a little hot and appear a little pink for the first
day.
In most cases, yes. Although severe scarring will not be lessened in
appearance with solely Microdermabrasion. Sometimes a regimen of Retin-A and or Glycolic
treatments in conjunction with Microdermabrasion will increase your chances the best
results possible.
And quite frankly I'd undergo a
skin care system like an at-home TCA peel, Cosmelan, or even Obagi
NuDerm with Retin A, 6 weeks to beautiful skin for cheaper! That's what I
did and I must tell you that if I had the money I'd get microdermabrasion as a
luxury but for removing your complaints.
It is extremely rare that you may swell at all after Microdermabrasion.
This min procedure is so very un-invasive yet it really works with time. I noticed a
difference after one treatment.
You can return to work immediately with the application of a little
loose powder. You may choose to schedule this on your day off or at least after work.
Many
patients schedule it on their lunch break bat return with pink skin. There is no
downtime per se, involved with Microdermabrasion.
Results are often times, immediate.
We're not talking life-altering results here, but a nice, clean, smooth feeling
is apparent directly after. At least with a high quality
machine. You will notice that your skin to be more even toned and textured.
After the horny
layer (dull dead skin cells) is removed you will notice an improvement overall.
Especially after a series.
There are not many risks associated with
microdermabrasion if you are a healthy adult, but enough to mention for those
of you with skin or medical conditions. If the medical grade machines are used at high
power it carries potential risks of hyperpigmentation, perforation, bleeding, and
infection. Infection can also be a risk if the machines are not sterile. Many components
of these machines are meant to be sterilized, autoclaved or changed out with a new
disposable piece. Any and all pieces that come into contact with your skin should be able
to be sterilized or changed out.
*Also, you should NOT have a
microdermabrasion treatment on the affected area if you have the following:
- Undiagnosed lesions
- Recent herpes outbreaks
- Warts
- Active, weeping acne (stages 3-4)
- Active Rosacea
- Unstable diabetes
- Auto-immune system disorders
- Some patients hyperpigment post-op. Lower pressures are used on follow-up
treatments
- Using Retin A religiously or
just had a chemical peel
- recently had laser surgery
*source for the immediate above, Medscape
Medical Journal (1999)
Not really maintenance but it is best that you schedule a session every
few months for general upkeep. I hardly consider that maintenance, by definition.
You will
not magically return to your former damaged skin tone condition although occasional
sessions can only make it better.
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