Microdermabrasion – Skin RejuvenationMicrodermabrasion is a popular non-surgical cosmetic procedure that gently removes damaged skin and promotes a healthier, younger-looking appearance.
The purpose of microdermabrasion is to renew the skin and erase many of the effects of aging and other types of skin damage. The procedure is quick, affordable, safe, and provides immediate results.
Microdermabrasion is often referred to as “ the lunch-time peel” as a patient can undergo the quick procedure and then return to work or other normal activities without the need for a lengthy recovery. If you are interested in gaining a healthier, younger-looking appearance, it’s time to find out what microdermabrasion can do for your skin.
Benefits of MicrodermabrasionMicrodermabrasion can treat skin that has been damaged from a variety of factors, including environmental elements, lifestyle choices, disease, heredity, gravity, and time. Commonly, skin damage and signs of aging results from years of sun exposure, smoking, use of alcohol, and poor nutrition. With age, some wrinkles are inevitable from a life of smiling, laughing, frowning, and squinting.
Also, the skin’s natural elasticity diminishes as the collagen and elastin starts to break down in the tissues. Many people may also suffer skin damage from acne, scarring from disease or facial trauma, and actinic keratoses.
Microdermabrasion can treat:Sun-damaged skin, fine wrinkles, and age spotsDull, lifeless skin and dry, scaly skinOily and acne prone skin, acne scars, enlarged pores, blackheads, and whiteheadsRemove or diminish scars and superficial pigmentation of the skinPatient CriteriaThe ideal candidate for microdermabrasion is an individual who is in good general health, a non-smoker, and has realistic expectations of the outcome, all of which are basic requirements for any medical treatment.
Generally, microdermabrasion is suitable for anyone who wants to renew his or her skin. Prior to the first treatment, it will be necessary to schedule a consultation with a dermatologist. The doctor will examine your skin and explain to you how much improvement you can expect to see, the benefits that you can realistically expect, and how many treatments will be necessary to achieve the desired results.
How Microdermabrasion Works Microdermabrasion is gentle sandblasting of the skin. The dermatologist uses a hand held device to send a spray of very tiny crystals onto the skin. The crystal spray gently exfoliates the outer layers of skin and reveals fresher, younger skin. The treatment also stimulates the growth of new, healthy skin cells.
Microdermabrasion resurfaces the skin, which reduces fine lines and wrinkles, improves skin tone, and helps to clear up acne. During the procedure, the patient will be asked to wear goggles to protect the eyes. Treatment is generally not painful and does not require anesthesia. Treatment Time Per SessionA treatment session for microdermabrasion generally takes about 15 minutes.
How Many Sessions Are NeededThe amount of sessions needed will depend on a patient’s skin condition or skin damage and the desired results. A typical new microdermabrasion patient averages four to eight treatments that are spaced about one to three weeks between treatment sessions.
Some patients may only need to have the procedure performed once and then have no need for another session until the signs of aging begin to reemerge years later. Quick Recovery Although there may be some redness for about an hour after microdermabrasion is performed, most patients are able to go back to work or resume normal activities after treatment and do not require any recovery time. Choosing a Microdermabrasion ProviderMicrodermabrasion requires no medical oversight and is commonly offered with other facial spa treatments in day spas and medical spas, as well as by dermatologists.
Cost of MicrodermabrasionMicrodermabrasion is not only one of the safest cosmetic procedures, but it is also one of the most affordable cosmetic facial rejuvenation services available. The average cost for treatment is about $175, but this can vary somewhat based on the provider and geographic location. In comparison, the average fee for a chemical peel is over $600, laser skin resurfacing averages about $2,400, and a facelift costs at least $5,000. The results of microdermabrasion are immediate.
Although there may be some redness for about an hour or so after a treatment session, the final results do not require a lengthy healing period. The duration of the results depends on the condition of a patient’s skin, age, genetics, and how well a patient takes care of the skin.
To prolong results and maintain healthy skin, practice proper cleansing and moisturizing, good nutrition, no smoking, moderate alcohol consumption, and especially the daily use of sunblock (SPF 30 or above) and sun protection such as hats and sunglasses.