What Is Microdermabrasion?

Posted on 06. Nov, 2009 in Non-Surgical Procedures

What is Microdermabrasion?

Microdermabrasion  is a popular non-surgical treatment that often takes place in both health spas and doctors’ practices.

 Who Should Have the Treatment?

It is a popular procedure with both men and women for a quick skin pick-me-up. It gives your complexion a smoother surface whilst promoting the growth of healthy new cells. It improves the appearance of wrinkles, skin texture and colour by polishing the topmost layer and then vacuuming away the dead skin cells in a safe, controlled manner. Whilst offering an over-all more youthful look to the face and neck, microdermabrasion is particularly helpful in treating specific skin complaints, these can include:

• Acne
• Scarring
• Sun damage
• Pigmentation

 The procedure lasts around 45 minutes and a course of 6 treatments is usually recommended for the most effective outcome.

 If you decide microdermabrasion is for you, you will firstly have a consultation with a qualified practitioner. During this consultation the practitioner will determine your skin type and decide which is the best ‘wand’ to use for your treatment. The wand, so called due to its long cylindrical appearance and somewhat magical properties, works in two ways. Firstly it pumps crystals to the surface of the skin at a high speed to exfoliate the top layer of skin, then the machine sucks those crystals away to be disposed of later. (http://www.transforminglives.co.uk/non-surgical/microdermabrasion.aspx)

 What Are the Risks?

Relatively non-invasive and with no long recovery period needed, Microdermabrasion is often combined with other cosmetic facial procedures such as:

•  Facelifts
•  Botox
•  Skin Peels
• Dermal Fillers

 One treatment can cost as little as £55 and be performed during your lunch hour. There are limited side effects to microdermabrasion; patients may experience some pinkness immediately after the procedure but this should subside within 24hours. The treatment can also emphasise thread veins if you suffer from them, but by using the wand best suited to your skin type these minor after effects can be almost eliminated.

How Long Will the Results Last?

The effects of microdermabrasion can not wear out or be reversed; in fact the benefits of microdermabraion continue to grow after the procedure. After treatment the skin is in better condition to absorb skin creams and serums, helping it to remain hydrated and glowing. The procedure also stimulates the epidermis beneath the skins surface to promote new collagen which thickens the dermis and improves resistance to the effects of ageing.