Saturday, November 23, 2013

Microdermabrasion

I have been listening so much about Microdermabrasion, how good it is for acne scars and blemishes and blah blah. I myself suffer from mild acne scars but I was searching the information for my mother who has melasma. I picked up one book from my library which had really good information about Microdermabrasion, so finally my all doubts are clear and all the myths burst.  I thought to share with you guys also.


Microdermabrasion


What is this?
Microdermabrasion is the most effective anti aging technique.  It is a painless, noninvasive, skin-rejuvenation procedure using a combination of a fine abrasive tip or crystals and vacuum suction applied to the skin

What it does to skin?
Microdermabrasion works by removing a few of the top layers of the skin called the stratum corneum. Much like brushing your teeth, microderm helps to gently remove "plaque" and skin debris.

Who should consider Microdermabrasion?
Microdermabrasion is very useful for people with dull or sallow skin, mild acne, acne discoloration, pick marks, melasma and very superficial acne scars. Individuals with deeper acne scars may expect a much longer series of treatments or likely benefit from physician-performed surgical dermabrasion or laser resurfacing.

How much time does that take?
Typical microdermabrasion sessions can last anywhere from five to 60 minutes. 

Where should I get this done?
Microdermabrasion can achieve dramatic results, but it is highly dependent on the skill of the esthetician. In general, it's best if you get it from an esthetician you already know and trust.  For the best results, it is generally recommended get a series of treatments. Your esthetician should be able to recommend the number that is appropriate for your skin type and condition. A typical protocal is six treatments about 10 to 14 days apart.  Because the machine can be adjusted depending on skin type and condition, even people with sensitive skin can get a treatment from a skilled esthetician. Doctors with medical spas can own more powerful machines, but more is not always better with microderm.

Price:-
The price for a single microdermabrasion treatment usually ranges from $100 - $150 per sitting.

Recovery Time?
Minimal to no recovery time is required after microdermabrasion and most people immediately return to daily activity after a session. 

How often can I have for results?
Microdermabrasion can be done as frequently as weekly or up to every eight weeks depending on your skin's tolerance and desired cosmetic effects.


What should I expect before, during, and after microdermabrasion?

Generally, softer and smoother skin that feels fresher and more rejuvenated is the expected outcome after microdermabrasion. Often the skin may be prepared and cleaned of makeup and oils. Yet, no topical or local anesthetic is required. The skin will be stretched to provide some tension in order to achieve the most effective abrasion and vacuum. The hand piece is moved over the skin with repeated single, smooth passes. Usually, two to four passes per area are sufficient.
Mild pinkness of the skin is the desired outcome and usually resolves within minutes to hours after microdermabrasion. In addition, mild exfoliation of skin may occur as well. Continuously apply moisturizer or ointment if exfoliation occurs. Patients may also experience mild sunburn-like sensation for a few days. Moreover, liberal application of sunscreen is recommended as photosensitivity may be increased after treatment.
Microdermabrasion may help stimulate the production of collagen, thereby helping skin rejuvenation. As age spots from photoaging and fine lines are diminished, the skin may become softer and smoother.

How effective are at-home microdermabrasion kits?

Most home microdermabrasion machines and kits are generally weaker than in-office, professional treatments. These at-home microdermabrasion kits often cannot provide the depth of skin abrasion or remove the dead skin cells by vacuuming as professional microdermabrasion.

What home remedies can produce results like microdermabrasion?

  • Use a pumice stone, loofah, or Buf-Puf.
  • Use baking soda and water.
  • Prepare homemade brown sugar and honey rubs.
  • Apply sea salt rubs.
  • Apply Epsom salts scrubs.
What all At home Microdermabrasion Kits are available in Market?
  • The Body shop Microdermabrassion Kit reviewed here
  • Olay Regenerist Microdermabrassion and Peel System
  • PMD
  • Kiehls Epidermal Re-texturizing Microdermabrasion and so many

Precautions before the procedure?
  • Check on the training of the person who is going to give you the microdermabrasion treatment. Results depend on their expertise. Bad technique can lead to abrasions and pin-point bleeding that means the treatment was too aggressively.
  • Do not get microdermabrasion if you have extremely sensitive skin, diabetes, vascular conditions like rosacea, skin inflammation, bacterial infections, lack of tactile sensation, keloid scarring, cuts and abrasions, or have gotten Botox within 72 hours. 
  • Other contraindications to microdermabrasion include sunburn, viral infections like herpes simplex, and acne. If you are taking anti-coagulant drugs.
  • Apply sunscreen and stay out of the sun after your treatment. Along with the dead skin cells, you have removed some of your protection.

Side Effects:-


  • skin tightness,
  • redness,
  • minor bruising,
  • skin sensitivity,
  • post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH),
  • small skin abrasions,
  • spots of bleeding,
  • eye-skin bruising (especially if you are taking aspirin or other blood thinners),
  • fine broken blood vessels (telangiectasia),
  • and cold sore reactivation around lips.
So, basically the summary is only go to the esthecian who is qualified plus whom you trust for this procedure because you can't take risk its your face after all.  Hope this helps!

References:-
Alkhawam, Lora, and Murad Alam. "Dermabrasion and Microdermabrasion." Facial Plastic Surgery25.5 Dec. 2009: 301-310.
Karimipour, D.J., G. Karimipour, and J.S. Orringer. "Microdermabrasion: An Evidence-Based Review." Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery 125.1 Jan. 2010: 372-377.

Image Source:- health.howstuffworks.com


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