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Skin
and Beauty
Microdermabrasion
If you have noticed how refreshed a stone building looks after a
thorough sandblasting, you are on your way to understanding the effects
of microdermabrasion. The procedure has gained considerable popularity
in the past few years. Microdermabrasion is best thought of as a
buffing process for the outer epidermal layer of the skin, leaving
individuals with smoother, more supple-looking skin.
The Process
Microdermabrasion is used to treat sun-damaged skin, unevenly textured
skin, fine lines, aging spots, and stretch marks. The procedure
involves spraying a fine jet of sand-like crystals onto the skin and,
using a highly controlled vacuum, sweeping up the crystals and the top
epidermal layer. As microdermabrasion brushes away the damaged cell
layers, it also stimulates the skin's production of collagen and helps
to maintain the elasticity of the skin. This process exfoliates the
skin, stimulating the production of collagen and elastin which will
result in a firmer, more youthful looking skin over time.
Microdermabrasion is a subtle procedure that softens the problem areas
of the skin. As a result, many patients return for an additional 5 to 7
treatments over the course of 2 months to attain a thoroughly refreshed
and vibrant appearance.
Perhaps the best aspect of microdermabrasion is that each treatment
only lasts 15 to 45 minutes. In fact, it is so convenient that it is
often referred to as the "lunchtime face lift." As well,
microdermabrasion requires no anesthesia and is almost completely
painless.
Following the Procedure
Directly following the treatment, the skin typically has a slightly
rosy complexion that fades after a day. The skin is often dry and must
be properly cleansed and moisturized for several days. In addition,
patients should avoid wearing make-up for a day or two after the
treatment.
Expected Results from Microdermabrasion
Depending on the area treated, you will notice an improvement in your
skin's appearance. Acne scars will be less obvious. Age spots and fine
lines are greatly diminished and many patients report that their skin
seems to be softer, smoother, and younger-looking. After your first
treatment, your skin will have a fresh pink glow. Improvement continues
throughout your treatment program. You will begin to notice visible
results after about the third treatment. In conjunction with a
supervised skin care regimen, your skin will achieve and maintain a
healthy look and feel.
Health Concerns
Microdermabrasion exfoliates only the external layer of skin and,
therefore, rarely causes serious complications. However, if the
technician is not careful, the tiny sand crystals can get in the eyes
and cause considerable irritation. For those intending to have this
procedure performed in a salon, be aware that there have been cases
where the exfoliating crystals have been recycled for multiple
patients. These recycled crystals can contain skin toxins from previous
patients and can spread serious viruses such as hepatitis. Two weeks
prior to the procedure, patients should refrain from tanning or waxing,
or having chemical peel or collagen injections performed. Pregnant
women should refrain from microdermabrasion.
What is can be used for:
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Hyperpigmentation
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Uneven skin tone or texture post laser
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Reducing skin "dullness" that accompanies aging skin.
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Keratosis Pilaris can be temporarily smoothed out, allowing topicals to penetrate easier and work more effectively.
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Some stretch marks.
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Opening
blackheads and keeping pores clean. Do not think of this as an acne
therapy, although I have heard of several companies that make these
claims.
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Softening some saucer like acne scars and some other forms of scarring.
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Smoothing out fine wrinkle lines. Procedure will not make a huge difference on advanced deep wrinkles.
What it should not be used for:
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Not appropriate for keloidal scaring, as it may stimulate further scar formation.
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Not appropriate for jagged ice-pick scars.
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Skin cancers
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Precancerous actinic keratoses
(AKs)
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This is not a method for the removal of skin growths.
Combining Microdermabrasion with Skin Restoration Program:
Microdermabrasion results are best when combined with corresponding
skin treatment products. Home exfoliation is almost always used to
expedite the improvement. Often the use of a topical vitamin A products
for facial treatment such as prescription Retin A is used. They are
often begun approximately 2 weeks prior to starting your
microdermabrasion series. In some instances, they may be continued on a
maintenance basis.
The use of topical vitamin C products such as Cffectives is also
beneficial. This provides an antioxidant to the skin as well as helps
stimulate collagen and elastin formation and deposition within the
dermis.
If you suffer from hyperpigmentation, the use of effective bleaching
agents such as the Obagi Nu Derm products are very important to
achieving great microdermabrasion results. Your bleaching agent can
also help prevent or diminish potential increased discoloration if you
are anticipating deeper microdermabrasion., Certainly it is important
to discuss the period when you should hold off on the use of these
products during microdermabrasion sessions. It is typically a 36-hour
period starting the night before treatment and restarting the morning
after the procedure.
Does it work?
The advocates for this procedure have long made claims that the
production of collagen and elastin fiber fibers is possible. Recent
medical studies have shown documented changes within the dermis,
suggesting some basis to this claim. Before and after skin biopsies of
treated areas did indeed show pathologic improvement. The use of
adjuvant topical therapy and the appropriate selection of patients for
this procedure should help maximize results and diminish disappointment
for both the clinician as well as the client.
Who Is A Microdermabrasion Candidate?
Anyone who is looking for a method to help improve their skin without
having to hide for long periods of time due to extreme redness, raw
skin, etc., and has minor skin issues such as irregular pigmentation,
small depressed scars, fine lines and faint to moderate stretch marks
should be a candidate. Microdermabrasion can be performed on any skin
type as long as there are no other contraindications.
Testimonials:
"Dear Dr. Wigoda,
Thank you for suggesting microdermabrasion to me. I was skeptical at
first but my friend kept telling me how much better her skin felt and
looked. After a few treatments I can already start seeing and feeling
the difference in my face. Lauren does such a thorough job and is so
knowledgeable about skin. She just started me on the Obagi system and I
just love it. Thank you so much. I'm so happy I finally decided to do
it. I guess I never realized how much of a difference it makes when you
have healthy looking skin."
Lisa W., age 48.
"Dear Dr. Wigoda,
I just wanted to tell you how awesome Lauren is. I had a few
microdermabrasion treatments years ago at a salon but did not see much
difference. Since I trust Lauren from the great job she did with the
Laser Hair Removal, I thought I would give microdermabrasion another
try. She is truly talented. My skin really looks better. I cant wait to
see how it looks after the series of 5 treatments."
Sandra L., age 25
"Dear Dr. Wigoda,
I just wanted to thank you for the great improvement in my wrinkles
from the Botox treatment and to tell you how happy I am with my skin
from the microdermabrasion/Obagi combo that you suggested. Perhaps my
dermatologist didn't think I was interested in my skin's appearance,
but since I am in sales, competing with younger men, it really matters.
Thanks for taking the time and encouraging me to improve my skins
health and appearance. I will be sending all my friends to you."
Bill S., age 54.
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