Microdermabrasion
is a revolutionary new skin restoration process approved by the Food
and Drug Administration (FDA) and is commonly referred to as the “lunch
time peel”. It was first introduced in Europe in 1986. The number of
procedures in the United States has rapidly increased due to it’s
rejuvenating effects. The process of microdermabrasion consists of
highly controlled vacuum and pressure applied to small abrasive
crystals over the surface of the skin. By repeating this process over
the course of several weeks or months, the younger, softer skin moves
to the surface, revealing more radiant, younger and tighter skin
underneath. Treatable conditions include: sun damaged skin, enlarged
pores, oily and acne prone skin, superficial acne scars, blackheads and
whiteheads, age spots and superficial pigmentation, and fine wrinkles.
If you are in good health, microdermabrasion may be the answer to
smoother, healthier skin.
Is microdermabrasion painful?
No. It is a gentle “sandblasting” of the skin.
Is there any downtime?
No.
Because the procedure is non-invasive and non-surgical, patients can
return to normal activities immediately. Perspiration can irritate the
skin for the first several hours, so you may want to wait till the next
day to exercise.
How long does it take?
Treatment time varies from 15 to 45 minutes, depending on the severity of the skin problem and area being treated.
Who is a poor candidate for microdermabrasion?
Patients with a history of cold sores (Herpes virus), rosacea, or sunburn should be cautious about treatment.
What are the pre-treatment and post-treatment recommendations?
Stop
all prescription skin creams such as Retin-A or Renova several days
prior to treatment. Wait several days to resume creams or other deep
exfoliative treatments such as waxing. Notify the doctor of any cold
sores or open cuts. For women: remove all make-up prior to coming to
treatment. You may wear light make-up after treatment. For men: Shave
several hours before treatment, not right before. Direct sun exposure
should be avoided the week after treatment and sunscreen should be used.
How many treatments are necessary?
Most
patients require six to twelve treatments that are done 2 to 3 weeks
apart. After that, patients may wish to return every 2 to 3 months to
maintain younger looking, smoother skin. These desirable effects will
increase over the course of the treatment series. However, expectations
must be realistic.
Can it be combined with chemical peels?
Yes. This is commonly done and the two procedures have a synergistic effect.
How is microdermabrasion different in a medical office verus a spa?
At
Laservue, a doctor administers the treatment for best results. Also,
the microdermabrasion machine is a medical device and much more
powerful than a spa unit or “aesthetic spa machine.” The doctor can
also recommend additional therapies or prescription medications for
maximum results.
Can areas other than the face be treated?
Yes, all areas of the body can be treated. The second most commonly treated area is the back.
