Beauty Doc Blog

Are you a good candidate for microdermabrasion?  The procedure of microdermabrasion is a cosmetic procedure that has become increasingly poplar. It is performed in doctor’s offices, medical spas, and day spas, and is a process in which the dead outer most surface of the skin, the stratum corneum, is removed through light abrasion using jets of zinc oxide, or aluminum oxide crystals, fine organize particles or a rough surface, much like sanding wood with sand paper.  These skin particles when removed are vacuumed off by using a wand or hand piece.

Good For Removal of Sun Damaged Skin

Microdermabrasion is good for removing skin damaged by the sun and to lesson or even remove scarring and dark spots on the skin.  The procedure generally requires no anesthetic and causes little pain or discomfort.  Microdermabrasion can also be used in treatment of acne but to be effective must be repeated periodically and it should not be used on parties who have taken Accutane in the previous year. As with all procedures it is wise for the patient to have a checkup by a physician before determining that a procedure should be followed, even a relatively safe and simple procedure like microdermabrasion.

Abrasive Crystals and A Wand Have Been Used

In the past abrasive crystals were used for microdermabrasion but it has become more common recently to use a wand with a roughened surface, a procedure that does not require medical oversight and can be done in a day spa by an esthetician. There are also several machines available to use in microdermabrasion, many of which have resulted in popularity and positive results.

The Technique Came From Europe

It was in the late 1990’s that this European technique of microdermabrasion became common in the US.  It differs from dermabrasion which is more severe and requires either general or twilight anesthesia and must be carried out by a physician. The procedure of dermabrasion is uncomfortable to most and painful to many. It requires use of an electric sander and is much more invasive.

Microdermabrasion itself is becoming increasingly common, especially in day spas and medical spas, along with chemical peels and other lightly or noninvasive techniques.  Many patients swear by the technique and the benefits they receive.  If you are a good candidate for microdermabrasion, then the technique is safe and for most people quite effective.