Beauty Doc Blog

Many patients think that dermabrasion and microdermabrasion are the same thing. They are very different, however. Dermabrasion is the removal of acne scars and other disfigurements through abrasion, a surgical procedure that must be performed by a physician. Microdermabrasion however is a less serious treatment that can be performed in a spa by an aesthetician.

Microdermabrasion Is Non-Invasive

Microdermabrasion is a procedure commonly performed by aestheticians. It is a skin resurfacing treatment that is gentle and takes off the top layer of skin through use of micro aluminum oxide crystals, or a diamond tipped wand. This non-invasive procedure is also non-surgical and can be performed in the aesthetician’s office without recovery time. There are virtually no risks or side effects with microdermabrasion and it is considered to be one of the least invasive resurfacing skin procedures. Some clients however should not have microdermabrasion. Those who have malignant tumors, those who have active herpes lesions, are pregnant, are nursing have active rosacca or weeping acne, or are undergoing keratosis. However most others have very positive results. Because there are very few risks or side effects microdermabrasion is very popular. It is painless and therefore does not require an anesthetic; is affordable and works. It helps skin to look younger and more healthy.

Dermabrasion Is A Surgical Procedure

Dermabrasion of course is a surgical procedure and is designed to remove skin imperfections, such as scars. The process used is much like going over the skin with fine sandpaper, or with wire rushes. It must only be performed by skilled and properly licensed healthcare professionals. Imperfections such as scars that are more pronounced can be removed through dermabrasion, and tattoos can also be removed using this method. It is a more extensive procedure and more serious and invasive and should only be used when truly needed and performed by those licensed to do so.

Who Should Consider Dermabrasion?

Patients should only consider dermabrasion after consultation with a physician. If suffering from serious scars or other imperfections that cause discomfort or embarrassment and less invasive treatments have been determined to be unsuccessful then dermabrasion may be the answer. Many people are turning to dermabrasion to remove unwanted tattoos they acquired when younger, or when their lifestyle was less conservative. Others turn to dermabrasion if severe acne has left scarring. For those and other possible reasons consulting a plastic surgeon is the best way to proceed.