Microdermabrasion

Microdermabrasion is a procedure that superficially removes the outer layer of dead skin, surface debris and dead cells (from the stratum corneum).

As can be seen from the picture on the right, skin cells are made from a basal layer called (stratum basale). as newly formed skin cells diet stimulate in the stratum corneum, as an outer prickly layer of dead skin cells. Some people have stickier skin cells than others, and accumulate more stratum corneum-resulting in a rougher appearance.

Certain skin conditions and environmental factors such as dryness, wind and exposure will cause the build up of stratum corneum-and a rougher weathered look.

In either case, a build up of stratum corneum results in a rough appearance and plugs up the skin pores.

Microdermabrasion removes this dead layer of skin cells and debris-which opens up the skin pores and creates a shinnier, healthcare look.

There are two forms of microdermabrasion: Crystal microdermabrasion and crystal-free microdermabrasion using a diamond tip. Once the skin and surface debris is abraded and removed, the material is suctioned by a closed suction device.

In our facility we prefer diamond tip (crystal-free) microdermabrasion because this avoid embedding crystals into the skin. Diamond is the hardest substance, there are no crystals embedded in the skin, which is why diamond produces the best microdermabrasion results.

Crystal-free microdermabrasion creates a superior exfoliation effect that removes superficial skin layers and improves clogged pores and overall skin texture.

We used microdermabrasion as the initial treatment for acne scars, clogged pores, scars, brown spots, melasma, keratosis pilaris and enlarged pores and to improve skin quality and texture.

Microdermabrasion is more subtle than other treatment modalities, but the procedure has no down time and is safe for all skin types.

When microdermabrasion is used as a stand-alone procedure, it opens up the pores for growth factors, anti-aging creams, antioxidant creams, scar removal creams, skin tightening creams, chemical peels, acne treatment creams, anti-inflammatory creams, etc. The type of growth factors added will depend on the problem area being addressed in that session.

Microdermabrasion is also used to prepare the skin for other procedures, such as chemical peels, IPL photofacial, laser resurfacing, Q switch, etc.

The main side effect of microdermabrasion is slight redness for 30-60 min.

Microdermabrasion is performed by aestheticians or registered nurses under the supervision of a physician.

Dermabrasion

Dermabrasion removes the stratum corneum, epidermis and superficial dermis. This is a more invasive procedure and is primarily used for deeper scars, full-thickness heavy wrinkles, solar keratosis, scar conditions of the face.

Some private insurance companies and Medicare will cover dermabrasion for solar keratosis, seborrheic keratosis, scar conditions of face and other conditions. in this instance, a prior visit with a physician is mandatory, , so that a medical treatment plan can be established.