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The The Patient’s Guide is the most respected online publication providing information about Microdermabrasion and other abrasive skin treatments. Our mission is to provide you with unbiased, scientifically accurate information about treatment with microdermabrasion for exfoliation, fine lines, enlarged pores, etc. The information published on this website is written and provided by some of America’s foremost dermatologists and skin care experts.
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What is Microdermabrasion?

  • What does it treat?
  • Who can be treated?
  • How long does it take?
  • Side effects and risks
  • Post-treatment
  • Consult with a Physician
  • When people refer to 'Microdermabrasion' they are referring to a whole class of devices which remove a very superficial portion of the skin, usually just the stratum corneum. This can be done through a number of different methods and techniques. Some microdermabrasion devices utilize abrasive paddles or crystals that are passed along the surface of the skin with a suction hand piece which removes the dead skin layer. Other methods use creams with abrasive particulates that are rubbed onto the skin.

    Your physician may be more or less aggressive with microdermabrasion and do it in combination with other techniques, like chemical peels in an attempt to get greater results.

    What does it treat?

    Microdermabrasion is effective at improving and reducing fine lines, age spots or brown spots, and other superficial skin blemishes. The treatment can also be helpful with oily and enlarged pores, blackheads, and some acne scarring.

    In addition, microdermabrasion stimulates the creation of collagen and cell turnover. Immediately following a microdermabrasion session the skin will feel smoother and have improved texture.

    Who can be treated?

    The Microdermabrasion is a safe, common, non-surgical procedure however there are people who should not have it. People with active herpes lesions, active acne or rosacea, open sores or lesions, dermatitis, psoriasis, people using Accutane within the last 6 months, eczema, and lupus should not have microdermabrasion.

    How long does it take?

    The typical session for microdermabrasion takes between 15 and 30 minutes. Most patients find it a quite pleasant experience. The microdermabrasion hand piece will be passed over your skin and you will begin to feel a mild scratching as the procedure removes the superficial skin cells.

    This scratching will soon pass and a vibrating sensation, akin to a massage, will set in. Following the session your skin will feel smoother and tighter and some redness is common for several hours afterwards.

    Side effects and risks

    Side effects for microdermabrasion are usually temporary and may include swelling and redness for several hours. With devices utilizing suction hand pieces there is a possibility of bruising from the suction, which will usually last several days. The skin will become more sensitive to sun exposure so most physicians recommend using sunscreen following a microdermabrasion session.

    Post-treatment

    Following any microdermabrasion treatment it is important to use sunscreen as the skin is usually very sensitive to sun exposure. Also, moisturizing the skin is helpful as the microdermabrasion session will dry the skin temporarily.

    Consult with a Physician

    It is important before proceeding with any treatment for your skin to consult with an experienced physician to discuss your particular case and condition.

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    Microdermabrasion is very popular and effective, says Aesthetician Nicole Dresnin
    How Did Treatment
    ChangeYOUR
    76% Life?
    of reviews werePositive
       (51 reviews)

     Microdermabrasion really changed my life!

    My biggest insecurity is the acne on my face. I am 21 years...[more]
    Marianna, FL Jan 26, 2010

     Microderm Works Great

    I go in about once every couple of months to get microderm d...[more]
    Denver, CO Dec 11, 2009

     Had microdermabrasion for acne scarring, looks OK.

    I have pretty bad acne scars and wanted them treated before ...[more]
    Temecula, CA Nov 21, 2009
    Write a Review
    Ask The Doctor
    Q: How effective are at home kits?
    These at-home solutions may be helpful, but there is no... [Read More]
    Q: Will microdermabrasion remove my wrinkles?
    Treatment will exfoliate skin, but it will not permanently... [Read More]
    Q: Can a microdermabrasion fix stretch marks?

    I would not recommend dermabrasion methods as a first... [Read More]

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