Frequently Asked Questions About Microdermabrasion

Considering microdermabrasion? If so, you probably have lots of questions, and you may have some concerns. Here are some of the most commonly-asked questions about microdermabrasion, along with their answers:

What is microdermabrasion?
Am I a candidate for microdermabrasion?
At what age is microdermabrasion usually performed?
How is microdermabrasion performed?
Does microdermabrasion hurt?
What should I expect after microdermabrasion?
What are the risks of microdermabrasion?

1. What is microdermabrasion?

Microdermabrasion (also known as a power peel) is a non-invasive skin-freshening technique that uses mild abrasives to remove the top layer of your facial skin, revealing a newer layer that will be smoother, younger looking and virtually blemish-free.

2. Am I a candidate for microdermabrasion?

If you are interested in birthmark removal, or have acne and other superficial skin conditions such as discolorations, lines and wrinkles, uneven texture or sun damage, you may be a good candidate for microdermabrasion. However, microdermabrasion cannot remove deep scars or wrinkles, birthmarks or tattoos. You should not have a microdermabrasion treatment on the affected area if you have any of the following: undiagnosed skin lesions, recent herpes outbreaks, warts, active weeping acne, active rosacea, uncontrolled diabetes or autoimmune disorders.

3. At what age is microdermabrasion usually performed?

Microdermabrasion can be performed at almost age when there is appropriate skin damage to treat.

4. How is microdermabrasion performed?

The technician uses a device that sprays tiny crystals across the surface of your skin to lightly abrade it. Dead skin cells and remaining crystals are then suctioned off. The treatment lasts about a half-hour, and you may need four to eight treatments to complete the process.

5. Does microdermabrasion hurt?

Microdermabrasion may sting a little around the delicate area surrounding the eye, but it is not painful.

6. What should I expect after microdermabrasion?

After a microdermabrasion session, expect some redness in the treated area, similar to a sunburn or windburn. Results are practically immediate. You will notice that your skin is more evenly toned and textured. You can return to work immediately, but you may need to apply some loose face powder to cover any pinkness.

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7. What are the risks of microdermabrasion?

Risks associated with microdermabrasion are few but include: hyperpigmentation, petechiae (pinpoint spots that are the result of bleeding under the skin) and infection. Microdermabrasion should be performed in a sanitary environment like a doctor’s office or medi-spa.