These days people want to look younger. You look at Hollywood and celebrities and you see they are getting every cosmetic procedure done under the sun. The irony of it is many times skin looks older because of the sun. Some harsh realities we may find on the face resulting from sun may be wrinkles, sunspots, and even scars from severe sunburn.
The sun is not our only enemy though when it comes to aging in the facial area. We can also thank smoking, lack of sleep, and even frowning. How many times have you heard “It takes more muscles to frown than it does to smile?” The sad truth of it is that we gain more wrinkles and worry lines by frowning, so why not smile more often?
This procedure is so convenient that it is also called the “lunch facial”, because so many people make their appointments during their lunch hours.
Besides creams and plastic surgery, individuals are looking towards microdermabrasion to help renew their skin. Is this procedure worth losing your skin over?
What is Microdermabrasion?
Microdermabrasion can be done in a dermatologist’s office. Simply put, it is the removal of the top layer of skin, which is the dead and oldest layer on the surface of the face. There are several types of microdermabrasion which your dermatologist may provide.
• Crystal Microdermabrasion:
This is the most customary method of microdermabrasion. Skin is exfoliated by small crystals being blasted onto the face.
• Diamond Microdermabrasion:
This technique is done with a diamond microdermabrasion machine. A diamond sits on the tip of the machine and works against the skin to exfoliate the dead layer. This is still less effective than the crystal microdermabrasion technique.
With either method, the dermatologist can control the force of the spraying. The procedure lasts approximately one half hour and depending on the skin condition, you may have to have follow up appointments to ensure the most optimal results.
Who are the Best Candidates for Microdermabrasion?
This type of skin renewal procedure is best for individuals with minor skin flaws such as:
• Fine lines
• Hyperpigmentation
• Minor scars
• Acne
If you have sensitive skin or a skin disease such as eczema or psoriasis, you will want to consult your physician beforehand. Dues to the nature of the treatment, the blasting away of dead skin could be too harsh on sensitive skin. This could cause too much redness, swelling, or irritation.
Microdermabrasion can not treat:
• Loose skin
• Decrease pore size
• Broken blood vessel removal
• Deep scars
Speak to a dermatologist as well to ensure you are a good candidate. If you are not a good candidate and spend money on the treatments, then you may be very unhappy with the results.
What are the Benefits?
Benefits of Microdermabrasion are plentiful if you are one of the “better” candidates. This procedure is so convenient that it is also called the “lunch facial”, because so many people make their appointments during their lunch hours.
The microdermabrasion renews skin without having to go through harsh chemical peels or invasive surgery. This procedure is also fairly affordable. Treatments are in the price range of around $200 per session. Clients usually need anywhere from two to six treatments and follow-ups in intervals of three to six months.
If you are going to see a dermatologist for this procedure it would be slightly more expensive than if you were to consider a spa or an at home treatment. This is mainly because the dermatologist is a doctor who has studied and specializes in the skin. Dermatologists also have better equipped machines which usually are more powerful. They also have the ability to assess and diagnose exactly what kind of microdermabrasion you may need. So while it may be costlier, it may be more beneficial in the end to go with the specialist.
What are the Risks?
The potential risks of the Microdermabrasion procedure may seem harsh but are fairly uncommon. The biggest risk would be irritation or redness after the procedure is done. Infection could also occur if the tools used during the Microdermabrasion are not cleaned appropriately.
Another risk may be that the skin is punctured by one of the crystals during the exfoliation process. Eyes may get the brunt of the risk as crystals may also spray towards the eye and cause irritation or possible damage.
Most of the risks are one hundred percent preventable when seeing a licensed professional. So while although the spa treatments and home treatments may cost less than a dermatologist, you want to prevent all risks at all costs…make your Microdermabrasion appointment with your dermatologist.
The information in the article is not intended to substitute for the medical expertise and advice of your health care provider. We encourage you to discuss any decisions about treatment or care with an appropriate health care provider.
If you are considering microdermabrasion, check out the following links to find dermatologists in your area:
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