Microdermabrasion treatments are a minimally invasive way to gently scrub your skin to remove the uneven, thicker outer layer. It is mainly used to treat light scars, discoloration, stretch marks and sun damaged skin. It can also improve the appearance of blackheads and age spots.
Sometimes called an instant facelift, it is a good alternative for people who are not ready for chemical peels or plastic surgery. It is suitable for both men and women.
The skin has two main layers, the epidermis, and the dermis. The epidermis is the thicker, outer layer and consists of dead skin cells on top of the deeper layers where the cells are still maturing. The outermost layer is called the stratum corneum and protects the inmost layers from all but the smallest molecules. This is where fine lines and wrinkles form. Microdermabrasion only treats the stratum corneum.
With the outer layer intact, moisturizing creams don’t have much effect because they don’t reach the lower layers of skin. Once the outer layer is removed, medicinal creams and lotions may be more effective because they can reach the lower layers.
When the thick outer layer of skin is removed, the deeper layers start producing more collagen to replace what is gone. Collagen is the most abundant protein in the body. It is found in your bones, muscles and tendons as well as you skin, and when it is stimulated in your skin, it gives you a healthier and more youthful appearance.
The process of microdermabrasion involves tiny crystals that are sprayed onto your skin. They gently remove the outer layer, exfoliating your skin to rejuvenate its appearance making it look brighter and softer. The machine that sprays the crystals also has a vacuum action that pulls and raises a small section of skin to receive treatment. This brings some of the impurities to the surface to be removed. The vacuum also collects the used crystals and dead skin. Another type of microdermabrasion is with a diamond-tipped wand. This replaces the stream of crystals. In most cases, a standard session consists of up to three passes with the tool. After the treatment, you may be asked to apply a moisturizing cream to hydrate your skin to promote the new skin.
Microdermabrasion treatments may:
- Reduce hyperpigmentation
- Reduce the appearance of stretch marks
- Exfoliate your skin
- Reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles
- Reduce enlarged pores
- Reduce the appearance of blackheads and age spots
- Improve acne and acne scars
Research suggests that some people can remove deeper blemishes over time with repeated microdermabrasion treatments. Evidence seems to show that the rapid loss of moisture causes the lower skin layers to move healthy cells up to the surface quickly.
Microdermabrasion requires no recovery time. Your skin may be slightly pink for a day, but this usually passes within 24 hours. It’s a good treatment for people who have no time for a lengthy recovery, but would like to improve their appearance by removing some of the above conditions. Contact Pender Medi Spa today to schedule a consultation.
