Microdermabrasion
Microdermabrasion is a cosmetic procedure designed to safely
exfoliate the outer epidermal layer of the skin, removing dead,
dull skin cells that have developed over time due to
over-exposure to the sun and aging over time.
The procedure is typically done by a professional as an
office visit. The process takes about 15-30 minutes and
pain is minimal, although some people experience a bit of
redness and irritation afterwards.
After just one treatment, microdermabrasion can diminish
fine lines and wrinkles, fade age spots and superficial sun
damage, refine enlarged pores, equalize skin tone, and
stimulate circulation. By improving the texture of your skin
and revealing the fresher, younger-looking skin beneath your
skin will have new life and improved texture.
Advantages & Disadvantages of
Microdermabrasion
One of the best advantages to microdermabrasion is that you
look better because you feel like you have a new face --
really! It's truly a quick fix that delivers big
results.
But there's one big disadvantage -- it's
expensive.
The national average of 1999 surgeon fees for
microdermabrasion was $181 (Source: The American Society for
Aesthetic Plastic Surgery). Regional averages: New England
states: $193; middle Atlantic states: $219; north central
states: $154; south central states: $163; and mountain/Pacific
states: $189. These fees do not include anesthesia, operating
room facility, hospital stay and other related expenses.
The really bad news is that was back in 1999. You
can expect fees to be about 10-20% higher today. The
good news is that there are microderm abrasion kits you can use at
home that are considerably less.
How Microdermabrasion works
Microdermabrasion uses light abrasion to remove the outer
most layer of skin, which are the dead skin cells. It
also removes the skin that has been damaged by the sun, but it
also reduces and sometimes eliminates surface scars.
Microdermabrasion can also lessen or remove dark spots on the
surface of the skin. The process requires no anesthetic and is
not painful. It's important to note that
Microdermabrasion is most effective for the treatment of scars
if the scar is raised.
The process actually works by applying fine aluminum oxide
crystals to your skin. These crystals when applied to the
skin will remove the outer dead layer. Doing this
stimulates blood flow to the surface of the skin increasing the
oxygenation allowing for skin regrowth of collagen and skin
cell renewal.
In addition the massaging action of microdermabrasion gets
below the skin to flush and cleanse creating a healthy natural
look. As an adult, your skin cells typically
replace themselves about every 28 days or so, but with a
microdermabrasion treatment those skin cells get replaced
faster resulting in new skin cells coming up to the surface a
lot quicker.
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