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.