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Everyone is talking about microdermabrasion, the latest skin care exfoliating procedure. You may have come across it under the name Power Peel, Derma Peel, Crystal Peel, Lunch Time Peel or Parisian Peel. All these names refer to microdermabrasion, a non-surgical, mildly abrasive skin care technique designed to remove dead layers of skin.
Microdermabrasion is designed to minimize blemishes, hyper-pigmentation and pigmented skin lesions due to sun damage, reduce open pore sizes, minimize acne scars, melasma and eliminate white and black heads. Deeper wrinkles, reducing fine lines and some scars will require the more invasive laser treatments. There seem to be mixed feelings in the medical community about how effective microdermabrasion is on fine lines and wrinkles. Sometimes this cosmetic skin care procedure is used as a pre or post treatment for laser skin resurfacing or chemical peels.
Microdermabrasion uses sterile micro-crystals (usually aluminum oxide) to gently exfoliate the stratum corneum without anesthesia. By moving a hand piece across the skin, the procedure delivers a precise stream of crystals onto the skin's surface; the epidermal cells and the crystals are then suctioned away to reveal a fresh, invigorated skin surface.
Unlike some of the chemical peels and laser skin resurfacing, microdermabrasion requires no anesthesia, local injections, or sedation. It is still however a medical procedure. The procedure gently removes the top layer of skin usually without any pain. The skin is typically left with a slight blush that lasts only about 24 hours. Patients may return to work immediately following the procedure. No medications are required and some physicians say cosmetics may be applied immediately afterwards. A sun screen is a must after this treatment as your skin will be sensitive to sun and wind. Also some peeling may occur in some individuals.
Darker skinned patients that are not normally good candidates for either chemical peels or laser skin resurfacing may be treated with microdermabrasion, it is reportedly safe for all skin types. In my research I discovered only three types of these procedures that are recommended for darker skin, this is one of them. You may want to discuss with your physician or licensed skin care professional their experience performing these services on darker skinned clients, possible results and expectations.
As demand has increased dramatically the science and technology is still being perfected and is therefore improving. There are quite a few manufacturers of equipment for this cosmetic procedure. The outcome and perhaps your satisfaction with the experience may be affected by the type of equipment used as much as the technique and experience of the provider of the service. Aluminum oxide crystals, which some providers have claimed made their staff and technicians ill and contaminate the environment, are still being used but new abrasives are also available. Baking soda, corundum powder, salt based crystals and newly improved aluminum oxide crystals are just some of the options available for abrasives. You may want to ask what type of equipment and abrasive will be used for your treatment and what differences, if any they may make in the treatment or results.
Contamination of the machine components and the crystals used to abrade the skin is a very real concern and can lead to infection and other complications. Cleaning of the machines and regular replacement of crystals are necessary. Contamination of the crystals can result in grooves in the skin. This is another reason for choosing a reputable and professional source for these services.
The equipment used must be FDA approved because it is classified as a cosmetic device. In some states this equipment can only be sold to licensed individuals. In Michigan this equipment can only be sold to physicians. Some of the machines used to perform microdermabrasion are not very expensive; when combined with the demand for these services many unqualified and inexperienced providers have entered the field. Choosing a reputable Physician, Aesthetician, or Esthetician will help to assure you are receiving this service from a licensed professional. Use the same caution and consideration as you would for any other medical procedure.
In my research I came across a few home microdermabrasion kits. For those that are comfortable performing this procedure at home this could possibly be used in-between professional services. I suggest discussing this with your service provider.
Most physicians will begin their patients with some sort of topical pre-treatment for a few days or weeks before the procedure. Professional treatments are usually provided in a series of approximately five to six sessions, usually at one to two-week intervals. The effect of the treatment usually begins in 1 to 14 days and lasts for 3 to 6 months. Repeat treatments may be required every 3 to 6 months depending on recurrence and severity of the condition you are having treated.
Prices and services vary but we found them in our area ranging from $100 to $150 for each one hour treatment that usually includes a skin care facial. Half hour treatments are available for less and do not include a facial. Of course this will vary greatly depending on where you live and your choice of provider. Discount packages were available for up-front purchases of a series of treatments.
Normally Good For: Sun damaged skin, irregular pigmentation including sun spots and melasma, irregular and rough complexion, stretch marks, mild wrinkles, acne scars. Minimal discomfort, no downtime, short treatment time, safe to use on all skin types and colors, affordable.
Issues For Some: Multiple treatments may be required for optimum results, minimal effect on deep wrinkles and severe pigment problems.
These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. |
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