Microdermabrasion
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Microdermabrasion (also known as "power peel") is like softened sandblasting. It works best on superficial skin problems like fine lines, dull skin, brown spots, mild acne scars, and age spots.[1] The plastic surgeon or doctor uses a device like a fine sandblaster to spray tiny crystals across the face, mixing gentle abrasion with suction to remove the dead, outer layer of skin. As with other skin rejuvenation techniques, more than one treatment may be needed to reduce or remove fine wrinkles and unwanted pigmentation.[2]
Dermabrasion, or surgical skin planing, is a procedure in which the skin is frozen and then a specialized instrument is used to "sand" the skin. This abrasive or planing action improves skin contour as a new layer of skin replaces the treated skin. The new skin generally has a smoother appearance. The procedure is performed by a dermatologic or plastic surgeon.[1]
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Microdermabrasion Application
Microdermabrasion can improve superficial skin problems. It works on all skin types and colors producing subtle changes, causing no skin color change or scarring. However, it is not effective for deeper problems like scars, stretch marks, keloids (an overgrowth of scar tissue at the site of a healed skin injury) or deep acne scars.[1]
With microdermabrasion, there is less down time than with dermabrasion; skin fully recovers within 24 hours. Another benefit: Microdermabrasion is a nonsurgical procedure. Therefore, there are none of the risks associated with even minor surgery like dermabrasion, where anesthetics are used and skin bleeds.[1]
Microdermabrasion Side-Effects
There can be eye irritation due to crystals getting into unprotected eyes.[1]
Post-Microdermabrasion Care
- Baby your skin. To optimize your results, you want to heal without any discoloration. If your skin is really red, you really want to baby it after surgery to prevent pigmentation. Make sure you’re using mild, hypoallergenic products, like non-soap cleansers and fragrance-free moisturizers.
- Be extra vigilant about sun protection. The first few days after having a procedure, it’s best to avoid the direct sun. If you go out, opt for a sunscreen that blocks alpha and beta sun rays. SPF 30 or 40 is sufficient; the ones with higher SPF tend to block the pores, so it may be better to steer clear of them.
- Let your wounds heal. No matter how tempted you are to pick at your peeling skin or scabs after cosmetic surgery in an effort to speed your recovery: don’t. You could increase your likelihood of infection or scarring.
- Hydrate, hydrate, hydrate. Whether you’ve had a minor procedure or an all-out surgery, drinking six to eight glasses of water a day will help rejuvenate your skin from the inside out and flush any toxins from your system.
All material in this section is from "After Cosmetic Surgery: Taking Care of Your Skin"[3], unless otherwise noted.
References
- ↑ 1.0 1.1 1.2 1.3 1.4 http://www.webmd.com/skin-problems-and-treatments/dermabrasion-microdermabrasion
- ↑ http://www.plasticsurgery.org/Patients_and_Consumers/Procedures/Cosmetic_Procedures/Microdermabrasion.html
- ↑ http://www.webmd.com/skin-problems-and-treatments/features/after-cosmetic-surgery-taking-care-of-your-skin_
