Microdermabrasion

Microdermabrasion gives acne-scarred, blotchy and dull skin a brighter outlook.

What is it?

Microdermabrasion - otherwise known as mechanical exfoliation - is a controlled method of superior skin exfoliation or superficial peeling. It's an excellent treatment to make skin look younger and softer.

Microdermabrasion is the toast of well-heeled New Yorkers. It's the third most popular treatment in the US after Botox and collagen implants.

The procedure is carried out by a sophisticated machine which bombards the skin with a continuous blast of fine aluminium oxide crystals. The abrasive action of these tiny crystals gradually removes the stratum corneum (top) layers of the skin and scrubs away surface imperfections, as well as creating an all-over smoothness.

The crystals are then sucked back up into the machine along with the dead skin cells.

At the same time, microdermabrasion also stimulates collagen to encourage the production of new cells in the deeper layers of the skin.

Facial muscles can also be lifted - making the skin look younger and softer - by the powerful vacuum action, although this is only a temporary result.

What can it do for you?

The procedure can be used simply to inject a healthy radiance to your complexion. Skins that really benefit are those with uneven pigmentation (it treats all skin colours); have become prone to superficial lines and s wrinkles; have small scars; have large, blocked and congested pores; have milias (white spots); are acne prone and blemished; or have age spots and sun damage.

However, for many of these skin issues, one treatment won't be enough. A course of six is usually recommended and you'll need up to 10 sessions for serious acne scarring.

Microdermabrasion can't remove deep scarring, birthmarks or tattoos. You're not a suitable patient for this treatment if you have undiagnosed lesions, recent herpes outbreaks, weeping acne or active rosacea.

The procedure can also be used on the neck, hands and chest and is even offered as a cellulite treatment because the vacuum action helps with lymphatic drainage.

The procedure

Many patients have described the sensation of microdermabrasion treatment as being similar to that of slight sun or windburn. On lying down, the technician will cleanse your face and then direct the nozzle containing the crystals over you.

Via a combination of velocity and the abrasive nature of the crystals, old skin cells are removed layer by layer. Used crystals and dead skin cells are then drawn away by a vacuum action.

Discomfort during the session is minimal, although the sensation on the skin may feel a little strange and sensitive, especially when working round the eye area. If you find the pressure a little too much, the technician can turn down the controls on the machine to lessen the suction on the skin.

The treatment typically lasts about 20 to 30 minutes - longer if your treatment includes the neck and d6colletage area.

Cost

From £40.

Recovery time

Generally, it's said that there's no downtime with this treatment. But be warned: skin can feel hot and look pinkish straight after the procedure and high colour may be evident for a couple of days after.

Following treatment, be sure to use a good quality moisturiser to rehydrate the skin and, more importantly, a high sun protection factor - after all, the top layer of your skin has been removed.

What can go wrong?

If the microdermabrasion machines are used at a too high power or overenthusiastically by the technician, there's a risk of hyperpigmentation, streaking, perforation, bleeding and infection.

In very rare cases, the face may swell up. Infection can also be a concern if the machines aren't sterile. Ask about the hygiene levels the salon practises. Many components of the machine are supposed to be sterilised or replaced with a new disposable nozzle between treatments.

How long does it last?

If you have no specific problems with your skin, a microdermabrasion treatment can simply be used as a brilliant skin pickme-up.

In fact, it's a favourite procedure used by A-listers before a big event as it cleans the pores and livens up dull skin wonderfully.

Madonna, Thandie Newton and Gwyneth Paltrow are all said to be fans of the treatment.

For skin that needs treatment for sun damage or scarring, a course of 10 sessions carried out at least a week apart is recommended to even out skin texture. With each treatment, you'll see a gradual and progressive difference. Additional treatments every one to six months are recommended to maintain the condition of your newly polished skin.

This article hasn't been commented yet.

Knife Styles

Write a comment

Categories

Articles

Sponsors