How Does Microdermabrasion Work?
Microdermabrasion works to resurface the skin as a way of making it look younger and healthier. This process can be done either in a beauty clinic or at home, with differing results. The good news is that the whole process is generally painless and simple to perform, and works by rubbing off the top, superficial layer of skin to reveal healthy, new skin.
Microdermabrasion Machines
These are the tools used to perform the procedure on the skin. They come in a wide range of different forms, and are designed to gently remove areas of the skin – which is how they leave it looking so revitalised at the end of the treatment.
Different treatment centres may choose different devices. Some make use of creams that are rubbed onto the skin with abrasive particles to get rid of the layer, and others may use abrasive paddles as well as suction devices to remove the dead layer of skin.
How the Procedure Will Work
The specific portion of the skin removed during the procedure is known as the stratum corneum. This is a very superficial layer of skin, which is why you will feel no pain. However, certain microdermabrasion techniques are more aggressive than others, and may also be used in combination with other treatments for full effect. This all depends on the treatment centre you choose, and you should ask the physician any questions you have before the procedure starts.
How Long Does It Take?
The good news is that microdermabrasion sessions are very short – usually lasting around 15 to 30 minutes each time. During this time you won't feel any pain, the most you should feel is a mild sense that your skin is being scratched. This is just the feeling of your skin cells coming off to leave you with fresher looking skin.
The exact length of time it takes depends on where you're having the procedure done. It is suitable for all areas of the body, including the face, neck, hands, back, chest and more (so long as you have no open sores or any other problems that could interfere with the success of the procedure).
It's also likely that you'll need to have a course of treatments – this is because microdermabrasion works on just one layer of skin at a time, and it can take a few different treatments before each layer of the blemish or scar has been worked on.
How Does It Feel?
Aside from a mild scratching feeling, most patients enjoy the feeling of the procedure and liken it to a massage.
After the procedure is complete you may find that the skin is a little sensitive and red for the first 24 hours. However, you can get back to your usual activities straight away, and your body will soon recover to reveal a fresh layer of beautiful looking skin!
It may help to moisturise your skin and make sure it's always protected against the skin. You should ask your physician for specific advice on caring for the treated areas of skin.