WHAT IS MICRODERMABRASION?
Microdermabrasion is an easy exfoliating skincare treatment that restores your skin’s natural glow. This treatment is performed by a skin care professional, such as an aesthetician, with a handheld device. The main benefit of microdermabrasion treatments is specific and targeted exfoliation, especially for removing acne scars, fine lines, wrinkles, and even for stretch marks.
Learn more about what to expect from microdermabrasion at Garza Plastic Surgery in Belle Meade, Tennessee.
HOW DOES MICRODERMABRASION TREAT ACNE SCARS & SKIN MARKS?
First, let’s start with the how of microdermabrasion. The handheld device your aesthetician will use is filled with a stream of tiny crystals that basically sand down the outer layers of the skin. The device also uses some light suction to raise the surface of the skin and focus the treatment. Additionally, the device also removes the dead skin cells, leaving the healthy newer skin behind.
In terms of scars, when the deep layer of the skin (the dermis) is damaged, your skin produces extra collagen to repair the damage. Scars then form as a result. Some scars fade with time, but deeper scars need an extra push.
Because microdermabrasion can specifically target trouble areas on your skin, it can exfoliate away old acne scars.
Additionally, the exfoliation stimulates collagen production, leaving your skin with a younger texture. The added collagen production also helps stretch marks fade. Now these are only some of the many benefits that come from microdermabrasion.
If you’d like to read more, check out Microdermabrasion by How Stuff Works.
MICRODERMABRASION BENEFITS
- Reduces acne
- Improves fine lines
- Improves hyperpigmentation
- Stimulates elastin production
- Improves circulation
- Improves skin texture
- Removes age spots
- Evens skin tone
- Brightens skin complexion
- Removes dark patches on the skin (melasma)
All of the above benefits come from the gentle and targeted approach to exfoliation. If you want to improve one or more of these conditions, microdermabrasion can take care of it all.
WHO IS A GOOD CANDIDATE FOR MICRODERMABRASION?
This procedure is gentle enough for all skin types. Your aesthetician can also customize the treatment if you have more sensitive skin. Again, if you have scars or marks on your skin and want to improve them, then you should consider microdermabrasion.
However, if you have any of these active conditions, you should wait before receiving a microdermabrasion facial.
- Rosacea
- Fragile capillaries
- Early-onset acne
- Warts
- Psoriasis
- Lupus
Finally, if you’ve recently had a chemical peel treatment, Botox, or another procedure you may have to wait. Because everyone’s skin is different, you may only need to wait a few more days or up to a month. Discussing this with your doctor will help you identify the best time to get a microdermabrasion treatment.
HOW TO PREPARE FOR MICRODERMABRASION
Before the treatment, you will want your skin to be healthy and free of irritation. That means avoiding sun exposure, tanning, or waxing.
When considering microdermabrasion, you should talk with your doctor or aesthetic therapist about your goals and your medical history. You should especially discuss the history of your skin’s health and any medications you’re currently taking.
On the day of your treatment, your skin should be clean and oil-free.
WHAT TO EXPECT DURING TREATMENT
Prep
There are several steps to a microdermabrasion treatment. First, after your aesthetician seats you, you may be placed under light steam to open your pores. Next, your skin will be cleansed with our favorite skincare products, available thanks to Tracey Robinson.
Exfoliation
After preparing your skin, your aesthetician will begin using the microdermabrasion device to gently resurface your skin. Note that this treatment is never used for the eyelids, because of how sensitive the skin is, and to avoid hurting your eyes.
The most common type of microdermabrasion device uses a stream of tiny crystals to exfoliate the surface of your skin. Almost like a mini-sandblaster.
The crystals take the dead skin, dirt, oil, and other impurities away. Usually, these treatments take about an hour to complete. The handheld device works on a small area of the skin with some light suction to remove impurities and provide the best resurfacing results.
The procedure itself is quite painless and does not require any anesthesia.
Nurishment & Protection
After exfoliation, your aesthetician will apply some soothing skincare products to close your pores and nourish your skin. As yet another benefit to this treatment, your skin will better absorb these nutrients for maximum effectiveness.
After the procedure, your aesthetician will recommend some extra products that will help you continue improving the quality of your skin at home.
What are the Side Effects of Microdermabrasion?
Because this skincare is so gentle, there’s no downtime, and you can return to your daily routine immediately after. However, you should still avoid direct sunlight. Normally there are no side effects, but you may notice some mild skin irritation or sensitivity.
Just be gentle with your skin and avoid anything that may cause more irritation, and the side effects will fade within a day or so.
DIFFERENT TYPE OF MICRODERMABRASION
Diamond Tip Hand-piece
Instead of a crystal stream, these microdermabrasion devices use a tipped machine to gently carve away dead skin. These procedures may take more time, as they require a finer hand, but the results are noticeable.
Crystal Stream
The most common type of microdermabrasion device that was introduced in the mid-90’s. The one disadvantage to this treatment is it can leave residue on the surface of your skin.
Hydra-dermabrasion or HydraFacial
HydraFacials are one of our favorite procedures here at Garza Plastic Surgery. Instead of using crystals or scraper, we use a stream of water to strip away dead skin cells. We also apply a special hydrating solution that both hydrates and purifies your skin.
We also provide the option to add Perk™ to your HydraFacial for even more luxurious skincare.
HOW OFTEN SHOULD YOU GET A FACIAL?
In terms of a microdermabrasion facial, you can receive one as often as every week. However, for convenience, you can wait up to eight weeks in between treatments. We recommend once a month, as it will help you maintain clear and healthy skin without allowing time for dirt and oil to build up in your pores. Additionally, the more often you receive treatment, the better results you’ll see. Especially, in terms of collagen production and erasing fine lines or premature wrinkles.
WHY SEE A PROFESSIONAL INSTEAD OF DIY?
The popularity of at-home microdermabrasion kits raises the question, should you still see a skincare professional? The answer is you should always consult a professional before any type of dermatology procedure.
If you’ve never had a microdermabrasion facial before, you should especially talk to a skincare professional. This way you’ll know if the treatment is right for you, how to avoid complications, and what risks are associated with doing the treatment at home.
DOES MICRODERM WORK?
It does! You’ll notice improvements immediately after your procedure and they should last for several weeks. However, if you’re looking for more permanent results, we recommend HydraFacials and chemical peels. These treatments can be customized specifically to your skin’s needs and can remove years of built-up skin cells.
HydraFacials are even safe for the skin around your eyes and your lips.
COST OF MICRODERMABRASION TREATMENT
Microdermabrasion is an affordable treatment that typically costs anywhere from $80 to no more than $200 at the most expensive. The American Society of Plastic Surgeons reported the average cost of microdermabrasion in 2017 was approximately $137.
Unfortunately, insurance companies will not cover the cost of this procedure because it is purely a cosmetic procedure.
Visit Garza Plastic Surgery for the Best Aesthetics in Nashville
Thanks to our unique position as a plastic surgery practice and an aesthetics practice, we provide not only quality skincare options, but also aesthetic and reconstructive surgery services. Talk to Tracey Robinson and you’ll be well on your way to the best skin of your life. Every skincare product we offer is personally approved by her, so you get the most bang for your buck.
Dr. Garza also offers personal consultations for plastic surgery. So, come visit us for your one-stop-shop for your aesthetic goals. We are open and observing all COVID19-related guidelines to ensure the safety of our clients and our staff.
So once again, if you’re curious about microdermabrasion in Belle Meade, give the professionals at Garza Plastic Surgery a call today.
