Microdermabrasion is a technique that is used to improve the appearance of the skin. A skincare specialist uses a small hand-held instrument to remove the top layer of skin.
Microdermabrasion exfoliates the skin, reduces the indications of age, and evens out the complexion. All skin types are safe for the procedure.
The operation is normally performed by a healthcare professional, but some retailers sell at-home kits.
We'll look at microdermabrasion and its consequences in-depth in this article. We'll also go through how to prepare, potential side effects, and how this treatment differs from dermabrasion.

 

Benefits and uses

Microdermabrasion is used to make a person's skin smoother, brighter, and more uniform in color.
Microdermabrasion is frequently requested to address the following issues:

 

• Dullness in the complexion
• Uneven skin tone
• Uneven skin texture
• Age spots
• Dark spots that can form after acne clears up
• Melasma is a common skin condition that results in dark spots or patches on the skin.

Microdermabrasion can also be used by dermatologists to improve the results of anti-aging or skin-bleaching products. The treatment can aid in the penetration of these products into the skin.

Microdermabrasion vs. dermabrasion

In comparison to dermabrasion, microdermabrasion is less intrusive.
To remove the top layer of skin, dermabrasion employs more rigorous procedures. Dermabrasion may be recommended by a dermatologist to treat acne scars, accident or surgery scars, or tattoo removal.
Dermabrasion is only recommended for fair-skinned people. People of all skin colors can benefit from microdermabrasion.

How to prepare

Before getting microdermabrasion, see a medical professional. Prior consultations with dermatologists are frequently available.
Before committing to the operation, the AAD recommends that patients inquire about the following:

 

• What results to expect
• The number of treatments needed
• Potential side effects
• Risk factors
• The cost of the treatments

People can also inquire about before-and-after images and speak with someone who has had microdermabrasion done at the clinic.
During a consultation, a dermatologist will usually inspect a person's skin to see if microdermabrasion is right for them.

 

Microdermabrasion risks and side effects

Microdermabrasion may be delayed for people who have taken the acne medication isotretinoin in the last 6 months. They have a higher chance of developing problems, such as scarring.
Any lesion or patch of skin that is growing, bleeding, or altering in any way should be discussed with a doctor. These symptoms could be a sign of skin cancer.
A person may notice the following for a few days after microdermabrasion:
Skin swelling
Skin redness, similar to sunburn
Bruising
A burning or stinging sensation
Increased sensitivity of the skin to sunlight

Use sun protection after the operation. This will aid in achieving the optimum results while also lowering the possibility of negative effects. Microdermabrasion may not be suited for those who are prone to scarring or who suffer from cold sore outbreaks.

Recovery time
After microdermabrasion, most people do not require any recovery time. If a person does have adverse effects, they usually go away after a few days.
Within a week, the majority of people's skin will be ready for another microdermabrasion treatment.

Microdermabrasion costs
The average cost of microdermabrasion in 2017 was $137, according to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons.
Prices vary depending on the following factors:

The expertise and qualifications of the specialist
The number of sessions
The type of microdermabrasion
The location of the clinic, for example, within the United States
Even if the operation is performed by a dermatologist, the expense is usually not covered by insurance.