Outline
Microdermabrasion is a highly versatile and effective procedure which is concerned primarily with improving appearance - making your skin look younger and fresher, with a more uniform complexion. It works well on reducing fine lines and can stimulate circulation in the face causing new skin cells to grow more rapidly. It can be also be an effective option for improving the appearance of stretch marks and some other scars on the skin. Other applications include successful treatment of acne and acne scarring, removal of blackheads, uneven skin tone, pigmentation & melasma.
The process was developed originally in the USA and it is reported by the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ASAPS) that 450,000 procedures were carried out in 2010 making microdermabrasion the fourth most popular cosmetic procedure in that country. Currently the market is less developed in the UK but this is changing as the treatment continues to gain recognition and popularity.
How the Treatment Works
The process is a safe, controlled system of intense exfoliation and resurfacing of the outer most layer of the skin using fine crystals. The crystals are applied to the treatment area via a piece of hand held equipment which operates as pump/vacuum. The crystals act as a gentle abrasive on the skin removing any dead skin cells layer by layer. The vacuum action draws away used crystals and skin debris leaving the skin feeling instantly smoother and fresher. It is a progressive treatment and whilst results are very immediate with just one treatment in order to achieve the best results a course of 8 sessions of 30 minutes is recommended.
As far as the procedure is concerned there are no particular side effects compared with treatments involving chemical solutions. It is painless and takes no more than ½ hour per treatment session it can therefore be included within your normal lifestyle routines and can be safely used to treat all skin types and colours. Microdermabrasion can be combined with other treatments to enhance the overall result. Prior to treatment a skin patch test is carried out to test for any allergic reaction.
