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Microderma-what? Here’s What Microdermabrasion Can Do For You

What exactly is microdermabrasion — and is it right for your skin?

For people whose skin care regimen is limited to face wash and moisturizer, a six-syllable treatment performed at the dermatologist’s office might seem daunting. However, microdermabrasion is actually a procedure that could benefit anyone who’d like brighter, smoother, and generally more healthy skin.

Here’s everything you need to know about dermatology’s trendiest procedure — and how you can book your way to a clearer complexion.

Brand New Skin

From loofahs to chemical peels, there are many different methods of kickstarting the regeneration of new skin cells — a process also known as exfoliation. Microdermabrasion, a general term used to describe the application of rough grains to buff away the skin’s surface, is a procedure that falls into that same category of exfoliation.

During a microdermabrasion procedure, a dermatologist will use a small, handheld tool to buff away the dead top layer of your skin. The tool shoots a stream of tiny crystals into the skin, and then proceeds to suction up the dead skin cells and crystals. Following the procedure, your skin cell regeneration will kick into high gear, sending newer, younger skin cells to the surface.

Another perk of such intense exfoliation? Since the layer of dead skin cells has been suctioned away, your facial products will penetrate the skin more easily and work more effectively. Indeed, microdermabrasion exfoliates much more effectively than scrubbing away your dead skin with a weekly scrub ever will. Over time, regular treatments will erase fine wrinkles and even out your skin tone.

Quick, Painless, and (Relatively) Affordable

Even if all this talk of abrasive surfaces sounds a little uncomfortable, rest assured that microdermabrasion is both quick and relatively painless. Since the treatment is non-invasive and non-allergenic, it doesn’t require the same recovery time as, say, a chemical peel might. After the procedure, patients will walk out of the dermatologist’s office with slightly red, sensitive skin that should return to normal within two weeks.

Most dermatologists offer in-office microdermabrasion packages. The cost for each treatment ranges from $75 to $200, with a total of six to ten treatments scheduled at 2-3 month intervals.

Is Microdermabrasion Right For Me?

Microdermabrasion is a viable option for just about anyone striving for a clearer complexion. That said, it’s especially beneficial for individuals with an uneven skin tone, enlarged pores, fine lines, shallow acne scars, age spots, or other skin damage.

While microdermabrasion can eliminate light acne scarring, it’s not an effective solution for people looking to minimize the appearance of deeper acne scars.

Ready to experience the restorative benefits of microdermabrasion for yourself? Talk to a dermatologist to see how this procedure could work for you.