Progress in the cosmetic industry and aesthetic cosmetology are the leading factors for the development of efficient options for the management of various facial conditions. Dermabrasion and microdermabrasion are among the most popular procedures, aiming to improve skin health and overall appearance.

We have carefully analyzed and compared the most important aspects about dermabrasion and microdermabrasion in order to help you choose the most appropriate option for your skin issue.

Purpose

Both procedures consist in removing the surface skin layers.  After both procedures, as well as after the recovery periods, the skin appears healthier, younger, with fewer imperfections and bumps.

The controlled removal of the upper layers of the skin aims to trigger the regeneration processes by replacing the damaged skin with a new layer without causing permanent skin damage.

What is the difference between dermabrasion and microdermabrasion?

The dermabrasion procedure is performed by a beautician (qualified to perform the procedure) or by a dermatologist.

The treatment method should not be confused with microdermabrasion. Microdermabrasion is an innovative technique showing admirable results, with minimal risk of skin damage and the development of side and unwanted effects, which can be performed by a cosmetician, a dermatologist or the owner of a microdermabrasion machine.

Microdermabrasion is a non-invasive procedure, usually painless, with a much shorter healing and recovery period, but (when performed in-office) much more expensive.

Still, many people rely on dermabrasion technique because of the lower cost and time-proven results of the procedure.

Dermabrasion can be performed separately or in combination with other procedures to achieve better results (such as chemical peeling or facelifting).

While dermabrasion is performed on a small skin area (problem area), microdermabrasion is suitable for the entire face, neck, shoulders, chest, and back. If the area for correction is larger, dermabrasion can be performed in several stages, while microdermabrasion can be done at once.

The duration of the single session (dermabrasion or microdermabrasion) is 30 to 60 minutes.  Dermabrasion can only be administrated at a dermatologist’s office, depending on the condition of the patient.

For dermabrasion, it takes an average of 7 to 30 days for the complete skin regeneration (reepithelization), so people should not be exposed to direct sunlight during this entire recovery period. The recovery period following a microdermabrasion session is usually 1-2 days.

To perform the dermabrasion procedure, the specialist uses a diamond particle ‘sander’ or a coarse brush with a rotating tip to remove the superficial dermal layers.

The tip speed of the nozzle, the type of brush and the intensity of the pressure exerted by the beautician are decisive for the depth of penetration in the presence of severe burns, deep scars or wrinkles.

This procedure is conducted under local anesthesia or complete anesthesia, depending on the size of the treated area and the general health status of the patient.

Smaller skin areas are injected with lidocaine (local anesthetic) and ice can be placed on the problem area for about 20 minutes. Some of the techniques of cryotherapy (cold therapy) can be also used, such as a cryogenic spray that causes hardening of the skin, which facilitates the procedure when it comes to the deeper lesions.

Microdermabrasion uses diamond or crystal tips for gentle skin exfoliation.

Consult your licensed skin practitioner for the most appropriate procedure for your particular skin issue. Not everyone obtains the desired results after a dermabrasion because the procedure is not appropriate for the most skin issues. The abrasion is really intense and the side effects may take a long time to completely heal. On the other hand, microdermabrasion is the least aggressive deep exfoliation technique, and is not related to adverse side effects.

There is a wide variety of therapy techniques, so the careful consideration of the benefit-risk ratio of a particular procedure is indeed important.

Pros and Cons

Benefits

Both procedures offer multiple benefits for the skin. You can see detailed information about the most important positive effects microdermabrasion provides on this link.

The effect of dermabrasion procedures is long-lasting. Some of the conditions dermabrasion treats are the following:

• Acne scars: severe forms of acne in the absence of therapy (in some cases after treatment) lead to the formation of scarring (scars) that look like unevenness on the surface of the skin
• Removal of superficial scars resulting from trauma or serious intervention
• Rhinophyma: a chronic condition where red enlargement and reddening of the nose, usually resulting from untreated or improperly treated rosacea is available
• The presence of small cysts or epidermal nodules
• The removal of potentially precancerous conditions, such as actinic keratosis
• Tattoo removal: rarely used as laser therapy achieves better results
• Various conditions that lead to a change in skin pigmentation, such as freckles, melasma (chemical or laser peels are more commonly used because they are less aggressive and the recovery period is shorter)
• Fine lines and wrinkles in the area around the mouth (also known as mimic wrinkles)

The removal of scars, imperfections, and tattoos is permanent, while damage resulting from sunlight and aging processes can reoccur over a certain period of time.

Globally, the dermabrasion technology has been replaced by innovative methods, with lower invasiveness, easier to conduct and providing the same results with less pain and a shorter recovery period, such as different types of chemical peels, laser procedures, microdermabrasion, and others.

An extremely important part of the dermabrasion procedure is the complete and detailed cosmetic history and thorough examination of the user.

12 to 18 months prior to the procedure, it is necessary to avoid products containing aromatic retinoids (eg isotretinoin), as these may slow down the healing process and increase the risk of scar development.

Sunburns, active (infected) acne, family history of keloid scarring, as well as a recent or untreated herpes infection are just some of the contraindications to the procedure. These conditions increase the risk of developing a secondary infection after the procedure, scar formations, and slow recovery.

Some users are advised to stop smoking, avoid direct sunlight, stop taking certain medications that affect their blood coagulation and thrombosis (such include aspirin and warfarin).

The intake of immunosuppressive products should also be discontinued as they slow down the regeneration of epidermal cells and increase the risk of post-operative infection.

Before the procedure is performed, all available allergies (to products, food products, environmental factors) should be investigated, as well as the reporting of all products and supplements, whether prescribed by a licensed skin practitioner or self-administered OTH products, is required.

Post-procedure care

Microdermabrasion post-procedure care includes daily moisturizing and wearing sun protection (especially during the first days after your procedure, as the skin becomes more vulnerable to external irritants). SPF 30+ is highly recommended because the skin becomes more fragile and ultraviolet radiation may cause damage to the healthy cells.

After the dermabrasion intervention, the user may experience the following adverse effects^[1]:

• Redness and swelling: available in all patients, following dermabrasion treatment. The swelling in some users disappears within a week but may persist for several months
• The appearance of certain rashes presented in small white bubbles that usually disappear within a month
• Enlargement of the pores: the pores return to their normal size after the swelling is gone
• Changes in skin color: The procedure may change the color of the skin to darker (hyperpigmentation) or lighter (hypopigmentation), these changes may be temporary or permanent
• Infection: In a small percentage of users, a bacterial, viral or fungal infection develops after the procedure
• Scars: removal of deep lesions is likely to form scarring after the dermabrasion. The formation of keloids or hypertrophic scars requires additional topical corticosteroid therapy
• Allergic manifestations, such as itching, burning, tingling sensation

Better results and a lower risk of developing side effects are observed in users with lighter skin. The darker skin type, as well as the process of aging, are factors that greatly increase the risk of not obtaining the expected results of the intervention. Sun protective creams or lotion should be regularly applied (every 2 hours) in order to avoid ultraviolet damage.

Before performing dermabrasion or microdermabrasion, you need to be informed about the expected results, the methods of performing the procedure itself, the risk of adverse effects. The informed choice, regarding the dermatological procedures, creates realistic expectations in patients.

Price Comparison

When performed in-office, a single microdermabrasion session costs $100-$300. The procedures should be done once or twice a month, depending on the condition of the skin and your personal preferences. You also have the alternative to buying your own microdermabrasion device (the price varies between $70 and $300) which you can use unlimited times. Most of these devices are also portable, providing the same benefits as a professional session would.

The price of a dermabrasion procedure^[2] varies, depending on where it is performed,  from $50 to $1500. The difference is that a single session can provide long-lasting results. Often, additional procedures are not needed.

Conclusion: which is better – Dermabrasion or Microdermabrasion?

Having that microdermabrasion is the modern, less aggressive, non-abrasive and non-invasive version of dermabrasion, we consider it the better option for your skin. Dermabrasion is used for very severe, deep skin issues, which cannot be treated by removing the outermost skin layer. Note that the adverse effects as well as recovery period post dermabrasion session are more serious and may permanently damage the skin.

References

1. Dermabrasion in cosmetology.
   https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/12814336

The post Dermabrasion vs. Microdermabrasion [Comparison Analysis] appeared first on SkinPractice.

As the causes of acne occurrence are numerous, the different types of acne should be well distinguished in order to find the most effective fixing options. Here are the most common types of acne and the impact of microdermabrasion (MDA) procedures on each of them:

Light acne types

The light types of acne are known as comedones or blackheads. They occur when hair follicles are blocked by sebaceous sebum and dead skin cells. There is no redness or soreness, as with some other types of acne.

There are two kinds of comedones

Open comedones

Open comedones are the first type. They occur when the skin secretes sebum, has accumulated dead cells and this mixture is exposed to the air. Oxidation is due to atmospheric air.

Closed comedones

They are characterized by the small white tip that appears beneath the surface of the skin. They appear when the sebum and dead skin cells completely cover the hair follicle. Closed comedones often resemble skin-colored bumps. There is no soreness or redness. They most often appear on the facial area.

Microdermabrasion procedures are very suitable for controlling light acne, as it removes the excess sebum and bacteria, causing pore-clogging and infection.

Moderate acne types

There are two types of acne that are classified as moderate acne:

Papules

These are red pimples on the skin that are rarely raised, do not contain pus or fluid. Sometimes they are accompanied by other symptoms such as itching, mild pain or scaling.

Microdermabrasion can provide beneficial results for moderate acne types. Note, that the side effects (skin sensitivity and redness) may take longer to fade, especially if there is an active infection.

Pustules

Pustules are red swollen buds that contain pus. This thick yellowish or greenish opaque liquid consists of white blood cells, sebum, dead skin cells and bacteria with tissue debris. Pustules are usually preceded by papules. They usually appear on the face and on the back.

Severe types of acne

Conglobal acne

It is characterized by the appearance of large, painful bumps, which are often red. This type of acne is more pronounced in men. Keeping the condition under control is difficult, sometimes serious intervention may be needed and often, after the complete acne removal, permanent scars remain on the skin. It can affect the face, back, chest, and less often the hips. The presence of cysts is also characteristic of this type of acne.

MDA procedures are not recommended for the management of conglobal acne type.

Nodulocystic acne

It occurs, causing deep and inflamed pimples on the facial skin or other areas of the body. Sufferers of this type of acne develop nodules as well as cysts. Fixing these persistent lesions is also difficult and time-consuming. It is more pronounced in teenagers and young men.

Acne can affect adults, as well as babies and young children. The pimples most often appear on the cheekbones. Acne in youngsters may occur after using too oily creams when elevated levels of male sex hormones are present.

Reddit u/eliseb20 tried an MDA procedure with the hopes to eliminate her acne, however, she had active acne lesions.

Microdermabrasion cannot provide a positive effect on the more severe forms of acne. Sometimes, it may additionally irritate the skin.

Benefits Of MDA For Acne and Acne-Prone Skin

Both beauticians and dermatologists resort to microdermabrasion, as this is a gentle, yet effective method to unclog your skin pores. The accumulated bacteria, dirt and other contaminants are the reasons why infections occur, provoking the appearance of acne.

Below you can read about the general benefits MDA procedures provide:

1. Boosts blood circulation improving the skin cell function – the improved circulation plays an extremely important role when it comes to acne. Oxygen, minerals, vitamins, hormones and other elements are needed for the proper function of the skin and, above all, for the faster skin cell turnover. When skin cells are supplied by the blood, they are provided with the nutrients needed. The blood flow regulation also leads to removing all waste products and toxins that will eventually cause the premature aging of your skin.
2. Enhances product penetration – by opening the pores and removing the dead skin cells and contaminants, you can get more benefits from the skincare products you are using, as they will penetrate deeper into the skin, providing maximum effectiveness.
3. Removing blackheads – blackheads are accumulated sebum in the hair follicles that, after oxidation, darken their color. Microdermabrasion removes the excessive sebum by gently exfoliating the outermost skin layer. The next step is the extraction of blackheads – a process that can be easily accomplished with the vacuum feature provided in most MDA devices.
4. Reduce pore size – pore shrinking is crucial if you’d like to avoid potential infections or acne. Open pores are usually caused by the natural aging process of the skin but they can reduce in size if they are properly cleaned and debris are removed.  Unclogged pores shrink as there are no contaminants holding them open.
5. Suitable for men and women – Both men and women can benefit from MDA procedures having that problems, such as enlarged pores, acne, ingrown hairs, rough skin can affect both sexes.
6. Safe – This is one of the most important characteristics of microdermabrasion. Compared to other, rather invasive procedures, aiming to treat acne (chemical peels, dermabrasion, etc.), there are no risks, leading to permanent skin damage. The only side effects include increased sensitivity and skin redness that disappear within the next few hours.
7. Suitable for different body areas – microdermabrasion can be performed to the facial area, the neck, chest, shoulders, and the back area. These are the most common body parts where acne appears.
8. Others – MDA technique will not only help your acne disappear, but it will also make your skin look rejuvenated, it will decrease the number of fine lines and wrinkles, uncovering a fresher skin layer.

Post microdermabrasion breakout

Some users (very few) experience post microdermabrasion breakouts. During the skin cell turnover period, the acne may worsen, as the skin cells excrete the waste products and toxins accumulated. The recovery period usually takes a couple of days, after that you will begin seeing the improvements and your skin will look radiant, softer and blemish-free.

Note that the proper skin cleansing routine (in the morning and just before bedtime) is also important. The facial area should be carefully cleaned before the microdermabrasion procedure as well. This is how you will be able to avoid potential infections during your session. In case you are using a home microdermabrasion device, please make sure that it is carefully disinfected before beginning your procedure.

Is microdermabrasion effective for acne scars, dark marks, and pits?

The main target of microdermabrasion is smoother skin, brighter complexion and improved overall condition of your skin.

Acne scars (depending on the severity of the problem) can be successfully reduced after multiple procedures. By stimulating skin regeneration, collagen and elastin are produced in the skin cells. This results in skin softness and suppleness. Acne scars are harder to treat even after a prolonged period of treatment, as skin integrity is already damaged. Usually, complete removal of acne scars is not possible – the more aggressive methods (such as laser surgeries) will provide more beneficial results. Microdermabrasion will make them less visible, but the deep scars cannot be 100% removed, having that this is a non-invasive method.

Dark spots are easier to treat using microdermabrasion because they don’t affect deeper skin layers. Each subsequent session will make the dark spots lighter until they completely disappear.

How much does microdermabrasion for acne cost?

It depends on the severity of the problem. Usually, a single session a month is enough for users, suffering very light acne, the moderate acne requires regular procedures, performed twice a month for about 6 months until the acne problem is under control.

A single in-office microdermabrasion session costs $200-$300, the visible results will be available after the initial session.

The good news is that there are much cheaper options – at-home microdermabrasion devices that are intended for unlimited MDA procedures. They provide the same effects but you should perform the procedure yourself.

At-home microdermabrasion for fixing acne

This is the most cost-effective option when it comes to microdermabrasion. You can get your own machine for the same price as the single procedure at a beautician’s office ($200-$300), there are even cheaper devices (less than $70). Most users prefer performing microdermabrasion at home, as the procedure guarantees the same results as the professional session. Additionally, it is less time-consuming and such devices can be used whenever you like, as often as you need.

How often should I use my microdermabrasion device?

Microdermabrasion procedures are non-abrasive and non-invasive. Consumers with different skin issues (acne, oily, aging, unevenly pigmented skin, etc.) resort to microdermabrasion so that they can easily improve their skin’ appearance. Sessions can be done as frequently as weekly or up to every 8 weeks depending on your skin’s needs and tolerance.

However, for users with acne or acne-prone skin 1 or 2 sessions per month are sufficient, as these skin problems are often related to increased irritation susceptibility.

References

1.  About Microdermabrasion Side Effects

https://www.livestrong.com/article/116704-microdermabrasion-side-effects/

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Now, let’s take a look at all the positive aspects microdermabrasion procedures provide for the skin:

It is safe

Microdermabrasion is a non-invasive skin resurfacing technique, targetting the outermost layer of the skin. The process itself is painless, it provokes no damage to the skin, whatever the type of microdermabrasion you have chosen (crystal or diamond). The gentle exfoliation does not wound or provoke painful sensation – it only eliminates the dead skin cells and the contaminants accumulated on the epidermis.

It painless

According to most users, the sensation is pleasant (most compare it to facial massage), there is no pain. The mechanical irritation can cause only slight reddening of the skin and it will disappear within the next few hours.

The American Academy of Dermatology reports that anesthesia is not necessary, as the procedure provokes a slight tingling sensation on the skin. The only negative effect, following a microdermabrasion procedure, is skin redness and increased sensitivity but these side effects typically require a couple of hours until they completely disappear.

As expected, the post-procedure care is very important – the skin should be deeply moisturized and protected from the sun within the next few days.

It is fast

Depending on the microdermabrasion procedure you are undergoing (crystal or diamond), a single session will take around 30-60 minutes. If you only want to treat the facial area, it will take around 20-30 minutes.

The procedure can be performed at a dermatologist’s office, at a beauty studio or at home. Most microdermabrasion machines for home use are less time-consuming plus the added benefit that you can pamper your skin, according to your own convenience.

Convenient for all skin types

Microdermabrasion is a technique, suitable for all skin types:

• Oily skin – by removing the excess sebum, clogging your skin pores, you can successfully reduce the number of blackheads, whiteheads, and acne. Clogged pores cannot function properly, they are prone to irritations are the reason for the overall dullness of your skin’s complexion. Microdermabrasion will eliminate the sebum, accumulated on the skin surface, letting your pores breathe and regenerate faster. An additional benefit is the shrinking of the enlarged ones. This exfoliating process will also reduce minor scarring, caused by acne.
• Normal skin – the normal skin type also needs proper exfoliation. Microdermabrasion will remove the dead skin cells, accumulated dirt, makeup residue and other contaminants that may intrude the regeneration process of the skin cells.
• Dry skin – as this skin type provokes the skin cells to die at a faster rate than normal, users can benefit from microdermabrasion procedures, as the technique will remove the excess amount of dead skin, flakes, and crusts. The process will leave the skin radiant and refreshed, causing no irritation or discomfort
• Sensitive skin – as microdermabrasion is a form of gentle skin exfoliation, it is not likely to cause severe irritations. However, the side effects (redness and increased sensitivity) may last longer (2-3 days).

Microdermabrasion can be performed right before special occasions, in case you want to have an evenly toned and refreshed skin.

Boosts circulation

Boosting the circulation in your skin cells is a must in case you want a radiant, younger-looking and rejuvenated appearance. Blood and lymphatic circulation are extremely important as this is the way your skin gets the nutrients and oxygen needed, while it pushes out the toxins and waste products, responsible for the aging process. Note that usually skin discolorations are caused by the lack of oxygen in the cells.

Increasing the blood flow stimulates the proper functioning of the capillaries, improves the overall complexion, helps your skin regenerate and slows down the natural aging course.

Multipurpose solution

People with various skin problems can benefit from a microdermabrasion procedure. Even a single session will:

• Reduce the appearance of mild to moderate acne

Those, suffering mild to moderate acne can benefit from the procedure, as it will clean and shrink the facial pores, reducing the chances of potential infection. Additionally, the skincare products applied after the procedure will enhance their efficacy, after your skin is thoroughly clean and able to absorb the ingredients needed.

They will penetrate deeply into the skin, as there will be no dead cells or contaminants, which often impede the process. By promoting blood circulation, the healing process speeds up, leaving the skin nourished and refreshed.

Additionally, people can benefit from the vacuum feature provided. Comedones and blackheads (which are caused by clogged pores) can be easily and effectively extracted thanks to the suction option, which is the final step of the microdermabrasion procedure.

• Reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles

Fine lines and wrinkles can be significantly reduced thanks to microdermabrasion sessions. This is due to the fact that such a gentle, yet deep exfoliation makes both fine lines and deep wrinkles less visible, while also stimulates the renewal of the cells. Collagen production is also stimulated and more collagen fibers mean supple skin.

As expected, deeper wrinkles cannot be completely eliminated, as they are caused by prolonged exposure to ultraviolet light, breaking down your skin’s connective tissue. The procedure will only improve their appearance, but will not eliminate deep wrinkles.

Fine lines, the first visible signs of aging, are easier to eliminate. Microdermabrasion reduces their sizes and depth by exfoliating the outermost layer of the skin and the proper aftercare (moisturizing and protecting) may completely eliminate them

• Improve the texture and color of scarring

Deep scarring will not magically disappear after microdermabrasion procedures, especially if you have years-old scars. The procedure will make the imperfections less visible and will stimulate the regrowth of new, healthier cells. Discolorations, following scars, will also become less visible.

Depending on the type of your scar, you may need to perform additional procedures in order to reduce the damage, caused to the skin. There are multiple options available (in the form of creams, gels, and ointments) that will additionally help improve the condition of the scar. These products, when applied directly after a microdermabrasion procedure, will provide a better effect, as the healing ingredients will be better absorbed and penetrate deeper into the dermal layer.

• Even out skin complexion

Microdermabrasion procedure allows deep penetration into the skin and removing old and stubborn pigment spots, as well as those acquired due to improper exposure to the sun.

Microdermabrasion is suitable for dark-skinned people suffering from hyperpigmentation problems, women in their menopause, aging skin in both men and women (age spots on the face, neckline, and upper palms) and people with hyperpigmentation as a result of an inflammatory process (as a result of acne, hair removal, burns, scarring, skin problems, etc.). The procedure is also suitable for smokers or for people with tired-looking (loose) skin

Which skin issues benefit from microdermabrasion?

• Acne and blackheads
• Acne scars, keloids, and hypertrophic scars
• Uneven Pigmentation
• Fine lines and wrinkles
• Age spots
• Open pores

The post Benefits Of Microdermabrasion [Get The Most Out Of Exfoliation] appeared first on SkinPractice.

Microdermabrasion and Chemical Peel are two of the most commonly performed anti-aging practices, providing younger-looking, radiant skin. Both procedures aim to even out the skin texture by removing the dead cells and contaminants of the skin surface, letting it regenerate faster.

Purpose

Both procedures target the complete removal of skin imperfections by exfoliating the superficial skin layer without damaging the skin underneath.

What is microdermabrasion?

Microdermabrasion is a technique for skin resurfacing, using a crystal or a diamond tip wand, often in a combination with a vacuum suction feature.

The conception is the removal of the dead skin cells, contaminants, and makeup residue on the skin’s outermost layer. This way, the pores open, the existing and potential irritants are eliminated and newly formed skin cells replace the ones that are removed during the procedure.

What is a chemical peel?

Chemical Peel is a procedure in which various weak organic acids are applied to the surface of the skin, providing a significant impact on its structure and appearance.

The target is to improve the skin tone by removing the damaged top layer and the turgor (the period your skin returns to its normal position after being pinched) by stimulating the formation of new collagen in the deep skin layers.

This makes your skin significantly fresher, dense, rejuvenated, evenly toned and the number of imperfections is reduced.

Light to mild chemical peels

Light to mild chemical peels treat the outer layers of skin. They allow the skin to rgeenerate quickly, and produce minimal textural changes. Some of the lighter chemical peels are:

• Glycolic acid peel
• Alpha beta acid peel
• Salicylic acid peel

Strong chemical peels

Strong chemical peels penetrate deep into your skin’s surface, impacting the deeper layers of skin. This allows the peel to address more severe imperfectins, such as acne scarring.

Microdermabrasion VS Chemical Peel

Microdermabrasion is considered the less invasive version of skin resurfacing. It uses a constant suction power, aiming to eliminate the upper skin layer (without causing damages).

During a microdermabrasion procedure, the user is likely to experience a slight tingling and warming sensation, which is followed by temporary irritation or redness.

The complete facial recovery usually takes no more than a few hours, users with extremely sensitive skin type may experience potential side effects (again, irritation or redness) during the next 2-3 days but the procedure is generally considered safe and mild.

Chemical Peel – depending on the type, chosen by the beautician, chemical peels have different strength. There are three options available – mild, medium and deep peel.

The least invasive is considerably more aggressive compared to microdermabrasion, as it requires (at least) a month of a recovery period. The deep chemical peel may need several (around 3) months of recovery.

The application of face bandages is another inconvenience that may be necessary following the procedure, not to mention the painkillers and antibiotics, often prescribed following such procedure.

So, chemical peels are more invasive, they appear to be a comparatively successful method for more severe skin issues (such as deep wrinkles or scars) but may provoke serious side effects afterward. Such include burning, swelling, and permanent skin discoloration.

Pros and Cons

Effect

Both microdermabrasion and chemical peel are extremely effective techniques when it comes to removing the dead skin cells and dirt, accumulated on the skin surface, reduce fine lines and wrinkles, pore size and dark spots on the skin of the face and hands as well as the depth of scars, following acne or chicken pox. The blood circulation improves and the skin is instantly rejuvenated.

Post-procedure care

After a microdermabrasion procedure, the skin looks and feels softer, although its sensitivity may increase. Regular moisturizing is highly recommended in order to additionally promote regeneration. The application of sunscreen (SPF30+) is a must, as the skin becomes more fragile and ultraviolet radiation may cause damage to the cells.

When it comes to the chemical peels, the aftercare should be very precise as the skin becomes significantly more sensitive and requires specific care until it is fully restored. This period depends on the depth of the peeling.

After a mild peeling, the skin is usually reddish for a period between several hours to one day after the procedure. Then the redness gradually fades and slight flaking occurs on the surface layer of dead cells formed as a result of the procedure.

When it comes to a moderate or a deep peel, immediately after the procedure, the skin is reddish and irritated. It gradually thickens, forming a thick red-brownish crust within 36 hours, which gradually cracks and peels out of the surface of the skin in the form of large flakes.

Regardless of the depth of the peeling, it is important to apply a sunscreen with a maximum factor throughout the recovery period. For faster recovery, you can apply epithelial and antiseptic creams to speed up the regeneration process.

Price Comparison

A microdermabrasion session, performed in a professional office or at a beauty studio ranges from $75 to more than $200 per session. Consumers usually need five to twelve sessions spaced 15 days apart. 4 to 6 sessions are usually enough to reap full microdermabrasion benefits.

Another option is the purchase of a microdermabrasion system for at-home exfoliation. Such devices are usually less aggressive and can be used more often (the effect is similar to the professionally performed sessions).

The pricing varies between $60 and $250 and you can use the machine for an unlimited period of time.

Chemical peels can be performed by certified beauticians and certified skin practitioners only, as the procedure may provoke severe skin reactions. Your condition should be strictly monitored during the entire recovery process.

Conclusion: which is better – Microdermabrasion or Chemical peel?

Having reviewed all the positive aspects and the disadvantages of the two most popular skin resurfacing techniques, we would recommend you try the less invasive and painless procedure, Microdermabrasion.

This way, you can avoid the potential risks, following Chemical Peels, as those such include irreversible pigmentation (sometimes, following Phenol peel or other substances) in case your skin cannot completely recover after the procedure.

The post Microdermabrasion vs. Chemical Peel [Which is better for you] appeared first on SkinPractice.

During the procedure, you will experience a warming sensation – this results due to the contact of the microdermabrasion tip and the surface of your skin. For most people, the sensation is like having a facial massage that will additionally boost your blood circulation and open your pores.

Thankfully, unlike chemical peels and other invasive procedures, this one is not painful at all, respectively, you won’t need anesthesia.

After completing the microdermabrasion session, the treated areas will be more sensitive, this is why you should carefully protect it from the ultraviolet rays and all the potential environmental irritants. Applying moisturizing agents (creams, lotions, ointments etc.) is also recommended, as the skin cell hydration stimulates the regeneration process.

Reddit u/magadrac posted photos of his improvements after the 6th microdermabrasion session:

Due to the intense exfoliation process, the skin may be pink within the next few hours right after the procedure, but it will then regain its’ natural color.

The main conception behind microdermabrasion is to mechanically exfoliate the outermost layer of dead skin cells (the stratum corneum). Most devices provide a vacuum/suction feature, which removes them, leaving your skin feeling and looking softer and rejuvenated. This way, you basically ‘deprive’ your skin from the dead cells, covering the normal ones. Healthy cells are then formed to replace those that were exfoliated.

Additionally, you will notice that your skin became lighter after the procedure. This is due to the fact that microdermabrasion in one of the most effective methods for eliminating dark spots or uneven pigmentation.

Note that the best home microdermabrasion machines are usually less aggressive, compared to the professional ones, used by aestheticians in beauty salons. Note that over-exfoliating the skin may become the factor in making the procedure painful. If microdermabrasion is performed more often than it was recommended (each device comes with a product manual, which indicates how often it should be used, depending on the intensity applied) it may irritate, even inflame the skin.

Like any other skincare procedure, overdoing is not good. Overusing a microdermabrasion device may lead to post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation of the skin. This leads to the overproduction of melanin in the skin cells, which results in darkened skin spots with different shapes and sizes – something you should deffinitely avoid.

People, suffering severe acne should avoid microdermabrasion, as it will additionally irritate the (already irritated) skin. Such procedure will only spread the bacteria, while the tip passes through the skin. Basically, if you have pus-filled cystic acne, the first thing you need to do is to eliminate the initial problem. This usually requires a course of corticosteroid or hormone therapy.

Another thing to remember is that microdermabrasion sessions may provoke cold sores flare-up if you already have the herpes virus infection. Cold sores may be triggered by the propulsion mechanism of microdermabrasion devices, so the best you can do in order to avoid a potential infection is to make sure your immune system is in a good condition right before performing the procedure. The oral intake of antiviral pills before the microdermabrasion session may be needed.

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Microdermabrasion for acne has caused a big buzz because acne people who have gone for microdermabrasion fix have unclogged pores and smoother skin texture. Though the procedure has just been around for a few years, its results are more often than not, positive.

1. The microdermabrasion procedure for acne is proven effective
   Studies show that most people who have gone through microdermabrasion immediately notice excellent benefits like better control over the worsening of zits/ pimples, reduction in spots, improvement of scars, and many more. Research also demonstrated consistency in the development of thicker skin, both in the epidermis and the dermis, needed in making deep scars shallower, which is why a multitude of users prefer to have microdermabrasion acne scar fixes over other skin resurfacing techniques.

2. Microdermabrasion has lower risks compared to other techniques
   Very minimal side effects will arise from microdermabrasion for acne. In fact, very few users experience them. The most common microdermabrasion side effects reported is skin redness and soreness that may be felt once the procedure is completed. Itchiness and increase in spots may be observed, however, these are temporary and are expected to disappear after several days.

   Committing an error while doing the procedure may cause greater risks so it is necessary to have professional microdermabrasion for your acne problems. However, if you will be using a microdermabrasion kit, follow the instructions to the kit so you can decrease the probability of microdermabrasion risks as well as to prevent any acne home microdermabrasion scar from forming.

3. The fix boasts of rapid recovery among users
   
   Another reason why microdermabrasion for acne is popular is that it does not take too long for users to recover. This means that you can start doing your normal activities within the day you had your fix. There is no need for you to be on bed rest or take leave from work. This benefits of microdermabrasion, of course, encourages most people to choose the microdermabrasion as the preferred acne fix.

   The microdermabrasion procedure helps to eliminate your acne by first ensuring that your skin is cleaned. Next, through the vacuuming process, any clogs on your pores will also be cleared out.

   The second part of the process is blasting the skin with aluminum oxide crystals in order to sweep away your dead skin cells. Basically, microdermabrasion for acne works by treating any acne that is present and healing them through pore cleansing, then eradicating the layers of inactive skin cells which aids in pimple prevention.

2 Benefits Of Microdermabrasion For Acne fix

Firstly, it removes the blockages in your pores and kills the bacteria present in your skin. In fact, acne results from the trapped bacteria in our skin pores. Hence, what microdermabrasion does is that it peels off your skin’s top layer, therefore your pores are unclogged and your skin is able to breathe. Secondly, microdermabrasion is a fix that relies on aluminum oxide crystals which are anti-bacterial, thus the acne-causing bacteria are eliminated.

How Safe Is The Microdermabrasion Process?

The above-mentioned technique is guaranteed safe on any skin color and any skin type as long as the fix is performed appropriately. There may be times whereby skin darkening may occur especially in people who are darker-skinned. That darkening effect, however, tends to disappear over time.

Take note that microdermabrasion is not advisable for those who have any of the following conditions, herpes, rosacea or eczema on top of their acne problems. Having the procedure done even if you have these mentioned conditions may only worsen your symptoms or increase the side effects associated with microdermabrasion.

Microdermabrasion can be effective if the correct steps are performed. To avoid having any traces of acne scar, entrust the work to a professional. Otherwise, perform the steps yourself systematically if an at-home kit is what you will be utilizing.

Remember not to overuse microdermabrasion by using the home kit daily as it will result in more redness, soreness, and dryness in your skin. Otherwise, microdermabrasion for acne will not only take away the headaches that acne can give but also helps in fix for any skin irregularities.

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