by Raven Lebeau

Created on: January 23, 2008   Last Updated: February 12, 2012

If your skin looks dead, that's because it is. Your skin is constantly growing, replacing itself every 1-2 months. During its lifetime, a skin cell will travel from the inner layer of the skin to the outer layer. The part of your skin you can see is actually composed of cells that have died. Over time, excess dead cells build up, giving your skin a dull appearance. Many anti aging and beauty treatments center on removing this dead cell build up. "Microdermabrasion" is a buzzword these days when it comes to rejuvenating your skin. We've all heard about it, and there are many products out there that claim to be related to microdermabrasion. Does it live up to the hype? Can you do it at home? What is the cost of microdermabrasion? I'm here to clear up the confusion once and for all.

Definition:

Microdermabrasion is, in essence, sanding your skin. If you've used sand paper to take the old paint off of a piece of furniture, you have the idea. Like sanding an antique table, the goal of microdermabrasion is to create a smooth, beautiful surface that looks like new. Microdermabrasion is a popular choice for people who want to remove imperfections like age spots, acne scars, and fine lines.

Professional treatments- what they cost:

A professional microdermabrasion treatment can cost up to $200. You may need as many as ten treatments before you get the full benefit. Moreover, microdermabrasion is a "maintenance" treatment, not a one-time deal. Once you have done the full course of treatments, you'll want to schedule one every few months to keep your skin looking its best.

Professional treatments- what to expect:

An aesthetician, nurse, or doctor will perform the procedure. It's not a complex procedure, and there is no reason a doctor has to do it. Not everyone who does microdermabrasion is fully qualified, however. Don't be shy about asking for references before choosing a spa or clinic for any health or beauty treatments.

You'll be instructed not to use any harsh cleansers or exfoliating treatments for several days before and after the procedure. When you go in for your treatment, your skin care specialist will use a high quality cleanser. Next, she will use a tool that blasts your skin with aluminum oxide crystals. The microdermabrasion machine is a lot like a sand blaster, but don't worry- very few people find the procedure painful. Once she has treated the problem areas of your skin, she'll apply a soothing moisturizer.

Your face will probably look red and feel dry

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