by A. Jacobina Poulsen

Created on: February 02, 2008

Microdermabrasion is a painless, non-surgical procedure that can repair fine lines and wrinkles, acne scars and sun-damage to skin and is fast becoming a popular method of skin resurfacing. Increasingly, both women and men are seeking microdermabrasion treatment to achieve healthier, younger-looking skin and correct minor defects.

Microdermabrasion is generally appropriate and safe for any age and any complexion because microdermabrasion is simply the acceleration of the skin's own natural process of exfoliation of dead skin cells. Unlike dermabrasion which goes deeper, is painful, and requires anesthetic, microdermabrasion requires virtually no recovery period.

The procedure is accomplished with special microdermabrasion equipment that consists of a microdermabrasion machine which delivers the micro-crystals of aluminum oxide through a hand-held resurfacing tool. The fine micro-crystals remove the dead and damaged top layer of skin, called the stratum corneum, and stimulate the production of collagen and elastin which promotes new cell growth. Microdermabrasion can remove fine line wrinkles, acne scars and blemishes, but will not affect deep wrinkles as it works only at the dermis level, or outermost layer of the skin.

Each microdermabrasion session will last 15 - 30 minutes. Following the treatment, your skin may be slightly red or pink. Most patients may wear makeup and sunscreen is recommended but avoid skin products like Retinol A and Renova for a few days. Your clinician will give you detailed instructions at your first session.

The cost of microdermabrasion varies by region, but generally is between $75 and $200 per session. The recommended time between sessions is 10 days. Multiple sessions may be needed to achieve the desired results. The number of sessions you will need varies depending on your individual skin and its condition. The usual course of treatment is 4 - 8 sessions. Often, you can book a number of sessions at a discounted rate.

Home microdermabrasion is also becoming popular and produces satisfying results although they will be less dramatic than a spa or salon treatment. The cost is much less as you can purchase a home dermabrasion kit for about $30 - $50. A personal microdermabrasion system will consist of a cream with micro-crystals and an applicator wand that deep cleans and polishes the skin.

Caution should be exercised with a home kit to avoid the temptation of using the applicator with more force or perform the procedure more often to produce greater results. This will only irritate the skin. Some kits will include gels or moisturizing products in addition to the microdermabrasion equipment. The price and effectiveness of these kits may vary, you may want to do some research into consumer ratings of these kits before you choose a home microdermabrasion product.

Although microdermabrasion is generally safe for most people, you should not have microdermabrasion if you have one of the following:

*active rosacea or acne
*auto-immune disorders
*dermatitis
*diabetes
*eczema
*fragile capillaries
*keratosis
*undiagnosed lesions
*weeping acne

In short, whether done at home or at a spa, microdermabrasion is a quick, effective and painless way to beautify damaged skin by abrading and removing the top, dead layer of skin and exposing new and healthier skin underneath.

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