Microdermabrasion

What is Microdermabrasion?

Microdermabrasion, also known as microderm, is one of the easiest, safest and most effective anti-aging treatments you can get. It has many benefits! Microderm softens fine lines and wrinkles, helps to smooth coarsely textured skin, decreases the appearance of shallow scars, decreases pore size, and reduces superficial hyper-pigmentation, also known as age spots. Microdermabrasion also makes it easier for high-tech serums and skin care products to penetrate into the deeper layers of the skin. That helps build collagen, which gives skin its plump, youthful appearance.

Microdermabrasion is essentially mechanical exfoliation that takes place with the help of a machine. The outermost layer of dead skin cells is removed from the face, chest, and hands by physical means ------ not a chemical peel.

There are two types of microdermabrasion: the original crystal microdermabrasion technology or the newer diamond-tip microdermabrasion. (I use the diamond-tip in my office)

The original microdermabrasion technology, which has been around since the '80s, is called crystal microdermabrasion. It uses a wand to spray and then vacuum up aluminum oxide crystals, also known as corundum, the second hardest mineral after diamonds. Crystal microdermabrasion might also appear on a spa menu as particle resurfacing, power peel, derma-peel or Parisian peel. It can sting a little bit and leaves a little residue of crystals on the skin. It's important to wear eye covers when you get a crystal microderm treatment. (I don't use this uncomfortable method in my office)

The newer diamond-tip microdermabrasion has been growing in popularity because it achieves the same results with less discomfort and without the crystal residue at the end of the treatment. I use a variety of diamond tips, from coarse to fine, depending on how thick or delicate the skin is. The diamonds are the hardest mineral, and exfoliate the skin as I pass the wand over the face several times. Suction in the middle of the wand pulls the dead skin cells off the face.

Because there are no loose crystals, you don't have to wear pesky plastic eye covers.

The Benefits of Microdermabrasion

Microdermabrasion can achieve dramatic results. For the best results, it is generally recommended to get Microdermabrasion treatments every 28+ days.

Because the machine can be adjusted depending on skin type and condition, even people with sensitive skin can get a treatment.

It takes about 30-40 minutes and there's no down-time for the skin to recover. That's why it's also sometimes called a "lunchtime peel." (With the microdermabrasion treatment, you receive a facial cleanse, Hydrafacial (for a hydration and deeper cleanse)PEF/Cold ion, moisturizing & Ice hammer treatment).

It is important to realize that you have taken off the outermost layer of the skin, which is also its protection, so this is not the time to go to the beach. Be careful with your skin a few days after the microdermabrasion treatment: don't do vigorous exercise and don't expose your skin to the sun. Wear a gentle physical sunscreen, even if its a cloudy day.

How Microdermabrasion Works

The difference between the crystal microdermabrasion process and the new technology of the diamond-tip microdermabrasion process.

The crystal microdermabrasion device consists of a compressor that draws in air through a hand-held wand. When the wand touches the skin, a vacuum is created. Aluminum oxide crystals, also known as corundum (the second-hardest mineral next to diamonds) blast across the skin’s surface, picking up dead surface skin cells along the way. The crystals and dead skin cells are quickly sucked up through a different tube in the same wand and go to a disposal bag.

The depth of exfoliation is controlled by the strength of the vacuum and crystal flow, which is determined by the practitioner. He or she makes two passes over your skin, sometimes a third if your skin is thick enough or if there is an area that needs special attention, like a scar or brown spot.

Crystal microdermabrasion can be uncomfortable, especially around the sensitive tissue of the mouth and nose, but it should not be painful. The practitioner should be checking in with you about your comfort level during the treatment. The practitioner has to wear gloves, a mask, and eye protection, this process also leaves traces of the crystal on your face, which might be red afterward. Your eyes should also be protected.

I DO NOT use the uncomfortable crystal microdermabrasion device. I use the new technology diamond-tip microdermabrasion device and process. It uses the same vacuum technology as crystal microdermabrasion using a hand-held wand, but there aren't any crystals moving through the tip and onto your skin. The diamond tip itself exfoliates the skin and the vacuum whisks the dead surface skin cells away. There are many different tips with various grades of roughness and I will choose the correct one for your skin type and condition.

The depth of exfoliation is controlled by the strength of the vacuum. I will make passes over your skin, sometimes more passes, if your skin is thick enough or if there is an area that needs special attention, like a scar or brown spot.

I will also check with you on your comfort level during the treatment. It shouldn't hurt at all, you may just feel the pressure of the diamond tip/wand.

The diamond-tip microdermabrasion is also better for sensitive skin.

After the Microdermabrasion treatment, I also do a Hydrafacial to give your skin more hydration and for a deep cleaning, PEF/Cold Ion (to penetrate the serum into the skin) as well as moisturizing and ending with the Ice Hammer treatment. (these are not add on's.) You receive ALL of this wonderful treatment for only $139.00.

Pregnant? I would advice.. DO NOT get a Microdermabrasion. Due to the increased sensitivity and immune response, while pregnant, women who are expecting may be at increased risk for skin infections. Reducing the risk of infection of any kind during pregnancy is important to the health of both mom and her baby.

Skin is extra sensitive during pregnancy, so you may need to save the more intense treatments for after your due date.

The best facial treatments for pregnancy are:

Deep cleansing facials. These are basic facials that include things such as exfoliation, masks, and moisturizing. Deep cleansing facials are safe and can do wonders in reducing your oil levels.
Hydra Facial. Collagen, elastin, and water are used in these facials to hydrate, moisturize, and cleanse the skin.
An alternative to Microdermabrasion during pregnancy is Dermaplaning. It is safe. You must not have any open blemishes. You need to wait until it is clear to receive this type of treatment.

Are you ready to have smooth, beautiful, vibrant skin?

To book your Microdermabrasion treatment(s), Click here > MICRODERMABRASION

* Preparing for Pre- Microdermabrasion and Post- Microdermabrasion

Pre - Microdermabrasion Instructions:

Do not use Retin-A or other exfoliating creams 24 to 72 hours (1 to 3 days) prior to your treatment.
Avoid sun tanning or tanning creams/sprays for at least a week before treatment
You must NOT have recently had laser surgery or used Accutane
Candidates who have had a recent chemical peel or other skin procedure, such as collagen injections, should wait two to three weeks before undergoing microdermabrasion.
Prospective patients should also refrain from waxing or tanning the skin to be treated for a few weeks prior to microdermabrasion treatment.
Wash your face and neck with a non-oily, non-soap-based cleanser before each scheduled treatment.

Post - Microdermabrasion Instructions:

To maximize microdermabrasion recovery time and results, it is important to follow all post-procedure instruction below:

Keep the new skin clean and moisturized
Anti-inflammatory creams or cold compresses may be used as necessary.
Use a gentle cleanser.
Trauma such as scratching or picking the treated area should be avoided.
It is important to avoid irritating the treated skin with harsh chemicals, rubbing or tanning for one week.
Although some peeling may occur in the treated areas, moisturizer should help minimize this effect.
Avoid staying in the sun for at least 7 days after the microdermabrasion treatment to prevent UV rays from damaging your skin which slows down the recovery.
Patients who absolutely cannot avoid sun exposure should use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher.
Do not use glycolic, alpha hydroxy, beta hydroxy, retinol, benzyl peroxide or topical acne medications for 24-48 hours following treatment.

You may resume prescription retinoid products (Retin A, Renova, Tretinoin, Avita, Alustra or other brands of Tretinoin and other prescription retinoid products, Adapalene, Avage, Differin, Tazorac, Tazarotene) 3 - 7 days after last microdermabrasion treatment or as instructed by your facial practitioner.