What is Microdermabrasion?
Microdermabrasion is a non-invasive exfoliating procedure that has been utilized for many years to improve tone and texture of skin. Abrasive micro-particles are propelled against the skin to remove the outermost skin layer, called the stratum corneum. This stimulates a healing process in which new skin/epidermis forms.
What Skin Conditions Can Microdermabrasion Treat?
Microdermabrasion treats photoaging, melasma and other brown spots and pigment changes, scars, acne, seborrhea or excessive oiliness, uneven tone and texture, fine lines and enlarged pores.
What Skin Types can Safely Undergo Microdermabrasion?
All skin types, from very fair to very darkly pigmented, can benefit from microdermabrasion. However, those who suffer from rosacea or very sensitive atopic (allergic) skin may not be ideal candidates, and those who have a tendency to keloid scar formation may want to exercise caution. Microdermabrasion should not be performed when active skin infections are present.
What Are the Benefits of Microdermabrasion?
Microdermabrasion gives skin a short term “glow.” It also confers a sheen, or smoothness to the skin, allowing make-up to be applied more evenly. For these reasons many individuals choose to have the treatment a couple of weeks before an important social event, for a quick “pick-me-up” for tired dull skin.
However, in addition, microdermabrasion has now been shown in studies to have several more significant skin benefits, with effects on deeper skin layers. Because it removes stratum corneum, which is the skin’s main barrier, a variety of medications and compounds can be more effectively delivered to skin treated with microdermabrasion. Thus, the healing antioxidant skin cream applied immediately after treatment may be better absorbed, as are vitamin C compounds applied subsequently. Studies measuring skin stiffness show greater skin compliance after treatment. Melanin, the pigment that causes melasma and uneven skin tone, has been shown to be reduced in deeper layers of the skin by Microdermabrasion, with a more even distribution of Melanosomes (melanin containing cells). Collagen fibre density and distribution is also improved by Microdermabrasion, and skin thickness is increased. Ridges in the skin at the junction of the epidermal- dermal layers of the skin have been shown to be flattened by microdermabrasion. Compounds in the skin that are important in healing and maintaining youthful skin, like metalloproteinases, are up regulated by microdermabrasion.
Thus there is lots of science to support periodic repeat microdermabrasion as a great way to improve and maintain good skin appearance and health.
Are There any Special Instructions For Aftercare?
Using gentle cleansers and post care creams is usually advised, as is wearing UV protection and staying out of the sun as treated skin will be more sun sensitive.
If you are interested in microdermabrasion, see the ad below for this month’s promo and contact us at (905) 273-3045 or request a consultation online with our medical aesthetician.
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