Are You a Candidate for Microdermabrasion?
Sun damage, acne, and the aging process can all affect the appearance of the skin. Fortunately, there are ways to improve the skin and enhance your appearance. Cosmetic dermatology treatments can help transform skin texture and appearance to reveal a refined, rejuvenated appearance. Many turn to microdermabrasion to meet their skin care needs and achieve a more polished, refreshed visage. Dr. William Baugh determines which patients are suitable microdermabrasion candidates at his Fullerton, CA practice and can do the same for you. To receive your personalized consultation, contact our offices today.
What Is Microdermabrasion?
Microdermabrasion is a non-invasive procedure designed to improve the skin's texture and appearance. Microdermabrasion uses special micro-crystals to gently remove dead skin cells from the outermost layer of skin while also stimulating collagen and elastin production, all of which helps to soften fine lines, scarring, and discoloration.
The Microdermabrasion Procedure
The microdermabrasion procedure is fast, only taking about 30 to 60 minutes, and most patients can return to work or their regular routine immediately after treatment. During the microdermabrasion procedure, micro aluminum oxide crystals are applied to the skin and a special vacuum is used to gently exfoliate the tissue and remove dead skin cells. In order to achieve optimum results, multiple treatments, five or more performed about two weeks apart, are recommended. With each treatment, the skin will generate a new layer of skin cells with higher levels of collagen and elastin, two of the most important components of healthy, youthful skin.
Candidates for Microdermabrasion
Microdermabrasion can help address many skin issues, making many patients suitable candidates. With that said, candidates for microdermabrasion should be relatively healthy and have minor skin issues or imperfections, such as:
- Fine lines or wrinkles: Microdermabrasion stimulates collagen and elastin production while removing the top layer of old, dead skin cells, helping to smooth fine lines and wrinkles.
- Age spots and sun damage: By gently removing the outermost layer of skin, microdermabrasion can help minimize the appearance of age spots and sun damage.
- Minor scars: Minor facial scars can fade with repeated treatments.
- Uneven pigmentation: Those who suffer from uneven facial pigmentation often benefit from microdermabrasion treatment because it can help even out the skin tone.
- Acne and acne scars: Both acne and mild acne scars may be treated with microdermabrasion. The exfoliation can help clear clogged pores, reducing acne in some patients.
- Rosacea: Rosacea is a condition that causes chronic inflammation of the skin, leaving it looking red or swollen in some areas or causing acne-like eruptions. Microdermabrasion can help reduce the redness caused by rosacea in some patients.
Patients Who Are Not Ideal Candidates for Microdermabrasion
Microdermabrasion can provide good results for many patients, but it is not right for everyone. Those who wish to improve the appearance of deep wrinkles and sagging skin should consider alternative treatments, like dermabrasion, dermal fillers, or plastic surgery, as microdermabrasion does not effectively treat these conditions. Other people who are not ideal candidates for microdermabrasion include those with:
- Deep scars
- Facial warts
- Uncontrolled diabetes
- Undiagnosed facial lesions
- Pregnant women
Is Microdermabrasion Right for You?
For more information about microdermabrasion and to find out if this treatment is right for you, we invite you to schedule a consultation with Dr. Baugh.