Microdermabrasion, a Complete Q & A.


What is Microdermabrasion?
Microdermabrasion is the most revolutionary new skin restoration process. It is used for skin resurfacing and treating a range of skin abnormalities. It stimulates blood and lymphatic flow to regenerate the epidermal cell structure thereby increasing the skin's elasticity & collagen resulting in skin that is more youthful looking.

Why do we need to exfoliate our skin?
The key to healthy skin is a healthy skin cell. Due to every day factors such as stress, sun damage, air pollution, smoking, and lack of sleep, our skin develops toxins that prevent healthy skin regeneration. With exfoliation we remove a small portion of the upper skin layer or epidermis.

How does it work?
This gentle technique is performed with a jet of fine mineral crystals. These crystals are vacuumed across the skin to remove the dead and damaged skin cells and to stimulate the collagen beneath the surface of the skin thus creating better skin tone.

Is Microdermabrasion a new technology?
No. It has been widely used in Western Europe since approximately 1986.In December 1996, the FDA issued the first clearance for the esthetic industry in the US and the devices were quickly adopted by estheticians as an additional means of deep exfoliation.

How often can I receive this treatment?
It depends on the area and the type of skin being treated. To obtain the maximum result, we recommend a series of six treatments at least 10-14 days apart. Continued treatment may be needed every 4-6 weeks to retain the skin's status.

What type of skin can benefit from Microdermabrasion?
Skin with Reduced Fine Lines, Brown Spots & Hyper pigmentation, Non-inflammatory Acne Scars, Enlarged Pores, Blackheads, Stretch Marks, and Chickenpox Scars; Aging Skin; Blemished Skin; Congested Skin; Devitalized Skin, Dull skin, Calluses, Thickened Skin.

How does this compare to other chemical Peels?
Microdermabrasion is a safe, more effective alternative to the use of chemical acids. Since there is total control of the peeling depth, the results are more predictable and can be accomplished in gradual stages with no down time or redness. In most cases clients see immediate results with quicker recovery.

How does this compare with the traditional dermabrasion or Cosmetic Surgery? Dermabrasion often was painful for patients and in some cases may have resulted in negative effects such as unnatural skin texture, a risk of dispigmentation or scaring. A Microdermabrasion treatment requires no anesthetic for superficial abrasion. For deeper peeling, topical creams such an EMLA can be used prior to the treatment. All treatments are done on an outpatient basis.

Is this treatment painful?
No. It is virtually painless; to some there is minimal discomfort .

Who could perform this treatment?
A licensed Esthetician or Medical Professional and in most states cosmetologists with advanced skin care training.

What are the crystals made of?
Corundum crystal is known as aluminum oxide and bauxite which is non-allergic to most skin types.

How much does each treatment cost?
A single treatment of the face & neck typically runs between 150 to 200 dollars. A series of six should be sold for the price of five.

How long does each treatment take?
The procedure usually takes between 20 to 30 minutes. Your skin therapist may combine this treatment with a hydrating & rejuvenating mini facial for a total of one hour.

What areas of skin are mostly treated by Microdermabrasion?
Face & neck , elbows & knees, hands & feet, shoulders, stretch marks on abdomen and hips.

What types of skin and skin color can be treated?
All types of skin and skin color.

Can it remove a tattoo?
Microdermabrasion in the esthetic setting was designed to remove superficial epidermis. Removing a tattoo’s absolutely requires removal of living tissue and the esthetic arena for these concerns is illegal.

What about pregnant women?
Absolutely, Microdermabrasion is basically a mechanical exfoliation without risks of allergic reaction. There are no harmful chemicals or acids; the mineral crystal itself is found in nature and is of the purest form.

How soon will I see some improvement?
You should see some positive results with even one single treatment. In many cases the results have been virtually miraculous. Lasting and more significant results are obtained with a series of six or more treatments.

Is the treatment safe?
Yes. There are almost no side effects and little trauma to the skin. All tools that contact the treatment area are either disposable or sterilized and the entire treatment should be performed in a sterile environment by a licensed skin care specialist.

FACTS about Aluminum Oxide :

The chemical form of aluminum microdermabrasion crystals is Aluminum Oxide, a compound that is chemically inert. This, chemical inertness, means the aluminum is very tightly bound to oxygen and is not soluble in water or plasma. Aluminum in this chemical form cannot ionize or become complexed with other chemical species, and so cannot become biologically active.
Aluminum Oxide crystals have been the most commonly used abrasive agent for the last 20 years. Aluminum Oxide is the second hardest mineral after diamond.
The irregular crystal shape makes them a more effective abrader. Aluminum oxide, being an inert material, causes no allergic or adverse reactions. It is non-toxic when ingested and is non-carcinogenic.

Is Aluminum Oxide Safe? Aluminum Oxide crystals are perfectly safe and non-toxic if ingested. They don't cause adverse skin reactions and they are non-carcinogenic. During the procedure your eyes are protected by special glasses, to prevent micro crystals from getting in your eyes. The special hand-piece used with the Microdermabrasion machine is designed to vacuum away all micro crystals released during treatment. Thus the chances of inhaling the Aluminum Oxide are quite slim.

Aluminum Oxide is the highest oxidation state of aluminum and is essentially chemically inert when used in the Microdermabrasion unit. It is insoluble in water. Aluminum Oxide is “environmentally friendly”.