Microdermabrasion - Renaissance Medical Spa

MICRODERMABRASION

Microdermabrasion is your answer to skin texture and complexion problems.

Microdermabrasion has quickly become one of the most popular cosmetic procedures performed. Most treatments to revitalize and resurface the skin are invasive and expensive, but microdermabrasion is an affordable procedure that gently and painlessly exfoliates the skin with no down time. As such, this skin resurfacing procedure has been nicknamed the “lunchtime peel”. By removing the outer layer damaged skin, we are able to improve hyperpigmentation (darkened areas of skin), rough skin texture, fine lines, acne and superficial scarring. And, because the L.I.C.A. Skin Abrader is equipped with a second motor to “boost its power”, we are also able to treat hypertrophic (raised) scars. Microdermabrasion treatments are not aggressive; they are slow and progressive, and best of all, they work!

Common Skin Problems

The surface of skin, called the epidermis, is made up of multiple layers. As the skin cells age, they actually die and migrate to the outer most layer of the epidermis, called the stratum corneum. This layer is composed entirely of dead skin cells that are eventually shed. As we age and with certain skin problems this process slows which causes the stratum corneum to become thickened. This in return does not allow pigmented or age and sun damaged skin to be properly shed. This can block pores leading to acne. As this layer thickens, it causes the skin to appear rough, dry and aged, and leads to wrinkles.

Microdermabrasion Improves

Fine lines and wrinkles
Uneven skin tone
Age spots
Hyperpigmentation
Acne
Mild superficial scarring
Sun damaged skin
Rough skin texture

The Science

Microdermabrasion is a nonsurgical, noninvasive procedure that offers safe and controlled removal of the outer, dead layers of the skin. This is performed by using medical grade microcrystals, made of aluminum oxide, which are accelerated against the surface of the skin. Simultaneously, the exfoliated skin cells and used crystals are vacuumed into a sealed waste container. The vacuum created during the procedure increases blood flow to the surface of the skin leading to improved cell renewal and regrowth of collagen. The end effect leaves your skin fresh and younger looking with a healthy, vibrant glow.

The Treatment

Microdermabrasion is safe office procedure that takes approximately 20 to 30 minutes depending upon the area treated. Anesthesia is not required. The most common area treated is the face, but just about any area of the body can be treated. The procedure is often described as relaxing and most of clients look forward to their treatments. However, if a deeper exfoliation is required, a scratching sensation is often described. Typically, 5-10 treatments spaced 1-2 weeks apart are necessary; however, some improvement will be seen after the first treatment. Treating acne or scarring often requires more treatments spaced at shorter intervals.

Immediately after the treatment, the skin may have a pink coloration for a few hours. If a more aggressive treatment was necessary, the skin may be red for up to 24 hours. Normal activity may be resumed and mineral make up, such as Jane Iredale, may be applied immediately after the procedure.

Your skin care specialist may recommend combining the microdermabrasion with a chemical peel to maximize your results. This combination allows lower concentrations of the chemical to be used to produce results superior to either treatment alone—with fewer associated risks.

Maintaining Results

Maintaining healthy looking skin is a daily task. Both a healthy lifestyle and the proper skin care regimen are necessary to maintain your results. Avoid tobacco and alcohol, and stay well hydrated. Antioxidants such as SkinCeuticals CE Ferulic as well as the continued use of exfoliating creams or serums are very important. However, the most important cosmoceutical is your sunblock, especially immediately after the procedure. Always wear a “full” spectrum sunblock with an SPF of 20 or higher to protect your skin from the sun’s harmful rays. Your skin care specialist will recommend an individualized skin care program to maximize and maintain your results. We may recommend that you start your program prior to your treatment in order to prep your skin. This will help to attain the desired results and minimize risk of complications.

Once the initial series of treatments have been completed, periodic maintenance treatments will be necessary. These may be recommended up to every 1-2 months depending upon the tobacco use, sun exposure, etc.

Safety

Microdermabrasion is a very safe procedure. Complications from this treatment are very rare. Most commonly, there is mild redness of the face which lasts less than 24 hours. Other more rare complications include bleeding, bruising, infection, hypo or hyperpigmentation (lightening or darkening of skin pigment) of the skin, scarring and corneal abrasions. If there is a history of cold sores or Herpes simplex infection in the treated area, a short course of antiviral medication will be used starting 2-3 days prior to procedure.

Normal activity may be resumed immediately after the procedure. However, you should avoid significant exposure to direct sunlight and wear sunblock daily. Avoid Retinol or Retin A products and products which contain alpha- and beta-hydroxy acids for 2-3 days before and after the procedure. However, products such as these are encouraged to help maintain your results. You should not have used Accutane for at least 3 months prior or 3 months after having a chemical peel.

Call today to schedule your FREE consultation to determine if microdermabrasion is right for you!