Facial Microdermabrasion

Microdermabrasion is a procedure designed to exfoliate the skin and improve the appearance of ageing, hyperpigmentation or dark spots, acne, scars or other marks. It can be performed using different types of tools, and combined with other skincare procedures. Microdermabrasion benefits the many individuals who would like rejuvenated skin but do not wish to undergo time-consuming or invasive procedures. For this reason, it has become very popular due to its short procedure time, quick recovery and follow-up care.

What is involved in the microdermabrasion procedure?

Microdermabrasion facial resurfacing takes about fifteen to thirty minutes. The doctor or cosmetician uses a microdermabrasion tool to pass over the skin in different directions, which abrades, or exfoliates, the top layer of skin. There are two main types of microdermabrasion procedures:

1. A crystal microdermabrasion machine uses air to blow small abrasive  crystals towards the an area of the skin, and vacuums them back up. The crystals are usually iron oxide, but can also be made of other abrasive materials. The amount of crystals and the pressure can influence the depth of the abrasion, as can the number of times the tool is passed over the skin.
2. With crystal-free systems, such as diamond microdermabrasion, the microdermabrasion tool has a rough tip that is moved over the skin. The roughness of the handpiece and the amount of pressure causes the depth of the abrasion.

Who is a candidate for microdermabrasion?

Microdermabrasion facial treatment can be used to address many different skin conditions. In some cases, it can be combined with treatments such as chemical peels or laser treatments. At Perfexion, we believe in highly personalized skin care and emphasize that the depth of microdermabrasion and number of treatments should to be adjusted to suit each individual patient.

Microdermabrasion is not recommended for individuals with certain skin conditions, such as active rosacea or very severe acne. A patient should also inform their doctor or cosmetician of any medication they are taking before beginning treatment, because they may be susceptible to scarring or other side effects.

What follow-up care does microdermabrasion require?

The cosmetician may direct the patient to apply different topical creams after or between microdermabrasion treatments, to soothe or hydrate their skin. They may also recommend wearing wear sunscreen after and between treatments to keep the skin healthy and to prevent future sun damage. It is important to follow these steps to preserve microdermabrasion’s positive effects.

For information about whether microdermabrasion is the right procedure for you, contact our Calgary skin care clinic by phone at (403) 686-2403, or by visiting our clinic at  2403 33 Ave SW.