Microdermabrasion is a modern procedure that proves there is a place for high-tech thinking in the beauty world. This unique skin treatment was developed by an Italian doctor in the mid-1980s and has since caught on all over the world. Microdermabrasion is a skin exfoliating treatment with results similar to a chemical peel or dermaplaning. but it’s faster, less invasive, less dangerous, and less uncomfortable than these treatments and has very comparable results.
Unlike a chemical or laser peel, a microdermabrasion treatment doesn’t need any recovery time. It is possible to have microdermabrasion in the afternoon and still hit the town that very night with fresh, smooth skin. Microdermabrasion is no more invasive or time-consuming than a massage or a manicure. This fast turnaround has made microdermabrasion a popular treatment.
Microdermabrasion is a technique that removes the fine outer layer of skin; revealing a fresh, young-looking complexion. It causes the face to quickly regenerate new layers of smooth skin. Expect to be left with flawless skin that can keep you looking great for weeks.
Microdermabrasion can remove superficial scars and slight pits or dents in the facial surface, such as the minor scars sometimes caused by acne. It can also reduce the appearance of wrinkles and other fine lines. If you are someone looking for a way to make your skin appear younger, this is a great treatment to have in your tool kit. A few half-hour sessions of microdermabrasion can wipe away the damage that has accumulated over a period of many years.
Your First Treatment – What to expect?
The equipment used in microdermabrasion can be intimidating the first time you undergo the procedure. A device that resembles a small blowtorch is used. The device sprays extremely fine crystals over the surface of the skin then apply gentle circular pressure that works the granules against the face to loosen the outer layer of skin. After this is complete, light suction lifts the loosened layer of skin away, polishing the skin underneath.
This polishing gets rid of the old exfoliated old skin cells and encourages new skin cells to grow. The stimulation to the smaller blood vessels in the facial skin is often immediately obvious because it brings a fresh baby pink glow to the face.
The entire procedure usually takes between half an hour and an hour. Although many spas are beginning to offer this revolutionary treatment in addition to classic beauty standbys like facials.
How often should microdermabrasion be performed?
Microdermabrasion could be done as often as weekly or more commonly as once every eight weeks depending on the sensitivity of your skin. Many patients opt to start with weekly treatments for three consecutive sessions and then switch to monthly maintenance. Since skin regenerates approximately 30 days a year, skin improvement is temporary and needs constant repetition at two to four weeks in order to maintain an improvement. Usually, multiple treatments (6 to 12 sessions) are recommended to see a noticeable improvement and see a noticeable improvement in your skin. Similar to cleaning your toothpaste, microdermabrasion is used to remove facial and body debris easily.
Pros Of Microdermabrasion
Microdermabrasion involves removing the superficial damaged layers in a non-invasive way. These skin layers look healthier, and the thickness of the skin is improved. It is a great solution for the following skin concerns;
- Dull-looking skin.
- Acne and acne scarring.
- Enlarged pores.
- Blackheads
- Uneven skin tone and texture.
However, microdermabrasion works best if you attend a series of treatments. The cells then have the constant opportunity to renew and rejuvenate themselves. If you have acne scars or severe damage, you need a session every two to three weeks to achieve a smoother, healthier skin texture.
Cons Of Microdermabrasion
- Salon cost.
- Skin irritation.
- Tenderness.
- Can make your skin more sensitive to the sun.
Unfortunately, one downside to microdermabrasion in the eyes of many potential customers is the cost. A single session of this uniquely high-tech procedure can cost between £65 and £150.
However, there are plenty of regular microdermabrasion clients who feel that the benefits of the treatment are worth the financial cost.
Home Vs Salon Microdermabrasion
Microdermabrasion treatments used to be known as the lunchtime peel. This short but effective anti-aging skin procedure involved a visit to a dermatologist or aesthetician’s office. Thanks to new technology you can now perform the treatment at home.
Before the advent of home microdermabrasion kits, microdermabrasion was always performed in a salon or by a professional. Each treatment usually took thirty minutes to an hour and cost of £65 – £150. Now thankfully several cosmetic companies have put out their own versions of this procedure which you can do yourself at home. This is a boon to busy and budget-conscious women as most of these home dermabrasion kits only cost between $25 and $60 and contain several treatments in one kit.
Home kits allow you to turn your bathroom into a high-efficiency salon that you can visit at your leisure to polish your skin. Home kits are also ideal for the slightly shy teenager who would rather try to take care of acne scars in private. Some microdermabrasion products promise results in about four weeks. Of course, this all depends on how often and how well you use the product.
Unlike the salons, these home microdermabrasion kits often contain creams or gels with small polishing granules. Some are thermogenic meaning the cream or gel heats up while it is on your face further stimulating your skin’s circulation. Some kits also come with a battery-operated skin polisher, which contains a slightly abrasive plastic pad to thoroughly scrub away dead skin cells and exfoliate the top layers of the skin.
How much does microdermabrasion cost?
Based on where you live and the places your treatments are performed costs can range between $75 to approximately $300 per treatment. If you opt for an in-house microdermabrasion in the local beauty shop your costs will be more modest.
Does medical insurance cover microdermabrasion?
Microdermabrasion is typically considered only as cosmetic and isn’t covered by medical insurers. Since microdermabrasion is used for treating medical conditions such as acne scarring and melasma it may be possible to deduct some costs as medical expenses. Payable alternatives include using benefits of savings accounts or health remittances accounts. You’ll want to check the specific benefits and provisions of your plan and check your tax deductions with a tax professional to get the best possible tax deduction.
Important things to know
Whether you are getting microdermabrasion in a salon or using a home microdermabrasion kit it is quite common for the skin to suffer from some irritation and redness immediately after the treatment. This is due to the exfoliation of the skin, which eventually leads to the birth of new skin cells. These new skin cells will cause wrinkled skin to look plumper, dull skin to look more vibrant and skin with acne scars to appear less pitted.
If you do suffer from mild skin irritation after a treatment then usually a mild anti-inflammatory painkiller does the trick for relieving the discomfort.
For maximum results, you should also avoid wearing makeup for a few days after a treatment so that you don’t hamper the renewal and healing of your newly abraded skin in any way.
Conclusion
As you can see there are certain benefits to home treatments and spa treatments. Personally, I prefer being pampered at the spa, and I find the equipment at the salon more aggressive. But, for some nothing beats the comfort of your own home. Let me know what you prefer in the comments below.