Microdermabrasion Cost, Procedure, Contraindications &
Possible Complications
Microdermabrasion is a cosmetic procedure that uses tiny rough grains to exfoliate
or remove the outer layer of dead skin cells in order to improve beauty and overall
appearance. There are a
number of products such as creams and scrubs that can be applied by you at home, but it is more commonly seen
as a salon treatment or even a medical procedure.
Most of the time, it is done to the face, neck, chest, arms or hands, and is
often advocated as an “instant facelift.” Microdermabrasion is not forcedly an anti aging treatment.
Microdermabrasion Procedure
In general, the procedure only takes place at the level of the epidermis, or the
stratum corneum. This is the layer
of skin that is on top of other layers of cells, and is composed of dead skin cells. The body reacts to the removal
of the stratum corneum as though a mild injury had occurred and quickly begins to replace the lost cells with
healthy new skin cells. There is
often mild swelling and redness that occurs during the first little while after the procedure, and they can last up
to a couple of days in some patients. At a salon or clinic, the microdermabrasion technician uses a specialized tool which shoots a
stream of small crystals at the skin and a suction tool gathers up the used crystals and the dead skin
cells. These crystals are often
aluminum oxide. Another option often used by dermatologists is a diamond-tipped wand which does not shoot crystals,
but the tool is steadily moved over the area with an even pressure to remove the stratum
corneum. No matter which
method is used, it is followed by moisturizing creams to replace moisture in the skin.
Microdermabrasion Contraindications
Microdermabrasion is not recommended for people who currently have active oral
herpes, active rosacea, vascular lesions, anyone who takes anti-coagulants, widespread acne, warts, open sores,
fragile capillaries, eczema, dermatitis, anyone who uses Accutane, psoriasis, erythematosus, lupus, skin lesions or
diabetes mellitus.
Microdermabrasion Cost
Costs for microdermabrasion will vary, but professional treatments will usually
range from $100 to $200 per session, and it is recommended that several sessions spread throughout the year are
necessary for the best results. Home treatments will cost from $50 to $80 for the creams or lotions.
Microdermabrasion Complications
In general, complications from microdermabrasion are minimal and are simply the
temporary swelling and redness that are usually gone within an hour or two of the treatment, but care must be taken
that only the stratum corneum is removed. If lower layers of skin are removed or overly aggressive techniques are used, there could be some
injury to the skin and some minimal damage could be done. If you experience serious or painful
symptoms, your Physician will prescribe you an appropriate treatment to fight against these health issues.
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