Michael I. Jacobs, M.D.

Microdermabrasion is a safe and painless process involving a small, handheld device that uses tiny crystals to gently remove the top layer of skin, sloughing off the dead skin cells to uncover newer and fresher skin underneath. The dead skin and other debris are then removed with a small vacuum. As a noninvasive skin rejuvenating technique, microdermabrasion has become an increasingly popular treatment for those who want a smoother and brighter complexion that is more even in color.

Specific treatments
An excellent treatment for those who want a mild treatment to achieve a younger, healthy-looking complexion, microdermabrasion can do the following:

• Treat acne and diminish superficial scars
• Improve age spots and black heads
• Diminish the appearance of stretch marks
• Lighten brown spots and hyperpigmentation (patches of darkened skin)
• Reduce wrinkles and fine lines
• Reduce or eliminate enlarged pores
• Improve the skin’s ability to absorb topical skincare products, improving their effectiveness
• Exfoliate the skin, resulting in a refreshed appearance
• Stimulate the skin’s natural collagen production process to promote younger-looking skin

Microdermabrasion usually treats conditions on the face, but it can be used on other parts of the body as well.

Treatments and Procedure
The frequency of treatments depends on the patient’s skin condition and desired results, and most patients receive at least a few treatments, but treatment plans can vary considerably. The procedure itself requires no anesthetics and lasts a little over 30 minutes for face treatments and a little less for neck treatments. Patients may experience a scratching or light stinging sensation, but the procedure is not painful.

Recovery
Patients may notice a reddening or slightly swollen appearance to the treated skin, but this will disappear within a day. The treated skin must be protected from sun exposure, so the use of sunscreen following a procedure is highly recommended.