What Is Microdermabrasion?

By Patrick T Langley

In the beginning, you might notice that your skin doesn't "bounce back" as quickly as it used to. After the elasticity goes, the wrinkles, lines, and signs of aging are soon to follow. If this is happening to you, then microdermabrasion may be the solution.

Microdermabrasion is a relatively new skin treatment procedure in the field of cosmetic services, and has been hailed as an effective, less costly alternative to more invasive operations like plastic surgery and facelifts. In fact, microdermabrasion has been called the "instant facelift", and it seems that more and more people are choosing this procedure over traditional age-defying operations.

In 2009, more than 900,000 people received microdermabrasion-nearly 10% of all the cosmetic procedures done that year-and it ranked number four in top non-surgical procedures in 2011, just under Botox, hyaluronic acid, and laser hair removal.

In other words, microdermabrasion works-for lots of people. But what exactly is it?

Microdermabrasion is a big word for a simple procedure-a procedure explained in the syntax of the word itself.

The term "derm" refers to the skin, which is the part of the body where the procedure takes place. "Abrasion" means that the skin is grazed-by tiny (micro)grains of crystal, in the case of microdermabrasion. These crystals scrape off the top, dead layer of skin, uncovering the new, younger-looking skin underneath.

Your skin is composed of two primary layers: the dermis and epidermis. The epidermis is the outmost layer, and is mainly composed of dead skin cells layered on top of maturing cells. The layer of dead skin is where most of the signs of aging, such as wrinkles, lines, and blemishes, occur.

The entire procedure generally only takes between 15 minutes to an hour, depending on your skin type, and the results are immediate. Right away you will notice:

• Soft skin
• Diminished lines/wrinkles
• Decreased appearance of scars
• Reduction of age spots and discoloration
• Repair to sun-damaged skin
• Smaller pores
• Reduction of acne

Although microdermabrasion is non-invasive and painless, there are some minor side effects from the treatment that may occur-all of which are treatable, negligible, and only last a few hours. These possible side effects are:

• Mild swelling
• Minor redness
• Dryness
• Slight sensitivity on treated area

In-office vs. At-home Microdermabrasion

The two main types of microdermabrasion are in-office and at-home procedures. At-home microdermabrasion kits are generally cheaper than getting it done in-office, and provide some positive results.

However, for the full benefits of microdermabrasion, in-office treatment is highly recommended. Although slightly more costly, the added expense is worth having the procedure done right by a professional.

So, in recap: it is simple, effective, and safe. It's no wonder why so many people are choosing to look younger by getting microdermabrasion.

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