What is Microdermabrasion?
We offer the NaturaBrador Microdermabrasion System. It is designed as an exfoliating device for skin treatment. It uses abrasive particles to exfoliate the epidermis. It provides skin with a healthy, youthful glow and is also helpful in smoothing out scars and fine wrinkles. Some of the newest research in microdermabrasion also suggest that it thickens the dermal layer of skin, which in turn tightens and firms the areas treated. An initial series of six treatments at one-week intervals is recommended with some type of maintenance schedule thereafter.
What’s The Difference Between Microdermabrasion And Dermabrasion?
Dermabrasion is a very aggressive form of skin rejuvenation where a rotating metal brush abrades the entire outer layer of the skin. Dermabrasion is meant to remove the majority of the epidermis layer of the skin. This forces the body to build new skin cells to replace and repair the facial areas that have been abraded. These new cells replace areas with acne scarring and other skin damage. Dermabrasion requires a lengthy recovery period, can be quite painful, and can only be done once in a person’s lifetime. Dr. Smith does not perform dermabrasion at her Lake Charles practice.
Microdermabrasion is only a light skin exfoliation. Nothing actually touches the patient’s face — only the microcrystals sprayed from the handpiece provide the gentle exfoliation. It is easy to take, painless, and doesn’t involve any recovery or downtime. There isn’t any limit to how many treatments you can have.
Who Is A Good Candidate For Microdermabrasion?
We all have a buildup of dead skin cells, oil, and dirt on our facial skin. Microdermabrasion is a great treatment to remove much of that stuff. Microdermabrasion is completely non-invasive and non-ablative. It can be used on all skin colors and skin types. It doesn’t cause hyperpigmentation, as more ablative procedures sometimes do. In reality, just about everyone could use microdermabrasion at Dr. Smith’s to brighten their complexion and improve their skin quality.
Should Anyone Not Have Microdermabrasion?
The only people who shouldn’t have microdermabrasion are those whose acne, eczema, or psoriasis are active. You need to wait until the breakout or flare-up passes and your skin calms. At that point, you could have this treatment.
What Are The Benefits Of Microdermabrasion?
Whether you’re fighting fine lines, dealing with age spots, or want an effective way to minimize discoloration or other superficial skin blemishes, this multitasking, skin-saving treatment has you covered. Microdermabrasion can also be helpful with oily and enlarged pores, blackheads, acne and even some acne scarring.
Is Microdermabrasion Safe?
These treatments at Dr. Smith’s are completely non-invasive and don’t require any recovery. There isn’t any risk of infection or the like, as only the outer epidermis is exfoliated. These are not deep penetrating procedures (in contrast to laser resurfacing or a medium chemical peel, for instance), and they don’t remove large amounts of skin. You may have some light peeling and your skin may feel a little tight for a day or so after your treatment, but a good moisturizer is all you need. There won’t be any crusting or downtime.
What Skin Issues Can Microdermabrasion Improve?
At Dr. Smith’s, we use microdermabrasion for a variety of skin problems. Microdermabrasion…
- Reduces fine lines and wrinkles
- Removes sun-damaged skin
- Reduces age spots
- Reduces melasma
- Reduces hyperpigmentation
- Improves acne and acne scars
- Reduces enlarged pores
- Stimulates new collagen production
How Many Treatments Will I Need?
These are easy-to-take procedures and there really isn’t any limitation. When patients first come see us and want to improve their skin, Dr. Smith recommends six treatments spaced about one to two weeks apart. From there, coming in once every month or two provides a good maintenance schedule to keep your skin exfoliated and looking great.
What Should I Do Before A Microdermabrasion Session?
There isn’t much you do to prepare for these treatments. But you don’t want to use Retin-A or other exfoliators for 1-3 days before your treatment. As with most skin improvement treatments, it’s best to not have had sun exposure or spray tans for at least a week prior to your session.
If you’ve had laser skin treatments or chemical peels, you should wait at least three weeks before having a microdermabrasion. If you’ve been on Accutane, you’re not eligible for these treatments until you’ve been off it for a period of time that we will discuss with you.
How Long Does A Microdermabrasion Treatment Take?
These are quick, easy treatments. They usually take about 30 minutes and can easily fit into a lunchtime. They are also great end-of-the-day treatments because your skin can calm down overnight.
How Does The Microdermabrasion Treatment Work?
Microdermabrasion is a safe, common, non-surgical procedure. The procedure involves mechanical abrasion from jets of zinc oxide or aluminum oxide crystals, fine organic particles, or a roughened surface. Particles are removed off through the wand/handpiece through which the abrasive particles come. The best analogy I can think of is sandblasting on a micro-scale.
What Should I Do After My Microdermabrasion?
Be kind to your skin afterwards, as it will be a little sensitive with the top layer exfoliated. Don’t use harsh cleansers, and don’t use a home exfoliator for a week. Your skin will be more exposed, so stay out of the sun for a week. If you’re using prescription retinoid products, wait until one week to resume them.
How Soon Can I Go Back To Work After Microdermabrasion?
You can return to work or any other normal activities immediately after your session. The only thing you can’t do is go out in the sun without protection.
How Much Does Microdermabrasion Cost?
Microdermabrasion treatments cost $100. We also have packages of 6 treatments for $500.
What Results Can I Expect From Microdermabrasion Treatment?
After a microdermabrasion treatment, the skin will be red for several hours. Patients are able to wash and reapply makeup if necessary. This makes microdermabrasion a procedure with virtually no downtime.
How Long Will My Results Last After Microdermabrasion?
Your results from these treatments usually last about one month. That is the cycle for your skin to fully regenerate.
Schedule Your Appointment Today!
Shondra Sith, MD offers skincare services with microdermabrasion for patients in Lake Charles, Sulphur, Moss Bluff, and Jennings, LA, Orange, TX and surrounding areas. Call 337. 477.0011 or fill out our Contact Form here to schedule an appointment.