Microdermabrasion - Does it Really Work

by Anita Freeman


Microdermabrasion is a non- invasive procedure that involves abrading the uppermost layer of dead skin. Although this procedure is often confused with dermabrasion, dermabrasion requires anesthesia as it is a relatively painful process that sloughs off more that just the uppermost layer of skin. Microdermabrasion is a treatment that is offered by many spas, dermatologists, and skin clinics. There are two main types of microdermabrasion: Crystal microdermabrasion and Diamond microdermabrasion. In crystal microdermabrasion, aluminum oxide and zinc oxide crystals are blasted onto the skin surface so that the topmost layer gets eroded. However, the newer method of microdermabrasion called Diamond microdermabrasion uses a wand with a diamond tipped head to get rid of the skin. There are also cosmetic home care microdermabrasion kits that are available that allow a person to carry out a similar procedure themselves in the comfort of their home. Microdermabrasion is a preferred treatment as it is very effective in dealing with fine line and wrinkles. Repeated use also helps to get rid of scars and pimples. It has also been used to reduce the scarring caused by stretch marks. Since microdermabrasion gets rid of the dead skin cells on the surface of the skin, it allows any medication or treatment applied after that to be absorbed more easily by the skin. Thus it is often used in conjecture with acne or acne scar topical applications as it increases the effects of the application. Although a person's skin looks a lot clearer after the very first session, microdermabrasion requires several sessions to have long lasting results.

Microdermabrasion is generally recommended for people with raised scars and not depressed ones. It is also not a viable option for extensive or deep scaring. It is best to visit a dermatologist who will be able to prescribe appropriate treatment as per your requirements. Laser skin resurfacing and chemical peels are generally recommended for extensive scarring caused by acne. Punch excision, or punch elevation may be used to treat ice-pick scars or other depressed scars. The facial scrubs that are now so easily available have similar aims. In many cases, however, cosmetic scrubs can do more harm than good. This is because these scrubs contain several additional chemicals in the form of dyes and colors as well as surfactant cleansing agents. Once the scrub has abraded the upper layers of your skin, the lower delicate layers are then exposed to these chemicals and this often results in excessively dry skin. You can make your own facial scrub by mixing coarsely ground rice flour, a little fresh tomato juice, and honey. Massage your face thoroughly with this paste to get rid of dead skin cells without damaging your skin. You can steam your face before you use the scrub as this will help the dead skin to slough off easily.


Warning: The reader of this article should exercise all precautionary measures while following instructions on the home remedies from this article. Avoid using any of these products if you are allergic to it. The responsibility lies with the reader and not with the site or the writer.


Warning: The reader of this article should exercise all precautionary measures while following instructions on the home remedies from this article. Avoid using any of these products if you are allergic to it. The responsibility lies with the reader and not with the site or the writer.
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