Microdermabrasion (Microderm)
is a cosmetic procedure fashionable in day spas, doctors' offices, and medical
spas. The dead outermost surface of the skin is partially or completely removed
by slight abrasion. Some methods include mechanical abrasion with zinc oxide or
aluminum oxide crystals, small organic particles, or a roughened surface. The
particles and dead skin are vacuumed off with a hand piece which also projects
the particles.
Micro-dermabrasion can be useful in removing sun-damaged skin and to diminishing
and dark spots on the skin. It is not uncomfortably painful and does not require
anaesthetic. It is not as useful in removing sunken scars. There is very little
evidence that micro dermabrasion stimulates collagen formation. So if collagen
growth is your goal you would be better served by using a
dremu oil based
skin care product.
Micro-dermabrasion can be used for acne treatment, but it must be repeated
periodically to be very effective. Micro-dermabrasion should not be used on
people who have taken Accutane or Isotretinion within the last twelve months.
In the past, micro-dermabrasion was performed using abrasive crystals. In the
last decade, it has become more common to use wands with a roughened surfaces.
This procedure requires no medical oversight and is commonly used in conjunction
with facial spa treatments. These days there are a multitude of
microdermabrasion machines available.
Micro dermabrasion is a relative newcomer to US skin care treatments. It was
widely used in Europe before coming to the States in the late 1990's. Today,
it's used effectively to treat fine wrinkles, stretch marks, and residual scars
from moderate acne. The term dermabrasion refers to the more harsh medical
procedure performed under general anaesthesia.
Microdermabrasion Techniques
Microdermabrasion works in two ways:
1. Cleansing skin pores and in so healing existing acne
2. Eliminating dead skin cells and preventing pimples from reappearing. Pimples
are typically caused by dead skin cells that obstruct pores.
Techniques involve crystal and non-crystal machine and at home peeling systems.
Peeling
Instead of using harsh chemicals such as zinc and metal oxides,
microdermabrasion peels capitalize on the power of debris-leeching
micro-crystals. These shouldn't be painful, but almost comfortable, like a deep
tissue facial massage. Microdermabrasion peeling can be done quickly and easily
in an outpatient clinic, a spa or even at home.
The typical device is a hand-held machine which deeply exfoliates and cleans the
skin's surface. Regimens usually consist of 4 to 6 peels within 1 to 2 week
intervals, followed by a conditioning peel every 6 weeks.
In simple terms, a sand jet shoots fine particles onto the skin surface in an
oscillating motion. The friction created abrades the surface of dead skin cells
from the upper-most layer of the skin.
Corundum Crystal Machines
The most customary types of crystals for microdermabrasion machines are corundum
or aluminium oxide.
This is because they are great materials for cutting and abrading because of
their coarse, un-even surfaces. Secondly, their hardness is second only to
diamonds, but nowhere near the cost. They don't cause allergic skin reactions,
like eczema, psoriasis, or itching; they don't interact chemically and are never
absorbed into the skin. Lastly, the crystals have anti-bacterial properties
which helps when treating acne.
Other Crystal Machines
Other crystals aside from corundum may be used for microdermabrasion. Some of
these include, sodium chloride crystals, sodium bicarbonate crystals, and
magnesium oxide crystals. The benefit of using these crystals is that it is less
expensive. You should know, however that the efficacy is less compared to
standard crystal techniques.
Crystal-Free Techniques
estheticians and physicians may use diamond tipped devices that abrade the skins
surface. The primary difference with crystal free treatments compared to crystal
treatments is hygiene. Aluminum oxide crystals, the industry standard, are
hazardous irritants may be unhealthy for you and the technician. Many people
prefer crystal free microdermabrasion techniques.
Regardless of which technique you choose, be
sure to use a non comedogenic facial
moisturizer like Dremu oil. You may also find that our Midnight
gentle peel helps you maintain that
look of fresh beautiful skin.
