Microdermabrasion Treatment

What is microdermabrasion?

Microdermabrasion is a non - surgical, non - chemical, non - invasive method of skin resurfacing that utilizes fine crystals or diamond tips to provide effective exfoliation and rejuvenation of the superficial layers of the skin. When a more aggressive treatment is necessary, vacuum pressure can be increased to evenly penetrate deeper layers of the skin. Increasing the blood supply provides nutrients necessary for skin regeneration, repair, and increased cellular turnover. In return, improving the skins’ elasticity and texture, as w ell as balancing the pigment.

Microdermabrasion and Chemical Peel Services are an optimal treatment which uses either Manual or Chemical Exfoliation to:

  • Begin to smooth fine lines and wrinkles
  • Even skin tone
  • Reduce both oil production and black head congestion
  • Breakouts
  • Prepare skin for better product penetration

A Chemical Peel will be a little more invasive and long term than the Microdermabrasion. It’s the optimal service for anyone who wants to start making a plan for better skin or those who simply want to freshen up! Microdermabrasion is a bit less invasive, but extremely effective. Since there are no chemicals involved, it is a service th at is safe for Pregnant women as well however it is important to let your therapist know you are pregnant in order to modify any homecare products suggested.

IMPORTANT! Pre-Treatment Instructions for Microdermabrasion or Chemical Peel

  • If you are prone to cold sores, you will need to contact your physician for antiviral medication to avoid a post treatment breakout. It is recommended you begin prophylaxis two (2) days prior to treatment and continue for five (5) days post treatment.
  • Discontinue use of over the counter Retinol, Glycolic and other Alpha Hydroxy Acids, Salicylic or Beta Hydroxy Acids, or other exfoliation products three to five (3 - 5) days prior to treatment unless advised and recommended by the Technician/Treatment facility administering the Microdermabrasion or Chemical Peel.
  • Discontinue the use of prescription Retinoid products (Retin-A, Renova, Tretinoin, Avita, Alustra or other brands of Tretinoin), other prescription Retinoid products (Adapalene, Avage, Differin, Tazorac, Tazarotene) three to five (3 - 5) days prior to treatment.
  • No waxing, electrolysis, other hair removal products or methods within seven (7) days prior to treatment.
  • No Botox, Collagen, or other Dermal Filler injections within 14 days prior to treatment.
  • Avoid tanning or tannin cream/sprays for at least a week before treatment.
  • You must NOT have recently had laser skin surgery or used Accutane.
  • Follow all pre-treatment home care product recommendations as instructed by your Technician. Optimal results are achieved by following a home care regimen that will enhance the treatment process.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many treatments are required?

Initially 6 treatments spaced 8 - 14 days apart are recommended for most people. Acne scars and or discolourations may require more treatments. Monthly maintenance treatments every 2 or 3 months may be necessary to maintain results.

Who are candidates for Microdermabrasion?

The ideal candidates for microdermabrasion are healthy adults who have relatively minor skin conditions or imperfections and realistic expectations about what microdermabrasion can and cannot do. Microdermabrasion works well for damaged skin, whether affected by acne, sun damage or aging; and skin of any type or colour.

Who should avoid microdermabrasion?

Microdermabrasion is not recommended for people who have deep scars, active keloids, undiagnosed lesions, a recent herpes outbreak, warts on the face, skin cancer, active acne (stages 3 and 4), sunburns or active/severe rosacea, eczema, an auto - immune system disorder, or unstable diabetes. Individuals with deep scars, facial creases, or other moderate - to - severe skin defects should consider a stronger treatment such as a chemical peel, injectables or laser treatments.

What are the results?

Our Medical-Grade Microdermabrasion equipment provides a gentle alternative in facial rejuvenation. It has proven to be effective in the treatment of the following conditions: fine lines; enlarged or clogged pores; mild acne and complexion issues; sun damage; superficial age spots; scaly skin lesions also called keratoses; hyper-pigmentation; uneven skin tone; oily skin; dry/patchy skin; acne scarring; black/white heads; stretch marks; and dull, lifeless skin. In addition, most patients experience dramatic improvements in the colour, tone, and texture of treated areas. In general, microdermabrasion results in thicker, healthier, more youthful looking skin. Over the course of a full set of treatments, the body will produce new layers of skin containing higher levels of elastin and collagen. This, in turn, improves the complexion and gives the skin a more radiant, vibrant glow.

How does the treatment feel?

Microdermabrasion does not require anesthesia, although it may be mildly uncomfortable. Tightness and heat are common effects and quickly fade. Initially, you may feel a very mild scratching sensation as the crystals or diamond tip make contact with the skin. The feeling is often compared to a cats’ tongue licking your face. Mild redness may occur for ½ an hour to one day depending on the aggressiveness of the program. Immediately after the procedure the face may appear and feel sunburned. While there is minimal discomfort during and after treatment, some of the following side effects may occur: Redness a nd slight sandpaper effect in the skin, minimal peeling, cold sores, an outbreak of pimples or other gases and impurities that were already present in the skin, slight swelling if the skin is thin and fragile. If you have acne, the acne condition may temporarily look worse after the treatment. If you do not experience these side effects this is not a sign that the treatment is not working, but rather you are in excellent health and responding to the organic treatment with minimum discomfort. If any of the conditions mentioned do occur, you can expect them to disappear in up to seven days following the final treatment. Please consult your Specialist immediately if you are concerned about any of the above.

How does the treatment work?

The skin is washed to remove excess oil and dirt. Then, a skin professional targets a stream of fine aluminum oxide crystals or diamond bit over the area to be treated. The old, dead skin cells a re abraded away, which the vacuum then picks up with gentle suction. This promotes the growth of collagen and new, rejuvenated skin. Moisturizers and sun block are then applied to the treated area.

Is microdermabrasion safe?

Microdermabrasion is a safe and common procedure. Unlike laser resurfacing or chemical peels, this procedure is not traumatic and therefore there is no downtime to allow for healing and recovery. But, as always, provide your full medical history and follow your pre and post-treatment instructions.

Can I go back to work after a microdermabrasion treatment?

YES! few patients do notice their skin feeling tight immediately after the treatment as if the skin has been exposed to the sun or wind. You might experience a slight dryness of the skin depending upon your skin type. An effective moisturizer is applied after the treatment to prevent this drying of the skin. The skin might appear slightly red for the remainder of the day. Additionally, the patient is asked to refrain from using full makeup on the day of the treatment to give the skin chance to breathe and regenerate itself. A light coverage of mineral powder is approved. One of the advantages of Microdermabrasion is that it has no downtime. You can return to your normal routine and apply treatment cosmetics directly after treatment.

How soon will results appear?

Microdermabrasion results are usually immediate and noticeable. Results improve with multiple treatments and vary depending on your individual skin quality. We advise that optimum results will be achieved faster if Microdermabrasion clients are prepared to use the products suggested by their Specialist before commencing and during the course of treatment.

How long does a Microdermabrasion treatment last?

A Microdermabrasion facial treatment lasts approximately 30–45 minutes. Additional time is required for added areas.

How long do the results last?

Lasting effects are dependent on proper skin care. Additional treatments will renew your youthful appearance. A series of six treatments over a few months is recommended for best results, followed by regular maintenance treatments.

What are the limitations of Microdermabrasion?

Microdermabrasion is designed for minor imperfections and general improvement. Those with very large or dark spots, moderate to deep wrinkles and serious scars should seek an alternative treatment.

Contraindications

  • Active infection of any type, such as Herpes simplex virus or flat warts
  • Active acne
  • Sunburn
  • Recent use of topical agents such as glycolic acids, alphahydroxy acids and Retin - A
  • Any recent chemical peel procedure
  • Uncontrolled diabetes
  • Eczema, dermatitis
  • Skin cancer
  • Vascular lesions
  • Oral blood thinner medications
  • Rosacea (Severe or outbreak)
  • Pregnancy
  • Use of Accutane within the last year
  • Family history of hypertrophic scarring or keloid formation
  • Telangiectasia/erythema may be worsened or brought out by skin exfoliation